Just because you are eloping doesn't mean it can't be fun!
The idea of running away and eloping sounds so thrilling and risky, but the truth is that people choose to elope for all different types of reasons. The main thing that all couples who elope have in common is that they want the wedding to be very special and just about the two of them. That's where we come in! Elopements are becoming less of a dirty word and more of a common experience for couples nowadays, but it still is not super clear about what an elopement can look like. My husband and I are on a mission to show couples how much fun it can be to elope, and we are lucky to live in Utah where nature and adventure is abundant. We are very passionate about helping our couples have the best possible day that reaches all of their expectations and allows them to have a wedding day from their dreams. We think the number one way to create that type of day is by scheduling out a timeline full of extraordinary adventures and jaw-dropping scenery that completely represents what you love, where you love, who you love, and how you love... so now the question is, "how do we figure that out?"
Elopement Locations In Utah and Wyoming
To start, our business is based out of Utah and we offer both photography and videography (and add-ons like super 8 videos and 35mm film photos) to our elopement couples! My husband and I both grew up in Wyoming so not only are we familiar with Wyoming and Utah, but we are accustomed to driving. Living out in this area means we get to drive long distances to get to our destinations and so even though most of our weddings take place in the area, we are willing to go somewhere amazing with you!
When you choose to elope somewhere, you have to first ask yourself, "Why?" The reason that you are choosing to elope in a location should be fully embraced and you should use it to inspire what the full timeline of your wedding day is going to look like! For example, Wyoming is known for its cowboys, prairies, mountains, wildlife, wide open spaces, vast night skies, and two national parks (Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park). So if you are going to elope in front of the Tetons in Grand Teton National Park, then you should consider how the area can be included in your elopement. What is it that made you choose Grand Teton National Park? Is it the cowboy culture? If so, you could think about adding western wear to your wedding attire. Is it the low population that allows Wyoming to have the darkest skies in the country? If so, could we plan a bridal session once the sun goes down and capture you under the Milky Way? Or is it the landscape? Should you ask us, your photographer and videographer duo, to spend a little extra time incorporating different views of the landscape into our composition?
Whether you choose the prairies or Tetons of Wyoming, the snowy mountains of Utah, the red rocks of Zion National Park, the Arches of Moab, or anything in between, there has to be a reason that it all inspires you. Grab onto that and think about it as you continue to read through this blog.
Elopement Activity Overview:
Getting Ready Together
Just because you aren't hosting a big party with all your friends and family doesn't mean you do not need to get ready for your momentous wedding ceremony! Couples get ready in all sorts of ways. You could get ready apart from one another and then come together for a first look, you could help each other get ready, cook breakfast together, and sit down to mimosas at the breakfast table. You will still want vows, so you could write your vows together, or cuddle up in PJs and watch the sun rise. No matter what this looks like for you, we could find a way to make it extra special and capture it as part of your wedding day content.
Quiet Moments to Romantisize
Not everyone loves adventure and that's totally okay! Most of the big, popular, ideas you'll read in this blog are very adventurous, but if you have a quiet kind of love, then here are some ideas for you!
What is stopping you from hiring a sip-and-paint instructor? Maybe you are artists and the photos that would represent you best are the two of you painting or drawing together. Maybe you would love to read together, lounge in hammocks, play games, drink tea or coffee together, or even order all your favorite foods and cuddle up on the couch for your favorite movie. All of these are great ideas to include on your elopement day!
At the Airbnb
Now this section is for those of you who have rented a beautiful airbnb and are thinking of how it could be incorporated into the wedding day. If you have told your loved ones that you are eloping, you could ask them to write you letters or record videos of 'speeches' or what they would like you to know. This would be a great photo/video opportunity! If you are someone who has a cool car, we could capture you in front of that. Other ideas could be yard games, card games, dancing in the kitchen, swimming in the hot tub or pool, or sitting around a campfire with smores! Or if there's anything that the two of you love to do at home, bring it and we can see if we could include it in some way!
Some of our favorite Adventure Activities for your Elopement
Adventures are a part of the story and eloping offers a unique opportunity to capture you and your partner doing something you love on your special day!
Snowboarding
We have a lot of opportunities for winter couples in the Utah and Wyoming areas! If you are ready to venture into the mountains with your skis or snowboards, we'll go with you! We have done it before and our bride wore a wedding dress even though it was 14 degrees outside. We just had to take lots of breaks to warm up, but everyone had a blast! Other winter activities could be snowmobiling, ice skating, or warming up with hot chocolate! We could go on a sleigh ride or I could capture the most romantic snowball fight that has ever existed. We love the snow and if you do as well then let's go for it!
Hit the slopes with the best the mountains have to offer in winter!
Horseback riding
We could easily find horseback retreats or trail rides for you to go on. This bride wore a more comfortable dress for riding and then had a second dress for her actual wedding dress!
Embrace the Western lifestyle during your Utah or Wyoming Elopement!
Rock Climbing: Reach New Heights Together
For adventurous couples, rock climbing in Southern Utah is a must! With world-renowned climbing destinations like Zion National Park and Moab, you can tackle challenges together and celebrate your love while scaling breathtaking cliffs. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner, there are guided tours that cater to all skill levels. After reaching the top, take a moment to soak in the stunning views, and snap some incredible photos with the dramatic desert landscape as your backdrop.
Canoeing
When your location is this gorgeous, we don't need much! By bringing along a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, we can add adventure to the elopement day. Wearing formal attire elevates the look, and we can include a blanket or florals to make it even more magical.
Embrace the environment of what your elopement location has to offer!
Scenic Hikes
Southern Utah and other places in the west are home to some of the most breathtaking trails in the country. After your elopement ceremony, embark on a scenic hike through iconic areas like Zion National Park or The Wasatch Mountains in Utah. The stunning rock formations, vibrant wildflowers, and peaceful surroundings provide the perfect setting for reflection and connection. Capture beautiful moments along the trail and relish the tranquility of nature as you celebrate your union.
Connect With Nature In the Most Peaceful Way!
Helicopter Tours
Take your elopement to new heights with an exhilarating helicopter tour! Imagine soaring above breathtaking landscapes, exchanging vows amidst stunning aerial views, and creating unforgettable memories. As you lift off, the excitement builds, revealing dramatic canyons and majestic mountains from a unique perspective. There are so many offerings that come with helicopter tours. It can be short and sweet or longer with a destination to land and celebrate in the West's beauty.
Elevating fun for your elopement with a unique perspective and twist
Honorable Mentions
4x4 Off-Roading
Turn your elopement into a thrilling off-road adventure! Rent a 4x4 vehicle and hit the rugged trails that wind through the picturesque landscape. With options ranging from the scenic La Sal Loop to the thrilling Hell’s Revenge in Moab, you’ll discover hidden gems, stunning vistas, and secluded spots perfect for an intimate picnic or a quiet moment together. The thrill of exploring the wild side of Utah will add an extra layer of excitement to your special day.
Hot Air Baloon Adventure
Elevate your elopement experience with a hot air balloon ride! Imagine floating high above the striking canyons and mesas of Southern Utah, sipping champagne as you take in the panoramic views. Early morning flights offer a magical sunrise experience, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. This serene adventure is perfect for couples who want to celebrate their love while embracing the beauty of nature from a unique perspective.
