Sunrise Vows + Jeep Couples Session at an Overlook in Moab
A Sunrise Full of Meaning and a Sunset Filled with Celebration
Some couples dream of a Moab elopement that’s intimate, adventurous, and totally unique to their story. For this amazing couple, breaking up their elopement photography between sunrise and sunset was the perfect way to create two distinct and meaningful parts of their day.
We kicked off the morning portion of their elopement day under a blanket of stars. Meeting in the quiet of an empty parking lot, I hopped into their Jeep, and we set off for their sunrise location, off-roading through the desert in the dark. As the first hints of dawn painted the sky, we climbed down loose rocks to this epic overlook.
After the sun came up, the couple shared a private, heartfelt vow exchange. This moment was just for them—no family, no friends, just the two of them, with the desert as their witness. Watching them read their vows to one another, surrounded by the stillness of the Moab morning, was so moving. Afterward, they popped a bottle of champagne, toasting to their love and the incredible day ahead. Of course we had to end our time at this location with some photos incorporating their rental Jeep.
Later that evening, they planned to say “I do” with their family and friends gathered around. But carving out this sacred, quiet time together in the morning allowed them to honor their connection in a deeply personal way.
A Moab Surprise We’ll Never Forget
One of the most memorable parts of the morning had nothing to do with photography—but everything to do with timing and a little Moab magic. During our drive back out of the desert, the groom kept joking about wanting to see a bighorn sheep. I laughed and told him not to get his hopes up—I’ve shot in Moab more times than I can count and had never seen one before.
But just as we were about to head back to town, the universe delivered. Not one, but TWO bighorn sheep appeared right along the side of the road. We couldn’t believe our luck, and it felt like a little gift from Moab to make their morning even more unforgettable.
Why Sunrise and Sunset Make the Perfect Pair
Splitting your elopement photography between sunrise and sunset allows you to experience the best of what Moab has to offer. Sunrise is quiet, peaceful, and perfect for intimate moments like private vow exchanges, while sunset brings that warm desert glow and creates a beautiful backdrop for celebrating with loved ones.
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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!