Dolomites Helicopter Elopement
After having done a few dolomites weddings. I was ready to skip a year going here. But I loved the vibe of Danelle and Joe. So we booked them in and it was going to be Lago di Braies for the ceremony. There was an issue with the lakes booking system being double booked in their chosen date after they had paid. So they requested an evening slot. However they always wanted to do their vows first and wanted to plan a day of it. Fast forward to Joe loving helicopters and asking if I would be ok going in one. Now, never one to say no to anything I agreed. And proceeded to worry about it in the lead upto the day! Initially Danelle was looking at a helicopter company about an hour away, but I managed to find one only 15 mins from where we were both staying- and it was black which looked very elegant.
Even though I do a lot of travel, I actually do not enjoy flying. And have never been in a helicopter. With 2 hours sleep after some back to back weddings- I got to my hotel and was shattered. With a sunrise meet up- I was driving there with butterflies in my tummy, had not eaten breakfast for fear of being sick! And with a mixture of excitement, fear and hoping I could nail this- I pulled into the parking lot. I was glad to be early as I talked through how it all worked with the helicopter crew and they were amazing. I also was able to watch some construction crew taken up the mountain in the helicopter before our flight so it allowed me to see everything in action. Next my couple arrived and before I knew it I was boarding! In my mind I was thinking: What have I agreed to! as it pulled backwards I could feel my stomach lurch- but once we were up- it was the best flight I have ever had. So smooth and so amazing to see the mountains I was ready to skip a trip for up close. A whole new appreciation to the wonders of this area.
Helicopter landing on the mountains for the couples vows
Taking in the scenery from above was epic. And being able to capture it from the back seat meant I can photograph my couple holding hands and taking in the views! Once we landed, we picked the perfect spot for Danelle and Joe to say their personal vows and exchange rings. It was so lovely to just leave them to it and capture their vows. Everything was so quiet- no one was around as the helicopter lands away from the main trails so it is fully private. Hearing these vows, watching the sheer emotion in this landscape was stunning. Once done we did a champagne pop and celebrated their wedding.
Wedding couple photos on the mountains
Next, it was time to use the rest of the 1.5 hours we had on the mountain for the couple session. What was great about the private helicopter is that they had their travel there and back to enjoy as well as a full 1.5 hours to do as they wished. We were able to do lots of different looks on the mountains with both Tri Cime di Lavarado and Cadini di Misurina in the background. As well as some with and without the fantastic helicopter!
Helicopter ride back over the mountains
Next it was time to head back, but not before getting a gorgeous view over the mountains. The pilot showed us some gorgeous spots, as well as the highest point which was still covered in snow. What an experience! I could get used to flying this way if every trip is as beautiful and smooth! Once back on the tarmac we did a few on the helipad. Before parting ways to meet up a few hours later at the lake for their evening session. I managed to make it back in time for the end of breakfast at my hotel- so odd to have achieved so much in the day while it felt like the rest of the town was only just waking up.
Evening Wedding photos on Lago di Braies
It was so stunning to see the lake in the evening. Without people lining up ready to head in after a sunrise session- It was lovely to be here instead for a private evening session. It felt much more private and intimate- which really was the theme of the day!
If you are considering having your wedding in the Dolomites- I would really recommend doing it via Helicopter- it means you can avoid the trails, avoid the crowds and have your wedding fully private! I can help with your planning and recommend a perfect company.
