Mountain Views & Poppin’ Champagne – Cerena & Shawn’s Fun-Filled Wedding at Government Peak Chalet

Some weddings are romantic. Some are beautiful. Some are just plain fun. Cerena and Shawn’s wedding at The Government Peak Chalet on June 30, 2023? It was all three—and then some.

From the moment I arrived, the energy was high and the vibe was chill (my favorite combo). The girls were hanging out in the bridal suite, dancing around, throwing back snacks and a little Jack, totally soaking in the moment. No stress, no rush—just laughter, music, and a bridal party that knew how to start the celebration early.

Outside, the day was beautifully overcast with that soft Alaskan light photographers dream of. Just as the ceremony began, the clouds pulled back just a bit—like nature was making room for the spotlight to fall on these two.

One of the most incredible details was the custom metal wedding arch that Shawn and his friends built by hand. Designed in the shape of the Alaskan mountain range, it stood tall behind them as they exchanged vows, a nod to both the landscape and their deep connection to it. The reception space—styled beautifully by Sierra, the Chalet’s wedding planner—was elegant and earthy, with sage and white linens, lots of greenery, and a cake made with love by a close friend of Cerena’s.

The toasts were equal parts hilarious and heartfelt—classic stories of how Cerena and Shawn met, the kind of tales that leave you grinning ear to ear. But the moment that brought actual tears to my eyes? When Cerena’s kids, Jesslynn and Ray, stood up to speak. Their words about their mom and their love for Shawn were so genuine and moving—it was one of those “this is why I do this” moments for me.

And in case the day didn’t already have enough main character energy, Cerena and Shawn took a little break during their reception to pop some champagne and capture a few extra-fun photos. The bubbly was flying, the laughter was loud, and the photos? Pure gold.

As the night wrapped up, they rode off into the evening in the restored vintage Chevy truck Shawn had spent years rebuilding with his late father. It was more than just a cool getaway—it was a beautiful tribute to legacy and love that lasts beyond the wedding day.

Cerena and Shawn’s wedding was one of those days I’ll always remember—not just for the stunning views and gorgeous details, but for the feeling. Laid-back, full of joy, and overflowing with love. What more could you ask for?