Planning an Unforgettable Grand Teton Elopement
Hey there, lovebirds! Congratulations on taking the plunge into planning your epic Grand Teton elopement – it's going to be a wild ride! Let's dive into the nitty-gritty details and make sure your day is nothing short of extraordinary.
Securing Your Dream Venue / Location
Get ready to exchange vows amidst the stunning beauty of Grand Teton National Park. I’ll walk you through the permit process and help you choose the perfect location, whether it's the iconic Schwabacher Landing or the historic Mormon Row. Schwabachers Landing always fills up the fastest so run, don’t walk, if that’s your preferred location! When filling out the permit application, a Special Use Permit non-refundable processing fee of $200 is due upon application. Elopement permit applications will be accepted beginning on December 4, 2023, at 8 am MST. Special Use Permits are issued for two different types of wedding or commitment ceremonies. The first is a Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit, which is for ceremonies that include more than 12 people/guests, and the second is a Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit which is for ceremonies that include less than 12 people/guests. You can find all the details on the GTNP website to see which one best fits your needs. After you’ve decided which type of permit you are applying for and your desired location, you’ll complete the Special Use Application. Email the completed application to grte_visitor_services@nps.gov no less than 30 days prior to the event. Make sure it is fully completed or they will not process your application.
Exclusive Ceremony Locations with Reserved Site-Specific Permits
For gatherings exceeding 12 guests, weddings or elopements within Grand Teton National Park must occur within the six designated areas listed below, each requiring a Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit. However, following the ceremony, we're free to explore and capture portraits in various other picturesque locations across the park. Please note that the group count includes the wedding party, children, officiant, and photographer(s). The maximum capacity for these designated areas is 25 guests, except for Colter Bay and Mormon Row North, which can accommodate up to 40 guests.
These locations include:
Schwabacher Landing: Renowned for its breathtaking river views, encompassing reflections of the majestic Tetons amidst lush trees, meadows, and abundant wildlife.
Mormon Row (North or South): A historic gem offering expansive vistas of the Tetons, though occasionally bustling with tourists, optimal timing can ensure tranquility during your ceremony.
Mountain View Turnout: A personal favorite, offering unparalleled privacy and spectacular Tetons views. This hidden gem is often overlooked but guarantees a mesmerizing backdrop.
Glacier View Turnout: Another underrated gem boasting magnificent Tetons panoramas, slightly more popular than Mountain View Turnout but equally stunning.
Snake River Overlook: Though featuring a small granite wall in the background, this location offers captivating vistas of the Tetons, perfect for your special day.
Colter Bay Swim Beach: Embrace the unique charm of this dreamy spot, offering added seclusion and a distinctive ambiance for your ceremony.
No matter which location you select for your Grand Teton elopement, rest assured that each promises an unforgettable backdrop for your vows. Should you have any questions or require further details about these stunning spots, feel free to reach out.
Permit Conditions and Regulations
Grand Teton National Park does not permit exclusive use of any area. This means that there will be normal visitor activity during your ceremony. Ceremony sites in Grand Teton National Park are located in areas that are open to the public. All available ceremony sites are outdoors and natural and rugged without protection from the weather.
Due to GTNP’s emphasis on preserving its natural resources and ensuring all visitors can enjoy the park's beauty, only modest, uncomplicated ceremonies are allowed. If you're envisioning a simple and intimate elopement, this guideline will likely align perfectly with your desires!Your ceremony may be monitored by a National Park Service employee or designee to ensure compliance with all conditions of this permit.
It goes without saying, but interfering with wildlife, regardless of their size, is strictly prohibited. I prioritize the safety and well-being of my clients. Should wildlife appear during our session, we'll patiently wait for them to naturally move away before continuing with photos or the ceremony. Encounters with wildlife can be awe-inspiring, yet staying calm and respecting these guidelines ensures a safe and memorable experience for all.
Entrance fees apply to all wedding participants and guests that pass through an entrance gate.
For more permit conditions and regulations, check out GTNP website.
Leave No Trace
Let's honor and preserve the stunning landscapes we're fortunate to access. As we plan your GTNP elopement, it's essential to ensure the longevity of the breathtaking locations where you'll exchange vows. Public lands, including National Parks, State Parks, National Forests, Wilderness Areas, and BLM lands, offer us unparalleled settings for our celebrations at minimal cost compared to traditional venues. With this privilege comes the responsibility to maintain the integrity of these spaces, allowing future generations to cherish them as much as we do.
Obtaining a Wedding License
In Teton County (Jackson Hole), there are a few steps to follow when obtaining a marriage license. 1. You must schedule an appointment by calling 307-733-4430 before visiting the County Clerk’s Office, as walk-ins are not accepted. 2. Both parties must appear in person and be at least 18 years old, presenting a valid photo ID such as a Driver’s License, Passport, Military ID, or School ID. Additionally, couples should fill out a Marriage License Questionnaire (PDF) and bring it, along with their photo ID, to the County Clerk’s Office. Finally, prepare to pay the license fee of $30 in cash or $31.50 if using a card. It’s a pretty straightforward process.
Planning Your Perfect Day & Assembling Your Wedding Squad
Let's make sure everything goes off without a hitch! All weddings and elopements include the comprehensive planning guide with links to get you all set up through the permit process, recommend vendors, and help you create a personalized timeline. Fortunately, arranging vendors for an elopement is significantly less daunting than for a traditional wedding. To elope in Wyoming, you'll need two witnesses and an officiant. I can fulfill one of the witness roles, and another vendor can also serve as a witness. Alternatively, if you prefer a personal touch, a family member or friend can officiate your ceremony for free after obtaining ordination through a quick online process at Universal Life Church. This can add a profound intimacy to your elopement experience.
For those seeking additional support, investing in an elopement planner is highly recommended. These professionals can assist with obtaining permits, securing vendor contracts, selecting locations, and more. Notable options in the area include Elope Jackson and Destination Jackson Hole, both of whom I’ve worked with personally.
What To Expect From The Weather
A quick rundown of the best times to plan your Grand Teton elopement from a local who’s lived in the area my entire life…
Spring (March-May): Spring still feels like winter here, with occasional snow, rain, and cloudy skies lingering over the Tetons. Trails may remain closed due to snow until late May. If you're okay with chilly weather and a bit of unpredictability, a spring elopement could be magical.
Summer (June-August): Summer brings gorgeous weather, vibrant wildflowers, and plenty of visitors to the Tetons. Planning ahead is key to securing a great spot for your ceremony. While prices in Jackson Hole tend to be higher due to the influx of tourists, the breathtaking views make it all worthwhile.
Fall (September-November): My personal favorite time of the year! If you crave stunning fall colors and a chance to spot wildlife, fall is your ideal season for a Grand Teton elopement. With fewer crowds and slightly lower prices compared to summer, fall offers a serene and picturesque backdrop for your special day. Just be prepared for potential inclement weather in October and November.
Winter (December-February): Winter in the Tetons is quiet and serene, with snow-covered landscapes creating a magical atmosphere. While the park sees fewer visitors during this time, skiing activities in and around Jackson Hole are popular. Keep in mind that prices may be higher during the winter months. If you're a snow enthusiast, a winter elopement could be just what you're looking for!
What To Do While You’re Here:
Here are some fantastic activities to enjoy during your stay in Jackson Hole or Grand Teton National Park:
Explore the charming shops in Town Square and treat yourself to some delicious ice cream from Moo's (a personal favorite).
Immerse yourself in art and nature at the National Wildlife Art Museum, then head to the national elk refuge for a chance to spot these majestic animals.
Take a scenic drive around Jenny Lake and make sure to stop at the Jenny Lake Overlook for breathtaking views of the lake and Tetons.
Embark on a hike to Hidden Falls, located near Jenny Lake, and experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Enjoy a day of canoeing or kayaking on Jenny Lake, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Tetons.
For a thrilling adventure, ride the Gondola at Teton Village (just a short drive from GTNP) and soak in panoramic views of the mountainous landscape.
Experience the wilderness on horseback with a scenic horseback riding excursion.
Relax and float down the river on a leisurely river float trip, taking in the natural beauty of the area at a leisurely pace.
Ready to dive in and chat about the specifics? I can’t wait to hear from you!
All elopement coverage includes all the best high resolution digital images - completely hand retouched, timeline assistance, a comprehensive planning guide, unrestricted printing rights, and more. Custom tailored collections are always available so you can get the perfect coverage for your day!