A Love Story Years in the Making: D + N’s Rainy and Radiant Sunrise Helicopter Elopement
Photography by Unspoken Photography.
You can’t plan for rain on your wedding day, but you can plan to love every second of it. And that’s exactly what D + N did, embracing the weather with heart, humour, and a whole lot of joy. Their sunrise heli elopement proved that magic happens when you roll with it. One of the most beautiful things I get to witness as a wedding planner is when a couple’s entire history shows up with them on their elopement day. And D + N brought it all.
These two have known each other since childhood. Best friends growing up, D knew N was “the one” as far back as age 16. Their love story is sweet, long-standing, and so full of growth and joy. Helping them get married on July 9th (on a very rainy summer morning) was an absolute honour.
Photography by Unspoken Photography.
A Rainy Forecast, A Beautiful Mindset
In the days leading up to their elopement, I was in close contact with the Sky Helicopters team. The forecast wasn’t promising. The clouds were low, the rain persistent, and it wasn’t looking like we’d be able to get into the mountains for our Sky elopement plan.
When I shared the update with the couple, D’s response absolutely blew me away.
She told me a story her dad had shared with her: as a toddler, D would pray for sunny weather, and when it rained instead, she’d say, “Maybe someone else prayed for rain.” Even though she doesn’t remember saying that, her dad always thought it was wise. Fittingly, she added that it’s rained during all her major life moments: grad, prom… and now, her wedding day.
I love working with people like this. That grounded, joyful perspective is exactly what makes elopements like theirs so magical.
Photography by Unspoken Photography.
A 4 AM Start, A Heart-Filled Morning
We started early. Super early. At 4:00 AM, we met D and N at the hangar. It was pitch black outside and pouring rain. N got ready at home, and D at her parents’ house (doing her own hair and makeup… and she nailed it!). Their gorgeous, matching florals had been delivered the night before, and D looked truly radiant in the most sparkly cocktail-length wedding dress I’ve ever seen, complete with a whimsical matching veil.
We held their first look inside the Sky Helicopters hangar. It was private, emotional, and so sweet. Afterward, we brought in their families for an intimate indoor ceremony and some cozy group photos. And then it was time to see what the skies would allow…
Douglas Island: Our Hundred-Acre Wood
The clouds were too low for a mountain landing, so the Sky team quickly pivoted to their backup location. We lifted off and flew to Douglas Island, which honestly felt like stepping into a peaceful little storybook forest. We were the only ones there in the secluded grassy field surrounded by tall trees, soaked in morning mist. It was dreamy to say the least.
D and N walked to the helicopter under umbrellas and lantern light, with that beautiful soft-blue light you only get on rainy mornings. It made for incredible photos, especially with D’s sparkly dress catching every bit of glow.
They each took turns riding up front during the flights there and back. At one point, D traced “N + D” with a heart into the fogged-up window. My heart.
If you’re dreaming of a Sea to Sky helicopter elopement that’s packed with heart, whimsy, and a little rain magic—this is it.
Photography by Unspoken Photography.
The Sweetest Elopement Keepsake Bag Ever
On the island, we took portraits with umbrellas and later had D switch into her white runners and a cathedral-length veil for more photos. Then they shared private vows (D did a little happy dance afterward), and we moved into the most adorable memory-filled celebration.
D and N had brought a whole bag of items from their shared history:
A full pack of double-stuffed Oreos (a must-have for all their hikes!)
Baby Jesus figurines, small birds, golf balls (they love hiding tiny objects in each other’s homes)
Letters they wrote to each other years ago
Their 2016 prom corsage, boutonnière, and D’s original prom dress
Glow sticks, bubbles, and old handmade friendship bracelets
A photo accordion box filled with memories and notes
It was SO thoughtful. Seeing them open everything, laugh, reminisce, and soak it all in was truly one of the sweetest moments I’ve witnessed at an elopement. And yes, they absolutely re-wore the prom corsage and boutonnière for photos.
Oh! And I can’t forget: they handmade their wedding bands together in Japan. Hammered and sized them themselves. How cool is that?
After the Flight
After soaking up the magic, we flew back to the hangar (with a few mosquito stowaways, of course). D + N headed off for breakfast with their families before winding down with a cozy afternoon at home. Their Squamish honeymoon? Coming up soon.
Photography by Unspoken Photography.
D + N are such beautiful humans! They’re so fun, deeply connected, and refreshingly real. Rain or shine (but in this case, definitely rain), they embraced every second of their day with hearts wide open.
Pro tip: Rain in July can happen here on the West Coast, so yes, we always have a rain plan, even in summer. And for the record: they didn’t bury a hot dog for good weather (despite my campaigning), so we’re still two for two on “wiener weddings” getting sunshine, lol!
Thinking of planning your own whimsical, meaningful, weather-proof elopement? From mountain summits to secret islands (and everywhere in between), we’re here for it.
Sunrise Helicopter Elopement FAQs
What is a sunrise helicopter elopement?
A sunrise helicopter elopement is an intimate wedding experience where couples exchange vows early in the morning after flying by helicopter to a remote location.
Where did this helicopter elopement take place?
This elopement took place on Douglas Island in British Columbia, a secluded, forested island accessed by helicopter when mountain conditions aren’t safe.
Can helicopter elopements happen in the rain?
Yes. Helicopter elopements can still happen in rain, depending on visibility and safety. Experienced pilots and planners always have backup locations and plans.
What happens if weather prevents a mountain landing?
If mountain conditions aren’t safe, helicopter elopements pivot to approved alternative locations, such as islands or lower-elevation sites.
Are sunrise helicopter elopements worth it?
Yes. Sunrise elopements offer quiet, privacy, soft light, and fewer weather disruptions, making them ideal for couples seeking an intimate experience.
How early do sunrise helicopter elopements start?
Sunrise helicopter elopements often begin very early, sometimes around 4:00–5:00 AM, depending on flight schedules and seasonal light.
Can family attend a helicopter elopement?
Yes. Some couples include family for part or all of the experience, such as an indoor ceremony before or after the helicopter flight.
Is a helicopter elopement legally binding?
Yes. With a valid BC marriage license and a registered officiant, a helicopter elopement is fully legal in British Columbia.
What should you wear for a rainy helicopter elopement?
Couples should wear weather-appropriate layers, comfortable footwear, and bring umbrellas or jackets while still choosing attire that feels true to them.
Are helicopter elopements safe?
Yes. Helicopter elopements are operated by licensed pilots who prioritize safety and make real-time decisions based on weather and visibility.
