How to Elope in Alaska
The Complete Alaska Elopement Guide
Dreaming of an adventurous Elopement in Alaska?
If you're idea of an epic elopement involves sharing your vows in a wild, surreal destination- Alaska will go above and beyond!
As elopement experts, we have done a ton of research on eloping all over the world, and created in-depth guides for adventurous couples just like you!
How to obtain a marriage license in Alaska:
Requirements to Apply for a Marriage License in Alaska:
- Both parties must present in person a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID, passport, military ID, or Tribal/BIA card
- You do not have to be a resident of Alaska to get married there
- You must wait at least 3 business days to pick up your marriage license
- There is no blood test required in Alaska
Complete a Marriage License Application.
You will need to submit your Marriage License Application Fee at least 3 business days prior to your elopement. Be sure to check the specific county's requirements and fees for obtaining a marriage license.
Step
One
Pick Up Your Marriage License.
After the three day wait period, you can go to the county court office and pick up your marriage license. Once the license has been issued and picked up, you will have 90 days to return the signed license to a Vital Records Office either in-person or by mail.
Step
TWO
You're Legally Married in Alaska!
After you have submitted the signed Marriage License to a Vital Records office, your marriage will be legal, and you can purchase your Marriage Certificate for $30.00! There is no waiting period after you submit your signed Marriage License to a Vital Records Office.
Step
Three
If you know you want your wedding day to be filled with laughter, adventure, and love- eloping is going to be the best decision you ever make!
If you want a team of elopement experts who fully understand and support your wildest dreams of having an epic wedding day, we are here to help with the entire experience!
We not only love elopements to our core, but we also know how to plan a badass wedding day in surreal destinations!
You know you deserve a wedding day that is intentional and memorable, so you're ready for the next step!
Your Alaska elopement Photographer who is ready for a
While we try to keep information about elopement locations updated as frequently as possible, things are always changing!
It's important to always do research and contact the national/ state parks well in advance, to ensure there are no new guidelines, requirements, or restrictions!
When we help you design your epic elopement experience, I will always provide the most recent information regarding permits and guidelines for locations!
Be sure to leave no trace when visiting beautiful outdoor locations- it is crucial for the health and longevity of the environment.
A reminder for choosing your elopement location
The Best Places to Elope in Alaska:
Special Use Permit May Be Required
Special Use Permit May Be Required
While we 100% believe in transparency, as elopement experts we have dedicated a lot of time searching far and wide for hidden gem locations that are less crowded, and more surreal!
While we recommend general areas, gorgeous state and national parks, and other popular locations- we have a personal database of thousands of locations across the United States! When you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you find locations that perfectly suit your unique elopement.
Ready to start planning your epic elopement?
The best time of year to elope in Alaska:
If you want an adventurous elopement, you can't get any better than summer time in Alaska! Summer brings longer daylight hours, blooming wildflowers, and endless fun! Keep in mind, the wettest month in Alaska is August!
May - September
Dreaming of eloping beneath the Northern Lights?
Your best chance of seeing the Northern Lights will be in Fairbanks, Alaska in late September-early November, or January-March!
Summer
While Fall is a short-lived season in Alaska, if you can experience it, it's stunning! While aligning your elopement with the peak of fall colors in Alaska is difficult, September is the best month to aim for!
fall
If you're wanting to experience a truly epic winter elopement, consider eloping in Alaska in February-March! Temperatures are more tolerable, daylight hours are increasing, and the snow is still plentiful!
winter
Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in Alaska
"Do I need permits to elope in Alaska?"
Q:
A:
Some locations, such as national parks and state parks, typically require a special use permit or a wedding ceremony permit when you are having a ceremony within the park. Some parks only require a permit if the wedding/ elopement will have 75 guests or more. If you are just enjoying the park and having photos done, you may not need a permit for your elopement, but a photo/ film permit may be necessary for your photographer or videographer.
Be sure to check each location's regulations and requirements to ensure your elopement day goes as smooth as possible!
If you book your elopement experience with me, I will help you with all of the logistics and legalities of your elopement day!
"Can we have our friends and family present for our elopement?"
Q:
A:
Of course! Typically, intimate weddings and elopements have less than 30 guests! Lots of couples dream of having an epic elopement, but would like to have their beloved family and friends join them for part of the day!
If you dream of celebrating with more of your friends and family, you can plan a post-elopement party! Click here to learn more about how to plan a post-elopement party!
Your elopement can be:
- Just the two of you!
- The two of you + an officiant & witnesses
- Up to 30 of your closest friends & family!
"If I am coming to Alaska to elope from another state, will I need to file a marriage license in Alaska?"
Q:
A:
I always recommend filing for your marriage license in the state/ county in which you are eloping in! However, if you have already went to the courthouse and filed your marriage license in your home state, or want to deal with the paperwork later on down the road, you will have a "commitment ceremony," which isn't legally binding.
Choosing to file your marriage license before or after you elope is completely fine, what really matters is when you and your partner commit your lives to each other! Just keep in mind that you are not legally recognized as married until a marriage certificate is obtained.
Alaska ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
Photo and Photo + Video Packages Available.
What Every Alaska Elopement Experience Includes:
From 4 Hours to Multiple Days of Coverage that Preserves your Epic Day
In-Depth Planning to create your Personalized Elopement Experience
No Added Fees- All Travel Costs for the Whole Crew are Covered
