Holding a wedding in Arches or Canyonlands National Park? These are, of course, gorgeous locations to hold a wedding ceremony, but you will need to keep a few things in mind.

Permit and Party Size - You will need a permit to get married in a national park. The cost is $50, payable only by check. Allow time for your check and application to be processed, as well as time for the park service to mail the permit to you (generally at least 20 days; mail service is slow in and out of Moab). Also, your wedding party size is generally limited to 15-20 guests and about half as many vehicles.

Privacy - First, realize that national parks are open to the public even though you're holding a wedding ceremony. While most visitors will respect your privacy, you may find yourself dealing with a wanderer! (a wedding coordinator or trusted guest should be prepared to graciously redirect any snoopers). Holding a wedding during the early hours of the day, or even during the off-season, is a smart way to avoid cross-traffic from tourists.

Location, Location - Most couples choose a spot that is relatively close to a parking area to maximize accessibility for all guests. While you and your new spouse might be in tip-top shape and eager to hike (or even bike) a few miles to tie the knot, some of your guests may not be as fit or as enthusiastic.

Remote park locations will likely be more private, but may require a shuttle service or other reliable transportation to make sure everyone arrives on time and with minimal confusion.

One word of caution: Ceremonies held at Delicate Arch have been known to attract nay-sayers who might even 'boo' during your ceremony! Sad but true. And, while Delicate Arch is a world-renowned landmark of breathtaking beauty, it is about a 3 mile, rather daunting hike up to the arch.

Respect for the Land - Please ensure (or have your wedding coordinator/trusted guest ensure) that your guests do not trample on cryptobiotic soil. Guests should remain on trails or other designated areas. Arches and Canyonlands are unique places of fragile beauty. Please respect this delicate land.

Comfort - Choose appropriate footwear for the terrain and weather (or have your wedding coordinator carry your beautiful bridal shoes to hand to you just before the ceremony). Keep extra water on-hand or close by in the car.