A a Grand Teton National Park elopement photographer I go on a lot of adventures in natures. And with that I have gained a great appreciation for the world we live in! When asked from other photographers, as well as my couples, how to create a sustainable elopement I try to keep it simple. These are the principles I encourage you to follow as you plan for your elopement in the great outdoors!
#1 Education in Leave No Trace
I have been visiting the Grand Tetons for elopements for years, so I have acquired a fair amount of knowledge on how to best protect the natural habitats there. However, recently I became a certified Leave No Trace Aware Photographer. This course and certificate provided me with a clear guide and better understanding of how to sustain the natural environment of our National Parks. Here are 6 tips for educating yourself in Leave No Trace.
1. Plan Ahead & Be Prepared
2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Respect Wildlife
6. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
For more details on these principles read my Leave No Trace blog here!
#2 Supporting Local Businesses
One of my favorite ways to create a sustainable elopement is through supporting local businesses. Sourcing Local / Handmade Goods and Supporting Local Businesses will enable you to give back to the community. These local communities provide the opportunity for you to have a beautiful backdrop for your wedding. Here are a few ideas on how to support:
Buy Local or Handmade (like Etsy) when purchasing wedding details like vow books, jewlery, cuff links, etc.
Supporting local businesses like small/locally owned restaurants, lodging, wedding vendors, etc.
Make a donation to environmental organizations that help protect these lands.
#3 Sustainable Travels
Make an effort to be sustainable throughout your travels. This includes on your way into and out of the parks, as well as when you visit. Making environmentally friendly choices, like reducing single use plastics, can make a big difference when traveling across the country to your destination location in the Tetons.
Once you have entered Grand Teton National Park for your elopement, remember that less is best! Less is more when it comes to ceremony decor. This is pretty easy when it comes to elopements in beautiful locations. The God-given landscape makes for the perfect backdrop and doesn’t require elaborate arches and installations.
These 3 ways to create a sustainable elopement are simple and easy! We live in such a beautiful world, so let’s do all we can to keep it this way! Ready for your Leave No Trace elopement with a certified Leave No Trace Aware Photographer? Reach out and let’s start planning!
