Your Love Story, My Artistic Lens: A Match Made in Utah’s Natural Wonders
Welcome to the home of Utah’s most epic elopement experiences! At In Love & Adventure, we specialize in creating unforgettable, fun, and oh-so-romantic Utah elopement packages that are uniquely tailored to each couple. Embrace your inner lovebirds and let the awe-inspiring beauty of Utah’s landscapes be the backdrop to the day you’ll never forget. I am a Utah elopement photographers, Kelly of In Love and Adventure. Let’s do the damn thing and get you married! Read on to learn all about our Utah Elopement Packages, and how I can help you for your Utah elopement experience.
Why Choose an Utah Elopement Package?
Utah, the land of rockin’ red rocks, jaw-dropping canyons, and endless sunsets, is truly a love story waiting to be written. With our Utah Elopement Packages, you’ll:
1
Tie the knot in some of the most stunning locations on the planet
3
Escape the stress and pressure of traditional weddings – swap it for some fresh air and a whole lotta love
2
Enjoy a unique, intimate, and personalized ceremony, where it’s all about the two of you
4
Make unforgettable memories with an adventure that’ll have you laughing, & crying
Utah Elopement Packages
Our carefully crafted Utah elopement packages include everything you need for a stress-free, adventure-filled celebration:
How It Works – Utah Elopement Magic in 3 Simple Steps
Step 1: Phone Call
Let’s get to know each other! We want to hear your love story and your vision for your Utah elopement. Every little thing that matters to you matters to us. We’ll focus on those unique aspects of your relationships so we can bring them to life on your wedding day!
Step 2: Unlimited Planning Consults
We will curate a day that is everything you dreamed of and more. From travel logistics to custom hiking maps, we will lock down every damn detail so you can have your elopement vision realized. And we’ll make it all gravy, baby – stress-free and full of friggin’ excitement!
Step 3: Get Married!
When your big day arrives, we want you focused on one thing only: loving the heck out of each other! That’s all you need to do. We’ll deliver an experience you’ll never forget and fan-freakin-tastic photos to keep your day alive forever.
Meet Your Utah Elopement Photographer
hey! I’m Kelly! That’s me and my husband Alex, and my two dogs, Olive and Hamilton. We live in Grand Junction, CO, just 20 miles from the Utah boarder. We moved to Grand Junction specifically because how close it was to the Moab desert. We’ve been adventuring around the southwest for the past 3 years when we moved here from PA, and haven’t looked back since.
As a passionate Utah elopement photographer, I am dedicated to immortalizing the most intimate and memorable moments of your special day. With a deep love for the stunning Utah landscape, I specialize in crafting visually stunning, emotional, and authentic images that truly reflect your unique connection. My customized Utah elopement packages are designed to meet your every need, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience. Let me be your trusted photographer and confidants as you embark on this exciting new chapter of your life, hand-in-hand with your soulmate, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of Utah.
Photo by: Hennessy Photo Co
Our ULTIMATE Guide To Eloping in Utah
Those of us with a daring spirit are well aware that Utah, almost more than any other state in the US, is bursting with an incredible landscape worth exploring. More importantly, if you’re looking into a Utah elopement, chances are you’ve already been swept off your feet by the breathtaking natural canvas the state’s environment has to offer.
Famous for its natural arches, sprawling red rocks, twisting dunes, and stunning sunsets, it’s no wonder Utah is becoming one of the top elopement destinations in the United States. Are you considering saying your “I do”s somewhere off the beaten path in Utah’s extraordinary landscape? Then you’ve come to the right place!
Looking For An Adventure Wedding? Here’s Why You Should Totally Elope In Utah
Let’s be honest — Utah might as well be urban slang for adventure. What can’t you do here? Utah has it all, from hiking to slot canyons to splashing around Lake Powell. No matter where you turn, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in this landscape reminiscent of the rugged Wild West.
If you’re like us, you took one look at Utah and thought “An elopement wedding here? Yes please!” And if you’re thinking about eloping in Utah, you might as well do it right. We’re talking about epic photos, unbelievable experiences, and building incredible memories throughout your wedding experience to last a lifetime with your partner. After all, isn’t that how it should be?
If you’re down for the adventure wedding of your dreams, we’re down to help you nail it. And with that in mind, let’s talk about choosing the best venue (or lack thereof) for the big extravaganza.
What To Expect When Eloping In Utah
Desert Environment
Remember that Utah is a desert environment. This means days can be scorching and nights can be freezing!
All 4 Seasons
Seasons matter in Utah as well — this is one state that boasts all four. In fact, the seasons tend to be especially pronounced in Utah, with summer heat waves reaching over 100 degrees while winters can cool down to a frosty sub-zero.
Best Time of Year for a Utah Elopement
Picking the right time of year for your Utah elopement is key! We only book elopements in Utah during specific months, and that is for the benefit of our couples! It gets way too hot in the late spring, and summer, and the mosquitos are ruthless. So with that being said, we absolutely adore late February, March, April, early May, October, and November for their crowd-free magic and delightfully sunny yet comfortably cool weather! While the summer months of June through September offer plenty of sunshine, they can also bring scorching heat and the occasional flash flood due to those pesky summer thunderstorms. So, for the perfect blend of pleasant temperatures and a more intimate atmosphere, we highly recommend spring and fall for your Utah elopement.
What to Pack for Your Desert Utah Elopement
Prepare ahead of time and research your desired location where you plan to tie the knot. Make sure your entire wedding party and all of your guests coming to your Utah elopement are prepared for the adventure with the proper gear, attire, water, and safety equipment.
Some absolute must-haves to include on your Utah elopement packing list include:
- Footwear with good tread. You’ll most likely be walking/hiking along rocky surfaces, and footwear with good tread will ensure you’re gripping to the rocks, and will make for a more enjoyable experience
- Sunscreen. Protect your skin, folks!
- Chapstick. Such a small little item that’s often forgotten. It’s so dry here, bring the chapstick!
- All the water, like, all of it.
- Bug spray
- Headlamps if you’re planning on adventuring in the early morning or evening hours
- A first-aid kit
- A jacket you’re stoked to get your picture taken in. While we can absolutely take breaks and take your jacket off for pictures, we love to document the process of getting to point A to point B, so we’ll for sure be taking your picture while wearing your jacket at some point!
- A portable phone charger (cell service is sparse in some areas!)
- Snacks, because food is life.
- Water filters. These can be helpful if you’ll be hiking along a river, and don’t necessarily need to bring water in with you. You can fill up, filter, and drink as you go!
Make sure you and your wedding party also have your big day must-haves, including your wedding attire and makeup, the wedding rings, baby wipes (trust us), and any props or announcement signs you want to include in photos. Hell, you might even bring some champagne to toast after the moment you say “I do” (did we say might? We meant should).
Whatever you bring with you, of course, remember to keep it with you. You want to leave the beautiful Utah landscape exactly as you found it. Learn more about Leave No Trace here.
How To Choose The Perfect Utah Elopement Location Or Venue
The first thing most of us do when we decide to get hitched is to start looking at venues. And yes, you can still have an adventure wedding in a venue. We should know — we’ve seen it all.
While we’re certainly not fans of the traditional wedding planning situation, we still understand that you’re going to need at least some organized planning to pull your unorthodox adventure wedding off right. So let’s first talk about the best places to get married in Utah.
First and foremost, you need to be somewhat decisive. Do you want a wedding or an elopement? And actually, now that we’re on the subject… What the hell is the difference?
When we say wedding, we mean like a wedding wedding. Do you want the whole shebang — your dad walking you down the aisle and your best friends at the altar waiting to greet you? Do you want your mom to experience the joys of getting teary-eyed when you have your first married kiss, and do you want your crazy uncle to have too much to drink at the ceremony and give a weirdly long and awkward speech? (Kidding, kidding… Sort of.)
For real, though — if you do want a more traditional wedding in a venue, rest assured that this doesn’t mean you’ll have to sacrifice your adventure wedding dreams. You can still have a totally unique experience, and there are plenty of incredible venues that can provide that out-of-the-box vibe. We’ll cover a few of those venues we love most for such an occasion further down. But before you scroll, let’s talk about elopements.
Eloping In Utah: Is It Right For You?
Is it your dream to spontaneously disappear and find yourself on a cliffside at dusk, kissing your partner in hiking boots instead of heels? Totally doable, especially in Utah.
But here’s the tricky bit… How do you decide which version of an adventure wedding in Utah is right for you?
Here’s the truth: adventure elopements can seem fun on paper, but they aren’t for everyone. For many couples, including family and friends in the nuptials is incredibly important, but having them along for intense hikes through winding sand dunes may not be realistic. Luckily, there are wedding venues in Utah that can help give you the best of an adventure wedding without sending your poor dad’s back into spasms.
Figure Out What’s Right For Your Situation
Both you and your partner will need to be on the same page. Our advice? Have an in-depth chat and decide what matters most to both of you, and then build a list of personal pros and cons for eloping versus a more traditional (although not too traditional) adventure wedding.
Weigh Your Options
Look at different variations of the best places to elope in Utah alongside the best venues for holding weddings. This should help you decide which option would be best for you, and it should give you some peace of mind that no matter what you choose, you’ll have the magnificent adventure wedding of your dreams.
Utah Venues We Love For The Best Utah Adventure Weddings
OK, it’s time to chat about the best wedding venues in Utah for those who are looking to elope, or for those seeking a more traditional (yet still totally adventurous) Utah wedding experience.
One of the things we love most about Utah is the unbeatable landscape, and the fact that so many incredible venues have taken advantage of planting themselves smack dab in the center of the stunning scenery. This allows them to give not-so-average couples the not-so-average adventure wedding they’ve been dreaming of.
Small Wedding Venues In Utah
The Red Earth Venue
If you’re looking for small wedding venues in Utah that have that special adventurous shine, look no further than somewhere like the Red Earth Venue, which offers outstanding views and an unbeatable earthy ambiance.
Photo Credit: Krissy Mae
Under Canvas
There are a few Under Canvas locations in Utah. One in Moab, one in Zion, one near Bryce Canyon National Park, and one near Lake Powell. Under Canvas takes adventure wedding camping to an entirely new and glamorous level, and we are here. for. it. 👏 🏜️ ⛺️
Photo Credit: Adventure and Vow
ULUM Moab
In 2022 Under Canvas announced their new outdoor luxury resort brand, ULUM. Owned by Under Canvas, ULUM Moab is a 200 acre safari-inspired outdoor resort located right in the smack dab of Moab. It’s similar to Under Canvas, but on crack.
Airbnbs
Airbnbs can also serve as outstanding adventure wedding venues, as Zion Villa proves with its phenomenal variety of luxurious accommodations and rugged scenery.
Amangari
If you’re looking for something a little more elegant that still leads you off the beaten path, you might consider resorts like the Amangari. This five-star resort hotel is settled somehow quaintly in what feels like the virgin Utah landscape.
Lazalu
We also love the small but mighty Lazalu, which boasts the perfect atmosphere to combine elopement-style adventure with guest-friendly accommodations.
Public Lands
Not sold on any of the venues above? Public land in Utah can also serve as a venue for the ceremony of your dreams, regardless of if you plan on eloping or tying the knot in front of a crowd.
You can scroll down now for a list of some of our favorite national parks and other public spaces to call your own on the day you wed. Otherwise, keep reading, because we’re about to talk about how to plan an elopement-style wedding (and see why Utah has its perks for such an occasion!).
How To Elope In Utah: What Steps To Take And What You Should Know
So, you’ve decided to elope in Utah. When it comes to Utah weddings, you couldn’t have chosen a better state for escaping the hustle and bustle of traditional wedding planning. But, as we mentioned above, even elopers have to plan a little.
First, when you’re getting married in Utah, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the legalities of getting your marriage license through the state. This goes for elopers and traditional wedding-doers alike. You’ll need to apply for a marriage license in Utah, and this could take some time. Waiting periods may vary, and most of the time you’ll need to make an appointment to get your license.
However, the good news is that once you have your license, you can go ahead and get married. There’s no waiting period once that license is in your hands! With that said, Utah requires that your marriage be solemnized within 32 days of the license being issued or it will expire.
We should also note that some counties in Utah have a license fee. It’s important to do your research before deciding where to get married so you fully understand the legalities and requirements for getting married in different locations. Special permits may also be required in certain spots, especially if you’re planning to wed in any of Utah’s national or state parks.
What To Do Before Eloping In Utah…
- First, set a date and choose the venue, park, or public land you want to get married at, making sure the space or area is available.
- Research how long it will take to acquire a marriage license and plan accordingly.
- Choose how and by whom your wedding will be solemnized.
- Book your vendors. Depending on the type of elopement you’re having, you’ll want to book an adventure wedding photographer as well as hair and makeup artist/s, florists, caterers, etc.
- Prepare and pack accordingly based on the location you’re choosing.
- And finally, be prepared to respect the environment.
Leave The Smallest Footprint Possible!
Speaking of respecting the environment: let’s talk about how you can have an adventure wedding while also ensuring the precious Utah landscape goes unscathed.
Utah is a gorgeous state with miles of untouched beauty, and we want to keep it pristine and protected. Make sure you’re prepared to leave the smallest footprint possible by staying on designated trails, avoiding littering, and refraining from removing or disturbing vegetation.
It’s also important to be aware of cryptobiotic soil (AKA crypto), which contains living organisms that are incredibly fragile yet incredibly important to our ecosystem. Crypto actually helps reduce erosion and thus preserves Utah’s deserts, so it’s important not to walk over it when making your way to your wedding destination.
Doing plenty of research before you hit the trails on your Utah elopement day can help, but so can having an expert along for the adventure. Guides are a great addition to your wedding party team, and so is an experienced wedding photographer who knows their way around the Utah landscape.
The Best National Parks for Eloping In Utah
When it comes to the best places to elope in Utah, you can’t get better than some of the most outstanding and awe-inspiring national parks. Utah is famous for its five national parks, all with vast canyons, whimsical arches, stunning dunes, and miles upon miles of eye-catching red rocks.
Regardless of when you want to wed, Utah is the perfect backdrop for the most stunning of elopement experiences. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite parks worth considering if you’re planning an elopement in Utah.
Zion National Park
Photo Credit: Tiffany Woerz
Zion National Park elopements are very popular, and for good reason. Zion is known for its outstanding views, combining a scattered green landscape, magnificent cliffs, and stunning rock formations.
Hiking trails abound at Zion National Park, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an adventure wedding in Utah. You can explore to your heart’s desire and find the perfect location to say your vows, all while experiencing some of the best scenery Utah has to offer.
Elopers should note that there is a special permit required for eloping at Zion National Park regardless of your party size, and applications should be submitted at least three weeks in advance.
Best Time To Elope: Spring
Closest Major Airport: Reid International Airport in Las Vegas
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 75
Cost Of Eloping Here: The application fee for a permit is $100
Best Time of Day for Photos: Just before sunrise or just after sunset
Wheelchair Accessible: Wheelchairs can access many areas of the park
Does It Allow Dogs: Pa’rus Trail is the only trail that allows dogs
Bathrooms: Yes
Canyonlands National Park
Photo Credit: Tiffany Woerz
Another national park you won’t want to miss when considering options for a Utah adventure elopement is Canyonlands National Park. This park has it all for any couple, including stargazing at night, miles of winding trails, biking, sightseeing, rock climbing, and camping.
This canyon was carved to perfection by the Colorado River, boasting some of the most phenomenal views and a backdrop worth fawning over for a lifetime in wedding photos. As with all national parks in Utah, a special permit will be required to get married here.
Best Time To Elope: Spring and fall
Closest Major Airport:
- Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) – flies to/from Denver and Salt Lake City
- Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) – flies direct to Chicago, Denver, Mesa, Phoenix, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 10–50 depending on location, trail, or campsite
Cost Of Eloping Here: Application fee of $185
Best Time of Day for Photos: Sunrise or sunset
Wheelchair Accessible: Wheelchairs can access certain areas of the park, but not all
Does It Allow Dogs: Dogs are allowed on specified trails and campsites
Bathrooms: Yes
Arches National Park
As you might already suspect from the name, Arches National Park in Utah is famous for, well, its arches. In fact, you’ve probably seen these very arches featured in National Geographic and other well-known publications, making this site one of the most popular for adventure wedding elopers to visit.
But though you may have seen these arches in print, there’s nothing like seeing them in person. Arches National Park is awe-inspiring, setting the scene for truly magical photos with cascading shadows and vistas created by these delicate formations.
Best Time To Elope: Spring and fall
Closest Major Airport:
- Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) – flies to/from Denver and Salt Lake City
- Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) – flies direct to Chicago, Denver, Mesa, Phoenix, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 5–80 depending on the location
Cost Of Eloping Here: Application fee of $185
Best Time of Day for Photos: Sunrise or sunset
Wheelchair Accessible: Wheelchairs can access many parts of the park, though not all
Does It Allow Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on trails but are allowed at certain campgrounds
Bathrooms: Yes
Capitol Reef National Park
Also called the Waterpocket Fold or “Wrinkle on Earth”, the Capitol Reef National Park has been referred to as one of the United States’ most coveted untamed treasures. It extends for nearly 100 miles and offers spectacular natural wonders like domes, arches, canyons, bridges, and more.
The best way to visit the most beautiful parts of Waterpocket Fold is to hike, making this the ideal destination for Utah adventure weddings and elopers looking for a challenge. However, even on the outskirts, there’s plenty to see.
Best Time To Elope: Fall
Closest Major Airport: Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) with direct flights to Chicago, Denver, Mesa, Phoenix, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 15–100 depending on the location
Cost Of Eloping Here: Special permits are $100
Best Time of Day for Photos: Sunrise and sunset
Wheelchair Accessible: Wheelchairs can access parts of the park, but not all
Does It Allow Dogs: Yes, but only on specified trails
Bathrooms: Yes, in picnic areas
Bryce Canyon National Park
If pillars of eye-popping red rocks that look like ancient castles are calling your name, then you’ll want to take your elopement to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. These hoodoos pierce the sky like rugged skyscrapers and are some of the most distinctive in the entire world.
In fact, Bryce Canyon is most famous for its incredible collection of hoodoos, along with many other natural marvels like sensational hiking trails, scenic views, and natural amphitheaters carved by Mother Nature herself.
Best Time To Elope: Summer into fall
Closest Major Airport: McCarran International Airport
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 30
Cost Of Eloping Here: Special permit fee of $100
Best Time of Day for Photos: Just after sunset
Wheelchair Accessible: Some parts of the park are wheelchair accessible, but not most
Does It Allow Dogs: Dogs are allowed on paved surfaces and some specified trails
Bathrooms: Yes
Other Locations Worth Considering For A Utah Elopement
There are pros and cons to choosing a national park as your Utah elopement destination, whether you’re facing pricey permits or limited guest numbers. Some more lenient options are regular public areas or state parks.
However, you will still want to research and consider the legalities of choosing these areas for your adventure wedding nuptials. Remember that many of the same rules apply to anyone hoping to elope in Utah’s parks, regardless of if they are national or state, and no matter where you end up, you’ll need to take care to protect the environment.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park is an Utah elopement photographer’s dream, thanks in part to its phenomenal views of the horseshoe bend in the Colorado River. We also love that this location offers excellent accommodations for campers, so any adventure-savvy couple looking to elope in Utah can turn their wedding day into a wedding week if they want to!
Sunsets are legendary at Dead Horse Point, as are the sunrises, sprawling vistas, and stargazing opportunities when night falls.
Dark Canyon Wilderness
Dark Canyon Wilderness is truly postcard-worthy, with colorful stone arches and a variety of ancient trees growing throughout this stunning location.
Adventure-seekers hiking into the canyon will stumble across dense aspen groves, gorgeous meadows overflowing with wildflowers in the spring, and gardens that hang off the sides of cliff faces like ambitious rock climbers.
Moab
This area is huge, which is great for anyone considering Moab adventure elopements. In fact, Moab also offers incredible variety when it comes to hiking trails, parks, campsites, and more. There are even more hidden gems tucked away in the cavernous red rocks, where elopers can settle in for a picnic, spend their night stargazing, or just take in the views all around.
You can also find some beautiful venues in Moab if you’re looking for a more traditional adventure wedding with family. Airbnbs are ripe for the picking here, as are glamping locations, which you can find scattered throughout the area.
We love Moab so much, we moved to the western slope of Colorado to the small city of Grand Junction, just 30 miles away from the Utah border, and an hour and a half drive from Moab. We pretty much call ourselves Moab elopement photographers now, we’ve earned the title after helping so many couples get hitched there!
Kanab
Speaking of gorgeous venues: there’s no shortage here in Kanab, though Utah public lands are also available to wed in this location.
Kanab is home to a number of stunning parks, like Jacob Hamblin Park, Levi Stewart Memorial Park, and K-Hill Trail. But if you’re willing to put in some work (either by legs or by motor vehicle) the options open up and there are so many beautiful remote locations to explore!
The Great Basin
The Great Basin is famously home to “drains” of several stunning lakes, including Pyramid Lake, the Great Salt Lake, and the Humboldt Sink. It’s surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges and is well known for its abundance of wildlife.
Thrill-seeking elopers like yourselves may also find the many limestone caverns worth the trek, and we certainly can’t forget about the Lehman Caves, which are open for tours with tickets purchased in advance.
Goblin Valley
Goblin Valley may sound like a spooky place to include on a list of Utah elopement locations, but don’t let the eerie name turn you off. In fact, Goblin Valley is home to some of the most stunning arches and rock formations in Utah.
We also love that this spot is much more secluded than many other parks and locations, making it the perfect getaway for couples hell-bent on escaping the hustle and bustle of traditional wedding chaos.
Named for the bizarre rock formations that litter the valley for miles, this jaw-dropping state park is well worth a visit, even if you decide not to tie the knot here.
Wasatch Mountains State Park
If you’re thinking about eloping in the fall, we’d strongly suggest considering the absolutely breathtaking Wasatch Mountains State Park. This is due to the sheer number of aspen trees that reside in this park, all of which change to breathtaking colors as the seasons begin to shift.
This state park also boasts stunning bodies of water in the valleys on the mountains’ edges, which often sit so still that they look like mirrors. Just imagine the photo ops!
Monument Valley
When it comes to more simplified Utah elopement locations, Monument Valley offers adventure elopers the best of scenic vistas without all the pricey fees. In fact, there’s no permit required so long as you have no more than four people present at your ceremony, and your ceremony is performed on the main road.
However, if you venture deeper into the park you will need to apply for a permit, though it’s well worth it. In fact, Monument Valley is one of the most photographed places not only in the United States but on Earth, and for good reason — you’ll be stunned by its incredible rock formations, some of which stand over 1,000 feet tall.
Lake Powell
Lake Powell adventure weddings are quite popular, and it’s easy to see why once you google a few photos of other elopers’ experiences. It’s like a desert venue meets a beachy waterfront, offering the perfect mix for anyone who fancies a good swim in the midday heat and stargazing under towering red rocks after sundown.
The best time to wed at Lake Powell is between spring and summer when the weather is warm and the water is divine for a dip. Say your vows on one of the many cliffsides surrounding the lake, or consider renting a boat and having your friends and family nearby to make a splash into married life with you!
Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
Looking for paradise? Look no further than the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. This location screams adventure, and there’s so much to see at every turn you won’t believe your eyes.
From lush expanses of vegetation to towering arches and flowing waterfalls, this national monument is fit for the gods — and also for a pair of adventure-seeking elopers. Believe us, this one is a must-see when considering your Utah elopement location.
Castle Valley
Castle Valley offers the best of the west, with beautiful multicolored stone structures spearing the clouds like the tips of castle spires.
Photos are simply spectacular in this location, especially if you’re looking for a more simplified backdrop that offers the same wow factor without taking the focus from the couple at the center of the occasion.
Bonneville Salt Flats
You may have heard of the Bonneville Salt Flats, but if you haven’t, we’ll give you a few moments to go and google them…
Did you do it? Were you stunned? Yeah, we thought so.
The Bonneville Salt Flats are an adventure eloper’s fantasy, especially for anyone looking to adventure into a part of the world that looks almost magical. And for this location, you certainly want an excellent Utah wedding photographer, because angles matter.
The right angle here can make you look like you’re walking in the sky, and what could be more heavenly than that?
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
What’s in a name? Well, a lot when you’re considering Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. In fact, everything you need to know is right there in those six lovely words.
With sprawling sand dunes that go on for miles, the best time to wed in this park would be just before sunset, when the golden hour glow casts everything around the park in a pink haze.
Before the wedding, enjoy sand surfing and exploring the incredible trails. You might even thrill your inner child by renting an ATV for the day!
Utah Public Lands
There are so many parks and locations available in Utah for adventurous elopers that we simply can’t name them all. Remember, even if you’re planning on getting married in front of your family and friends, you don’t have to pick a specific venue.
Utah public land is also an option, though keep in mind you may need to apply for a special user permit to wed in specified areas, and you may also have a limit on how many guests can attend your ceremony.
Still, choosing to wed in Utah public lands often not only saves you money but provides you with an incredible experience, unlike any wedding you’ve seen before.
Other Utah Venues And Destinations For An Adventure Wedding Or Elopement
Not all adventure weddings take place in a park or secluded venue. Utah is also home to some of the most beautiful and exciting resorts and destinations. Park City Mountain Resort, for example, is one such location that offers an epic destination for Park City adventure weddings, but there are so many more!
If you’re considering eloping on the adventure wedding of a lifetime, you shouldn’t pass up some of these stunning spots…
- Deer Valley Resort in Park City
- Eldredge Manor in Bountiful
- Willow Springs Event Center in Springville
- This Is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City
- Snowbasin Resort in Huntsville
- River Bottoms Ranch in Midway
- Quiet Meadow Farm in Mapleton
The Ultimate Activity Checklist For A Utah Adventure Wedding Or Elopement
Utah isn’t just a pretty face — there’s plenty of depth and plenty to do amid that gorgeous scenery.
Here are some of the best activities you should put on your elopement bucket list when getting hitched in Utah:
- Take a hot air balloon ride at the Moab Adventure Center
- Hike in any of the national or state parks (of course)
- Visit White Pine Lake and have your breath stolen by the view
- Take a dip in the Saratoga Hot Springs
- Take a few days to camp at Goblin Valley
- If it’s spring, visit Albion Basin and swoon over the wildflowers
- Visit Double Arch at night and lay beneath the stars
- If it’s winter, take a ski trip to Cottonwood Canyon
- Take incredible photos at Bonneville Salt Flats
- Visit the Mantua Poppy Fields
- Tour Monument Valley
- Go on a 4×4 adventure through Moab
- Explore the Narrows
- Hike the Navajo/Queens Garden Loop
- If it’s winter, consider a snowmobiling trip through the backcountry
- Bring your camera and snap incredible shots at The Wave at Coyote Buttes
- Tour the Lehman Caves in the Great Basin
- Bring some blankets and watch the sunset at Island in the Sky, located in Canyonlands National Park
Vendors We Know And Love For Any Great Adventure Wedding In Utah
Whether you’re exchanging rings on a mountain cliffside or in front of your family in a Utah venue, you still may need some help planning and facilitating the adventure wedding of a lifetime.
Not sure which vendors are best for an adventure wedding that’s out of this world? Here are some of our go-to’s.
Utah Wedding Planners
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again — even elopers need to have something of a plan! In fact, if you’re considering an adventure wedding in Utah, you may need a little more help with planning than usual. Adventure weddings are unique, and there may be a lot you haven’t thought of.
We know experts who can help you plan the adventure wedding of your dreams, like our girl SunRae Planning, who specializes in elopements and all the key factors that go along with them.
We also recommend checking out Mea&Co Creative, as they’re also well-known for destination planning when it comes to elopements and adventure weddings. Forever More Events is another planner who’ll have you in good hands, especially when it comes to planning elopements outdoors that require special attention to those tiny and often overlooked details.
Hair And Makeup Artists
Your wedding or elopement is the adventure of a lifetime, and you want to look the part. That’s why a wedding tradition like hiring a hair and makeup artist for your special day is still something you might want to consider.
We have several we love for the occasion, including our friends at Something Ginger, who are well-versed in the uniqueness of elopements and destination weddings. The same goes for the supremely talented Lesley Lind and the amazing artists at The Honey Salon.
You might also consider the incredible Chantry Wagstaff or the amazing Brynn Thomas. Lindsey Vaccaro with L.V. Bridal Design also does some incredible work, as do our friends at Wild Cactus Weddings Hair and Makeup.
Utah Wedding Florists
You certainly can’t forget the florist when putting together your adventure wedding, especially if you’re opting for a venue as opposed to getting married outdoors in Utah.
Some of the best florists for an adventure wedding include our talented friends at Tangled Sage, who offer breathtaking assortments that fit perfectly with Utah’s red-toned landscape.
Tellurian Events share similar vibes, with their arrangements looking like pieces of art. We also love Bloomers Flowers and The Potted Pansy for any adventurous couple looking to add some color to their event.
Caterers & Private Chefs
Alright, now let’s talk food! Your adventure wedding should satisfy all your senses, including taste, and that’s why we couldn’t leave you without recommending some of the best caterers and private chefs for your big day.
For a more intimate setting or a private elopement, we absolutely recommend looking into Moab private chefs. Chefs like Jeff Crosland are renowned for some of their delightful dishes, and for incredible desserts and cakes, check out Tulie Bakery.
Your Utah Adventure Wedding Starts Here!
Now that we’ve covered your ultimate guide to adventure weddings in Utah, you’re one step closer to having the astonishing adventure wedding of your wildest dreams.
If you’re ready to embark on your journey and want some help tying up the loose ends, we’ve got you. Get in touch with us to start planning your Utah adventure wedding today!