With a rich array of history and vast deserts galore, Utah offers extraordinary sites for a homey wedding with a simple, yet elegant touch. Whether you choose a National Park or a city wedding, Utah’s adventurous outdoor activities are sure to please both you and your guests.
With weather extremes throughout the seasons, couples tend to migrate toward the fall and spring months in order to experience the full beauty of Utah, without the scorching hot or freezing months limiting wedding activities. Because of the state’s versatility for weddings year-round, Utah has an abundant list of venues to accommodate your dream wedding despite the weather. One particular recommendation of locals is to host your wedding at a time the temperature is more cooperative—specifically in the early morning or late evening hours.
Known for its red rock, beautiful scenery and eclectic weather, some common areas to host your big day in the great state include Southern Utah, Park City and Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake City, Utah’s widely regarded capital, boasts big city charm without the big city prices to limit you. With skiing, hiking, biking and fishing, and more, the city will serve as a massive outdoor playground for your guests. Average cost per wedding guest in the city runs from $149 to $183, and couples living in or traveling to the city can spend anywhere from $20,660 to $34,434 on a wedding, depending on the number of guests invited.
Park City is a tourist hotspot most known for hosting the largest annual independent film festival—the Sundance Film Festival. Named by Forbes Traveler Magazine as one of the “Prettiest Towns” in the United States in 2008, Park City has much to offer when it comes to weddings. With lavish mountain settings as a backdrop for your big day, Park City has everything to meet all of your expectations. Say, “I do,” in a church, bed and breakfast, or even a hot air balloon!
South Utah has beautiful, earthy landscapes to complement your wedding ceremony. Although outdoor weddings are typically held in the fall and spring months, weddings can be held year-round due to the lack of snow in the winter months. Most known for its “Mighty 5” national parks, Southern Utah has much to offer with hidden gems off the beaten path featuring breathtaking views. A quickly growing trend in the area includes Farm Fresh Weddings, a movement to serve local and organic finds at your wedding dinner or reception.
While many couples prefer church meetinghouses to host their wedding festivities to save money, there are many options available to cater to your dream wedding vision. Utah’s peak wedding season is summer. These months in particular have an abundance of sun, beautiful scenery and natural blooms.
The average cost per guest in the state is $95, while the average cost per wedding is about $13,301. Sales tax in the state is 4.70%. Couples generally spend anywhere from $5,300 to $7,100 on wedding venues alone, depending on the time of the year, day of the week, and anticipated number of guests.
Note, the sales tax and service charges are not included in the quoted cost of the venues.
Marriage licenses can be applied for at any county clerk’s office. Once attained, licenses are only valid for 30 days. To apply, couples will need to provide social security cards, full names, addresses and dates of birth, valid picture IDs, as well as the names and birthplaces of parents of bride and groom.