Sustainable Weddings in Zion

Celebrating Love White Protecting a Landscape

For couples drawn to Zion National Park’s towering cliffs and sweeping canyons, a wedding here is more than just a ceremony—it’s a way to honor the land while celebrating their love. Yet, as Zion continues to see record visitation, planning a wedding that respects the park’s delicate ecosystems has never been more important. Fortunately, there are ways to say “I do” that leave a lasting impact without leaving a mark. Kyle Loves Tori, a husband-and-wife photography team deeply embedded in the Zion landscape, exemplifies how to celebrate love while protecting this remarkable place.

Planning with Purpose

Kyle and Tori have built their work around a simple but powerful idea: moments should be captured, not created at nature’s expense. Their photography isn’t just about stunning images—it’s about preserving Zion’s beauty and educating couples on how to tread lightly and leave no trace. As partners with the Zion Forever Project, they advocate for wedding practices that align with the park’s long-term conservation goals.

One of the biggest considerations when planning a wedding in Zion is location. Within the park, ceremonies require permits and must follow strict guidelines—no amplified music, no decorations that alter the landscape, and no exclusive use of a site. These regulations exist for a reason: to ensure that everyone, from wedding guests to hikers seeking solitude, can share in Zion’s grandeur without disruption. To learn more about the permit process and the requirements for celebrating your big day in Zion – click here LINK TO NPS https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/weddings-in-zion-national-park.htm.

Couples who want to exchange vows within Zion should familiarize themselves with the designated ceremony sites and their limitations. Kyle Loves Tori not only helps couples navigate these rules but also encourages them to think beyond the park’s borders. Private properties and venues like Zion Mountain Ranch and the Cliffrose offer stunning views without adding strain to the park’s infrastructure. Nearby Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas also provide breathtaking settings with fewer restrictions—as long as couples follow best practices like staying on established roads and avoiding fragile desert vegetation. Do note – a wedding on BLM land still requires a permit. To learn more about their special usage permits and the process visit the St. George or Kanab Field Office or LINK https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/special-recreation-permits/utah.

A Wedding That Leaves No Trace

Beyond location, sustainability is woven into every aspect of a Zion wedding. The natural beauty of the park means elaborate decorations aren’t needed—Kyle and Tori encourage couples to embrace minimalism, letting the landscape be the centerpiece. They also emphasize the importance of Leave No Trace principles: staying on designated trails, packing out all waste (including items like flower petals and champagne corks), and respecting the quiet wilderness that draws so many visitors to Zion in the first place.

Timing is another crucial factor. Zion’s popularity means that peak seasons and weekends bring crowds, making logistics like parking and transportation more challenging. Choosing an off-season date or a weekday ceremony not only ensures a more intimate experience but also reduces the impact of weddings on the park’s already strained resources.

Giving Back to the Place That Gives So Much

For Kyle and Tori, sustainability goes beyond individual weddings—it’s about a continued investment in Zion’s future. Through their partnership with the Zion Forever Project, they help support conservation efforts that keep the park accessible and beautiful for generations to come. They encourage couples to consider giving back as part of their wedding celebration, whether by making a donation, educating their guests on sustainable travel, or choosing vendors who share these values.

A wedding in Zion should be more than just a day—it should be part of a larger story of respect and stewardship. By working with photographers like Kyle Loves Tori and following sustainable practices, couples can ensure their celebration honors not just their love, but the land that makes it so unforgettable.