Castner Glacier and Delta Junction

I have wanted to do a session or elopement at Castner Glacier for so long. It’s an incredible landmark that has stayed hidden outside of the local knowledge up until the last two years. Even though it’s not far from the main road, unless you know about it, you can drive right by it and not even know it exists.

Because of the summer heat and the erosion of the water that flows from within the glacier, the ice formation and aesthetic is constantly changing from year to year. Showcasing gradients of gravel and rock, deep hues of grey and blue, and natural ice designs, the glacier holds raw beauty of nature and it’s hidden gems.

I asked around if anyone would like a bridal session at the glacier entrance and Tanner sent me a message. He and Alesya married in the fall and never really took any photos of just the two of them so he saw this as a great opportunity.

I really wanted to make the most out of this shoot so I asked some local wedding vendors if they wanted to contribute their talents. Almost everyone said “yes” and we soon created a plan for the day. I was so excited that it was finally happening!

Starting in the late morning, we scheduled hair and makeup with Leanne at a beautiful rental home, had a cake delivered by Angie, florals were picked up the day before from Arctic Blooms and Bouquets in North Pole, and the couple arrived to get ready. We, meaning my wife and second shooter Angelica, created a space to prep for the shoot and since it was still winter, we cut the cake inside and Tanner and Alesya shared a few sweet moments before heading out to the glacier.

It was about a forty minute drive from the house and we arrived mid afternoon with plenty of time before the sunset to take photos. It became an adventure walking out to the glacier in the wind and snow hauling cameras and gear out to the glacier entrance.

We took some incredible portraits of the two of them both inside the glacier and outside. The florals popped against the snow and ice and the whole scene was like out of a magazine. Alesya stood out in the arctic elements for portraits and posed with elegance. We took so many photos that afternoon and it took me hours to cull down to a decent sized gallery. Everywhere you turned it was picture perfect. I took a few of the highlight images to create this post and I hope you enjoy it as much as we did creating and maybe a little inspired to go exploring here in Delta.

Photography: The Wedding Experience

Florals: Arctic Blooms and Bouquets

Hair & Makeup Artist: Makeup by Leanne

Cake and Desserts: Cakes by Angie

Rental Properties and Homes: Delta Accommodations