Getting Married at the Bonneville Salt Flats: The Ultimate Guide to a Unique and Stunning Utah Wedding

Venue: Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah
Planning + Photography: Emily Kyle Photography
Suits + Tuxedos: Rose Pink Notch Lapel Suit

Imagine a wedding venue that looks like something out of a dream, with endless white plains, surreal reflections, and the vast, open sky stretching out in every direction. This is the Bonneville Salt Flats—a breathtaking, otherworldly landscape in Utah that provides one of the most unique wedding backdrops in the world. Couples who crave something outside the norm and want their big day to feel both intimate and epic are drawn to the Salt Flats for its surreal beauty. Here’s everything you need to know about saying “I do” in this extraordinary location.

1. The Beauty of the Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats, located about 100 miles west of Salt Lake City, is a 30,000-acre expanse of dazzling, reflective salt crust that stretches out as far as the eye can see. This natural phenomenon formed from an ancient lake bed, leaving behind a salt layer that is both stunning and versatile. In certain seasons, a thin layer of water can appear on the flats, creating a mirror-like effect that reflects the sky, making you feel as though you’re floating in space. The Bonneville Salt Flats offer a blank canvas with a surreal, minimalist beauty that enhances every color and detail, making it ideal for couples who want to be at the center of a natural masterpiece.

2. Why the Bonneville Salt Flats Make for a Unique Wedding Venue

There’s something magical about the Salt Flats that makes them feel timeless and transcendent. Getting married here means embracing an atmosphere of serenity and intimacy; there are no walls, no distractions, and nothing to stand between you and the beauty of the world around you. The flats make a stunning canvas for any wedding style, whether you’re aiming for a minimalist elopement, a bohemian setup with pampas grass and woven accents, or even a sleek, modern ceremony with high-contrast decor. The surroundings are ethereal and otherworldly, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a dream, and the visual impact is unforgettable.

3. Practical Considerations for a Salt Flats Wedding

While a wedding on the Salt Flats is undeniably breathtaking, it also requires some logistical planning to make it both safe and enjoyable for you and your guests. Here are the key factors to consider:

Permits and Regulations: Bonneville is a public area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), so permits are required for events, including weddings. Reach out to the BLM in Utah early in your planning process to secure the necessary permissions.
Weather and Season: The best times for a wedding at the Salt Flats are in spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when temperatures are milder. Summers can be scorching, while winters are cold, and both seasons pose challenges for comfort. Rain in spring and fall can result in water pooling on the flats, creating that beautiful mirror effect but may affect accessibility.
Guest Comfort: Since the Salt Flats are a remote, outdoor location, it’s essential to provide shade, water, and possibly even seating for guests. Consider renting a tent or setting up a small, comfortable lounge area for those who need a break from the sun. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also must-haves.
Footwear: The salt surface is hard but uneven, so suggest comfortable, salt-friendly shoes for guests. Many brides opt for barefoot sandals or flats for added comfort, but it’s entirely up to your style and comfort preferences.
Plan for Leave-No-Trace: The Salt Flats are a natural wonder, so respecting the landscape is key. Plan a zero-waste wedding by taking all trash, decor, and belongings with you when you leave.

4. Styling Your Salt Flats Wedding

One of the advantages of getting married at the Bonneville Salt Flats is that the setting serves as a natural, minimalist backdrop that can support any style you choose. Here are some ideas for adding your personal touch:

Bohemian Vibes: Embrace the Salt Flats’ natural vibe by going boho with macramé details, pampas grass, and earthy-toned florals. Rustic rugs, woven lanterns, and low-seated lounge setups add warmth and character to the open space.
Modern Elegance: Keep it sleek with a white or black color scheme and minimalist decor, like ghost chairs, modern arches, or a statement floral piece. Metallic accents, like gold or silver, work beautifully against the stark white of the Salt Flats.
Play with Color: If you’re a fan of bold color, don’t be afraid to add pops of vibrant hues. Flowers in rich jewel tones, a bright ceremony backdrop, or a colorful table setup can make a striking contrast with the Salt Flats’ neutral backdrop.
Whimsical Romantic: Create a whimsical vibe with soft, flowing fabrics, pastel-colored florals, and vintage-inspired decor like candelabras or ornate mirrors. This romantic style pairs beautifully with the Salt Flats’ ethereal feel.

5. Capturing the Essence of a Bonneville Salt Flats Wedding

A Salt Flats wedding is all about embracing nature’s beauty and making the most of a location that’s unlike any other. The limitless horizon, the vastness of the open sky, and the otherworldly, reflective landscape invite you to focus on the essence of your wedding day—celebrating love in a place that makes you feel truly alive and connected to something greater.

In Conclusion

Getting married at the Bonneville Salt Flats is a choice for couples who want something truly unique and memorable. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines the tranquility of nature with a sense of adventure, allowing you to share your vows in one of the most visually striking landscapes on earth. With thoughtful planning, this dreamlike setting can be the perfect start to a new life together, captured in a place as boundless as your love.