zion national park elopement + a lesbian love story at coral pink sand dunes state park
- marissaaden
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 26
When Liz & Danie first reached out to me, I could instantly feel the connection. Liz, a photographer and musician, and Danie, a holistic wellness lover with a deep love for the outdoors, shared their beautiful and unique love story. Their journey together has been anything but traditional. Having both been in straight-passing relationships before, they came into their queerness together — embracing and celebrating their sexuality and their love for one another along the way. They told me they had never had great photos taken of them — usually posed or over-edited — and that they loved my work because it felt raw, true to life, and full of emotion. From the moment they said they were booking me, I was beyond excited to capture their love in the most authentic way possible.
Sunrise Vows with Zion’s Red Rocks
When their wedding day arrived, we met at the crack of dawn in a quiet parking lot just outside Zion National Park. The air was crisp, and there wasn’t another soul around — just the two of them, giddy with excitement. They had originally planned to exchange vows inside the park but ultimately decided on a more secluded, intimate spot with the breathtaking red rock formations as their backdrop. As the sun rose over the cliffs, Liz & Danie stood together, just taking it all in, before promising forever to each other. No crowds, no distractions—just pure, heartfelt emotion.
After the ceremony, we drove to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, chatting and soaking in the desert around us. The ride was full of real, honest conversation — about love, embracing who they are, and the strength in being unapologetically themselves. Moments like this are why I love what I do: I get to meet incredible people, hear their stories, witness their love, and experience the beauty of it all firsthand.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes Elopement Photos: A Stunning Utah Adventure
After their intimate ceremony, we headed to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, a place that truly has to be seen to be believed. Right in the middle of Utah’s rugged mesas and canyons is this vast, rolling sea of soft, coral-colored sand. The dunes are constantly shifting, sculpted by the wind, making it one of the most unique elopement locations in Utah.
Liz & Danie embraced the adventure completely, running through the dunes, sinking into the sand, and just soaking in the surreal beauty of it all. Their energy was contagious — laughing, twirling, and fully present in the moment. It felt like a dream. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind Utah elopement location, this place is it.
At the end of the photos, you'll find all the details on how you can make this stunning location part of your own elopement experience!
How to Elope at Coral Pink Sand Dunes: Your Ultimate Guide
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are nestled in Southern Utah, near Kanab, just off U.S. Route 89. The dunes are a short drive from popular destinations like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon, making it an ideal spot for an adventurous elopement in the heart of Utah’s breathtaking desert. The dunes get their signature coral color from the erosion of Navajo sandstone and the constant shifting of wind, creating one of the most stunning and unique elopement locations in the state.
If you loved browsing through these photos and can picture your own love story captured in this stunning setting, here are some tips to make it happen!
Choose the Best Time to Visit
The ideal seasons for a Coral Pink Sand Dunes elopement are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These months offer mild temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the dunes and exchanging your vows without the intense summer heat. For the most stunning experience, try to time your ceremony around sunset when the dunes glow with a vibrant coral pink hue.
Get Your Wedding Permit
Before you can say "I do," you'll need to apply for a wedding permit. You can apply directly through the Utah State Parks website or reach out to the Kanab Visitor Center for more details on how to secure your elopement permit.
Plan for the Sand!
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are, as the name suggests, sandy — lots and lots of it! Be prepared for sand to get everywhere, but that’s part of the adventure. If you want to add a little more thrill, consider renting an ATV or trying sandboarding for a fun, adrenaline-packed experience.
Hire Your Dream Elopement Photographer
I believe your elopement photos should truly capture the essence of your love and the breathtaking beauty around you. As a Utah elopement photographer who’s all about authenticity, I love documenting couples in their most real, raw, and beautifully in-love moments — both with each other and the stunning landscape. I’d be honored to help bring your story to life through my lens.
Where to Stay
I’m a huge fan of staying at a beautiful Airbnb for your elopement. It’s the perfect spot for getting ready photos, post-ceremony celebrations, or just unwinding afterward. Plus, it makes for a cozy and romantic getaway. Here are a few of my top picks that I highly recommend:
