- Travel included
Elopement
photographer
Glacier National Park
- Personalized planning
- exclusive Glacier planning guide
find your way around:
If you've made it to this guide, first of all... thank you. I know planning a destination elopement is a big decision, and I'm truly honored you're considering bringing me along for the adventure.
I've created this guide to answer your questions, walk you through what it's like to work together, and help you envision what your Glacier National Park elopement could look like. Whether you're just starting to dream or already have a location in mind, my goal is to make the planning process feel simple, exciting, and completely tailored to the two of you.
Take your time, explore everything, and if you have questions along the way, I'm only a message away.
I can't wait to hear more about your story.
Welcome
We’re Jessica and Clay, a husband and wife team who genuinely love doing this together. Jessica is the planner, the location scout, the one getting way too excited over good light, and definitely the reason we’ve ended up traveling all over the country documenting love stories. Clay is the calm, go-with-the-flow one who keeps us the vibes going, carries the heavy stuff, and is usually along for whatever wild idea Jessica comes up with next.
When you book us, you’re getting two people who are fully in it with you. We’ll help scout locations, navigate permits, build a timeline, make backup plans, and figure out all those little details that can make planning an elopement feel overwhelming. Clay is also ordained, so if it’s just the two of you, we can literally get you married in the middle of somewhere incredible without needing to bring along an officiant.
And when the day comes? We want you to forget about all the planning. Go explore, laugh a lot, soak up the views, marry your best friend, and actually be present. We’ll handle the rest and document all the good stuff along the way.
glacier national park elopement photo team
meet
Jessica & Clay
meet
Jessica & Clay
Planning an elopement in Glacier National Park can feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn't have to be. Every couple who books with Chapman Photo & Film receives my exclusive Glacier National Park Elopement Planning Guide to help simplify every step of the planning process.
Inside you'll find everything from permit information and seasonal advice to lodging recommendations, packing lists, sample timelines, location inspiration, and so much more. Think of it as your personal planning resource from the moment you book until the day you say "I do."
Your
glacier national park elopement planning guide
Booking Bonus
✔ Step-by-step planning checklist
✔ My favorite Glacier locations
✔ Permit & reservation guidance
✔ Sample timelines
✔ Lodging recommendations
✔ Packing checklist
✔ Seasonal planning tips
✔ Local vendor recommendations
✔ Frequently asked questions
Inside the Guide:
✨ Yours when you book your Glacier elopement with Chapman Photo & Film.
what it looks like to work together
glacier NATIONAL PARK
the process
Within 24 hours, you'll receive a selection of sneak peeks to share with your family and friends while the excitement is still fresh. Your full gallery will be carefully edited and delivered within 4 to 6 weeks, allowing you to relive every breathtaking view, heartfelt moment, and quiet in-between memory from your Glacier National Park elopement.
Long after your adventure comes to an end, these photographs will become a lasting reminder of the day you chose each other in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
relive the ADVENTURE
06.
Today is all about the two of you. Whether you're sharing private vows along the shores of Lake McDonald, watching the sunrise over the mountains, or celebrating with your closest family and friends, I'll be there to document every genuine moment as it naturally unfolds. My approach is a balance of thoughtful guidance and honest storytelling, allowing you to fully experience your day while I preserve every beautiful chapter of your adventure.
YOUR Glacier National Park Elopement is here
05.
With your travel booked and your plans in place, we'll spend the final weeks fine-tuning the details. We'll confirm your timeline, touch base with any vendors, review backup plans if needed, and make sure you're fully prepared for your Glacier adventure. By the time your wedding day arrives, all that's left to do is soak it all in and enjoy every moment together.
final PREP
04.
One of the best parts of a Glacier elopement is turning it into an unforgettable adventure. Together, we'll create a timeline that makes room for meaningful moments, incredible scenery, and time to simply enjoy being together. I'll help you plan around lighting, travel times, and the unique rhythm of the park while sharing recommendations for lodging, local vendors, and everything you need to feel prepared for your trip.
TRAVEL & TIMELINE
03.
Planning an elopement in Glacier National Park involves more than simply choosing a beautiful location. Together, we'll create a plan that's tailored to your vision, from selecting the perfect ceremony spot and navigating permit requirements to recommending trusted vendors and building a timeline around the best light. Every detail is thoughtfully planned so you can focus on being present with one another while I take care of the rest.
planning YOUR ADVENTURE
02.
Every unforgettable elopement begins with a conversation. We'll take the time to get to know each other, talk through your vision, and start dreaming about what your Glacier National Park elopement could look like. From your priorities and ceremony location to the overall experience you want to create, this is where we begin bringing your day to life together.
let's CONNECT
01.
- Travel Included
- Taxes & Card Processing Fees Included
- Personalized Glacier Elopement Planning
- Timeline Curation & Assistance
- Permit Guidance & Support
- High-Resolution Online Gallery with Personal Print Rights
- Sneak Peeks within 24 Hours (15-30 images)
- Final Gallery within 4-6 weeks
Many couples choose this collection so they can experience GNP in two completely different lights without feeling rushed. This collection offers the freedom to create a truly personalized Glacier National Park experience. Whether you're dreaming of sunrise portraits followed by a sunset ceremony or simply want to take your time exploring Glacier throughout the day, we'll build a timeline that's unique to your vision.
10 consecutive hours of coverage
Option to Split Coverage Between Sunrise & Sunset
$5,500
Collection three
(ten hours)
Perfect for couples who want to experience more of what Glacier National Park has to offer. With time to explore multiple locations, exchange private vows, and enjoy a relaxed pace throughout the day, this collection allows your story to unfold naturally while preserving every meaningful moment along the way.
8 consecutive hours of coverage
$4,800
Collection two
(eight hours)
Perfect for couples planning an intimate Glacier National Park elopement with one ceremony location and time to explore nearby for portraits. This collection is ideal for exchanging vows surrounded by Glacier's breathtaking scenery while documenting the moments that matter most, all without feeling rushed.
4 consecutive hours of coverage
$4,000
Collection One
(four hours)
No two Glacier National Park elopements are ever the same, which is why I've thoughtfully created collections to fit a variety of experiences. Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony by the lake, a sunrise adventure in the mountains, or a full-day celebration exploring multiple locations throughout the park, there's a collection designed with your vision in mind.
Every collection includes planning assistance, timeline guidance, location recommendations, and a photography experience centered around creating meaningful memories, not just beautiful images.
Every Glacier National Park collection includes travel, planning support, taxes, and card processing fees, so the investment you see is the investment you can expect.
custom collections available upon request
designed for every adventure
collection
Your Glacier National Park elopement is more than just a ceremony, it's an unforgettable adventure and the beginning of your next chapter together. These optional enhancements allow you to personalize your experience and preserve your memories in meaningful ways, whether that's documenting your day on film, reliving every moment through a highlight film, or creating an heirloom album to enjoy for generations.
Additional Coverage
Every Glacier National Park elopement is unique, and sometimes a little extra time makes all the difference. Whether you'd like to explore another breathtaking location, spend more time together in the park, or simply enjoy a slower-paced timeline, additional coverage can be added to any collection.
Starting at $600 per hour
35mm & Medium Format Film
Film brings a timeless, nostalgic quality that's impossible to replicate digitally. With beautiful tones, organic grain, and an intentionally slower approach, film captures your Glacier National Park elopement in a way that feels authentic, artistic, and beautifully timeless.
Highlight Films
Our highlight films are crafted with the same timeless approach as our photography, featuring true-to-life colors and genuine moments as they naturally unfold. The result is a beautiful film that complements your gallery and allows you to relive your Glacier National Park adventure for years to come.
Rehearsal Dinner Coverage
If you're celebrating with family and friends before your elopement or destination wedding, rehearsal dinner coverage is a wonderful way to document the laughter, heartfelt toasts, and meaningful moments leading into your wedding day. Coverage is available as an add-on for couples hosting a rehearsal dinner or welcome gathering during their Glacier National Park celebration.
Starting at $1000
Up to 2 hours of coverage.
Additional Information
All enhancements may be added when you book or anytime before your wedding day, making it easy to customize your experience as your plans come together. If you're dreaming of something unique that's not listed here, I'd be happy to create a custom experience tailored to your vision.
enhance your glacier adventure
Add-ons
handcrafted
Albums must be prepaid before design begins and typically take four to six weeks to complete including revisions. Albums may be ordered any time before or after the wedding day. Holiday ordering deadline is November 1st. With the exception of printing errors, all albums are non-returnable.
Heirloom albums don't have to be decided on right away. They can be added to your collection at any time after your wedding, allowing you to relive your favorite memories whenever you're ready to preserve them in print.
Linen: $450 each
Leather: $550 each
Additional spread: $20 each
Duplicate parent Albums (8x8, 20 pages)
Linen: $850
Leather: $995
Additional spread: $35
20-page 10x10 Album
Wedding albums are available a la carte or as part of your collection.
We're big believers that images aren't meant to live only in a digital space. One day, most likely, Instagram will be gone. Your phone will be replaced. Even the online gallery we deliver will eventually fade away.
Think about this: twenty-five years ago, if we had delivered your images on a floppy disk, you would have no way to access them today. The formats change. The physical thing stays.
One of the best ways to make your memories last is an album. These aren't the same albums your parents' wedding photos came in. They're modern, lay perfectly flat, and look genuinely beautiful on a coffee table. Made with archival materials and your choice of linen or leather cover.
the perfect way to remember the moments that matter most
Albums
35mm Film Photography
A beautiful way to add an extra layer of nostalgia and artistry to your wedding gallery. Each roll is intentionally photographed throughout the day and professionally developed and scanned for a timeless look.
One Roll (Approximately 25–36 Images) – $250
Two Rolls (Approximately 50–72 Images) – $450
Three Rolls (Approximately 75–108 Images) – $650
Medium Format Film
For couples wanting an even more refined heirloom look, medium format film offers incredible detail, soft tones, and a truly one-of-a-kind aesthetic. This option is perfect for portraits, quiet moments, and details throughout the day.
One Roll (Approximately 15 Images) – $225
Two Rolls (Approximately 30 Images) – $425
Complete Film Collection
Includes:
• 2 rolls of 35mm film
• 2 rolls of medium format film
• Professional developing and high-resolution scans
$850
Every roll is professionally developed and scanned at a professional film lab. Film images are delivered alongside your digital gallery, preserving your wedding day with an authentic look that can't be replicated digitally.
A beautiful layer of nostalgia for your wedding day
film
Your Glacier National Park elopement is filled with moments that deserve to be experienced again and again. Our highlight films are thoughtfully crafted with the same timeless approach as our photography, featuring true-to-life colors, natural audio, and genuine moments as they naturally unfold. The result is a beautiful film that complements your gallery and allows you to relive your Glacier adventure for years to come.
Investment:
Highlight Film
3–5 Minute Edited Film
Starting at $1,500
Your Love Story in Motion
highlight video
-Jenny & Brandon
“As if her work weren't amazing enough, she's the absolute kindest”
Kind words from past couples
—Chloe & Hunter
“Jessica & Clay are the best, they took care of us so well and we felt like we were hanging out with our best friends that just happen to have cameras with them”
Kind words from past couples
—reagan & ian
“We cried the first time we saw our gallery and we still do now”
Kind words from past couples
One of the most exciting parts of planning your Glacier National Park elopement is choosing where you'll say "I do." Every location offers a completely different experience, and during the planning process I'll help you choose the one that best fits your vision, guest count, accessibility needs, and the kind of adventure you're dreaming of.
Below are a few of my favorite ceremony settings to help you start imagining your day.
Inspiration
location
Couples wanting Glacier's most iconic scenery with crystal-clear water, colorful shoreline rocks, mountain reflections, and unforgettable sunrise or sunset portraits.
Lake Mcdonald
Best for:
Why I love it:
Lake McDonald is one of the most recognizable locations in Glacier National Park for a reason. It offers incredible variety within a short distance, allowing us to capture lakeside portraits, mountain views, peaceful docks, and intimate shoreline moments all in one location.
Perfect for:
• Sunrise or sunset portraits
• Private vows
• First looks
• Couples wanting iconic Glacier scenery
Couples dreaming of dramatic mountain views with very little hiking.
Big bend
Best for:
Why I love it:
Big Bend showcases the breathtaking alpine scenery Glacier is known for. The sweeping mountain backdrop makes couples feel surrounded by the landscape, creating some of the most iconic portraits in the park.
Perfect for:
• Epic mountain portraits
• Small ceremonies
• Wildflower season
• Sunset portraits
Couples wanting a little bit of everything.
sun point
Best for:
Why I love it:
Sun Point offers beautiful lake views, rocky shoreline, towering trees, and mountain backdrops all within a short walk. It's one of my favorite locations because every direction feels completely different, giving your gallery incredible variety.
Perfect for:
• Elopements
• Family-friendly ceremonies
• Couples portraits
• Sunrise or sunset
Couples looking for a quieter Glacier experience.
two medicine
Best for:
Why I love it:
Two Medicine offers peaceful lakes, dramatic mountain views, and fewer crowds than some of the park's more popular areas. It's an incredible choice for couples wanting a more private, relaxed atmosphere.
Perfect for:
• Intimate ceremonies
• Reflection photos
• Sunset portraits
• Smaller crowds
Couples wanting a luxurious mountain lodge atmosphere.
many glacier
Best for:
Why I love it:
Many Glacier combines stunning mountain scenery with the charm of the historic lodge, creating a timeless and elegant backdrop for portraits. It's perfect for couples wanting both dramatic landscapes and classic architecture
Perfect for:
• Historic lodge charm
• Mountain scenery
• Romantic portraits
• Multi-location galleries
Adventure-loving couples who want Glacier's famous alpine landscapes.
logan pass
Best for:
Why I love it:
If you've ever seen those incredible Glacier photos with endless mountains and wildflowers, there's a good chance they were taken near Logan Pass. The scenery here feels truly unforgettable and creates an adventurous experience unlike anywhere else in the park. lots of wildlife too!
Perfect for:
• Adventure portraits
• Wildflowers
• Mountain views
• Sunrise sessions
Tips
planning
Planning an elopement in Glacier National Park is an unforgettable experience, and a little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few of my favorite tips to help you make the most of your adventure.
Lighting plays one of the biggest roles in creating beautiful photographs. Sunrise and sunset not only provide the softest, most flattering light, but they also tend to bring cooler temperatures and fewer crowds throughout the park.
Plan Around the Best Light
Mountain weather can change quickly, and that's part of Glacier's charm. Whether it's dramatic clouds rolling over the peaks or a passing summer shower, some of the most unforgettable photographs happen when we embrace whatever the day brings.
Embrace the Unexpected
One of the biggest mistakes couples make is trying to squeeze too much into their timeline. Your elopement isn't just about the ceremony, it's about the experience. Leaving room to explore, soak in the views, and simply enjoy being together often creates the most meaningful memories.
Build in Time to Slow Down
Seeing mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or even bears is part of what makes Glacier so special. We'll always admire wildlife from a safe distance while following National Park guidelines to help protect both you and the park.
Be Ready for Wildlife
You don't have to know exactly where you want to get married or how your day should unfold before reaching out. That's what I'm here for. From choosing the perfect location to creating a personalized timeline, I'll guide you through every step of the planning process.
Trust the Planning Process
Questions
asked
Frequently
Mountain weather can change quickly, and that's all part of the adventure. We'll create a flexible timeline and backup plan ahead of time so you can enjoy your day with confidence, no matter what Mother Nature has planned.
What happens if the weather doesn't cooperate?
Absolutely. One of my favorite parts of the planning process is helping couples find the perfect location based on their vision, guest count, accessibility needs, and the overall experience they want to create.
Will you help us choose a location?
Yes! Travel to Glacier National Park is already included in every collection, so there are no surprise travel fees or hidden costs.
Is your travel included?
Yes. Most ceremonies within Glacier National Park require a Special Use Permit issued by the National Park Service. Don't worry, I’ll walk you through the process and provide guidance every step of the way.
Do we need a permit to elope in Glacier National Park?
Absolutely! Whether it's just the two of you or a small group of your favorite people, I'll help recommend ceremony locations that fit your guest count while still creating an intimate experience.
Can we bring family & friends?
The sooner, the better, especially if you're planning to elope during Glacier's busiest months. Booking early gives us the best chance of securing your ideal date, building a relaxed timeline, and planning around seasonal conditions.
How far in advance should we book?
Every season offers something unique, but my favorite months are July through September when Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically open and many of Glacier's most iconic locations are easily accessible. During our planning process, I'll help you choose the best time based on your vision, preferred scenery, and overall experience.
When is the best time of year to elope in Glacier National Park?
Of course! Every elopement is unique. If you don't see a collection that fits exactly what you're envisioning, I'd be happy to create a custom proposal tailored to your plans.
Can we customize a collection?
To officially reserve your Glacier National Park elopement date, a signed contract and 25% non-refundable retainer are required. A second 25% payment is due six months before your elopement, with the remaining balance due 60 days before your wedding day. Prefer to make smaller payments? No problem! Flexible monthly payment plans are available through HoneyBook.
How do payments work?
You'll receive a preview gallery within 72 hours so you can start reliving your day right away. Your final edited gallery will be delivered within 4–6 weeks.
When will we receive our photos?
A signed contract and a 25% non-refundable retainer are required to officially reserve your Glacier National Park elopement date. Because I accept a limited number of destination weddings each year, dates are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
We love your work and want to book. What's the next step?
location
Glacier National Park, Montana
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Bella & Kyler's Dream Glacier Elopement at Big Bend
gallery
Bella and Kyler decided just 2.5 months before their wedding day that they wanted to elope in Glacier National Park, and we quickly jumped in to help make it happen. With little time to secure a ceremony permit, we found a beautiful public location outside the park with incredible Glacier views where they could exchange vows stress free.
Their 6-hour Glacier National Park elopement began at an Airbnb near the West Glacier entrance, where Bella did her own hair and makeup and created her bouquet with flowers from a local grocery store. They exchanged vows at Belton Stage Park before we headed into Glacier National Park for couple portraits at Big Bend along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Their day is the perfect example that your dream Glacier elopement doesn’t need months of complicated planning. When you hire Clay and me, we’re there for more than the photos. From scouting locations and navigating logistics to creating a plan for your day, we can help bring it all together, even with just a few months to make it happen.
Thank you for taking the time to read through all of this. It means you're taking this decision seriously, and I love that about you.
If something here felt right, the next step is easy. Send me a note with your vision, and I'll get back to you within 1 business day.
I can't wait to hear your story.