Kayton & Amanda | Moab Elopement at Arches National Park

Due to the pandemic, Kayton and Amanda’s already small ceremony became an even more intimate celebration with just the two of them. Their Moab elopement at Arches National Park was full of tender moments, laughter, and applause and cheering from the strangers visiting the park as their guests.

We started the day at the Greetings from Moab mural downtown, before heading into Arches National Park for the festivities. All our things in tow, we hiked in to the arch they planned to marry under, leaving a “Wedding in Progress” sign on the way in so that guests to the park wouldn’t be caught off-guard (and could help witness if they wanted!) Kayton set up some phones to record the ceremony for friends and family who were unable to be in attendance, and for their own posterity too. I think this is a great idea even in non-pandemic times! I’m all about keeping hold of these moments forever. He and Amanda exchanged some sentiments and their promises before exchanging rings and special garlands from Kayton’s Hindu background. Sealing their vows with a kiss and a high five, the two were cheered on by some tourists. In a year where it is easy to feel isolated, it was such a neat moment to feel this connection among strangers, all brought together by such an incredible piece of nature.

After Kayton packed up the recording equipment, we explored the slot canyon and nearby arches of the park. The details they chose to include in the day were some of my favorites! Kayton’s tie featured a topographical map of Arches National Park, and his ring was created from the Arches quarter from their National Park line that came out a while back. He and Amanda also had probably the best socks I’ve ever seen for a wedding! The afternoon light reflected by the red rocks created such stunning light to play with too. Amanda and Kayton, thank you so much for including me in your sweet celebration. Take a peek at some of my favorites from their Moab elopement at Arches National Park: