Lauren & Redmond’s Epic Utah Elopement

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / UTAH & BEYOND

We planned Lauren and Redmond’s Moab elopement in just a few days, but it wasn’t because they decided last minute to get married, it was because the universe just kept deciding their other plans just couldn’t work out. They originally planned a larger wedding, but then Lauren gave me a call when it looked like 2020 would be a no-go for big weddings. So we planned an epic elopement…in Yosemite. However, the wildfire season had other plans for that, and after going over all the options they decided to meet me in Moab, which is where I was at the time. And it just so happened that it was a way shorter drive for them than to Yosemite anyway.

They had never been to Moab, so I knew we needed to see some of the most iconic locales, but with such late notice getting a permit for Arches would be an issue. I already have a permit to operate on BLM land around Moab, and we are so thankful for the wonderful woman who handles weddings in Moab, who turned around a permit for them in just a couple of days. Also big thanks to the wonderful people at Dead Horse Point for that as well.

So with all the paperwork done, they were able to focus on the sights, the day, and most importantly each other. We started with watching the sunrise over the incredible desert towers that make up iconic Castle Valley. When people think about the wild west, this is the view they are thinking about. Sunrise here is hard to beat, we had it all to ourselves, and it was a little chilly, but once the sun hit our faces we warmed up fast. They said their vows to each other and exchanged rings, and then stood for a while taking in the beauty.

After the sunrise session, we had a small break for relaxing and lunch, and then we headed out to Corona Arch for a little hike. It was warm out at that point so they packed their wedding gear to change at the Arch. Both of them mentioned how fitting it was to be visiting Corona Arch during the Coronavirus pandemic, and how they never would have seen this sight if not for the pandemic! As we rounded the corner and saw the arch, I exclaimed, “There it is!” to which there was no reaction from either of them. I just thought, wow- they must not be impressed- but it’s a huge arch so I was confused. We walked a little further, and then they both yelled out at the same time, “OOOH, there it is!” From the angle we were at it was hard to tell it was a giant arch, and they both just thought they were looking at a rock wall. We laughed because they thought the arch was awesome, but they just couldn’t see it before.

After the arch, we headed to Dead Horse Point State Park for sunset. It’s so fun to see both sides of the park, and such a great spot to watch the sun go down, the moon comes up, and the stars come out. Every time I’m there I’m in awe of how magical the area is. Personally, I think it’s one of the coolest views in the southwest.

After taking in all the sights and feeling thoroughly satisfied, all Lauren could talk about was getting a hamburger, so we headed back into town. On the drive back we went over everything we did that day and we were so amazed. We had seen so much, and although none of it was the stuff they had originally planned to see these two pivoted like absolute pros and never ceased to amaze me with how laid back and positive they took each new obstacle. To them, the most important part was committing their lives to each other, and building memories together that they will look back on for the rest of their lives.