An Unforgettable Sunrise Elopement in Moab: Madison + Jason

Moab elopement of the arches at sunrise bride and groom holding hands

Planning a Moab elopement and dreaming of something adventurous, intimate, and totally stress-free? Madison and Jason’s sunrise ceremony under one of Moab’s most iconic arches is the perfect inspiration. From a cozy morning at Red Cliffs Lodge to dancing barefoot in the sand dunes, their sunrise elopement in Utah proves you don’t need a big wedding to create an unforgettable experience.

Getting Ready for Their Sunrise Elopement in Moab

Madison and Jason started their day at Red Cliffs Lodge, tucked along the Colorado River with jaw-dropping canyon views. They’d originally booked a room and cabin—but were surprised with a complimentary upgrade that made the morning even more special.

Madison got ready in a riverside cabin while the sound of the river flowed outside her window. I helped her into her gown from The White Magnolia, and her hair and makeup were done by the incredible team at LV Bridal Designs. Our favorite videographer, Wandering Wildflower Films, was there to capture it all—Kaylin even helped with jewelry, making sure Madison felt calm and cared for before stepping into the day.

A Private Moab Elopement Ceremony Under the Arch

Jason headed out early to the ceremony site so they could have a private first look under the arch at sunrise. Couples always ask me if they can have a traditional first look at the ceremony for their elopement and the answer is YES! With no crowds in sight, they saw each other for the first time in the softest golden light. Privacy is usually a priority for my couples so I always recommend an elopement ceremony location with less people. It was emotional, raw, and full of love.

They exchanged personal vows in a quiet ceremony, followed by reading letters from family back home—a beautiful way to include loved ones in an elopement. Afterward, they shared a first dance under the arch, just the two of them in the vast desert.

Before their elopement they had never been to Moab, Utah. This was their first experience seeing the giant arches and beautiful canyons.

Want help finding your perfect ceremony location? Check out our full Utah elopement planning guide here.

Exploring Moab After the Ceremony

After the ceremony, the couple grabbed brunch at Cactus Jack’s (yes, food is a must), then took a nap and geared up for an epic afternoon.

They rented an off-road vehicle from Moab Tour Company and tore through the red sand dunes with music blasting, and the La Sal Mountains in the distance. They even stumbled on another arch that felt like their own private hideaway. It was everything a fun and adventurous wedding in Moab should be.