Your Ultimate Guide to a Grand Teton Elopement
Hey hi hello! If you're dreaming of saying "I do" with jaw-dropping mountain views, wild west vibes, and zero stress, grab your coffee and settle in. I'm about to spill all the tea on planning your Grand Teton elopement! Now let’s dive in, shall we?!
Jackson is basically my second home — my boyfriend and I visit multiple times a year and have made so many special memories in this mountain town. And, of course, we can’t talk about Jackson without talking about Grand Teton National Park. It's my absolute favorite thing to share these magical spots with couples who've never experienced them before!
Why A Grand Teton Elopement?
First off, we have to chat about what makes Grand Teton the most perfect Wyoming elopement location, duh! The Tetons are the most scenic area near Jackson, hands down. We're talking huge dramatic mountains, meadows filled to the brim with wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in fall, alpine lakes galore, and wildlife roaming free. It's the ultimate wild west backdrop that'll leave you and your lover speechless!
The best part? You don't need to be a hardcore hiker to experience the magic! There are so many jaw-dropping spots that are super accessible (even your Jimmy Choos would be safe here!), which means your day stays effortless while still feeling like you're in the heart of the wilderness.
When to Elope in Grand Teton
While every season in the mountains is incredible, it’s truly about what you envision for your wedding day. Do you imagine green pastures full of colorful wildflower blooms or golden-hues spanning across the mountain range for your Grand Teton elopement? Here's the inside scoop on the best seasons to elope in the Tetons:
July & August: Think long summer days with endless meadows of wildflowers! The mountains are fully visible, the weather is warm, and everything is in full bloom. The fields are full of mountain lupine, alpine sunflowers, and hundreds of others creating a show-stopping backdrop for your summer wildflower elopement. Add the shocking view of the Teton Range and it’s truly unlike anything else in the west!
Late September: If golden aspens and that magical fall glow are your vibe, this is your time. The crowds thin out, the air gets crisp, and the whole valley turns into a golden dream. Explore the countless alpine lakes and imagine yourselves frolicking around the park as the sun sets behind the Teton Range. Talk about the perfect season to elope in the mountains!
Marisa + Payton (pictured below) chose to go the fall elopement route, and let’s just say the weather didn’t fully “cooperate” with us…
So It's Raining on Your Wedding Day…
M+P’s day called for partly cloudy and scattered showers. At first, they were worried about the rain ruining their day. I reassured them that no matter what happens, it’d be an incredible day! I say this to all my couples: Yes, your hair might get wet. Yes, your dress might get dirty. But let me tell you… rain on your wedding day is pure magic. No matter the location, here’s my best advice for rain on your wedding day:
Be prepared with an alternative plan: If the weather calls for severe thunderstorms, consider adjusting your timeline. We can handle rain, but thunder and lighting can be mood ruiners.
Keep umbrellas on hand: Highly suggest these cute, clear ones as they’ll compliment your photos. I have a pair that I always bring for my couples, just in case!
Embrace the weather: Light showers can happen in the afternoon in summer & fall months in the Tetons. Plus, after the rain comes the most colorful rainbows!
Trust your photographer: It’s me, it’s Jess. Don’t stress about the rain, I got you and I’ll make the most beautiful photos out of it (exhibit a… M+P..). Let your day unfold and be present with your lover.
Let M+P’s day be proof that a little rain on your wedding day is literal magic! It’s true what they say, “a wet knot is harder to untie”.
How to Elope in Grand Teton National Park
Let's talk logistics! Here's what you need to know:
The legal stuff: You'll need an ordained officiant (hey, it’s Jess. I'm ordained and can marry you!) and a special use permit for ceremonies in the park. No stress though — we handle all of this for you once you're booked with us.
Your timeline: Rather than trying to cram everything into a few hours, think about creating a multi-day or full-day experience. This lets you soak in every moment without rushing. If you’re feeling stressed at all about creating a meaningful timeline for your day, get help! (that’s where we come in!!)
When thinking of your timeline, intentionally plan activities you’ll enjoy & add in some meaningful touches for both you and your partner. (It’s a day all about you two, so makes sense, right?) Here are some of our fave ways to make your day special:
Start with a morning coffee date to write your vows
Book a couple's massage at one of Jackson's amazing spas
Take a horseback ride to your ceremony location (talk about an entrance!)
End the night with a private chef experience at your rental
Ask family to write letters for you to read over a candlelit dinner
Where to Stay in Jackson Hole
Where you stay sets the tone for your entire elopement, so choosing the right spot is key! Here are a few of our top picks that blend rustic charm with elevated comfort:
Amangani: Where Western charm meets refined comfort— think horseback rides through wide-open valleys, cozy nights by the fire, and sweeping Teton views.
The Cloudveil: Right on Jackson's historic town square— this boutique hotel blends western heritage with refined elegance.
Teton Views Cabin: A private retreat with floor-to-ceiling windows framing those magical mountain views.
Flat Creek Ranch: Tucked away on a private lake and only accessible by rugged jeep track or horseback, this historic ranch offers the ultimate secluded getaway. We actually photographed an elopement here (pictured below) and let me tell you — waking up to misty mountain views, having private access to hiking trails, and ending the day with a starlit dinner on the deck? Pure magic.
What to Do in Jackson Hole
Between saying "I do" and soaking in those mountain views, explore what makes Jackson so special and make it a multi-day celebration! Here are Jess’s go-to spots in Jackson:
Cowboy Coffee: My go-to spot for a cozy mountain morning. Order a Mexican Mocha and settle in for the best breakfast burrito in town.
Midnight Lunch: A western-chic boutique + hat bar featuring their signature Wyoming Fleece Collection, cowgirl boots, and denim. Create a custom trucker hat as a keepsake from your Jackson adventure.
Teton Thai: A must for Thai lovers! Located in Teton Village, don’t miss authentic Thai food in the Wild West. Get the Spiked TT Thai Tea and thank me later.
Alpine Lakes for Your Grand Teton Elopement
Jenny Lake: Located at the base of the Teton Range, Jenny Lake is one of the most iconic lakes in the park. It offers crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic peaks, making it a popular choice for elopements and tourists alike.
Jackson Lake: The largest lake in Grand Teton National Park with totally unique views of the Teton Range from the northern side. You can find numerous scenic spots along the lakeshore that boast a PNW vibe to exchange your vows.
String Lake: This serene lake is known for its calm waters and picturesque views. It's a great spot for a more intimate elopement, with its peaceful atmosphere and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.
My Super Secret Fav: This gatorade blue alpine lake (pic below) is tucked away under the Grand Teton that we’ve personally hiked to a few times. It’s no easy feat to make it to this lake (involves a steep hike), but the views make it my all-time favorite alpine lake in the entire park. We’ve always wanted to capture an elopement here. It’s currently on our travel schedule which means you’d receive $500 off. Mention this in your inquiry and we’ll get to planning together!
What to pack for your elopement
Among your wedding attire, vow books and rings, here’s your ultimate checklist so that you don’t forget anything—especially if you’re traveling for your destination wedding. Of course, this list varies by landscape. So whether you’re getting married on the mountains of Wyoming or the beach in California, we’ve got you covered.
How We Help You Plan Your Day
When you book with us, you're getting way more than just a photographer. Our team handles every single detail from start to finish — it's a complete all-inclusive experience that makes planning actually fun (yes, really!).
Here's the thing about elopements — the planning and photos go hand-in-hand. When you work with a team that does both, everything just flows better. We know exactly when the light will be perfect at each location, how long activities really take, and all the little secrets that make for both an amazing day and stunning photos.
Plus, you only have to communicate with one team instead of coordinating between multiple vendors. Less emails, more excitement!
Our Planning Process
Step 1: Browse & Connect Start by stalking our blog posts (we love it when you do!) to see our work and the experiences we create. Then fill out our contact form, and we'll send over details and a link to book a call where we can dive into your vision together.
Step 2: Lock in Your Date Once we chat and you've decided you’re ready to make it official, you'll complete a custom proposal (contract + deposit), and just like that, you're on our books!
Step 3: Planning Magic Begins This is where the fun really starts! You'll get access to:
Planning Guide: 60+ pages of expert advice, creative ideas, and all the inspiration you could need
Questionnaires: These help us brainstorm your needs vs. wants and create a day that feels elevated, relaxed, and 100% you
Location Guides: Specific to Grand Teton and Jackson, featuring secret ceremony spots, elevated lodging (with exclusive discounts!), and our refined list of trusted local vendors
Planning Portal: A beautifully organized hub with all your confirmed details, custom timeline, vendor contacts, and day logistics in one place
Step 4: We Take It From There Now we get to handle all the nitty-gritty details of your perfect day:
Finding your perfect lodging
Scouting those off-grid ceremony locations
Crafting your custom timeline
Coordinating with your chosen vendors (just hand off those contacts and consider it done!)
Planning logistics and transportation
Acting as your day-of coordinator so everything runs smoothly
Step 5: Say "I Do" & Soak It All In On your day, everything unfolds effortlessly while we capture all the magic — from getting ready and intimate vows to that candlelit dinner under the Tetons.
Step 6: Relive Every Moment The excitement doesn't end with your elopement day! You'll get sneak peeks within 48 hours, your fully edited gallery in 6 weeks, plus a beautiful custom album to hold those memories forever.
Our Photography Approach
As documentary-style photographers, we love capturing moments as they naturally unfold. Yes, of course, we'll help pose you and give prompts for movement, but the most magical images happen when you and your lover simply enjoy yourselves and love on each other naturally. It's those little acts of kindness, the quiet moments, and the quality time together that truly shine through in photos.
Ready to Plan Your Own Grand Teton Elopement?
If you're dreaming of a day that feels intentional, elevated, and completely yours, let's chat! Our team specializes in crafting seamless, stress-free elopement experiences in Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park, and beyond.
Planning can (and should!) be fun, and you definitely don't have to do it alone. We're here to bounce ideas around, answer all your questions, and handle the details so you can focus on creating memories that'll last a lifetime.
So giddy up partner, we’ve got some planning to do! We'd be so excited to be your go-to gals for your Grand Teton elopement! Get in touch here and let's start planning your dream day in the Tetons!
Want more Wyoming elopement inspiration? Get even more location inspo, planning tips, and real elopements over here!
While you wait, feel free to explore our Pinterest profile, filled to the brim with all the inspiration for your Grand Teton elopement!
