Intimate Alaskan Summer Boat Elopement in Resurrection Bay, Seward
Listen to their first dance song as you scroll through their gallery and read their story!
Boho Free-Spirited Adventure Elopement in Seward, Alaska
Sometimes, you meet people who feel like kindred spirits right away—Jackie and Garrett were that for me. I first connected with them through a model call for a session idea I had in mind, and from the very start, it was clear their love story was deeply rooted in adventure, authenticity, and a shared awe for the world around them. Shortly after our session together, Garrett proposed in the most Alaskan way! They hiked Pioneer Peak in Palmer, AK which is 6000ft elevation gain where he popped the question at the summit and of course Jackie said yes! When they reached out to begin planning their elopement for the following summer, I could already tell this day was going to be something unforgettable.
Together, we dreamed up an intimate celebration in Seward—a place close to their hearts, steeped in both rugged beauty and serenity. It wasn’t just about saying “I do”; it was about crafting a day that reflected their love and legacy, a day filled with meaningful moments shared with the ones who shaped their lives. Over coffee dates and hang outs, we wove together the details: cozy, private cabin lodging just south of Seward in Lowell Point, a private boat adventure across Resurrection Bay, and a customized family dinner to end the day surrounded by laughter, love, and local food.
Jackie and Garrett live for moments like these—exploring Alaska with their labradoodle, Honey, chasing adventure and friendship, and creating stories that will last a lifetime. Their elopement was no different: an intimate, nostalgic day filled with joy, awe, and a love that seemed to echo in the waves and mountains around us.
Here’s a glimpse into their incredible journey and the legacy they’re building together!
The Quiet Magic of Getting Ready in an A-Frame Cabin
The day began at Salted Roots Cabins, where Jackie and them ladies of the family gathered in a warm, woodsy A-frame to prepare for the day ahead. Her mom brought a suitcase-turned-memory-box, filled with heirlooms and heartfelt notes, a tribute to the family’s shared journey. Jackie’s boho gown, with flowing sleeves she couldn’t stop smiling about, felt like a piece of her spirit come to life. It fit her vision and personality perfectly! Melissa with Honeybloom Floral Design didn’t just create a bouquet that complimented the vibes Jackie was going for— she crafted one-of-a-kind living art, complete with delicate, fresh floral earrings that added a touch of “mother-nature meets elegance.”
Since Jackie is the only daughter in her family, she especially wanted to give space to have a special moment with her dad where they did a “first look” together. The joy and emotions were overflowing when her dad saw her for the first time in her wedding dress! It brought tears to the eyes of both Garrett and Jackie’s mothers and I was even a little chocked up myself behind the camera.
Meanwhile, Garrett got ready in another cabin with all the other men. Every detail from the start of the day felt intentional—every moment a quiet build-up to the adventure to come.
Private First Look and Vow Reading in the Forest
Their first look was as intimate as it gets: tucked into the rainforest, where sunlight filtered through a canopy of trees. When Jackie approached Garrett, his emotions spilled over in a moment that felt sacred and unfiltered.
Their first look was as intimate as it gets: tucked into the rainforest, where sunlight filtered through a canopy of trees… Jackie and Garrett found a moment that was entirely their own. The serene environment set the stage for one of the most heartfelt first looks I’ve ever witnessed. When Jackie walked through the wooden pathways and approached Garrett, his emotions spilled over in a reveal that felt sacred and unfiltered. It was a raw, unscripted moment of love and admiration that will forever be in my memories.
They exchanged vows privately, their voices carried by the soft rustle of the trees around them. It was a pause, a reflection, a reminder of everything they’ve walked through together to reach this moment. The secluded setting allowed them to fully express their love and commitment without an audience, creating a sacred atmosphere for them both.
Doing a “first look” not only eased their nerves but gave them the opportunity to ground themselves in the magnitude of the day. For Jackie and Garrett, this wasn’t just a wedding; it was the beginning of a legacy they were building together. So having a moment of pure connection before celebrating with family is a recommendation I have for clients who value the same.
Charting New Waters: A Family Adventure
With vows exchanged and hearts full, it was time to embark on the adventure of a lifetime: exploring Resurrection Bay aboard a private boat from Miller’s Landing. This wasn’t just transportation; it was an integral part of the day—a chance for everyone to experience Alaska’s unparalleled beauty while celebrating Jackie and Garrett’s love story.
The air was filled with the kind of magic only Alaska can create. Jackie and Garrett’s families—just eight loved ones—soaked in the scenery, every wave and mountain a reminder of how much this place means to them.
Each stop along the way allowed the group to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Alaska, but it was the journey itself—surrounded by family, laughter, dancing, and the crisp, salty air—that made this part of their day so unforgettable. It was a journey that mirrored their life together—adventurous, full of wonder, and deeply connected.
Waterfall, Wind, and Whimsical Portraits
Our first stop of three brought us to a hidden waterfall, only accessible at low tide. This magical spot left everyone in awe—especially Jackie and Garrett’s families, who traveled from the Lower 48 to experience Alaska’s raw beauty for the first time! The roar of the falls, the fresh salt air, and the quiet seclusion created a feeling of being transported to another world.
The energy was so magical as champagne bottles popped, rocks were skipped, and laughter echoed against the cliffs. I stole Jackie and Garrett away for a bit so they could share some quiet moments together and snap some bridal portraits. Jackie’s dress danced in the wind which made it so playful while her bouquet adding vibrant pop of color to the scene! Every frame felt whimsical and ethereal—so much so that I was geeking out pretty hard behind the camera which made the atmosphere between the three of us relaxed and fun!
True to their adventurous spirits, they climbed onto a fallen tree trunk to pose at the base of the waterfall! Jackie, in her Teva sandals, embraced the rugged environment and added the touch of wildness that most adventure elopements are all about. Watching them laugh and hold each other in such a magical setting was a perfect reminder of why I love capturing moments like this!
Exploring Fox Island
Our next stop was a quick one, but no less stunning. We landed on Fox Island, where the open bay breeze carried a coolness that invigorated everyone. The shoreline felt expansive, framed by towering trees, glimmering waters, and sun-kissed mountains. Here, we took a break to enjoy snacks, stretch our legs, and savor the moment.
Jackie and Garrett couldn’t resist dancing along the shoreline and running through the breeze! I like to allow space and take photos from a distance but also gave them full alone time without my camera always pointed at them.
This is something I value deeply about elopement photography—it’s not about creating moments but honoring the ones that naturally unfold. Every couple deserves those quiet, unscripted times to just be together and soak in the gravity of their wedding day. Watching Jackie and Garrett revel in their love against such a gorgeous backdrop was such a joy to myself and also their family!
Intimate Ceremony in Thumb Cove
Our final stop was Thumb Cove, a secluded bay where the wind stilled and the mountains embraced us in their quiet grandeur. Here, surrounded by their closest loved ones, Jackie and Garrett prepared for the heart of their day!
We found the perfect ceremony spot, framed by the arrangements Honeybloom Floral Design created. The gradual, ethereal lighting that comes from the “land of the midnight sun” is one of the most magical things about Alaska summers—it feels like the world is holding its breath for just a little while longer.
The ceremony itself was simple yet so heartfelt. Music cued Jackie’s entrance and her father walked her down the aisle— a traditional piece to most weddings that we were able to carry over into an adventure elopement setting! Garrett’s brother-in-law officiated with words that spoke straight to the heart, and tears flowed from every family members as Jackie and Garrett exchanged the private vows they had written and exchanged earlier that day.
The joy following the ceremony was palpable! Family members rushed to embrace the couple in a whirlwind of hugs and laughter. The group then celebrated with a charcuterie picnic and cake, sharing stories and savoring the intimacy of the moment. It was everything Jackie and Garrett had dreamed of—a deeply personal celebration in a place that felt timeless.
Etherial Bridal Portraits Along the Beach
Before Jackie and Garrett joined the picnic, the three of us stepped away for a few more portraits along the beach. The light was perfect—soft, golden, and kissed by the setting sun. Jackie and Garrett, now fully in the glow of being married, danced on the shore, embraced, and laughed with such a giddiness!
Garrett’s adoration for Jackie was evident in every glance. From the moment I met them almost a year prior, the way he looked at her was and still is filled with the purest of love. These portraits weren’t just about capturing a beautiful couple in a stunning location—they were about documenting the connection that radiated from them, the quiet joy of a love that felt steady and enduring.
These moments were deeply personal and reflective, a reminder of the legacy they’re building together. Watching them interact, with the waves lapping gently at the shore felt like a fairytale story they’ll be telling for years to come.
Sunset Picnic Celebration to Boat Ride Dances
We set up an area on the beach for a quaint picnic for the family to enjoy along with champagne and a specialty whiskey. Jackie and Garrett also wanted a couple of floral-decorated cakes to add to the celebration and of course for them to cut together as husband and wife. They didn’t hold back in feeding it to each other and taking some big bites!
As the sun dipped lower over Resurrection Bay, we boarded the boat to head back to shore. The celebration continued as Jackie and Garrett shared their first dance on deck, the sparkling water reflecting the light behind them. Their song, "Bathroom Light" by Mt. Joy echoed across the still water while family took in the beautiful site of the new couple! Jackie then shared a dance with her father, and Garrett with his mother— yet again, adding pieces of a traditional wedding into their intimate elopement day.
The boat was filled with more laughter, drinking, and dancing on the way back to Lowell Point! Upon our return, we made our way to the Flamingo Lounge, where a private dinner awaited the group.
A Celebration of Family and Legacy
The evening ended at the Flamingo Lounge, a cozy speakeasy-style restaurant with fresh, local food and a menu tailored just for them. Over dinner, stories were shared, toasts were made, and the room filled with the kind of warmth only family can bring. Jackie and Garrett had intentionally created a space where their loved ones could simply be—no stress, no distractions, just connection and joy.
As the night wound down, it struck me deeply that this wasn’t just another elopement. It was a celebration of a legacy being built: a marriage rooted in adventure, grounded in love, and surrounded by the people who matter most.
Jackie and Garrett, your story is one for the books, and I’m beyond grateful to have been a part of this chapter!
Kind Words from the Bride
“Sarah is the BEST around! Hands down! My husband and I had an intimate wedding with just our immediate family in Seward, AK and Sarah’s warm, down to earth personality seamlessly blended in with everyone. Our family just adored her, and we are so grateful to have had her with us on such a special day!
From the start, Sarah was incredibly organized and communicative. She provided amazing resources and guides that made the planning process not only fun, but low stress. This was so helpful for us. Her creativity and attention to detail helped our vision come to life.
On the day of the wedding, she helped us stay on track while allowing the day to unfold naturally. Everything felt so authentic, and she captured every moment in the most beautiful way we could have imagined.
Sarah is truly a master of her craft with a unique and special touch behind the camera. Her pictures speak for themselves, and her ability to tell the story of our day is unparalleled. If you’re looking for a kind and incredibly talented photographer, we 110% recommend Sarah French!!!”
Vendors:
Photography: Sarah French Photo
Elopement Planning: Sarah French Photo
Venue: Salted Roots Alaska
Florals: Honeybloom Floral Design
Hair & Makeup: Lana Anderson
Boat Transportation: Miller’s Landing
Dinner: Flamingo Lounge
Cake: Concoction Breads & Provisions
Dress: Rue De Seine Wedding Dresses
Bridal Shop: A&Bé Bridal Shop — Minneapolis
Wedding Bands: Manly Bands
