Two Day Moab Micro-Wedding

Ya’ll, this Moab Micro-Wedding was a true adventure in every sense of the word- from dodging storms to hiking in the dark, to magical sunsets and star photo that almost didn’t happen…But let us start at the beginning, way back early last year when M + R booked me for their Moab Micro-Wedding this spring. I was excited before even chatting with M + R on zoom- on their inquiry form they excitedly declared “We are open to new experiences!” Little did they know this attitude would be the common thread through the whole of their elopement planning and elopement adventure in Moab.

M + R were especially keen on star photos and especially star photos that showcase the Milky Way- which is always excellent news, especially in Moab, a truly prime spot for star photos. And… I’d had this wacky idea for some very specific (and potentially very iconic) star photos.

I’d pitched this idea before, but it’s a big ask. Over 3 mile hike with lots of elevation gain, that has to happen in the middle of the night to get the timing right (my alarm was set for 1am haha).  But M + R, seeing this idea as a once in a lifetime opportunity, went for it. With excitement and adventure. Which, as it turns out, is a theme for their elopement. 

I did lots and lots of prep for this star photo shoot- new gear, side questing to plan certain shots, research… and lots of dreaming and scheming. And then, in true fashion, Mother Nature threw us a wrench of a stretch of unsettled weather spanning RIGHT over their elopement day. And while dynamic clouds make for amazing daytime photos, they do tend to put the kibosh on star photos. So I presented the couple with a few options on what to do, one of which included bumping up their star photos… which they ultimately went for. 

So. In the middle of the night before their elopement, we met up at mostly deserted trailhead in Arches National Park (with M + R in their full wedding attire- what badasses) and hiked. We encountered a group of stargazers on our way up, who joked with us that there was a mountain lion on the trail (my heart stopped when they said this) but they quickly told us they were kidding. Ha. So funny. ::heaven sarcasm:: We finished out the hike to a place normally swarming with visitors- but in the middle of the night, had it totally to ourselves. We played under the stars, with the Milky Way on full display, and a freaking meteor shower showing up as well. Truly one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen.

Once enough light filled the sky to snuff out the stars, we started our hike back (passing some very bewildered looking hikers) to go enjoy sunrise in another area of the park. We lucked out with the quietest I’d ever seen Arches on a Saturday morning, and enjoyed playing under the arches (glad to now be able to see them with our eyes). It was such a magical start to their elopement.

The next day, as I drove up the winding road to part two of their Moab Micro-Wedding, I looked at the very dark and heavy clouds and wondered if our luck would run out. The skies opened over me as I drove, but the rain died down by the time we got to the parking lot and the rest of the storm passed us by (and truly made for an epic backdrop).. And through it all- threat of weather, crowds, early mornings, made up mountain lions…. M + R maintained excitement and a true spirit of adventure.

M + R had the sweetest ceremony overlooking the canyons, with the wild clouds dancing across the sky. Then the couple had a mini reception, adorned with some of the prettiest details around. Major should out to Tangled Sage (you have to see this bouquet), the yummiest charcuterie (put together by the amazing Confluence Catering) and Deserted Goods wedding cake with the cutest dog details.

After cake and toasts, I ventured out with the couple for some sunset portraits. The sun wound up peaking through the clouds in the dreamiest way EVER (I screamed a lot haha) and made for such dramatic skies. We hiked and laughed, with M + R so excited and energized. Truly the way everything turned out? Was magical.

This Moab Micro-Wedding was truly one for the books. Thank you, so much, for the trust. And so much congrats, M + R! I’m so stoked for you both.

And here are some incredibly kind words from M + R:

Love this elopement? Want to learn more about eloping in Moab? Check out the link below with all my best tips, tricks, and inspo!