The wedding is located in Girdwood, a 45-minute drive from Anchorage. The Hotel Alyeska (at the Alyeska Resort) is about a 5-minute drive from the venue. If you're looking to spend a few days, or share with some friends, we highly recommend checking out Airbnb or VRBO for rental homes in Girdwood. It’s a ski town so there are plenty of ski homes for rent during the summer. Girdwood is a good home base for adventuring out and exploring Alaska's Peninsula.
The temperature in August can vary. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best! Girdwood is located in a rainforest. Misty, light rain is expected. Temperatures will most likely be in the 60’s. The wedding will be under a large canopy outdoors. We want you to be comfortable, so wear something that makes you feel your best but will also keep you cozy for a cool "Fall" wedding. Ladies: Dress for a Fall wedding. Flats or wedges. Shawl or scarf recommended as layers. Men: Handsome casual. No suits or tuxedos required.
We recommend that most people rent cars or have a car to share with another couple. Alaska is big, beautiful and vast. Part of the beauty of Alaska is the size. Expect to drive and want to drive. Your eyes will thank you.
Chances are extremely slim. Bears are a big part of Alaska. Always be 'bear aware'. For those of you who would like to get into the wild to hike and explore, we will provide bear spray. We have both lived in Alaska for three years, and have never used our bear spray while hiking, but we recommend being prepared. No headphones while hiking or running. Hiking in groups with conversation is usually all you need to give the bear a head's up so they move away from you. They don’t want to eat you. They want berries and salmon. They only want to neutralize any threat. If you happen to stumble up on a few cute bear cubs, they are not cuddly and mother bear is closely watching.
Alaskan temperatures vary. It's rarely warm enough for shorts or tank tops, especially for those of you who are acclimated to hot, humid summers. Light layers are necessary. A light, packable jacket and hat are staples if you plan on going out and exploring glaciers or boat tours.