Big weddings don’t need to be traditional. In fact, there’s no script on how you need to show and share your love—or what kind of wedding photos you want! Brian and Ryan are a perfect example of this. Their Alaska ski lodge wedding in the mountains showcased that beautifully. The Alaska ski lodge wedding venue added unique charm to their celebration. Everything from the guest dress code to their laid-back vibe was unique to their love story. As an Alaska wedding photographer, this is exactly the kind of celebration I live for.
Wedding Portraits in the Endless Mountain-Scape
Meet Brian and Ryan, an Anchorage couple whose Alaska ski lodge wedding I was honored to capture. Before guests arrived, we took time for portraits at the stunning Arctic Valley Ski Lodge. This one-of-a-kind mountaintop venue is just north of Anchorage. On this crisp autumn afternoon, we walked up from the lodge for a quiet session overlooking the vast Alaskan wilderness.
As a wedding photographer in Alaska, I’m always chasing those cinematic moments—and these two, standing against layers of rugged mountain ridges and snow-capped peaks, gave us just that. In sharp suits against the earth-toned rocks, Brian and Ryan created a striking visual contrast. Whether sitting on boulders or embracing in a golden patch of fall light, they were present, joyful, and totally in love. This is exactly the kind of energy that makes for timeless Alaska wedding photos.
The Vision
These grooms weren’t overly prescriptive with their shot list. Instead, they focused on candid moments, real laughter, and emotional reactions from their loved ones. Their approach gave me the freedom as their Alaska wedding photographer to capture the day in its truest form. It was full of energy, personality, and people who adore them. With a vibrant guest list and two dashing grooms at the ski lodge wedding, it was an absolute joy to photograph.
He Said “I Do”
Guests were greeted with a meaningful touch before the ceremony: a sign encouraging them to “warm the rings” with love and positive energy. It was a heartfelt and symbolic ritual that added to the intimacy of the moment. Their outdoor ceremony was drenched in fall sunshine and surrounded by color—literally. The dress code was bold, funky, and definitely not boring. It brought life to the visuals and embodied the joyful, free-spirited nature of this non-traditional Alaska wedding.
Puppy Love
Let’s talk about one of my favorite parts: the dogs! Brian and Ryan’s big brown labs were honorary guests. The joy they brought was undeniable. During the post-ceremony happy hour, we took family portraits that (obviously) included their pups. I even got a few solo pet portraits in the wild fireweed. One of the perks of being an Anchorage wedding photographer is that many venues are dog-friendly. Incorporating pets into wedding day memories makes them even more special.
From Ski Resort to Chic Wedding Venue
You might not expect a ski lodge to transform into a dreamy wedding venue—but Arctic Valley proved otherwise. With cozy details like posh outdoor seating, draped ceilings, and high-end lighting, the venue shifted effortlessly from ceremony site to party hub, making for an unforgettable Alaska ski lodge wedding experience. Guests enjoyed lawn games, a stunning buffet, and an intimate yet lively reception space. This is proof that your Alaska wedding can be both rugged and refined.
From Dream Wedding to Dream Party
These two knew how to throw down. The reception was full of spontaneous moments, belly laughs, and dancing that filled the frame with joy. For me as their wedding photographer, capturing these candid moments was the top priority. They’re what make this wedding album so unforgettable.
Yes, we covered all the essentials: cake cutting, first dance, and even the Hora—a high-energy Jewish tradition where both grooms were lifted high on chairs. Guests danced around them. The joy was infectious, and the photos? Pure magic.
There’s No Wrong Way to Envision Your Wedding Photos
Brian and Ryan’s wedding proves that the best photography happens when couples trust the process. They leaned into what matters most to them. Their relaxed attitude gave space for real moments to unfold naturally. If you’re dreaming of a bold, candid, or unconventional Alaska wedding—perhaps at an Alaska ski lodge—and want your day captured in a way that feels real, fun, and true to you—I’m your girl.
As an Alaska wedding photographer, I believe your photos should reflect your vibe. Whether that’s a chic mountain lodge wedding, a wild remote elopement, or an intimate backyard gathering, let’s create photos that feel like you.
CHELSA JAY | ALASKA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
If this mountain wedding inspires you to break from tradition and do something a little different for your big day, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Whether you’re planning a ski lodge wedding, a mountaintop elopement, or an intimate city ceremony, I’d be honored to document your love in a way that feels real and effortless.
Let’s make wedding photos that are unforgettable, honest, and unapologetically you.
