Intimate Moab Elopement: Sunrise at Arches Nat’l Park
When Sophie and Syon reached out about planning their elopement, they had two priorities: privacy and breathtaking scenery. Sophie, originally from Australia, and Syon, from the U.S., met in Australia during university and later got engaged in California. When they decided to elope, they envisioned an intimate day focused entirely on their love story, surrounded by nature's raw beauty. Moab delivered everything they were dreaming of—and more.
Their elopement day began in the stillness of pre-dawn at Arches National Park. We drove together under a blanket of stars to a secluded cluster of arches, including Turret Arch, the Windows, and Double Arch. As the first light of day crept over the horizon, Sophie and Syon shared their first look. Watching the sunrise paint the sandstone a glowing orange felt like nature itself was celebrating their moment. We spent the next hour wandering through the arches, capturing candid and sweeping shots that highlighted their connection and the stunning landscape.
Later that afternoon, we regrouped at their cozy glamping tent at Under Canvas. It was the perfect place for them to relax between adventures and soak in the desert atmosphere. After a quick session capturing their quiet moments together, we set out for their ceremony on a remote stretch of BLM land.
With no one around but their officiant and me, Sophie and Syon exchanged heartfelt vows as the desert stretched endlessly behind them. They sealed their vows with a champagne toast and then explored the surrounding trails as golden hour bathed everything in dreamy light. Their day ended with laughter, joy, and photos that radiated their adventurous spirits and deep connection.
Moab provided the perfect canvas for Sophie and Syon’s story: raw, timeless, and completely their own. If you're dreaming of an elopement that lets you truly focus on each other and the natural beauty around you, there’s nowhere like the red rock desert to bring that vision to life.
Of note: getting legally married on BLM land in Moab is a straightforward process but requires a bit of planning. First, you’ll need to obtain an Utah marriage license, which you can get at the Grand County Clerk’s office in Moab. Both parties must appear in person with valid identification, and there’s no waiting period, so you can use the license immediately. If you’re eloping on BLM land, no special permit is required for the ceremony itself, as long as it’s a small, private gathering without large decorations, setups, or interference with the land. However, you will need a letter of agreement from the BLM department which I will help you obtain. Be sure to bring along a registered officiant, as Utah requires one to solemnize your marriage. Additionally, it’s essential to follow Leave No Trace principles, ensuring your elopement respects the pristine beauty of the desert. This way, you can celebrate your love while preserving the land for others to enjoy.
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This adventurous couple chose to divide their Moab elopement into a private sunrise vow exchange and a joyful sunset ceremony with loved ones. From off-roading in the dark to spotting bighorn sheep, their day was unforgettable from start to finish!