Why You Should Elope in the Desert this Winter
I’m the first to admit that one of the reasons I wanted to elope was because weddings are just so damned expensive.
And like, I get it. But I also wanted to just have fun with my husband, family, and a handful of friends in the mountains while wearing a pretty dress and creating epic memories. And I really didn’t want to pay a ton to do it.
Because outdoor and adventure elopements are growing in popularity, popular places are high in demand and it’s getting harder and more expensive to have your dream elopement. But here’s a secret: elope during the off season. And elope during the off-season in the desert.
There’s so many reasons to elope in the desert like stunning scenery and unique locations, think: Canyonlands, the New Mexico White Sands, literally anywhere in Moab, etc. And here’s why you should plan your amazing day for sometime this winter or spring.
Usually October, November, March, and April but depending on weather and your comfortability you can make any month between October and April work!
1. Less Crowds, Better Parking, and First Priority
How many times have you gone to a trailhead you’re stoked about only to see it’s completely full and hundreds of people are standing around waiting to take their picture in that one cool spot? I can think of a hundred other things I’d rather do on my wedding day.
By choosing a less popular month to plan your elopement, you get first pick of location! No more fighting handfuls of tourists or hoping you can get a permit over the two dozen other brides that also want that same day.
2. Desert Weather is Finally Mild!
There’s nothing worse than hiking around in a full wedding gown only to be dripping in sweat within a few minutes. When you pick a month like October for your stunning desert elopement, you’ll avoid the draining heat and arid winds of the summer.
The mornings and nights tend to be much cooler so keep that in mind when picking a time, but you’ll have the warmth of the sun soon enough! As always, Mama Earth loves to do her own thing so you could get a sprinkle of rain or an overnight snow. These are all part of the fun! Depending on your own comfortability, you may want to plan a little closer to the warmer months to avoid this, but we can only plan so much.
Don’t forget that it is still dry out here so please make sure you pack extra water, snacks, and sunscreen!
3. Vendor Discounts and Flexibility
This time for wedding vendors tends to be slower, especially when you choose amazing Southwestern locals! This leaves their schedules a little more flexible for timing and they may offer discounts to increase bookings! This is a great way to support local hair and makeup stylists, photographers (like me!), bakeries, and lodging!
4. More Affordable Lodging, Hotels, and Flights
It’s no secret that the travel industry makes bank during the summer travel months, especially to popular destinations like Moab, the Grand Canyon, and Sante Fe. During the “slow” season, you’ll find discounted flights and hotels on any sight and most Airbnb owners offer cheaper rates as well. This is a great hack if you’re on a budget and helps your guests as well if you’re worried that traveling is too costly but you’re obsessed with a further location.
5. Completely Unique Experience
How many people actually get married in a Utah slot canyon in November? Not a lot.
Now what if you get a light dusting of snow and decide to bundle up in a colorful shawl and share cocoa with your closest family and friends after exchanging vows? That’s something no one else will have.
Planning your elopement to be completely you is the most important part! We all love being outside, wild adventures, and exploring new places but how can you bring your relationship’s unique personality to it? Sometimes all it takes is booking a little later in the year and enjoying the fun of the shoulder season.
Interested in your very own off-season Southwestern elopement? You’ve found the desert-loving photographer who’s ready to make your dreams happen! Contact me and let’s chat!
