Advice for Planning a Wedding in Moab When It’s Cold
The best way to really prepare for the colder weather in Moab is to expect the unexpected. While there are specific factors we can always count on such as freezing temperatures, there are always unforeseen elements that may crop up. That’s why I always advise couples on how to be well prepared! If you are up for an adventure wedding in Moab during the chillier months then let’s take steps to make it happen!
Know What to Expect When Planning a Cold Wedding in Moab
Yes, the Moab desert weather can get insanely cold. These high desert temperatures can drop below freezing from late November to early March and average from 10°F to 50°F. Light snowfall is also possible with heavier snowfall generally framing the higher elevation of the surrounding mountains. Some couples will even encounter wind, rain and sleet instead of snow as temperatures rise and fall.
We can definitely plan for this type of Moab weather while keeping some essential pros and cons in mind:
PROS of a Wedding in Moab When It’s Cold
- Options are available when working with venues like The Red Earth Venue which has both indoor and outdoor spots. The space also offers heaters or fire pits available for rent. See an example with this winter wedding at Red Earth!
- There are fewer tourists on the trails and in the town of Moab which means more privacy for your Moab photography and an increase in available accommodations.
- Venues may have more dates open due to the slower season.
CONS of a Wedding in Moab When It’s Cold
- Some Moab wedding venues may close during the colder months of the year.
- You must move up your entire wedding day timeline to accommodate the sun setting earlier.
Despite the unexpected and often wild nature of the Moab winter weather, this time of year was the perfect fit for this couple’s snow wedding!
How to Embrace the Cold When Getting Married in the Moab, Utah Desert
Due to the high elevation of the Moab desert, you can always expect a range of temperatures throughout your day. That’s why when planning a wedding in Moab at a venue with guests, it’s important to prepare them with instructions for bringing the proper outerwear.
Even if it’s warmer in the daytime in the sunshine, it can get pretty chilly in the evening. Layers are essential when temperatures drop as the sun goes down. You can also provide blankets or pashminas for guests that can even double as the wedding favor.
These are the tactics my clients have utilized to keep themselves and their guests warm when the temperatures drop:
- Put hand warmers everywhere! Any available pocket should have hand warmers in it! One of my brides was even clever enough to tie two hand warmers around the base of her bouquet so her hands were always warm. She’s a legend!
- It’s easier for the groom to add layers to his winter wedding outfit than the bride so it’s the brides that I tend to worry about. Bringing along a back up jacket to put on in between shooting works, but it’s better to have something worthy of photographs in the event it’s too cold for bare shoulders. Brides will often wear a fur winter wedding shawl, coat, or wrap to supplement their attire.
- If your dress allows for it (goes all the way down to your feet and doesn’t have a slit) then wear warm leggings! It’s a game changer!
- We can also select Moab locations with nearby parking in the event you need to run to the vehicle to warm up for a few minutes! We definitely have done this several times throughout many of these colder shoots!
While the Moab, Utah weather is no joke, your elopement or wedding in Moab will always be beautiful. If your event lands on a colder or windier day, I will work with you as your Moab photographer to make sure you are prepared as possible!
Find my top tips on how to plan a wedding in Moab in any season!
Wedding Vendors
Destination | Moab, Utah
Photographer | Matt Davidson Photography
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