If there’s one thing I’ve learned after photographing elopements in Wyoming, it’s this: expect every season… sometimes all in one day.

The weather in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park has a personality of its own. It can be sunny, rainy, windy, and snowing all within a few hours. That’s part of what makes this place so beautiful, but it also means you need to come prepared.

One mistake I made was assuming June would feel like summer. I had just flown in from the hot, humid Georgia heat, expecting warm mountain weather. Instead, I stepped off the plane into 50-degree temperatures. I couldn’t believe it! As we drove toward the mountains, you could even see fresh snow covering the higher elevations.

That trip taught me a lesson I’ll never forget.

Our Unexpected Snowstorm

I spent the afternoon hiking Taggart Lake with Beau and Laura for their wedding portraits. The weather was around 72 degrees with a nice breeze, mid June weather, so we bundled up in light jackets and began the hike.

Everything was perfect.

As we made our way back down the trail, the weather changed almost instantly. Light rain began to fall, and within minutes it turned into icy snow. By the time we reached the parking lot, the mountains were disappearing behind snow clouds.

The couple had planned to exchange vows at Wedding Tree later that afternoon. Unfortunately, the road and conditions became unsafe, and we had to change plans because of the storm. But not to fret they had me as their photographer to help them with a backup plan!

While it wasn’t the day anyone expected, it reminded us of something that’s true about Wyoming: the mountains make the rules.

The weather can shift without warning, and flexibility is one of the best things you can bring to your elopement day.

Layers Are Your Best Friend

Whether you’re eloping in June, July, September, or October, mornings in Grand Teton National Park are almost always cool. If you’re planning a sunrise ceremony or an early morning hike, you’ll be much more comfortable wearing layers that you can easily remove as the day warms up.

Even during the summer months, temperatures can feel surprisingly cold before sunrise, especially near alpine lakes or at higher elevations.

What to Pack for Your Grand Teton Elopement

Here are a few essentials I always recommend bringing:

• A warm insulated jacket or puffer coat
• Base layers or thermal clothing for early mornings
• A waterproof rain jacket
• Comfortable hiking boots with good traction
• Warm socks (bring an extra pair just in case)
• Gloves and a beanie for spring and fall elopements
• Hand warmers for chilly mornings
• A clear umbrella for unexpected rain
• Extra blankets to stay cozy between photos
• Water and snacks for longer hikes

Be Flexible

One of the best pieces of advice I can give any couple is to build flexibility into your timeline.

Mountain weather is unpredictable, and sometimes adjusting your ceremony location or waiting an extra hour can completely change the conditions. Having a photographer who knows the area, monitors weather forecasts, and has backup location ideas can make all the difference.

The Mountains Are Worth It

Even though Wyoming weather can be unpredictable, it’s one of the reasons I love photographing elopements here. The dramatic clouds, fresh snowfall, golden sunrises, and ever-changing landscapes create some of the most breathtaking moments you’ll ever experience.

So don’t stress if the forecast looks uncertain. Pack your layers, embrace the adventure, and remember that some of the most unforgettable stories begin with a little unexpected weather.

After all, the mountains always have a way of making your day even more memorable.