Marriage Lake Helicopter Wedding | Ilona + Chris | Whistler Elopements

Weather is a big variable when it comes to outdoor adventure elopements in the mountains. The same was true the day of Ilona + Chris’s Marriage Lake helicopter wedding! They waited out the rain and were able to take to the skies for their adventure wedding in Whistler!

Originally, a Marriage Lake helicopter wedding was not the plan for Ilona + Chris. But, like so many couples this past year, plans changed. Due to the pandemic and shutdown restrictions, the idea of a destination wedding morphed into an adventure elopement right here in Whistler. There’s truly nothing like exploring the Sea to Sky from the clouds with our helicopter elopements. So even with changing plans and facing potential inclement weather, Ilona + Chris said they wouldn’t change a single part of their day. Everything fell into place for an absolutely incredible mountaintop elopement ceremony. Here’s what this couple had to say about their Marriage Lake helicopter wedding experience!

Why did you decide to elope?

Ilona & Chris: We had originally planned for a destination wedding; however, due to the Coronavirus and social distancing measures — we decided to change our plans but still make it an adventure for the two of us.

Why did you choose a helicopter?

Ilona & Chris: We got engaged September 2019 on Mount Robson (Berg Lake) and we originally wanted to fly back to Mount Robson for our ceremony; however, it looks like the location of the heli-pad required the bride to hike ~5km. The bride opted not to hike (she already hiked for her engagement :p). As a result, we agreed as long as it’s a mountain top with a beautiful, stunning view — that’s where we want our ceremony.

The weather was quite variable on your wedding day, how did you feel about the process of waiting to see if you could fly?

Ilona & Chris: It was definitely stressful, but we’re happy we were adamant to wait until the very last possible moment! 

What was your experience with the Whistler Elopements team?

Ilona & Chris: The team was awesome! Steve coordinated everything from the helicopter, hair and makeup artist, to ordering the bouquet and boutonniere; even last minute booking of 4x4s as our backup in case we weren’t able to fly! 

Ilona: On the day of, Tara & Paul came to pick me up and they were really friendly. The moment we met, they made me feel very comfortable and at ease. Absolutely wonderful and fun people to be around! 

Chris: They made it really easy on us (or me), so I didn’t really have to think of anything. I just needed to make sure I was ready. 

Do you have any advice for other couples looking to elope?

Ilona & Chris: The day belongs to you, so make it about yourselves. Choose the path that matches who you are as a couple.

If there is one moment that stands out above the rest from your day, what would that be and why?

Ilona: When Steve announced us husband and wife — I thought to myself that we beat the coronavirus, we beat the smoke from Washington, and we beat the old fashion weather — got married on top of a mountain with a view that can’t be unseen or forgotten! Although it was stressful, it was well worth it!  

Chris: Having had a front row seat while flying up, I was blown away by the beauty of our surroundings. Watching with anticipation as we were landing at the top of Mount Currie, I knew the day was going to exceed my expectations. That moment will live with me forever. 

Marriage Lake Helicopter Wedding Vendors

Planning | Whistler Elopements
Photography | Tara Lilly Photography
Videography | Paul Cameron Productions
Hair and Make-up | Nina Farrauto
Florals | Senka Florist
Helicopter Tours | Blackcomb Helicopters
Picnic | Picnic Whistler