how to kindly elope in moab

Moab is the gateway to endless Southwest adventures. From checking out the quaint shops and eateries in town to exploring the infamous Arches National Park and Canyonlands, a visit to Moab will be one for the books. The iconic red rock scenery is often why couples choose this destination for their elopement. If you’re considering exchanging your vows in this stunning natural wonder, we encourage you to keep the west wild and support the community by selecting local vendors, lodging, and restaurants when possible.

Suggestions

Choose local vendors - Why? Working with local vendors supports the community you’re visiting! - The local vendors will know how and where to source sustainable materials from your florals to the farm-fresh food for your celebration. - Local vendors are like tour guides. They will be able to suggest everything you and your partner need to bring both your values and vision to life. - Lastly, local vendors will help ensure you and your guests celebrate responsibly without sacrificing the beautiful views. This is vital in public lands that need all of us to protect and preserve its natural beauty.

Venue Selection - Permits are required to elope in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse State Park, and any land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. - A local photographer can be a great resource for what locations are accessible and breathtaking. - Private venues, like The Red Earth Venue, are another option to consider. By opting for a private venue, you will keep your environmental impact to one area. Additionally, most locations in Moab do not allow floral to be brought on-site so if this is important to you, a private venue may be for you.

Select your Season - Moab is a popular tourist destination. Avoid busy travel weeks such as spring break and national holidays. - Moab has four distinct seasons meaning the weather differs drastically throughout the year. It is extremely hot in the summer and often cold and snowy in the winter. Spring and fall months offer the most moderate temperatures, however, tend to experience rain more frequently. No matter the season you choose, a backup plan is never a bad idea.

Look into Lodging - Moab offers a ton of great unique and boutique options for accommodation. A few of our favorites include Red

Cliffs Lodge, Under Canvas Moab, Sorrel River Ranch, Hoodoo Moab, Red Stone Inn, and Wander Camp.

Source Local Gifts - Moab is chock full of the cutest shops. If you’re looking for gifts for your wedding party, family or significant other hit the town to find the perfect item for everyone. Be sure to check out Moab Made, everything carried in their store is made locally.

Indulge in Local Eats & Drinks - Whether you’re celebrating before your vows or staying in town for a mini-moon, Moab has divine options to satisfy your taste buds. Treat yourself to ice cream at the Moab Garage after a hike, snag fuel for your elopement with a pick-me-up at Snake Oil Coffee, or get a growler of root beer or beer from the Moab Brewery. A few other favorites include the Quesadilla Mobilla, The Spoke on Center and Food Truck Park.

Enjoy the Area - Moab has adventures and activities for everyone. Be sure to include a few fun experiences in your weekend itinerary. Go horseback riding at Red Cliff’s Lodge, book a canyoneering tour, or rent mountain bikes to explore a trail. There are also numerous notable hikes to choose from including Double Arch in Arches National Park,

Corona Arch, and Grandstaff Canyon. The possibilities are endless!

Preserve, Protect & Respect - Moab is a national treasure and those visiting must do their part to keep it the way they found it. Remember no matter how appealing a view may appear, stay on trails at all times, pack out what you pack in and respect the community and visitors around you.

“My ability to live out my dream, to photograph and experience nature with couples, means I owe it to the land and the people that have come before me and will come after me to treat the land I work on with love and respect. For me that looks like educating my couples about how to be responsible in the particular landscape we are shooting in.” - Haley Nord Photography

CONTRASTING DETAILS

Let your elopement not only be inspired by the destination of choice, but also by your personal style. Tellurian Events styled this edgy bride in a sexy silk slip gown designed by Nordeen Bridal. This delicate gown is a subtle nod to the desert elements surrounding the couple and shows off just the right amount of skin. Accessorize simply with touches of vintage jewelry and bold red florals that pop perfectly against a groom decked out in black leather. An elopement is the perfect depiction of you and your partner, so be sure to let that shine through.

Inspired by the earth’s landscapes and its elements, Nordeen is a bridal collection that reimagines classic wedding attire for the outdoors. With a commitment to nature and a desire to preserve its beauty - the brand seeks to develop a range of effortlessly luxurious pieces, distinguished by natural materials and subtle yet unexpected details.

“The birth of The Red Earth Venue came about after years of being a wedding and portrait photographer in Moab. I saw first hand how difficult it was for my couples to find a location for their intimate wedding reception. They wanted to dine outdoors and let nature do the decorating. Many of them were excited to share this incredible place with family and friends and the last thing they wanted was to be in a hotel ballroom.” - Angela Hays, Owner of The Red Earth Venue

creative team

Venue: The Red Earth Venue | theredearthvenue.com Photographer & Production: Haley Nord Photography | haleynordphotography.com Floral & Tablescape: Tellurian Events | tellurianevents.com Bride’s Attire: Nordeen Bridal | nordeenbridal.com Vow Books: Casey Wade Made | caseywademade.com Table & Lights: Moab Event Services | moabeventservices.com Tableware: Wild Event Studio | wildeventstudio.com Models: Lex & Chris

HORSE THIEF

For your next at home date night, shake up a Horse Thief, named for Barbara Phillips. In 2013, she stole a mistreated horse from a very neglectful ranch. Since then, she has rescued 24 horses, and 30 cows through the ‘Saving Gracie Equine Healing Foundation’.

INGREDIENTS

1.5 oz. | Reposado Tequila .5 oz. | High West Campfire Whiskey .5 oz. | Green Chartreuse .5 oz. | Ginger Syrup .5 oz. | Lime Juice 3 to 5 Blackberries

DIRECTIONS

In a shaker, muddle blackberries with ginger and syrup. Add remaining ingredients and ice. Shake to chill. Half rim a rocks glass with Tajin spice (or similar spicy lime seasoning) and pour over a big ice cube.