Bozeman Summer wedding couple holding hands.

Montana Summer Elopement Ideas & Planning Tips

Are you dreaming of a magical summer elopement in the breathtaking landscapes of Montana? Well, you’ve hit the jackpot! As a seasoned Montana elopement photographer & videographer duo, we’re here to spill the beans on making your summer elopement in Big Sky Country nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s dive into some fun and adventurous elopement ideas for your Montana elopement day!

In the warm embrace of Montana’s summer, our love shines as brightly as the endless Big Sky.

Montana Weather for Your Summer Elopement

First things first, let’s talk about the weather. Montana in summer is mostly warm and sunny, however, there is a chance of some thunderstorms. Summer is the most popular time for people to explore and enjoy Montana. If you don’t mind having more people around, it really is one of the better times of the year to elope in Montana!

The good weather opens up a wide variety of outdoor activities and options for your elopement day, as well! However, if you’re planning to have a campfire – don’t elope in August because that is typically the fire season. It means there’s often a ban on fires of any kind.

Here’s a pro tip: Always have a ‘Plan B’ for your ceremony. Think about cute, clear umbrellas for those unexpected showers or a cozy wrap for those cooler mountain evenings. But also, don’t let a little rain stop you from enjoying your day! We’re all about dancing in the rain!

Couple kissing on their mountain top elopement surrounded by bear grass.

Best Locations for Your Montana Summer Elopement

Montana is brimming with stunning locations for your summer elopement day, each with its unique aesthetic and vibe. Here are a few suggestions!

Glacier National Park

In summer, Glacier National Park is a paradise of blooming wildflowers, lush greenery, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s also generally warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ideal for outdoor ceremonies. However, it’s still in a mountainous region, so evenings can be cool, and the weather can change quickly.

And if a Glacier National Park elopement sounds like an option you’d like to explore more, we have created a guide for you. Check out how to elope in Glacier National Park here!

Glacier Park Elopement couple walking through field of fireweed.

Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake, with its vast, shimmering expanse of water surrounded by mountains, is a stunning location for a summer elopement. The lake provides a serene and romantic setting, especially at sunset. The weather around the area is typically warm and sunny during summer, so it’s ideal for a lakeside elopement day.

The climate is milder and more stable here compared to the higher mountain areas, so if you’re worried about the weather – Flathead Lake is a rather safe bet for your summer elopement!

Couple in a canoe out on Whitefish Lake enjoying a moment alone on their wedding day.

Bozeman

Bozeman in summer is vibrant and lively. The surrounding mountains offer a stunning backdrop, and the fields and meadows are alive with color. Its blend of natural beauty and charming downtown provides diverse options for elopement locations.

The weather is generally warm and sunny, perfect for an outdoor celebration. However, if the weather turns sour, you’re in a cozy town filled with indoor locations to move your celebration to!

Remember, each location has its own character, so pick one that resonates with you and allows you to include the elopement activities you’d like to do!

Fun Elopement Activity Ideas to Spice Up Your Day

Your elopement day is more than just a ceremony; it’s an adventure! Here are some fun elopement activities to make your day unforgettable!

Hiking or Horseback Riding: Explore Montana’s natural beauty on foot or horseback. It’s a great way to relax and connect with nature. Montana is THE place for a Western-style elopement day!

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Start your married life on a high note with a breathtaking balloon ride at sunrise.

Lake Picnic: Post-ceremony, why not enjoy a romantic picnic by one of Montana’s stunning lakes? If this is something you’d like to include, I offer styled all-inclusive picnics as an elopement add-on to give you one less thing to worry about for your special day!

Looking for more activity inspiration? Check out the blog on how to plan the perfect adventure elopement!

Making Your Montana Summer Elopement Uniquely Yours

Your elopement should reflect who you are as a couple. Personalize your day with touches that speak to your journey together. Whether it’s incorporating a family heirloom into your ceremony or having your favorite song played as you walk ‘down the aisle’ (or trail!), these details make your day uniquely yours.

Couple with horses on at their Glacier Montana Elopement.

Tami Renae Photo & Films | Montana Elopement Photographer & Videographer

We are Tami and Matt, two adventurous souls who love nothing more than to run through a wild meadow, photographing true love at play. Seriously, it barely feels like work!

If you want an off-the-beaten-path elopement to get fired up for a life of laughter and love together, we’re the photography and videography duo for you. Get in touch today, and let’s chat more about our adventure elopement packages!

And if you want more tips on planning your mountain elopement or see inspiration for how your big day could look like, visit our blog! Bride and groom in a field during their Summer Montana elopement