Remi & Thomas

Normally, I wouldn’t start a wedding blog with a flashback to the proposal. But Remi & Thomas’ story is too good not to share.

For context, Remi is an avid reader. In the months leading up to their wedding, I watched Remi’s Instagram stories and was amazed by how many books she reads. So, naturally, the book-lover theme was foundational to Thomas’ proposal plans.

When Thomas decided to pop the question, he purchased two copies of Remi’s favorite novel, The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon. The first copy was hollowed out to reveal a heart with the engagement ring inside. And, of course, the second copy was for reading. Now that’s how you propose to a bookworm!

The literature theme was present at their wedding as well. For instance, the seating placements were listed on personalized bookmarks, and each table had a classic novel as the centerpiece.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Here’s more about Remi & Thomas' Capitol Reef wedding day and plenty of photos of the festivities!

The Wedding Venue: Choosing a Cabin in Teasdale, Utah

When Remi & Thomas were considering wedding venues, they couldn’t find something to satisfy their desires. But then things clicked during their annual trip to a cabin in Teasdale, Utah. What if this was the spot they were looking for!

“Nothing really felt like exactly what we wanted until a few weeks later, when we arrived at the cabin,” says Remi. “We got out of the car, and both of us just knew that’s the place we feel the happiest and most like ourselves.”

With fewer than 50 guests in attendance, Remi & Thomas knew they wanted a space that felt relaxed, comfortable, and convivial.

“The lawn is framed perfectly by two huge, stunning trees,” says Remi. “And a red rock formation in the back.”

As a professional wedding photographer, I love non-traditional weddings because couples enjoy the opportunity to focus on what kind of day you want to have.

Private Vows & Wedding Photos in Capitol Reef National Park

On Remi & Thomas’ big day, I stepped outside and was greeted by foreboding clouds. I had two stops on my drive. The first was to meet Thomas at his Airbnb to capture the groom’s getting-ready photos—and it was raining when I arrived. Next up was visiting the bride for her wedding-day prep photos at the cabin—and as luck would have it, it was hailing!

I was a little nervous about the weather. But this wasn’t my first rodeo, so I knew we’d make it work one way or another. Fortunately, when it was time for the first-look wedding photos, the stormy weather was subsiding. What a relief!

Following a very cute first look at the cabin, Remi & Thomas headed into Capitol Reef National Park for their private wedding vows. This was such a lovely moment, because it opened space for the couple to simply enjoy each other’s company. They shared their vows, shedding tears of joy and vulnerability, surrounded by sweeping valleys, red rocks, and a cloudy sky.

As for wedding portraits, Remi & Thomas said they wanted privacy and stunning views. Oh boy, I had the perfect suggestions for them! I won’t give away my secret here, but I took the bride and groom to a spot I had scouted the day before.

How did it work out? I’ll let the photos speak for themselves!

A Teasdale Wedding Reception

After traveling to a few photo spots, the three of us headed back to the cabin for family and wedding party photos. By now, the sun was shining and the decorations were all coming together. Soon, it would be time for the ceremony.

The commitment ceremony was cooperatively led by an aunt and uncle. The area was charming, with a lush lawn, plenty of greenery, and views of red rocks. Filled with warm smiles and charming words, it was a lovely ceremony—that concluded, of course, with the big kiss!

After a lot of fun family photos and pics with friends, it was time for the reception. And this was a group effort! Remi & Thomas’ guests had put work in earlier in the day, setting up tables, placing decor, and putting together a dance floor with hanging string lights. It was incredible!

We love to see a community come together to execute the couple's dream—especially in a place as remote as Teasdale, where wedding vendors are hard to come by.

The wedding reception vibes were flawless. Everyone was delighted the whole evening. From the taco bar to the speeches, the dancing to the laughter, the toasts to the twilight skies—the way everything came together made for the perfect wedding day for Remi & Thomas.

Helpful Tips for Your Capitol Reef Wedding

Considering your own Capitol Reef wedding day? That’s fantastic! The area along Highway 24 is gorgeous. From this cabin in Teasdale, to Capitol Reef National Park, to the Utah badlands—there’s so much beauty to explore.

Here are some tips for getting married in this underrated part of the Beehive State, as well as advice specific to planning your Capitol Reef wedding day:

Work with your photographer regarding locations, permits, and venues. There are so many options regarding ceremony spots, portrait locations, and the like. So, chat with your photographer to identify what works best for you! Do you value privacy? Or would you like a bigger area for you and your guests? Do you like specific kinds of views? Or do you want something simple? As your photographer, I’m more than happy to help you navigate local restrictions and permitting.
Practice Leave No Trace when getting married outdoors. Protect this park by staying on maintained trails and traveling on hard surfaces to protect the cryptobiotic soil. Pack out your trash. Do not carve into the stone or deface petroglyphs. And avoid feeding or approaching wildlife.
Consider the timing and weather. Maximize privacy and reduce stress by getting married on a weekday or traveling to the park in the early hours of the day. Be aware that Teasdale and the surrounding area experience snow in the winter and monsoons in the late summer. Be prepared for changing weather!
Looking for adventure and activities? If so, Capitol Reef is a hot spot for all sorts of outdoor fun! There is plenty of offroading and 4x4 roads, stargazing, horseback riding, and more! Talk with your photographer about including some activities.

Ready to take the next step? Book a call with Love & Latitudes, your Capitol Reef wedding photographer!

HOW TO ELOPE IN CAPITOL REEF