Over the last few years, adventure elopements have become more popular and more accepted. But what’s the hype all about? What could possibly be so amazing about ditching a big wedding and celebrating more intimately out in nature?
You might be under the impression that eloping is unexciting and anticlimactic compared to a large wedding. But elopements are actually the opposite! Many couples have decided to turn their elopement into an experience rather than just a ceremony – and that’s what makes it so exciting. I always encourage my wedding couples to make their day unique and do something that’s special to them and their relationship. Especially if you’re having a destination elopement, I recommend doing a sort of activity that divulges you in the landscape or culture.
If you’re in the early stages of planning your Southern Utah elopement and are looking for some inspo to make it memorable, adventurous, and personal, I have just the ideas for you.
Picnic
Having a picnic is the perfect dinner idea for intimate elopements whether it’s just you and your lover or if you’ve invited some family members too. This is a great option for spring, summer, and fall weddings. I think one of my favorite things about picnics at weddings is the beautiful set up: the pillows, the baskets, the charcuterie. It’s a relaxing and cozy way to sit down and eat at the end of your adventurous day. And there are so many luxury picnic companies that do an amazing job.
This picnic setup is from an intimate elopement I shot in Arches National Park.
Helicopter Ride Over Zion
If you’re having a destination elopement, I’m a huge advocate for incorporating an activity into your day that allows you to truly experience the location you’re in. Many of the couples that I shoot are visiting Southern Utah from out of state and I can’t think of a more perfect way to experience the landscape than this. In my opinion, the perfect elopement has a sort of “day date” before the ceremony. And can you think of anything more exhilarating and beautiful than taking a helicopter over the very national park you’re about to get married in?
You could even take the helicopter ride after your ceremony and end the night in Amangiri, one of the most beautiful and secluded white rock resorts in Southern Utah.
Glamping
One of my other favorite elopement activities is glamping because there are so many different ways to do it! I’ve shot various glamping elopements and each one was so unique. Two of my favorite glamping destinations near Zion National Park are Under Canvas Zion and Open Sky Zion. Glamping is a great way to really experience the location and enjoy the scenery. Glamping gives a laid-back vibe to your day and helps relive any stress. And the yurts/tents make for such a photogenic getting ready location. Start your wedding morning with breakfast on camp stoves and end the night with s’mores and a first dance next to the fire.
If you thought eloping was boring, think again! These are just some of the infinite ways you can make your elopement an entire experience – and I’ve got even more up my sleeve!
I’m a photographer based in Southern Utah who loves national parks, hiking, and helping my couples have a memorable and immersive wedding day. Click here to fill out my contact form and tell me about your vision for your day so we can make it happen!
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