Arches National Park Elopement

Savannah + Clayton │ Moab, Utah │ 02.01.2020

Savannah and Clayton eloped in Arches National Park near Moab, Utah. I was so excited when they reached out and told me they needed a wedding photographer to meet them in Moab. The massive sandstone arches and towering cliffs surrounding the area offer awe-inspiring views, and it's a photographer's dream come true. With the cost of big weddings on the rise, more people like Savannah and Clayton are spending their money on epic adventure elopements instead.

Savannah and Clayton traveled to Moab with a small group of immediate family members by their side. I met them at their Airbnb, where I found Savannah getting ready. Being naturally beautiful, she didn't need to do much to prepare herself for the ceremony. It was a gorgeous sunny day in February with temperatures around 55 degrees.

We arrived at the park for a mid-morning wedding and were pleased to find the area all to ourselves. Savannah and Clayton were married at the Park Avenue Viewpoint and Trailhead, with spectacular canyon walls behind them in the distance. The busiest time of year at Arches is between March and October, so planning their wedding in February was a good choice. Arches National Park is only five miles from Moab, which makes eloping in Arches and honeymooning in Moab super convenient.

At Arches National Park, there are nine designated areas for wedding ceremonies. Each one offers an array of magnificent scenery perfect for a wedding. If you would like to get married at Arches, you need to submit Form 10-930s along with payment confirmation for your Special Use Permit at least four weeks before your wedding date. The permit costs $185 and is payable through pay.gov.

Despite the stunning scenery, Savannah was the center of attention in her exquisite wedding dress with a floral motif bodice, a plunging neckline, an open back, and delicate layers of tulle. Clayton's attire complimented the earthy tones surrounding him, and he looked great alongside his bride. They each made lifelog promises of love and commitment, standing amidst the high desert vista and strange rock formations. It was a lovely and meaningful ceremony with all the feels.

Afterward, Savannah and Clayton took a moment to explore the Park Avenue Viewpoint and posed for a few newlywed photos. Though it was sunny and 50ish degrees, there was still some snow on the ground in a few places. The Park Avenue trail is moderate, with slight elevation and rocky areas. The happy newlyweds navigated the terrain and looked beautiful as they meandered through the strange rock formations and desert shrubs.

We left the park to join the others at the Airbnb in Moab for an afternoon wedding reception that was sure to please. Savannah decorated the tables herself, and they looked amazing. After celebratory drinks and wedding cake, this adventurous duo and I made the final trek to Arches for a few couple's photos at sunset. It was a lot of fun hanging out with them, and I'm thankful they chose me to be their wedding photographer.

Click here to view Savannah + Clayton’s full gallery, download full resolution images, & purchase prints

If you're thinking about your adventure elopement, I'd love to help you find the perfect spot. There's no other place like Moab, Utah, and Arches National Park, but it's a big world out there, and I know many other places to elope. If you're not all about wedding planning and traditions, perhaps an adventure elopement is right for you. Click the button below to get the conversation started.

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