If you know anything about the great outdoors, then you most likely know of Zion National Park.
With its majestic cliffs and beauty, it has been deemed one of the world’s most beautiful and well-known national parks. For Charity and Alex, this stunning landscape became the backdrop for a love-filled celebration that truly defied traditional wedding norms.
WEDDING AMONG THE CLIFFS OF ZION NATIONAL PARK
A Day to Remember: From Start to Finish
Charity and Alex booked my Full-Day Elopement Package which meant that they had photo coverage for their entire elopement.
We started the morning off with a small, intimate wedding at the Glamping site with all their friends and family followed by a catered lunch – which was delicious! Toward the end of the day, as the sun set, the couple and I went to Zion National Park to take photos overlooking all of Zion.
What Made Them Choose to Elope in Zion National Park?
Although the couple currently lives in Hawaii, Utah has always been a special “bucket list” spot for them. Since they are big “outdoorsy” people, they are always looking for their next adventure, and what better way to check off a bucket list item, than to travel there for your wedding?!
They both have big families, so doing a destination intimate elopement wedding was a way for them to cut down the family members. Even though they only invited immediate family, they were still surrounded by 75ish people!
Both families combined rented out all of Open Sky Luxurious Glamping sites so everyone could all stay together. Open Sky is located a little less than a 30-minute drive to the \/\Zion National Park entrance but all the views around Open Sky feel like you’re right in the national park itself.
Providing Custom Itineraries for Each Person
One of the highlights I enjoyed the most was the couple’s creation of personalized weekend itineraries.
In addition to these, they organized daily activities, inviting anyone interested to join in and spend quality time with them.
This unique idea allowed the couple to build deeper bonds with each of their guests compared to traditional weddings, where limited time is spent with the newlyweds.
Seriously, such a fun idea!
PLANNING AND ADVENTUROUS WEDDING: In Zion National Park or Anywhere Else
Planning an outdoor wedding near a national park can definitely be a challenge, but it’s a challenge worth embracing. Here are five steps to consider when planning your own adventurous wedding:
ONE | Group Accommodations
Secure a block of accommodations near the park to ensure everyone can stay together and enjoy the festivities hassle-free.
TWO | Create a Detailed Itinerary
In areas with limited cell service, like national parks, a comprehensive weekend itinerary ensures all guests are on the same page and can participate in planned activities.
THREE | Guest Wedding Checklist
Help your guests navigate their way to the destination with a wedding checklist that includes travel details, airport options, and essential information.
FOUR | Make Your Photographer Your New BFF
Invest in a skilled photographer who can guide you through planning, timelines, and vendor referrals to ensure your day is captured beautifully.
FIVE | Use Local Referrals
Your photographer or hosts may have valuable recommendations for local vendors such as hair and makeup artists, ensuring a seamless experience.
THREE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ELOPING IN ZION NATIONAL PARK
Timing and Logistics:
Choosing the right time of year for a Zion wedding is important.
While summer months witness larger crowds, spring provides a wonderful compromise between pleasant weather and fewer visitors.
Plan Your Meals in Advance:
In a rustic mountain setting like Zion, arranging meals for a large group can be challenging.
Charity and Alex, however, found the perfect solution in “Poppa Naps BBQ.” This mobile catering company, led by the head chef, Napoleon, provided a mouthwatering lunch that left everyone happy!
The Perks of Open Sky Luxurious Resort:
As I mentioned, this resort is located just 15 miles from Zion National Park. The Open Sky Luxurious Resort is a haven nestled in renowned red rock formations.
The resort offers a range of accommodations, including safari-style tents that offer a touch of glamour to the camping experience.
From king-sized beds to full bathrooms with running water, the amenities provided by Open Sky ensured that the couple and their guests could enjoy comfort while immersed in the Utah Desert.
I couldn’t have spent a better day with Charity + Alex saying “I Do” in one of Earth’s most spectacular National Parks in southern Utah; Zion National Park.
Looking for other elopement or wedding ideas in Zion?
UNIQUE ZION GLAMPING WEDDING: Desert Wedding Inspiration/Ideas
What national park is your favorite? What park would you get married at?
ZION WEDDING VENDORS:
Glamping Site: Open Sky Resort
Hair Artist: Beauty by Luvi
Catering Company: Poppa Naps BBQ
FILM PHOTOS FROM THIS ZION NATIONAL PARK WEDDING
