Say “I Do” at Lake McDonald
Photo: RJFisher
The Magic of a Lake McDonald Wedding
Tucked into the pristine wilderness of Northwest Montana, Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park is a breathtaking location for couples who dream of a quiet, intimate wedding surrounded by natural beauty. With glacier-fed waters, towering mountain backdrops, and that crisp alpine air, this iconic location offers a truly soul-stirring setting for elopements and small family ceremonies. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned adventurer, this place will leave you awe-inspired—and it’s one of the top spots I recommend to couples traveling here for their wedding day.
Photo: RJFisher
The Vibe + The Details
Glacier National Park weddings are ideal for small, heartfelt gatherings—typically under 20 guests—making them perfect for couples who want to focus on what matters most: the ceremony, the setting, and each other.
Photo: RJFisher
As a local wedding officiant and celebrant, my focus is on crafting and leading meaningful, customized ceremonies that reflect your story and values. While couples are responsible for securing their own park permit and hiring vendors like photography or florals separately, I provide detailed guidance on ceremony flow, location logistics, and timing to help everything run smoothly.
Photo: RJFisher
Whether you're navigating your first visit to Northwest Montana or planning from afar, I’m here to help make your ceremony intentional, personal, and deeply connected to the landscape.
Photo: RJFisher
WHY THEY CHOSE TO WORK WITH ME
Ben and Kelsey found me online while searching for someone who truly understood the spirit of a Glacier National Park wedding. During our initial conversation, I shared a grounding meditation I often include at the beginning of outdoor ceremonies—something to help couples and their guests arrive fully in the moment, rooted in the landscape. Hearing about that simple practice moved both of them to tears. It was in that moment that we all felt the connection—deep, authentic, and aligned. That shared sense of presence and meaning ultimately led them to choose me as their officiant.
WEDDING DAY HIGHLIGHTS
When I think of Ben and Kelsey’s wedding, I think of warmth, blending, and that sweet sense of being surrounded by exactly the right people. These two flew in from out of state, bringing with them a love of photography, whiskey, and their blended family—including Kelsey’s two daughters, who played special roles in the ceremony.
We started their August day with a quiet walk-through at Ryan’s Meadow, where Ben had long dreamed of capturing his wedding photos. The sun was harsh, so we kept things light and funny—swapping out vows for phrases like *“watermelon watermelon”* and *“chicken wings”* to keep the surprise intact and ease any nerves. By the time we moved to their permitted ceremony site—a stunning beach near Lake McDonald Lodge—the skies turned a moody gray, the rain sprinkled just enough to be cinematic, and then cleared at the perfect moment. The result? A private ceremony space, magical lighting, and a wave of happy tears and long hugs shared by all 12 guests.
Kelsey wore a gorgeous lace dress paired with pink-laced boots and a bridal shawl, and Ben rocked a pink shirt, patterned bow tie, and brand-new hiking boots—a subtle nod to the adventure they were stepping into together.
“Audrey was, quite simply, exactly what we needed from start to finish. Both Bride and Groom teared up during our very first meeting with her as she described the way she connects participants with their location, and the wonder that is Montana.
We were constantly impressed with Audrey’s communication. She set reasonable deadlines and walked us through developing a ceremony together that felt like us. With our guidance, she carefully crafted a ceremony that reflected our family in each moment. We were given the opportunity to guide the process, and let her take control where we chose. Every moment was perfect.
When we explained our dream wedding to Audrey (and a location snafu!) she was immediately invested along with us. Audrey helped us create a wedding that incorporated every aspect of our goals. We were able to have an impromptu ceremony walkthrough that settled nerves and prepared us for the big moment.
During the ceremony, Audrey was confident, calm, and her presence overwhelmed with love, light, and focus on celebration.
We are so thrilled for other couples who choose Audrey as a wedding celebrant who have the opportunity to experience the overwhelming feeling of connection that Audrey orchestrated.
”
A Look at Their Day
Photos from this intimate Glacier wedding were captured by Richard Fisher of RJF Photography — a perfect match for couples who value candid emotion and Montana’s wild beauty. Here’s a peek at what your ceremony at Lake McDonald could look like, blending the grandeur of the park with the heartfelt simplicity of a family-focused celebration.
Lake McDonald
Wedding team
Venue: Lake McDonald Beach, Glacier National Park
Photographer: RJF Photography
Celebrant/Officiant: Audrey Hyvonen, Bespoke Ceremonies Montana
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LET’S PLAN YOUR WEDDING AT LAKE MCDONALD!
Dreaming of a Glacier National Park ceremony that’s intimate, meaningful, and easy to plan from afar? I’d love to guide you through every step—from permits and planning to personal vows and Montana-inspired rituals. I offer fully customizable ceremony scripts, location guidance, and elopement packages for couples who want something real, beautiful, and connected. Whether it’s just the two of you, or your closest crew tagging along, I’m here to help you create a day that feels like *you.*
READY TO BOOK?
Let’s talk about your Glacier wedding! Reach out today to start planning your intimate ceremony in one of the most stunning places on earth.
