Indoor weddings aren’t for everyone. In fact, for those who prefer the wilderness, mother nature will provide a amazing backdrop. Of course, a rustic outdoor wedding in the forest doesn’t mean it won’t be gorgeous! Alaskan bride Samantha is proof of that: she turned her love of fishing and wildlife into a stunning river-side event.

Samantha and her bridal party were surrounded by the lush beauty of the Alaskan wilderness as they got ready in a duo of private cabins along mile #24 of the Klutina River, outside Copper Center, AK. They were so secluded that the wedding party and guests could only reach the ceremony site by chartered riverboat. That’s right … no roads!

Inspired by the pink salmon that she and her hubby Alex fish in the river, Samantha chose pink and coral tones for her wedding colors. Magenta roses were the centerpiece of her floral bouquets, and surrounded with dripping white orchids. The flowers matched the flower girl and bridesmaids’ dresses, accenting the forest beautifully.

The pearl white and silver on the bride’s jewelry, headpiece, and dress added a little sparkle to the rustic setting. The contrast of pearl against the tree bark and moss gave the whole event an elegant authenticity.

See this whole wedding story: Samantha + Alex Wedding

• Photography: Russell & Ingrid @ Russell Gearhart Photography
• Flower design: Flowers by June
• Wedding dress: David’s Bridal
• Bridesmaid and flower girl dresses: David’s Bridal
• Bridal Jewelry: David’s Bridal
• Garter: eBay