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Two Medicine Sunrise Elopement - Alicia and Dakota

Writer's picture: Grace CadyGrace Cady

We are back on the blog with another sunrise session and do you want to know why? Because sunrises in Glacier National Park make for THE BEST ELOPEMENT PHOTOS EVER. Seriously its basically a law around here.


If you’re wondering why sunrise elopements are my absolute favorite thing in the world—let me tell you about Alicia and Dakota’s wild wedding day in Glacier National Park, and maybe you’ll see why. Spoiler alert: it’s a lot about the light, but also about the incredible couples I get to work with and the fact that nothing beats the intimacy of having Glacier National Park all to yourselves on your wedding day.


Without further ado, let's get into it.


The Night Before


I arrived in Glacier the night before their elopement, and let me just admit, that I did in fact make a bit of a date night out of it. I love my job. My partner Aaron and I stayed at the Glacier Park Lodge, which was extra special because it happened to be the anniversary of the park’s construction. To celebrate, they were handing out huckleberry cupcakes—YES, YOU READ THAT RIGHT. REAL HUCKLEBERRY CUPCAKES. For the record, huckleberries are not a myth made up to sell more blueberries and they are not to be confused with that marionberry crap some of the local shops try to pass off.


Once they were safely vetted as REALY huckleberry cupcakes, I grabbed one of those, paired it with a Highlander beer (because balance), and we wandered down to a nearby river to relax and soak in the mountains, I brought my favorite western, Lonesome Dove, while Aaron poked around looking at what was hatching (he is a fly fishing man, after all).





We walked back before sunset and headed to bed early.


Why early? Well, I had a very early morning ahead of me—sunrise waits for no one, after all!


The Sunrise Elopement Begins


The next morning, I met Alicia and Dakota at the lodge where the wedding party was arriving. It was a ripe 4:15am in the morning and let me just say if you really want to test whether or not your people love you, just ask them to be in full glam at 4am to fulfill your sunrise elopement dreams. You'll find out who your real ones are.


We were all excited, but there was something about the light of this day that I knew was going to be extra magical. It makes my whole work day easier knowing the light is going to be on our side.


I have a special love for sunrise sessions in Glacier National Park (you’ll see why soon), and this one didn’t disappoint. We hopped in the car and made our way to The Overlook near East Glacier’s entrance. As we got out of the car, the golden light was just beginning to pour over the mountains—if you’ve ever seen the sun rise in Glacier, you know it’s a sight you’ll never forget.




Rising Wolf and Sinopah Mountain during Sunrise in Glacier National Park
Rising Wolf and Sinopah Mountain during Sunrise in Glacier National Park

We started with an intimate first look, and I’m not going to lie—the only thing that could possibly rival the beauty of that sunrise was Alicia. She was glowing. Glowing. And I’m not just talking about the sunlight—she was radiant in every way.




Dakota shed a few tears when he saw her for the first time, and between this stunning bride and the mountain scene behind them, who could blame him.



This is easily one of my favorite places in all of Glacier National Park to take photos of my elopement couples, and its because, if it were me, THESE would be the photos that I blew up and hung in my home.









Glacier National Park: Stupid-Pretty Photos at the Iconic Spots


After the first look, we made a quick stop for some photos at the Glacier National Park sign (because, duh, I would fire myself for negligence if we didn't), and then it was time to head to Running Eagle Falls.



Alicia and Dakota at the entrance to East Glacier Park
Alicia and Dakota at the entrance to East Glacier Park

Now, let me tell you—this was hands down the best light I have ever gotten at Running Eagle Falls. I’m not exaggerating.

The sun hit the falls in such a way that it reminded me of Yosemite National Park’s Firefall (it’s on my photography bucket list, by the way for anyone thinking about eloping there, wink wink).





Don't even get me started about this shot we were able to get of Scenic Point with the morning light in the background. Under normal, evening circumstances this spot isn't NEARLY as great because the lighting hits the subject's faces. As we were walking back from the falls I saw this scene and wanted to cry. Thank the mountains Dakota and Alicia understood what I was trying to do for this one because it was worth every bit of effort to get this shot.






A Beautiful, Windy Ceremony at Two Medicine Lake


We wrapped up the session with the ceremony at Two Medicine Lake, and even though it was a little breezy, the morning light still put on a show. The sun bounced off Sinopah Mountain in the most beautiful way, making the whole scene feel even more romantic than it already was.



These two had retired pastor Bill Myers officiate their wedding, and I can't recommend this sweet man more. I mean look at that vest!!! It does not get more Montanan than this man right here.




After sealing it with a kiss, we signed these two's marriage certificate and made it official!!!





Why I Love Sunrise Elopements


Now, I know some of you may be thinking: “Sunrise? On my wedding day? That sounds… early.” And yeah, it definitely is early, but I promise you, it’s worth it. Here’s why I’m such a huge fan of sunrise elopements:



The Light: Sunrise light is wild. Soft, golden, and dramatic all at once. It makes everything look a little more romantic and a little more timeless.

Peace and Quiet: Glacier is stunning, but it’s also popular. Early mornings mean fewer crowds, which gives you the space to truly enjoy the moment.

The Vibe: There’s something about a sunrise elopement that just feels so intimate and personal. It’s just you, your partner, and nature—no distractions, just pure love.


Pros and Cons of a Sunrise Elopement


Like anything, there are pros and cons to consider before committing to an early morning elopement. So here’s a little breakdown to help you decide if a sunrise elopement is right for you:


Pros:

• Unmatched lighting for photos

• Fewer crowds and more privacy

• A peaceful and intimate atmosphere

• It’s a great way to start your day (with an epic adventure!)


Cons:

• You’ll need to wake up really early (like, before the sun)

• You might have to work a bit harder to get your guests (if you’re having any) on board.

• It can be chilly in the mornings (so pack accordingly!)


In Conclusion


Alicia and Dakota’s sunrise elopement at Two Medicine Lake in Glacier National Park was one for the books. From the intimate moments at The Overlook to the jaw-dropping beauty of Running Eagle Falls and their ceremony by the lake, it was a perfect day that authentically captured their love and adventurous spirit. If you’re thinking about a sunrise elopement, take it from me: it’s worth the early wake-up call. 🌄💍

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