As one of the most outdoor-driven states in America, it’s no surprise many Utah couples choose to say their “I dos” surrounded by nature. Whether on top of a breathtaking cliff in the red-rock-laden landscapes of Moab or within a vibrant forest deep in the Rockies, Utahns have pledged their love in a range of wild sceneries. Perhaps it’s the devastatingly stunning photos that arise from the raw beauty of the outdoors, or maybe tying oneself to another is more special under the watchful gaze of mother nature. Whatever the reason, we love everything about outdoor nuptials.
This Earth Day, we’re revisiting some of our favorite real weddings, inspiration shoots and standout photos that celebrate nature in all her wild forms.
Deer Valley Resort offers endless opportunities for mountain majesty, like this bride becoming one with the woods. Grassy slopes and vast views promise a memorable engagement shoot.
Little Sahara and The Dunes provide a serene setting for a summer bridal shoot. Featured on our 2019 cover, this sun-drenched inspiration session showcases the importance of desert-friendly practices, such as choosing drought-friendly floral arrangements. Water-wise blooms like cottage yarrow, blushing bride protea and foraged Utah grasses make a unique bouquet while lessening the strain on Utah’s dwindling water supply.
An adventurous elopement in the heart of southern Utah highlights the diversity of landscapes available to couples. Enveloped by grand views and red rock, these two make their vows where none but nature bear witness.
Camp Sarika by Amangiri is a vast array of untouched desert landscapes. This 2021 inspiration shoot offers a glimpse into splendid seclusion—the perfect place for a deeply personal bridal shoot.
Utah fiercely embraces all four seasons, and so do winter-loving couples looking for a blustery adventure. Shot in the woods next to Silver Lake, this snowy shoot exemplifies wild elegance. Towering pines are instantly recognizable to any savvy Utahn, and provide a sense of comforting privacy to these lovebirds.
Mystical and enchanting, this woodland inspiration shoot is wildly alive. Forest shoots are incredibly popular in Utah bridal photography, and the untamed beauty of Rocky Mountain backwoods elevates the aesthetic to ethereality.
An outdoor photography roundup would not be complete without mention of the Salt Flats. Something of a blank canvas, the lake bed is open for interpretation to each new couple. For these two, the stark beauty of endless white seems to reflect their love as it is—boundless and eternal.
This real wedding graced our glossy pages in 2020 and remains a top alpine inspiration. The couple traveled to Sundance Mountain Resort where they planned a ceremony tucked deep in the vibrant forest. Guests took two chairlifts to reach the stunning location where the duo read their vows. Joining the musings was a surprise guest—a handsome llama the groom offered as a surprise gift to the bride.
These magnificent nature shots would not be possible without the existence of raw untamed beauty inherent to Utah’s landscape. To ensure the longevity of Utah’s natural wonders, take care to practice eco-conscious outdoor photography.
Find more outdoor wedding inspiration here.
