An Intimate Elopement at Our Lady of the Angels in Kenai, Alaska

Although Katrina Broering (29 and a teacher) and Chris Broering (31 and a software developer) live in Ohio, the closer they got to their wedding date, the more Katrina started missing her childhood home in Alaska. Luckily, 30 of her closest friends and family agreed to elope to the Last Frontier before returning to have a blessing and reception at their new home in the Midwest. They found Our Lady of the Angels in Kenai, Alaska, down the road from the beach and decided it was perfect for their vows. It was a total bonus that the priest was so kind and helped them plan their soiree from thousands of miles away. "One of the things I love about where I'm from is the warmth and generosity of the community," Katrina says. Instead of a traditional reception (especially since they knew they'd have a party once they got back home), they had a potluck and everyone brought a dish to share. One of our favorite details was the white daisies that added plenty of romance and sentimental value throughout the decor. "They had always been my mom's favorite flower," Katrina says. "After losing her, the idea of planning a wedding seemed impossible. I couldn't image walking down the aisle without her there with me, so decorating with daisies helped me feel, in some small way, like she was there with me, which gave me the strength I needed to celebrate this milestone in my life without her." There's so much to love about Katrina and Chris's romantic wedding. See some of our favorite details, captured by Kristin Cooley Photography, below.