Sedona Elopement Guide

Sedona Elopement Guide – How to Elope in Sedona, Arizona

You can’t picture Arizona without envisioning those red rock mountains, endless adventures, and breathtaking sunsets! No matter how far I travel, Sedona will always have my heart – and as an elopement photographer and an Arizona local, I know that tying the knot with a Sedona elopement is perfect for any adventurous couple who wants a wedding day that’s true to them, authentic, and truly one of a kind.

To get married in Sedona, you’ll need an officiant (fun fact, I’m ordained), 2 witnesses (these can be elopement guests, an elopement vendor, or any friendly person you meet throughout the day), and a marriage license from the state of Arizona. But there’s so much more to your elopement than the legal stuff, so this guide will tell you all about how to plan your epic adventure, and everything you need to elope in Sedona.

Here’s what you’ll find in this Sedona elopement guide:

• Getting to Sedona
• When to Elope in Sedona
• Sedona Elopement Locations
• Where to Stay in Sedona
• Where to Eat in Sedona
• Things to Do When You Elope in Sedona
• Tips for Your Sedona Elopement 
• Sedona Elopement Packages

Getting to Sedona

By Car

Sedona is about two hours from Phoenix, Arizona. Driving up, it can get pretty backed up with traffic! I recommend leaving in the morning to avoid the delays, and leaving at least two hours earlier than you think you need to, just in case you get stuck in traffic. 

By Airplane

If you’re traveling to Sedona by plane, there are two options for airports nearby.

The Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) is small, and I only recommend it if you fly with American Airlines or United. The airport is in Flagstaff, about a 50 minute drive from Sedona.

The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is usually a better option, with more flights! It’s serviced by all the major airlines, and is much bigger than the tiny local airport. From here, it takes about 2.5 hours to drive to Sedona, but traffic conditions can vary. 

When to Elope in Sedona

No matter what time of year you elope in Sedona, I recommend planning your ceremony for a weekday. You’ll miss the weekend crowds, and ensure a little more privacy for your day!

I don’t recommend the summer months for your Sedona elopement. The Arizona heat can be pretty brutal from June through August, especially in the desert. You probably don’t want to be sweating on the big day – but, if you elope during sunrise or sunset, you can beat the heat! As an added bonus, the sun setting over the red rocks is an incredible sight.

Fall is a great time for an Arizona elopement, because from mid September through November, the weather is much more mild, and the tourist season is over, which means less crowds, and better deals on lodging!

Winter is the best time to elope in Sedona if you want to avoid crowds. You’ll definitely want to wear layers, especially in the mornings and evenings, but the chilly temperatures mean less people out and about, and you can get a unique view of the red rock desert with the occasional dusting of snow!

In the spring, Sedona comes to life with blooming wildflowers. Starting in the beginning of March, the temperatures slowly warm up, and by the end of spring, Sedona is in the comfortable high 70s. It’s a great time for an elopement!

 

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Sedona Elopement Locations

One of the most exciting things about your Sedona elopement is choosing where you’ll tie the knot! The scenery is breathtaking, and there are countless beautiful places to explore. 

Here are some of my favorite Sedona elopement locations! As an elopement photographer, my job is to find those secret spots that are a little off the beaten path, so while these can serve as inspiration for your Sedona elopement, you can contact me for more recommendations.

Crescent Moon Picnic Site

This is the perfect Sedona elopement location for couples who want the red rock scenery, without having to hike! There’s a river that runs right through this spot, and the views are amazing. The best time to elope here would be anytime from spring to fall, and you’ll have to get a wedding permit – but the fee is well worth it!

Lovers Knoll

Lover’s Knoll is located on the scenic Red Rock Loop drive. It’s super easy to get to, and from the top, you’ll be greeted with views of Cathedral Rock and some other famous views in Sedona.

Boynton Canyon

I recently fell in love with this Sedona elopement location. It’s tucked away in the southeast part of town, and it’s such an amazing hidden gem! There are so many spots to choose from, with great views of the buttes and the desert garden.

Cathedral Rock

This is one of the most popular places to elope in Sedona, and one of the most hiked trails. After just a short hike, you’ll be right in the middle of the towering red rocks and desert foliage. It’s a breathtaking place to say your “I do’s!”

Bell Rock

Bell Rock is another well known spot in Sedona. The hike is only 1.5 miles long, but most of it is uphill – so be prepared to work a little! It can take about an hour to get up there, but the view is so worth it. If you want to tie the knot here, plan for a sunrise ceremony or a weekday elopement to avoid the crowds.

 

Where to Stay in Sedona

During your Sedona elopement, you’ll need a place to stay! There are countless options all over town, from unique Airbnbs to upscale hotels.

Hotels in Sedona

One of the best places to stay in Arizona is the Sky Ranch Lodge. From here, you’ll have incredible views of the red rocks, right from a place that feels like home!

The Poco Diablo Resort is truly the best place to combine adventure and relaxation. The full service hotel and spa offers a place to get pampered and unwind, with views of the desert. It’s also a gateway to the adventures that Sedona has to offer!

For a cozy bed and breakfast, check out the Creekside Inn! This quiet oasis is close to the heart of Sedona, yet it feels totally private – it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of adventures.

Airbnbs in Sedona

An Airbnb can be the perfect home away from home, offering a private place to stay.

The Chapel Area Sanctuary with Cathedral Views is surrounded by the gorgeous red rock scenery, and offers a charming place to stay in one of Sedona’s peaceful neighborhoods.

Nestled right on a hill adjacent to the national forest is the Grand View WithInn, a cozy homestead with some of the most incredible views!

Where to Eat in Sedona

You’ve gotta eat! When you elope in Sedona, you’ll have your choice of local restaurants and eateries to choose from. Here are my favorite places to grab a bite.

Breakfast in Sedona

• Coffee Pot Restaurant
• Casa Sedona
• Pump House Station

Lunch in Sedona

• Tamaliza
• The Hudson
• Momo’s Kitchen

Dinner in Sedona

• Canyon Breeze
• Mesa Grill
• Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

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Things to Do When You Elope in Sedona

Your elopement deserves an all day adventure. Celebrate tying the knot and getting married in a  way that’s unique and true to you with one of the many adventures you can have in Sedona! Here are some ideas for your elopement day.

• Go on a wine tour
• Head over to Lowell Observatory and watch the stars
• Go on a Jeep Tour around the area
• Go for a hike on any of the plentiful trails around Sedona
• Put the pedal to the metal by going on an ATV ride
• Enjoy the relaxing views by kayaking down the Verde River
• Go camping in any of the many sites around Sedona

Tips for Eloping in Sedona

Here are a few things to remember when you elope in Sedona!

Hydrate Yo’ Self!

In the desert (well, anywhere, but especially in the desert), it’s so important to stay hydrated! Bring more water than you think you’ll need, and if you plan on hiking or doing any physical activity, bring even more.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Crowds

Sedona is a popular place, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get some privacy! It takes a little planning, but if you tie the knot on a weekday, get married at sunrise, or talk to an elopement photographer about the lesser known locations (or all of the above), you’ll avoid some of the crowds!

Enjoy Your Sedona Elopement!

This is a once in a lifetime experience – so enjoy it! Have fun throughout the planning process, and relax on the day of, knowing that you’re marrying the love of your life, and that’s what it’s all about.

Sedona Elopement Packages

Have you fallen in love with the red rocks of Sedona? If so, let’s start planning your epic adventure, and let’s get you married! As an elopement photographer, I’m ready to help you plan a personalized, totally custom day. 

Here’s what you’ll find in my Sedona elopement packages, starting at $2,100

• Half day, full day, and 2 day photography packages
• Customized Adventure Guide filled with personalized elopement plans from ceremony locations, where to stay, what to do, things to see, and vendor recommendations personalized to your interests & needs
• 90+ Page Elopement Planning Guide with step by step instructions on how to plan an adventure elopement
• Unlimited planning discussions & guidance
• Assistance with permits and marriage licenses
• A huge gallery of fully edited, high resolution photos for you to download with personal printing rights
• Option for me to be your ordained officiant and sign off on your marriage license if you want to have a ceremony with just the two of you
• No travel fee

Contact me to learn more, and let’s start planning!