Arizona Elopement Guide
Welcome to your ultimate guide for planning an unforgettable Arizona elopement. Where the red rock towers and turquoise water cascade, this is where adventure calls out to the couples seeking cinematic desert views, bold and vibrant colors, and a love so wild only the mystery of the desert would complement it. In this guide, we will talk about what it’s like to elope in the Sunshine State, what your options are, what you need to know, and much more. Please use the Table of Contents below if you have a specific question. Otherwise, let’s get started!
What is an Elopement?
Previously, eloping referred to couples running off to Las Vegas and getting married to Elvis. Nowadays, eloping is an alternative to a traditional wedding, allowing couples to enjoy a more personal, intimate, and customized wedding experience that reflects their unique relationship.
Read more about elopements and how they differ from traditional weddings.
Why Elope in Arizona?
Diverse Landscapes
Arizona is famous for two iconic locations in the United States: The Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. However, you might be surprised that the state has over 12.2 million acres of public land, over 30 state parks, and 22 national parks, monuments, and recreation areas. Making over half of the state available for couples to discover their perfect elopement location(s).
Arizona's landscape is also incredibly diverse, ranging from open lands filled with cacti in the Sonoran Desert to red-orange sandstone formations in Sedona. You can also witness turquoise and red rock waterfalls scattered across the state. With such a varied landscape, there is something for everyone, just waiting to capture your heart.
Same-Day Marriage
Arizona has no waiting period for a marriage license, and it usually takes only 15-20 minutes. However, if you are from out-of-state, I recommend arriving at least two days before your wedding day to relax after traveling and obtaining your marriage license at least one day in advance to avoid starting your wedding day at the clerk's office.
How to Elope in Arizona
Obtain your marriage license.
Getting a marriage license in Arizona is an easy process. Both parties must be present and be at least 18 years old and must provide their social security numbers and a valid government-issued photo ID. The filing fee is $83 and can be paid in cash, card, or money order. Immediately after filing, couples will receive their marriage license, which is valid for one year, and are free to marry that same day if they wish. Additionally, Arizona does not require copies of divorce decrees if either party has been previously married.
Find someone authorized to perform a ceremony.
There are several websites where you can find someone authorized to perform a marriage ceremony. Some of them include Wedding Wire, The Knot, and Thumbtack.
Or, less traditionally, couples can have a friend or family member become ordained. The Universal Life Church is a free and easy online course to help your loved ones participate in your special day.
Have two witnesses.
All Arizona marriage licenses require the signatures of the couple, the officiant, and two witnesses aged 18 or older.
Submit the completed marriage certificate.
After the witnesses, the couple, and the officiating minister have filled out the marriage certificate, the minister must send it to the clerk's office. Once the marriage is recorded, you can request a certified copy by contacting the office. The fee for the certified copy is $37.50, and it will be mailed to you.
Where to Elope in Arizona
Arizona provides diverse locations with scenery of all kinds. Some areas require permits or fees, while others are free and open to the public for exploring, recreation, and even exchanging vows. However, many locations have restrictions on guest capacity and prohibit chairs and other decorations. For this reason, consider contacting a local elopement photographer. I can help couples choose a location regarding expectations, weather, and privacy, and verify all rules and regulations for each area, including acquiring any necessary permits.
Please be aware that many professionals do not disclose or exchange locations to ensure they remain undisturbed. This is due to "No Trace" policies, which aim to keep these locations beautiful and unspoiled for the next person- and hopefully, the next generation. If you like a specific location, please contact me, and we can discuss similar undisclosed options for your elopement.
National Parks
Arizona is home to 31 national parks; these are some of my favorites! Click each photo to learn more about eloping there!
Bureau of Land Management
Arizona also has 12.2 million acres of public land.
State Parks
Over 30 state parks.
USDA Forest Service
And miles of Forest Service areas!
Unique stays
Grand A-Frame, Williams, Arizona
Majestic Mountain Retreat, Prescott, Arizona
Healthy Treehouse Paradise in the Cliffs & Trees, Prescott, Arizona
Open Heart Tiny Glamping Cabin, Sedona, Arizona
Off the Grid Yurt, Defiance, Arizona
Clear Sky Resorts, Grand Canyon, Arizona
Grand Canyon Eco Yurt, Williams, Arizona
Helix Skooli, Williams, Arizona
Dome Sweet Dome, Phoenix, Arizona
Sedona Sanctuary, Sedona, Arizona
My Sedona Place, Sedona, Arizona
The Kyo͞ob at Shash Dine', Page, Arizona
Adobe Libre, Tucson, Arizona
Sky Suite, Mayer, Arizona
Airstream Dreaming, Flagstaff, Arizona
The Nest, Phoenix, Arizona
Sedona Domes, Sedona, Arizona
Lyman's Place, Fredonia, Arizona
Desert Dome Stargazer, Williams, Arizona
Luxury Glamping Tent, Fredonia, Arizona
The Brexley Sanctuary, Phoenix, Arizona
When is the Best Time to Elope in Arizona?
There is no right answer when it comes to picking the best time of year to elope in Arizona. It all depends on how you envision your special day and what each unique couple prefers. Do you want to see autumn colors, spring wildflowers, or snow-capped red rocks? Let’s check out your options below.
Spring
During springtime, the landscapes of Arizona come alive with wildflowers. The weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 80°F, depending on your region. Popular destinations such as Sedona and the Grand Canyon become particularly busy with visitors who come to see the wildflowers. However, it is not considered peak season. Couples seeking a unique experience will enjoy this rare time when the desert blooms with color and life.
Summer
Arizona experiences hot temperatures ranging from 70°F to 110+°F during summers; however, this is the time to admire vibrant hues of red and orange. Couples wanting to elope in the summer outdoors may want to have their events and ceremonies planned around morning and evening hours to avoid the intense midday heat. Despite the temperatures, summer is the ideal time if you plan to visit Lake Powell or participate in water recreational activities.
Fall
In the fall, the temperatures range from 70°F to 90+°F. The landscapes are breathtaking, painted gold and accented with deep reds. Popular destinations like Sedona and Flagstaff attract visitors eager to witness the autumn changes, and lesser-known areas like Oak Creek Canyon are perfect for those seeking a more private setting, perfect for couples looking to enjoy the autumn solstice for their elopement.
Winter
Arizona experiences cold winters ranging from 30°F to 60°F with snow-capped mountains that characterize the season. Popular tourist destinations such as Sedona and the Grand Canyon receive fewer visitors this time of year, allowing couples to find secluded and even private elopement locations. The northern areas of the state experience snowfall and winter conditions this time of year, so if you’re looking for the vibrant contrast of snow atop red rock, winter is your time!
Arizona Elopement Planning Checklist
It can be overwhelming to plan your elopement. That’s why I’ve created a short list and a detailed printable PDF outlining everything you need to do before your big day. This free and easy PDF covers everything from outlining your vision to booking timelines and setting budgets!
Start Dreaming
Set a Budget
Book a Photographer
Book Vendors
Book Travel Accommodations
Purchase a Marriage License
Things to Consider When Planning
Where do you want to get ready?
Preparing for your elopement day is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire day. The first thing you'll be doing is getting ready, which is why you should carefully consider how you want to approach it. You'll need to decide whether you want to get ready together or separately, in the same location but in different rooms, or in completely different areas. It's important to choose a comfortable space where you can get ready without any distractions. I always suggest a clutter-free area with lots of windows, natural light, and minimal fluorescent lighting.
How do you want to spend your morning?
Do you want to sleep in? Make pancakes together in the kitchen? Walk to a local coffee shop? Maybe you want to wake up in time to watch the sunrise.
Do you want to do a first look?
When it comes to having a first look on your wedding day, the choice is entirely yours. You can decide to have it or skip it altogether. If you do choose to have a first look, think about where you'd like to have it. Would you prefer to have it in the backyard of your Airbnb or drive separately to a nearby location?
Are you comfortable doing a long hike to a location?
When deciding on a location for your ceremony, consider the distance and amount of time you would like to spend hiking. Would you prefer to drive to the location, take a short 2-mile hike, or spend most of your day immersed in nature on a day hike to your ceremony site?
Do you want your ceremony in the morning or evening?
Lighting plays a significant role in your elopement day timeline. Your ceremony is the highlight of your day, and your photographer will want to ensure the best time for your ceremony to capture the best images.
Are there multiple locations you’d like to go?
If you are planning to have an Airbnb and a ceremony location for your elopement, you may also want to explore other nearby places. For instance, if you are eloping in Page, you will be close to several locations such as Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell. You can consider having your wedding portraits taken at one location while having your ceremony at another. This way, you can have a diverse range of landscapes in your photos on your elopement day.
What’s the travel time?
When deciding on locations, it's important to consider the time it will take to travel from one location to another, as well as the time required to find parking and walk to your destination. Allow yourself some extra time in your travel plans in case it takes longer than expected to find parking or if you encounter unexpected traffic. This will help avoid any unnecessary stress or delays.
Do you want portraits at sunset, sunrise, or both?
I highly recommend taking portraits during sunrise or sunset since this time of day offers the best lighting. You can capture a beautiful golden glow and the soft colors of the sun as it sets or rises, which reflects on the landscape around you.
Are there any traditions that you’d want to incorporate?
If you're planning to elope, you may think that you have to forego certain wedding traditions. However, this is false, and you can include any traditions that are important to you.
What kind of reception and ceremony activities do you want?
After exchanging your vows, it’s time to celebrate. Whether you choose to celebrate alone or with a small group, it's important to mark the occasion. You could visit a local brewery and enjoy a beer, stop at an ice cream parlor and share a cone, or return to your Airbnb and celebrate with a bonfire and champagne. Whatever you decide, the most important thing is to celebrate this special moment in your unique way!
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Arizona?
Planning an elopement in Arizona can be done within any budget, and the cost depends on how much each unique couple is willing to spend.
Some couples prefer minimal planning and opt for all-inclusive packages. They usually include an officiant, photographer, and florist, which can be a good option for those wanting to keep it simple. However, for what you make up for in convenience, you fall short on in personalization.
When looking for vendors, it's best to start with your photographer. They can guide you to other vendors with a similar style to what you're looking for. This way, you can have a more personalized experience on your elopement day.
Below are two options at two different price points. These examples only cover the cost of the couple and do not include any additional costs such as travel expenses or inviting guests. Accommodations, catering, and venue costs/permit fees can quickly add up if you plan to invite guests.
Low Cost
$83 — marriage license
$500 — 3 night airbnb stay
$3000 — photographer
$300 — bouquet + boutonniere
$500 — wedding dress
$200 — suit rental
$200 — restaurant dinner + drinks
free — DIY hair + makeup
Total: $4,783
Luxury
marriage license — $83
3 night luxury airbnb stay — $1500
photographer — $9000
bouquet, boutonniere, florals for ceremony and dinner — $1000
wedding dress — $3000
suit purchase — $1000
private chef — $400
5-6” custom cake — $350
hair + makeup — $300
permit fee — $500
Total: $17,133
What Does an Arizona Elopement Look Like?
An Arizona elopement is characterized by earthy tones such as browns, terracotta, and sage greens and offers a unique experience surrounded by red rock, canyons, and desert mountain ranges.
Additionally, Arizona offers a variety of activities for couples including hiking, hot air balloon rides, off-roading, water recreation, exploring cultural experiences and landmarks, and much more.
Work with your photographer to create the perfect itinerary for your perfect day.
Elopement Itinerary Examples
Below you’ll find a few different examples for an elopement timeline. No elopement timeline will truly be the same as each couple decides to plan their day differently. Because there are so many options when planning your elopement, your timeline will be unique to your day. But, the examples will help give you an idea of what to expect for yours.
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9 AM - 12 PM | Spend the morning with family at airbnb having coffee, making breakfast, and relaxing
12 - 2 PM | Hair + makeup artist + photographer arrives at Airbnb, everyone starts getting ready
3 PM | Photographer, officiant, bride + groom (arrive separately), and family arrive at bell rock trail head
3:15 PM | First Look
3:45 PM | Ceremony
4 - 4:15 PM | Family portraits
4:15 - 5 PM | Couples portraits at Bell Rock
5 PM | Leaves Bell Rock for Cathedral Rock
5:15 PM | Start hike at Cathedral Rock
5:30 - 6:30 PM | Couples portraits at Cathedral Rock
7 PM | Bride + groom meet family for dinner in downtown Sedona
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9 AM - 11 AM | Grabbed breakfast together at a cafe near their Airbnb
11 AM - 1 PM | Hair + makeup artist + photographer arrives at Airbnb, bride + groom get ready together
1 PM | Leave for Lost Dutchman State Park
1:30 - 2:15 PM | Hike to ceremony location
2:15 - 2:30 PM | Ceremony
3:30 - 4 PM | Champagne pop + cake cutting
2:30 - 3:30 PM | Bride + groom portraits at ceremony location
3:30 - 4:15 PM | Hike back to parking lot
4:15 PM | Leave for Butcher Jones Off-road Trailhead + pick-up pizza!
4:15 - 6:30 PM | Cruise around off-road trail, stop to snack on pizza, + for portraits at sunset
6:30 PM | Leave for Riot House in Scottsdale for drinks
7:15 PM | Grab drinks at Riot House to celebrate!
Arizona Elopement Packages
All of my elopement packages include my travel to any location in Arizona, with no hidden or extra fees. I’ll provide customized location scouting and research, assistance with obtaining permits, personalized vendor recommendations, unique activity suggestions tailored to you and your location, and a customized elopement timeline for your special day. Additionally, your elopement gallery will include high-resolution digital images with printing rights, as well as a private online gallery where you can view, print, download, and share your photos with family and friends, allowing you to relive your special day together- forever.
4 Hour ~ $3000
For couples who want a simple elopement, this package includes capturing the getting ready, a short hike to the ceremony location, and couples' portraits.
8 Hour ~ $5000
This package is perfect for couples who want to have an adventurous day, such as going on a long hike, off-roading, or traveling to multiple locations. It is an excellent choice for capturing the complete story of your elopement day. Typically, couples who are eloping and only have each other will choose this package to document their day for their friends and family who couldn't attend. This package is also ideal for couples who are bringing along their friends and family and would like to have their reception captured as well. Your reception could be as simple as having pizza at your Airbnb around a fire with your parents and siblings or as fancy as having a private chef serving you a three-course meal on a table decorated with flowers.
12 Hour ~ $7000
Perfect for couples looking for complete coverage of their elopement story. This package offers the ultimate storytelling experience. From waking up and having coffee with your partner to roasting marshmallows on a fire after dawn. Couple’s who are eloping just the two of them will select this package to document their day for the friends + family who are not in attendance to have that opportunity to experience the day. Also ideal for couples bringing friends + family and would like to have their full day with their guests documented.
Multi-Day ~ $9000
Perfect for couples wanting a multi-day experience with a lot of adventure. This package is best if you’re wanting to elope in one epic location and also experience another epic location the following day. An example of this would be eloping at the Grand Canyon and the following day planning to explore nearby Sedona!
With this comprehensive guide, you can now consider location options, seasonal insights, and other timeline recommendations to create an unforgettable and personalized elopement experience.
Ready to Plan Your Arizona Elopement?
Eloping is something most of us only experience once in a lifetime. That’s why it’s essential to go in with the right knowledge and people to support you throughout every decision. Whether you envision an intimate desert ceremony or an adventurous mountain elopement, we can make it happen, and we can make it happen together! Let’s get started on planning your Arizona Elopement!
