Some love stories are meant to cross oceans, and for Briana and Marc, theirs spanned from Alaska to Rarotonga—a place that held a special place in their hearts long before they decided to elope to paradise.

They first visited the Cook Islands 17 years ago when Marc, determined to win Briana’s heart, booked them a trip to Rarotonga on a whim. That magical experience set the tone for their love story, and years later, when deciding where to marry, no other place felt more right.

Choosing to elope was a deliberate decision for the couple. Traditional weddings, while beautiful, never felt like the right fit. “Weddings can become about the event rather than the couple,” Marc explained. Instead, they wanted something intimate, meaningful, and stress-free, allowing them to focus on each other rather than a long guest list.

Their closest family joined them, turning their wedding week into a beautiful celebration of love and connection. Instead of the usual wedding day chaos, they spent time snorkeling, enjoying island nights, and simply soaking in the beauty of Rarotonga together. The wedding day itself was breathtaking, with Florence Tia of Weddings with Florence Tia creating a peaceful, heartfelt ceremony by the water’s edge. “Florence’s beach was stunning,” Marc recalls. “It really set the atmosphere: peaceful and stressless.”

For Briana, the day was filled with pure magic. The vivid colors of the island, the soft, warm air, and the scent of fresh flowers made her feel like she was living in a dream. As Marc read his vows, she knew they had made the right choice.

As they return home to Alaska as newlyweds, Valentine’s Day will now hold an even deeper meaning. “Honestly, in our heads, we’re still there,” Marc laughs. For Briana, the day will be a chance to reflect on their incredible journey together and cherish the memories they created.

Their advice to other couples considering a destination elopement? “Do what you want,” says Briana. “Communicate with your partner, and don’t worry about what others think. The people who truly love and support you will celebrate your happiness.”

For Briana and Marc, love is about choosing each other every day—and for them, the Cook Islands will always be the place where their forever truly began. ❤️