Your Guide to Planning the Ultimate National Park Wedding or Elopement
If you dream of getting married somewhere wild, chances are you've considered doing it at one of the 63 national parks (or hundreds of National Monuments – which are also beautiful and part of the National Park System) in the United States!
And I totally get it. National Parks can be some of the BEST places for your elopement or small outdoor wedding – here's now to make your wildest wedding dreams come true!
National parks have been called “america's best idea” ….
…. and getting married in one might be YOUR best idea!
Here's why.
dreaming of getting married somewhere wild?
5 reasons to get married in a national park
1. spectacular natural backdrops
National parks are renowned for their stunning landscapes, from majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls to serene lakes and dense forests. Choosing a national park for your wedding guarantees breathtaking views that will create a magical backdrop for your day. Whether you're exchanging vows beneath towering redwoods or beside a pristine alpine lake, the natural beauty will enhance the romance of the moment.
2. intimate and meaningful setting
National parks can offer a sense of intimacy, and seclusion that's hard to replicate in traditional wedding venues. Steeped in the serenity of nature, you can share your vows in a place that offers total peace. This intimate setting allows you to focus on the love you share.
3. A unique adventure
If you're an adventurous couple with a love for exploration, a national park wedding or elopement is an ideal choice. You can incorporate outdoor activities such as hiking or camping to make your wedding an unforgettable adventure. Your wedding becomes not just a celebration of love, but also a celebration of your shared passion for the outdoors.
5. jaw-dropping photos
4. rugged and Minimalistic beauty
Let's be honest, as an elopement and microwedding photographer I can't help but mention the photos. National Parks and their unparalleled natural beauty make for stunning, museum-worthy images where YOU and the landscape are the art. Not only will you want to share your photos with everyone you know, you'll also want to frame them, BIG, on your wall.
A national park wedding or elopement embraces simplicity and the raw beauty of nature. With such breathtaking surroundings, you won't need extravagant decorations or elaborate setups. The natural elements will serve as the decor, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – your commitment to each other and the love you share. This approach can also be environmentally friendly, aligning with eco-conscious values.
do you need a permit to get married in a national park?
The legalities of getting married in a national Park
Contrary to what you might think, getting married in a National Park is NOT as simple as finding a pretty spot and saying your vows. But don't worry, you've totally got this!
PERMITS: In most cases, you will need a permit to get married in a national park. Each national park has its own set of rules and regulations, including guidelines for special events like weddings. Here are a few key points to consider:
APPLICATION PROCESS: The process to obtain a wedding permit can vary from park to park. It typically involves filling out an application form, providing details about your event, and paying a fee. Some parks may have a limit on the number of guests, while others may have specific areas where events can take place.
ADVANCE PLANNING: It's important to plan ahead and apply for the permit well in advance of your wedding date. Some popular national parks have high demand for event permits, so securing your permit early is crucial.
FEES: There is usually a fee associated with obtaining a wedding permit. The fee can vary based on factors like the size of your event, the location within the park, and the resources needed to accommodate your event. Fees typically range from $60-250.
RULES AND REGULATIONS: When you receive a wedding permit, you'll also receive guidelines and restrictions that you must adhere to during your event. This could include guidelines on decorations, music, photography, and more
LEAVE NO TRACE: National parks are protected areas, and it's important to respect the environment and wildlife. Many permits come with requirements to minimize your impact on the surroundings and to leave no trace of your event.
VENDOR AND EQUIPMENT GUIDELINES: Some parks might have restrictions on the use of certain equipment or the involvement of specific vendors. Make sure to inquire about any limitations related to catering, photography, and other aspects of your wedding.
Remember, the requirements and procedures can vary from one national park to another, so it's essential to research the specific park you're interested in for accurate and up-to-date information. Contact the park's administrative office or visit their official website to learn more about the permit process and requirements for getting married in that particular national park.
how to plan your national park wedding or elopement
a step by step guide
Step 1: Choose your season and your vibe
Planning your national park elopement begins with choosing your park and THAT begins with choosing the vibe you want (and/or a time of year that matches that vibe!). What does your DREAM landscape look like? Is it rugged mountains? Sun scorched deserts? Dreamy coastlines? Towering trees? You have SO many options – let your mind run wild!
Once you have an idea of what you want to do and when you want to do it, it's time to bring in the pros! A photographer who specializes in elopements and adventure weddings will help you narrow down your options, navigate any permit requirements, and dream up a day beyond your wildest dreams!
Step 2: bring on a photographer/planner to help you out
Permit requirements will vary both in how to get them and how difficult they are to get depending on which National Park you want to elope in. The sooner you get on this the better! There is nothing worse than having your heart set on a particular park and day, only to realize that that ship has sailed! Plan ahead.
Step 3: Book your date and secure any necessary permits
Permit requirements will vary both in how to get them and how difficult they are to get depending on which National Park you want to elope in. The sooner you get on this the better! There is nothing worse than having your heart set on a particular park and day, only to realize that that ship has sailed! Plan ahead.
Step 3: Book your date and secure any necessary permits
Now that everything is a go and you have an idea of the type of weather you can expect, it's time to shop! Choose clothes (and especially shoes!) that are comfortable and walkable. Also plan on packing things like water, snacks, and more!
step 4: Get your suit, dress, rings, etc.
Want to get your hair and makeup done? Need an officiant? Want to have a private chef cook you dinner at your AirBnB? It's time to bring on your dream team! Your photographer can recommend vendors that fit your vision and budget.
step 5: book any other vendors
The big day is finally here! You are getting married in your dream National Park! Make sure to slow down and savor every incredible moment!!
step 5: Do the thing!
Share them, print them, hang them on your wall. This is a day you will want to relive forever and ever!
step 6: get your photos
where should you elope?
the best national parks for your wedding or elopement
Choosing my favorite national park for my couples to get married in is a little bit like trying to choose my favorite dog … it's just not possible! With that being said, here are a few of my favorites:
1. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
2. Olympic National Park, Washington
3. Arches National Park, Utah
4. Glacier National Park, Montana
5. North Cascades National Park, Washington
6. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
7. Redwood National Park, California
8. Joshua Tree National Park, California
9. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
10. Zion National Park, Utah
want to get married in a national park? I'd love to help!
Hey! I'm Jen Dz! I'm an elopement and adventure wedding photographer who plans and photographs once in a life time adventures in National Parks and other wild places around the Western U.S.!
Get in touch to start brainstorming your best day ever today!
Share this story
