A Winter Wedding Styled Shoot at Eklutna Lake

Bringing Bright Pops of Color to Alaska’s Frozen Beauty

When people imagine a winter wedding in Alaska, they often picture muted tones—white snow, icy blues, and soft gray skies. But this styled wedding at Eklutna Lake set out to show something different: that winter can be just as vibrant, joyful, and full of life as any summer day.

And oh, did it deliver.

A Colorful Twist on a Classic Alaska Winter Scene

Set against the snow-covered shores of Eklutna Lake with the Chugach Mountains standing tall in the background, this shoot brought in bold florals, whimsical details, and cozy elements to create a truly intimate winter celebration.

The goal? To inspire couples to embrace the magic of winter and not be afraid to play with color—even when everything around them is blanketed in white.

Bright pinks, golden yellows, and burnt oranges popped against the snow like confetti, while lush florals added warmth and romance to the crisp mountain air. From the bouquet to the table setup, every detail was designed to spark joy and feel inviting—even on the chilliest of days.

Why Eklutna Lake is the Perfect Winter Wedding Backdrop

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels peaceful, wild, and completely your own, Eklutna Lake might just be your spot. Tucked just under an hour from Anchorage, this location is a hidden gem that offers the best of Alaska: frozen lakes, mountain views, and trails that feel untouched.

Even in the dead of winter, the lake has this quiet kind of magic to it—like the world slows down just enough for you to breathe it all in. It’s the kind of place where your vows echo off the mountains and your love story feels stitched into the landscape.

And the best part? The light. That soft winter glow bouncing off the snow is a photographer’s dream.

Intimacy in Every Detail

This styled wedding wasn’t about recreating a grand affair—it was about showing how deeply personal and beautiful a small, intentional wedding day can be. Picture this:

•A sweetheart table for two with cozy blankets draped over chairs.

•A colorful bouquet wrapped in velvet ribbon, held tight during vows.

•A custom vow book resting beside a mug of hot cider.

•A couple wrapped in each other (and a wool blanket) as snowflakes fall quietly around them.

It’s those little moments that often mean the most—and it’s exactly what this shoot was designed to showcase.

Planning a Winter Wedding in Alaska?

Here’s the thing: winter weddings in Alaska aren’t for everyone—but for the right couple, they are pure magic. The kind of magic that gives you snow-dusted portraits, unexpected adventure, and a day that feels like it was made just for you.

If you’ve been toying with the idea of a winter elopement or intimate wedding, let this styled shoot be your sign. Bring in the colors. Make it personal. Lean into the season, and let Alaska do the rest.

And if you’re not sure where to start? I’m here to help—from planning the perfect timeline (yes, even with short daylight hours!) to sharing my favorite local vendors who know how to work winter magic.