How to elope in utah
How can I describe how much I love Utah elopements? This state is truly incredible for outdoor activities- the unique wild landscapes, the wide-open spaces everywhere, and you can see so much in one trip. This state has everything (if you read that in Stefon's voice, let's be friends). Camping, hiking, stargazing, climbing, and basically every adventure activity you could possibly think of. There are so many reasons it's one of the ultimate adventure wedding destinations!
The best time to elope in utah
How to get to Utah
Summers in Utah can be brutally hot, so I would recommend a spring or fall elopement. The weather is milder and the crowds are likely to be smaller during these months. Winter is also a great option if you don't mind the cold! I personally love a winter elopement- you get to wear cute accessories and avoid getting all sweaty!
If you decide to elope in summer, I can offer you some tips for avoiding the worst heat of the day. Sunrise elopements are a great option for this reason! Places like Bryce Canyon at a higher elevation will also help avoid the hottest summer temps.
MAJOR AIRPORTS
Salt Lake City, UT
Las Vegas, NV (for southern Utah)
THE BEST AREAS TO STAY
St George
Moab
Salt Lake City
Page, AZ
HOW TO GET AROUND
You'll definitely need a car to get around Utah. The major rental companies are an option as well as apps like Turo or Outdoorsy- Outdoorsy offers vans and RV's if you want to turn your elopement into a road trip around the state! I've used both apps and had good experiences.
This might be one of my favorite places on earth. There's just something magical about the towering red rock, the river flowing through the canyon, even the smell of the trees! Zion is the first place I really fell in love with the outdoors. I've visited in basically every season and it never disappoints. I've even hiked the Narrows in winter- the water was freezing and we had to wear dry suits, but it was so worth it!
Is there anything that Utah doesn't have? This state has some of the wildest looking landscapes, all within a few hours of each other! I've spent hours scouting locations online and looking for secret, secluded spots (both for elopements and my own camping trips!). There are some awesome adventure options like hiking slot canyons, off-roading, and stargazing under the darkest skies around. Looking to elope in a quiet, off the beaten path location? I got you!
Bryce Canyon is such a unique location, even in a state full of unique spots! My favorite part about this park is that it feel slike you're walking through a Dr Seuss book- everything looks so magical and whimsical. Just imagine eloping here at sunrise as the whole canyon lights up!
Want to elope on the moon? Look no further! The salt flats look like another planet, especially after a rainfall when the entire ground turns into a giant mirror. Like the rest of Utah, this place is so incredibly unique and makes a super interesting elopement spot. A bonus is that it's so large that you're bound to find some privacy for your ceremony!
Southern Utah has so many hidden gems and they're all so close to each other- consider St George or Page, AZ for your "base camp". This area has some pretty remote areas so it can be great if you're looking for adventure, whether that's backpacking, boating, kayaking, or climbing. You could even rent a house boat at Lake Powell and bring along your loved ones for a big week-long party! Amangiri is also a really cool option if you're looking for a luxury elopement experience.
what to do
Utah is basically an outdoors-lovers paradise, so there's no shortage of fun activities to be had! Activities will depend on where you elope, but here are some options to give you inspiration:
• Go on a hike
• Offroad in a Jeep
• Rent ATV's
• Stand up paddleboard on the river
• Hire a climbing or canyoneering guide
• Hot air balloon ride
• Visit a hot spring
• Horseback riding
• Stargaze in the desert
• Rent a houseboat on Lake Powell
• Hike a slot canyon
• Charter a plane or helicopter
There are so many ways to personalize your elopement day and make it feel like you. Whether you want to try a new adventure or do an activity you love together, I can help you craft the perfect timeline for your elopement.
where to stay
This is by no means a comprehensive list, but these are some well-reviewed stays located close to the elopement locations I listed above. I love daydreaming and helping my couples find amazing places to stay on their trip- your elopement should be treated like the big celebration it is, so I say go ahead and splurge! Plus, you aren't spending as much as you would be on a big wedding. Whether you want a unique glamping experience under the stars or a luxury resort with a spa and pool, there are options for everyone.
Under Canvas- a unique glamping resort with locations in Moab, Zion, and Lake Powell. Check out this glamping elopement I recently shot here.
Sorrel River Ranch- rustic luxury resort on the banks of the Colorado River complete with a spa, equestrian center, tennis courts, a freaking petting zoo, and a farm-to-table restaurant
Hoodoo Moab- luxury hotel in the town of Moab with red rock views, a spa, restaurant, and pool
Moab Springs Ranch- resort featuring studio bungalows and townhouses located near Moab and surrounding national parks
Amangiri- super luxe remote resort built into the landscape outside of Lake Powell. Features endless views, a pool, spa, wine cellar, yoga center, and guided outdoor activities. If you stay here, be warned that I'll want to sleep on the floor just so I can hang out here (just kidding, or am I?)
Escalante Yurts- unique yurt resort for a rustic stay among the red rocks and trees. Perfect for s'more and stargazing after a day of adventure!
Escalante Cliff House- secluded home on 160 private acres with 3 bedrooms. Perfect for you and your closest loved ones to have a celebratory meal after your ceremony! Beware, there are no pets allowed at this location.
Cougar Ridge- located near Capitol Reef National Park, this luxury resort has casitas with kitchenettes, BBQ's, sun decks, and living rooms. Hot tubs and tennis courts are on the grounds and mountain views are all around.
utah elopement packages
All elopement packages include my 100 page planning guide, a custom list of location options, and a custom timeline for the day. While I'm not your planner, I'll be here to help you along the way and answer any questions you might have.
For each package you'll receive a zip drive and an online gallery of high-resolution edited images. I cover all of my own travel costs, so other than taxes, no additional fees will be charged on top of the package price unless you choose to add any a la carte options.
deluxe
All Day
half day
• Up to 10 hours of photography
• Optional second photographer
• $200 album or print credit in my store
• Coverage may be split into two days
• Up to 8 hours of photography
• One photographer
• $100 album or print credit in my store
• Time may be split for sunrise and sunset
• Up to 6 hours of photography
• One photographer
• $50 album or print credit in my store
$4,400
$3,500
$2,500
Hi, I'm McKayla! I'm a traveling elopement photographer based in California. I live for exploring and I love to take road trips with my two rescue dogs, Lola and Jack.
My favorite part about this job is getting to meet couples who love to explore as much as I do. If you love adventures, seeing new places, and don't mind getting a little dirty I might just be the girl for you. I'm not here to just be your photographer, but your friend who just happens to have a camera!
learn more about me
a little bit about me
Ready To Get Started?
Whether you'd just like more information or you're ready to start planning your day with me, I can't wait to hear from you!
© Mckayla sullivan photo 2021
Subscribe
Join our tribe and recieve our free opt-in, stay up to date with the latest news and projects in our studio.
