7 STEPS TO PLAN YOUR PERFECT HELI WEDDING

It is a fantastic way to see and experience in a way that very few people do, so if you are getting married or eloping in the Alps, booking a helicopter trip is something you should do. In this blog, we will outline some of the most critical things you need to know to prepare for your wedding ceremony in a helicopter. I consulted with four helicopter businesses headquartered in the Alps to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. In addition, I've included some of our very personal advice and recommendations for the wedding. 

This post is for you if you and your spouse have always imagined saying your vows while soaring high above the mountains in an unforgettable and exhilarating setting.  

Organising a wedding in a helicopter is scary at first. On the other hand, the reality is that it only requires a little effort to plan out! Look at these seven measures to assist you in planning your mountaintop wedding without experiencing any stress. Also, remember that we at Karizma Photography will be available to provide assistance and direction at every process step! 

STEP 1: CHOOSE A LOCATION FOR YOUR HELI ELOPEMENT

When preparing for your helicopter wedding, this might be one of the most challenging phases. There are a lot of stunning locations in British Columbia where you can recite your wedding vows. If you need help determining where to begin your search for ideas, we recommend that you read through our blog entries or our Pinterest boards to get some ideas. Think of the landscapes that appeal to you the most, such as mountain peaks, glacial lakes, valleys reminiscent of the West Coast, glaciers, or even ice caves. 

STEP 2: DECIDE ON THE NUMBER OF GUESTS

A wedding in the style of an elopement will result in a ceremony and reception that are both relatively small in scale. Most engaged couples opt to have only themselves present for their elopement. On the other hand, limiting your guest list to solely comprise members of one's immediate family or their closest friends is typical. When you are making plans for the guest list for your heli wedding, one thing that you need to keep in mind is that the number of people you invite will be contingent on the number of people that a helicopter can hold, or you will need to decide how many helicopters you are willing to hire for the day. It is an important consideration to make.  

STEP 3: PICK A DATE OF YOUR HELI WEDDING

Weekdays are always prefered because there are fewer people, less traffic, and a larger likelihood that your vendor will be available than if you tried to book them on the weekend. It is because most people have the weekend off. Consider the landscape and the mood you want to create when you have trouble choosing between the seasons. If you prefer cold, snowy vibes, the best seasons are winter and early spring. These times of year have a lot of freezing snowfall. Consider holding the event in the summer if you want a setting with more vegetation, longer days, and a breathtaking sunset. 

STEP 4: CHOOSE A HELICOPTER PACKAGE

The flight time from a helicopter to a site is typically between 5 and 25 minutes. Depending on the package you select, the time it takes to land can range from 45 minutes to 90 minutes. Your package will also determine the maximum number of landings you can have daily.  To ensure you can get the most out of your wedding day, we will assist you in developing a timeline of events.  

STEP 5: BOOK YOUR VENDORS

After you have decided on the date and venue of your event, the next step is to book your vendors. You can hire an officiant, videographer, make-up artist, florist, and even a caterer (if you're planning a mountaintop picnic), in addition to the photographer and the business that will fly you there in a helicopter. It would be our pleasure to share our suggestions for fantastic wedding professionals whom we have enjoyed working with and who come highly recommended. When booking your vendor, it is important to remember that if the vendor is not local to the area, there may be an additional travel fee associated with the final prices. No additional fees are tacked on to any of Karizma Photography's adventure elopement or helicopter elopement packages to cover our travel expenses within the province of British Columbia.  

STEP 6: PREPARE A BACKUP PLAN

Unfortunately, we cannot avoid confronting it at this stage. The weather is a factor in helicopter flights, and as a result, the success of your elopement in a helicopter will rely on the weather. The weather in the mountains can change instantly, which can result in the cancellation of flights at the very last minute.  

STEP 7: ENJOY YOUR UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE HELICOPTER ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE

You may be forgiven for questioning why we even mentioned this stage in our post on Earth! It is because, in our opinion, this is one of the most significant steps. 

When it comes to wedding preparations, many couples experience such high stress levels that they become completely worn out when their big day finally arrives. They worry a lot about the course that events will take and whether or not everything will go according to plan. On your wedding day, you should forget about all that tension. Put your hands over your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and let go of all your problems! Do not let insignificant things detract from what is sure to be the happiest, most joyful, emotionally challenging, and exciting day of your life! Love, make each other laugh, make the most of the trip, and make the most of every second of this unforgettable elopement experience! This day will fly by in the blink of an eye. Therefore you should make the most of the time you have left in it.  

Where To Go For a Helicopter Wedding

If you are interested in having your wedding performed by helicopter, we have compiled a list of some of our most recommended places for you to consider.  

#1 – Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are beckoning you to have your wedding there if you are seeking an alpine landscape that is stunning, dramatic, and audacious all at the same time. Because booking a helicopter tour in Switzerland is so simple, a wedding in the air is a very real possibility. 

#2 – Austria

The fact that Austria is a country that is home to breathtaking mountains for as far as the eye can view is one of the best things about Austria. There are many locations for your helicopter wedding; nevertheless, Kitzbuhel and St. Anton are among the most common choices. The only thing to remember while selecting a mountain in Austria for a wedding ceremony performed by helicopter is the presence of various national parks that impose flight limitations. 

#3 – Dolomites

The Dolomites provide something that cannot be found at other places for helicopter weddings: the opportunity to take tours during sunrise and sunset. The Dolomites are an interesting mountain range not just because of this fantastic alternative but also because of the mountain range's distinctive topography, jagged spires, and extremely beautiful views. You will have the opportunity to land on the mountain, allowing you to experience a day of awe while looking out over the surrounding landscape.  

#4 – Italy

Outside of the Dolomites, a vast array of alternative routes can be taken by helicopter. Mt. Seceda, widely regarded as one of Italy's most visually stunning peaks, can be found in the enchanting region of Bolzano.

The scenery in this area is simply stunning, with cliffs and wonderful views across the valley. However, this is just the beginning when it comes to the helicopter trips that are available in Italy! 

#5 – Bavarian Alps

We can't get enough of the breathtaking scenery of the Bavarian Alps in Germany. Bavaria is home to several distinct mountain ranges that collectively make up what is known as the Bavarian Alps. The most recent ice age left its mark on this area, leaving behind breathtaking lakes, glaciers, and u-shaped valleys, among other natural features. 

How to Plan a Helicopter Elopement in 2023

1. Decide on a General Area

Choosing the location of your helicopter elopement may be both the most exciting and the most difficult decision you will have to make. There are many wonderful possibilities; nevertheless, you should choose the one that best reflects who the two of you are as a pair. What aspects do you feel are most crucial to have on the day of your wedding? Is that a hill or a mountain? Lakes? Glaciers? You should jot down a list of the features your ideal venue would have and then use those features to help you decide where you would like to hold your helicopter elopement ceremony.  

2. Research Seasonal Weather

Elopements that take place via helicopter are always contingent on the weather. When organising your day's activities, it is essential to provide some wiggle room in case you have any delays or bad weather. There will be occasions when flights won't be able to take off at all. We know this is not an ideal scenario for a wedding day, but studying the weather can help reduce the likelihood of that happening. Research the weather patterns that prevail during each month in the region of your choice. It's possible that you had your heart set on having your elopement in June. Still, after researching, you discovered that June is more likely to have inclement weather, such as rain or snow, so it could be in your best interest to reevaluate your plans and have the ceremony in August instead. 

Remembering that summer at lower elevations differs from summer in the northern Rocky Mountains is another important thing to remember. When June rolls around in the far north, it's not uncommon for there to be snow on the ground. Book your wedding between November and June if you want it to occur throughout the winter. Expect temperatures closer to spring during November through March, with temperatures more akin to winter during April through June. A wedding in the summer should take place between the end of July and the beginning of October after the snow has melted and the lakes have become navigable. Elopements via helicopter can occur any time of the year, whether you picture a winter wedding in the spring or a lakeside ceremony in the summer. 

3. Have a Backup Plan

Elopements via helicopter are best suited for daring, impulsive, and flexible couples. It is because, regardless of how much preparation and planning you've put into your big day, the most unexpected things can happen at any moment. Because it is hard to influence the weather in any way, Blackcomb Helicopters recommends choosing a site where, even if the weather could be better, there are still plenty of other gorgeous locations to elope if the initial plan is unsuccessful. If your trip is cancelled, you won't have to worry about missing out on all the incredible scenery Whistler offers because the region is replete with picturesque alpine lakes, waterfalls, verdant woods, and mountains.  

4. Plan Your Perfect Elopement Day

This section provides a great deal of information regarding planning an elopement via helicopter. The standard wedding checklists will not be applicable because this will not be a traditional wedding. When it comes to organising the day of your dream elopement, make sure to keep in mind the following details:  

• Guests: Since helicopter elopements are often small affairs, the number of people that can join you on your Heli excursion will be severely constrained by seating arrangements. There is room for up to five people in a Blackcomb Helicopter. There is room for the couple, a photographer, the person performing the ceremony, and one other guest. It is feasible to go on multi-flight excursions, but the practicalities of doing so with two helicopters may be more challenging, so bear that in mind. 
• Ceremony venue – An adventure elopement can be carried out in various ways. Some people intend to get married in a small ceremony with close friends and family members present. Then, they will get on a plane immediately afterwards to rejoice, exchange vows, and take wedding photos. Some couples choose to hold their ceremony while eloping by helicopter. There is no correct or incorrect method to do the task; you only need to follow your gut. 
• Research the landing spots. The majority of organisations that offer helicopter elopement services offer numerous locations at which to land. Depending on your chosen flight, you may visit a single site or numerous locations. The landing spots of most heli elopement businesses, such as Blackcomb Helicopters, are detailed on the firms' respective websites. From this vantage point, you can determine where they landed in Whistler. 
• It is of the utmost importance to select vendors familiar with heli elopements and have prior experience working with clients to plan them. The local merchants are quite familiar with the process, and they will see that you have a wonderful day right from the moment you set foot on the island. Many of these vendors have been to the destinations before. Thus, they are already familiar with the most useful areas and helpful hints. If the weather is an issue for your elopement, local suppliers will also have important knowledge of the surrounding area, allowing them to find an alternative venue rapidly. 

And even though helicopter elopement requires some very different planning components, there is a significant benefit to be had here. It's always possible to start planning your elopement with a helicopter ride! Many helicopter elopement providers embrace and even love the impromptu spontaneity that is sometimes behind this elopement style. It contrasts with wedding reception venues, which typically must be scheduled at least a year in advance. Most couples who choose to elope via helicopter schedule their trip in advance for a few months (or even days!). 

5. Know the Cancellation Policy

Policies about cancellation are subject to variation from one helicopter elopement operator to the next. However, making reservations with a company with a more flexible cancellation policy is usually suggested. Eloping via helicopter can be a significant financial commitment for some couples because of the possibility of adverse weather and other unanticipated events. A full refund is granted to customers who cancel their reservations up to twenty-four hours before their scheduled flight time through Blackcomb Helicopters' accommodating cancellation policy.  

6. Pack Smart 

It will be crucial for those who need to become more familiar with hilly or high-altitude places. Snowpack can be seen across most of Canada and the northern United States well into July. Before couples embark on their elopement trip via helicopter, the elopement company will typically provide them with a required packing list. And the answer is yes—you are more than welcome to wear your tux or wedding dress. The following is a list of the most important prerequisites and packing tips:  

• Put your heels in a bag and wear shoes that completely enclose your feet and have a tread pattern on the bottom. These are the types of shoes you should wear for the helicopter flight and for strolling around. When the terrain is uneven, it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid wearing heels unless it is to take photographs. Many engaged couples decide to play around with the change in footwear by taking additional photographs of themselves dressed in their wedding clothes and hiking or snow boots. Simply put, it adds yet another interesting twist to your day! 
• Bring a coat with you because the weather can change quickly in the mountains, and even though it may be summer in the valley below, temperatures high in the alpine may still be nearly freezing. Wind and unforeseen weather patterns are always possible when travelling across mountainous terrain. A warm coat, gloves, earmuffs, and hand warmers should all be on your simple but comprehensive packing list.

Tips for Planning Your Helicopter Wedding

Here are some pointers to get you started as you begin organising your wedding that will take place in a helicopter.  

How Far in Advance Do You Need to Book a Wedding Helicopter Tour? 

Make reservations for a wedding helicopter tour as early as two to three days before the day you choose. Because going on tours depends on the weather, most people only schedule them a little in advance. Some businesses suggest making reservations three weeks in advance to guarantee availability. 

The Best Time of Year to Take a Helicopter Tour

Tours via helicopter are available every day of the year, although for special occasions like weddings, the summer or early fall seasons are ideal. At this time of year, the temperatures are more bearable, there is less snow, and it is easier to forecast the weather.  

The Best Time of Day to Take a Helicopter Tour

There are two windows of the day where your helicopter tour will go more smoothly than the others. The greatest time for a helicopter tour in the mountains during the summer is in the morning, which allows you to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms. In the fall and winter, it is often best to take a helicopter tour in the afternoon rather than the morning because the temperature tends to rise in the late afternoon. 

How to Pick a Location for Your Helicopter Wedding

Most service providers will provide their customers with a list of potential sites for helicopter weddings. These lists have been compiled to contain some of the most beautiful scenery currently available. The airline you opt to fly with will be able to answer any questions you may have on the various stops along the way and assist you in selecting the location that is most suitable for your needs. They have been doing what they do for years, so they will have the experience necessary to make sure that your time there is one you will always remember. If there is a particular location or kind of landscape you want to see, make sure to mention it early in making your reservation for it. 

Certain landing spots call for specialised permissions, which cost anywhere from $100 to $200 each. These spots require reservations in advance, so if your heart is set on a certain site, you should prepare at least one month to secure it. 

Check out this fantastic resource if you want to learn more about selecting the ideal venue for a mountain wedding or elopement.  

What to Wear for Your Helicopter Wedding

Because of the high elevation at which helicopter weddings typically occur, the attire you choose for your wedding is quite significant. At higher elevations, the weather is likely to be considerably chillier and windier, and you may even run across some snow in the middle of July!  

Consider bringing the following items if you get the chance:  

1. A warm, comfortable jacket that’s wind-resistant
2. Sturdy footwear that will keep your feet protected from the cold and mountainous terrain
3. Gloves
4. Sunscreen

You can acquire a free downloaded packing list from me if you want a comprehensive rundown of what to carry for your adventurous elopement, and you can get that list on this page. 

Have a Backup Plan in Mind

Because helicopter tours are highly dependent on the weather, it is essential to have a backup plan in place if your trip cannot take place or if the flight location needs to be altered. Maintaining a flexible mindset is also essential, given that there is always a chance that your flight will be delayed or cancelled. As with any activity, having a backup plan you're excited about will help create a more seamless experience for you and your guests during your adventure wedding. The weather frequently determines adventure weddings. 

Types of Helicopter Tours

There is a wide variety of tour packages available to choose from when booking a helicopter excursion. The following is a list of the most common kinds of helicopter tours that you can reserve.  

Flightseeing Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours, known as "flightseeing", are designed for passengers who wish to share their aerial adventure with as many as four or five more passengers (depending on the size of the helicopter). The amount of airtime spent in the air during a flightseeing tour often ranges anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes. These kinds of trips follow predetermined itineraries over the entirety of the reserved amount of time. Wedding flights are not typically something I recommend using a flightseeing helicopter for because these trips typically include sharing the experience with other tourists. 

Photography Helicopter Tours

Photography helicopter flights allow amateur and professional photographers to capture the world from a new vantage point. These trips are intended specifically for photographers. People can arrange these trips for their photography or to gather footage for a short film. Those who book a tour can take advantage of both options. Golden hour is the time of day that offers the most desirable lighting conditions for photographers, and photography helicopter tours are scheduled. Another feature of these excursions is that the aircraft may occasionally fly with its doors removed, enabling photographers to capture images of the scenery without obstructions in their perspective.  

Private Helicopter Charters and Wedding Helicopters

The vast majority of wedding chopper rides are booked through private charters. Many firms that offer flightseeing also provide private charters. These customised wedding helicopter excursions are intended for couples searching for an intimate and one-of-a-kind experience tailored to their preferences and requirements for the big day. Flight time for private helicopter charters typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes and may include a landing stop at a predetermined location. When booking a wedding helicopter tour, make sure to compare the amount of time allotted for pauses. You will want plenty of time to explore and take photos on your big day.   

Wrap Up

If you are searching for a one-of-a-kind experience for your wedding day while also travelling to numerous destinations, planning an adventure wedding via helicopter is the right option for you to consider. You can capture unforgettable images of your big day and a stunning backdrop. However, due to the specific circumstances involved, the heli elopement preparation process is significantly different from the planning process for a "normal" wedding. You're in luck since we're here to assist you in planning every aspect of your outdoor wedding to ensure it goes off without a hitch!