Arizona Elopement Packages

Gorgeous canyons, huge deserts with red rock formations, sparkling lakes, and mountain tops are just a few things that come to mind when we think about Arizona. There are literally hundreds of options when it comes to eloping in Arizona. With 31 state parks, 22 national parks, and endless places to stop and explore, finding the perfect spot to elope in Arizona can be a little overwhelming. Wondering how to elope in Arizona, and what are some of the best places to elope in Arizona?

We’re about to tell you everything you need to know to plan your elopement in Arizona. We also have some bonus elopement stories to inspire you as you plan. Feel free to pin some of these stories for later.

*While we don’t offer bundled elopement packages in Arizona, we do provide you with all of the information and resources you will need to create your perfect elopement package. Our Wandering Weddings members are also amazing vendors to ask questions. These members have plenty of experience curating awesome elopement experiences for couples.*

Vendors to Build Your Arizona Elopement Package

Now that you know how to elope in Arizona, you need to put together an awesome team of vendors to help bring your elopement vision to life. Luckily for you, we know some pretty awesome vendors who specialize in all things Arizona elopements to help build your Arizona elopement package. 

Hiring a Wandering Weddings vendor is also a good idea because they know all the remote locations in the popular destinations in Arizona. Feel free to connect with one of them and ask all the questions. If you have any immediate questions, then feel free to reach out to our team! We would love to hear from you.

Photographers

These vendors are where most of your elopement budget will be going towards, but for good reason. Our photographers will average charge $2,500-$6,000 per elopement. This depends on how many hours of coverage (half-day versus full-day) a couple is looking for in their Arizona elopement package.

Videographers

Like elopement photographers, videographers are going to be a great investment for your elopement day to document your adventures together. On average, our videographers will charge $2,500-$6,000 per elopement. Keep in mind, this depends on how long you want your elopement footage to be. For example, a full-day video coverage would cost more versus covering just your elopement ceremony.

Officiants

On average, our officiant members will charge $500-$800 per elopement. Officiants are great for orchestrating your favorite traditions and wedding vows. It’s also important to note that some other vendors are also officiants, so we recommend always asking.

Elopement Planners

You don’t necessarily always need a wedding planner for your elopement adventure, but having a planner does help if couples have a very clear elopement vision. The average price for our planner members is $1,000-$3,000. Planners are also great for couples who don’t want to DIY or worry about anything, or couples who live far from their elopement destination.

Florists

Since you’re planning an elopement, you’ll need fewer floral arrangements than your average traditional wedding in Arizona. If you aren’t down to DIY your own bridal bouquet, then a florist in Arizona can average from $300 to $600.

Venues

Are you looking to elope in an epic area like Sedona? Even though there are plenty of public land options to consider eloping to in Arizona, there are also some pretty neat private venues in Arizona. Our team loves private venues because they offer you more privacy and flexibility when you two are going to elope. Private venues, on average, will charge $300 to $4,000, depending on the location.

Best Places to Elope in Arizona

There are seriously so many places to explore in Arizona during your elopement. Couples can backpack together, rent four-wheelers, camp, hike, ski, and so much more. These are just some of our favorite places to elope in Arizona. Some of these places have even made a spot on our list of the best places to elope! We also made sure to link to their permit pages, so you can jump straight to the one you love most. 

Grand Canyon National Park

Location Map

Grand Canyon is probably the most well-known spot in Arizona. Comprised of the immense Grand Canyon that is a mile deep and up to 18 miles wide. We have seen some epic elopements and engagements here. Here you’ll appreciate bands of red rock containing years of history. This spot is popular for sunrise and sunset elopements. If you’re planning your ceremony here, then you do need to apply for a permit. The park requires a minimum of four weeks to fully process a request, so it’s important to submit it on time. For full rules and regulations, check out their page on marriage permits.

Sedona

Location Map

One of the most photographed locations near Sedona is Cathedral Rock. This trail is a 1.2-mile trail, but it’s sometimes very crowded, so we recommend eloping during the week. We love this place to elope in Arizona because the short hike offers gorgeous views of the red rock formations. Sedona is a popular spot to plan your elopement because there are so many red rock formations to appreciate. Here is where you’ll find epic arches to say your I dos. 

Glen Canyon

Location Map

If you’re looking for a mix of activities to enjoy together then Glen Canyon and Lake Powell are a great option. Here you can explore, camp, hike, and enjoy water sports together. Couples literally have 1.25 million acres to pick from to explore. Here you’ll find iconic locations such as Rainbow Bridge and Horseshoe Bend. These two should definitely be on your list when eloping here. If you’re planning your wedding ceremony, then applications for permits must be submitted at least 45 days prior to your event. For more information, check out their special permit page.

Lake Powell

Location Map

Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir on the Colorado River, offers a picturesque setting with its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and serene atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples seeking a waterfront elopement.

Monument Valley

Location Map

We love the background of the great sandstone formations that stand from 400 to 1,000 feet. If you’re looking for a unique backdrop for your ceremony, then this is probably it! Monument Valley gives you a beautiful panoramic view, especially during sunset. 

Salt River Canyon Wilderness

Location Map

If you’re looking for a mix of forest views and canyons, then Salt River Canyon is a great place to check out. This area has 32,101 of pure wilderness to explore. Located within Tonto National Forest, this area has an awesome river-cut canyon between the whole area. Here you’ll enjoy the mountains, rivers, and cactus forests of the Sonoran Desert. 

Saguaro National Park

Location Map

Saguaro National Park, near Tucson, is known for its iconic saguaro cacti and stunning desert landscapes. It offers a quintessentially Arizonan backdrop for your elopement.

Check out this fun elopement at Saguaro East with a stop at In N Out.

When to Elope in Arizona

Most couples who decide to elope in Arizona, do so because of Arizona’s beautiful sunshine and dry weather. Our personal favorite time to plan an elopement in Arizona has to be Fall. From September to late November, you can appreciate the gorgeous hues of red, orange, and yellow in the region. These different tones make for gorgeous elopement portraits. 

We also love Arizona elopements every other season. Why? Because Arizona has gorgeous weather year-round. Winters here are very mild. However, you can still experience lower temperatures at night in the desert and mountains. Overall, there’s no real “bad” choice when it comes to “when to elope in Arizona”. You just have to think about what type of look you want your day to have. 

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to elope in Arizona. The weather is mild, and the desert flowers are in full bloom, creating a vibrant and picturesque setting.

Average Temperatures:

Lower Elevations (Phoenix, Tucson): High: 75-85°F (24-29°C) Low: 50-60°F (10-15°C)

Higher Elevations (Sedona, Grand Canyon): High: 60-70°F (15-21°C) Low: 30-40°F (-1-4°C)

Pros:

• Pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
• Blooming desert flowers add color and beauty.
• Mild temperatures at both lower and higher elevations.

Cons:

• Increased tourist activity, especially in popular destinations like Sedona and the Grand Canyon.
• Higher accommodation prices due to peak season.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Arizona can be quite hot, especially in the lower elevations. However, the higher elevations offer cooler temperatures, making them ideal for summer elopements.

Average Temperatures:

Lower Elevations (Phoenix, Tucson): High: 100-110°F (38-43°C) Low: 75-85°F (24-29°C)

Higher Elevations (Sedona, Grand Canyon): High: 80-90°F (27-32°C) Low: 50-60°F (10-15°C)

Pros:

• Longer daylight hours, allowing for flexible ceremony times.
• Cooler temperatures in higher elevations provide relief from the heat.
• Less crowded than spring and fall in some areas.

Cons:

• Extremely high temperatures in lower elevations can be challenging.
• Monsoon season in late summer can bring heavy rains and thunderstorms.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is another beautiful time to elope in Arizona. The weather is cooler, and the changing foliage in certain areas adds a touch of color to the desert landscape.

Average Temperatures:

Lower Elevations (Phoenix, Tucson): High: 85-95°F (29-35°C) Low: 60-70°F (15-21°C)

Higher Elevations (Sedona, Grand Canyon): High: 70-80°F (21-27°C) Low: 40-50°F (4-10°C)

Pros:

• Comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
• Changing foliage in areas like Flagstaff and Sedona.
• Fewer tourists compared to spring.

Cons:

• Cooler temperatures in higher elevations may require additional layers.
• Early fall can still experience some heat in lower elevations.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Arizona offers a unique experience, with mild weather in the deserts and the possibility of snow in the higher elevations. This season provides a serene and peaceful backdrop for your elopement.

Average Temperatures:

Lower Elevations (Phoenix, Tucson): High: 65-75°F (18-24°C) Low: 40-50°F (4-10°C)

Higher Elevations (Sedona, Grand Canyon): High: 45-55°F (7-13°C) Low: 20-30°F (-6-1°C)

Pros:

• Mild and pleasant temperatures in the deserts.
• Snow-capped landscapes in higher elevations, perfect for winter wonderland elopements.
• Less crowded, offering more privacy and intimacy.

Cons:

• Colder temperatures and potential snow in higher elevations.
• Shorter daylight hours.

Arizona Wedding License and Permits

Applying for a wedding license in Arizona is pretty simple! Here’s what you’ll need to know:

• Provide identification
• There is an application fee ($83)
• You’ll need two witnesses and an officiant. 
• There is no waiting period.
• The license is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance and you must marry within those 12 months or it will expire.

If you’re worried about officiants, then try finding a photographer or videographer who can double as your officiant! If you’re planning on having a ceremony with just the two of you, then you shouldn’t worry about witnesses, since our Wandering Weddings members are pros at finding adventurous witnesses to make your ceremony official. 

Arizona Permits and Leave No Trace

Do I need a wedding permit to get married in a state/national park in Arizona?

Yes, you typically need a wedding permit to get married in state and national parks in Arizona. The specific requirements and procedures can vary depending on the park.

When exploring Arizona’s diverse landscapes, it’s essential to follow key Leave No Trace principles tailored to the region’s unique environment. Stick to established trails to protect fragile cryptobiotic soil crusts, which prevent erosion. Conserve and protect water sources by washing and disposing of waste at least 200 feet away from streams and lakes. Respect fire restrictions and use camp stoves instead of open fires in arid areas to prevent wildfires. Avoid disturbing or feeding wildlife, and secure food to keep it out of reach of animals. Lastly, respect cultural and historical sites by not touching or removing artifacts. Remember to always leave the area better than you found it to protect it for future couples who would love to elope there!

 

Places to Stay in Arizona

Check out some of our favorite places in Arizona.

Check out this 3-bedroom home near Chapel Rock. 

Check out this 2-bedroom home in Sedona.

Check out this epic cabin near Grand Canyon National Park. 

Check out this intimate cottage near Saguaro National Park.

Check out this 4-bedroom home in the Desert. 

 

Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in Arizona.