New Mexico Elopement Packages

New Mexico is a gorgeous place to visit if you’re looking for a unique place to elope filled with history, culture, and gorgeous landscapes. Planning a New Mexico elopement can be thrilling and simple! If you’re interested in experiencing the native culture and ghost towns and exploring areas like Santa Fe, Taos, Las Cruces, and Albuquerque, then eloping in New Mexico may be for you.

Planning an elopement in New Mexico offers couples the opportunity to exchange vows amidst stunning desert landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you envision saying “I do” beneath the vibrant skies of White Sands National Park, against the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, or in the heart of historic Santa Fe, this guide will provide everything you need to create an unforgettable elopement experience. From choosing the perfect location to navigating permits and local marriage laws, our New Mexico Elopement Guide is your ultimate resource for planning a magical adventure.

*While we don’t offer bundled elopement packages in New Mexico, 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 For Your New Mexico Elopement Package

Photo by Crystal Cousin Photo

Now that you’ve seen all the amazing places and how easy it is to elope in New Mexico, let’s talk elopement vendors.

The following Wandering Weddings members specialize in New Mexico elopements. 

Aside from all the amazing places we mentioned, they are great resources for scouting hidden and remote locations in New Mexico for your wedding photos or your ceremony.

Feel free to connect with them to discuss your elopement vision with them.

Places to Elope in New Mexico

Photo by Emily Hary Photography

New Mexico is a great place to elope because there are plenty of areas to explore that aren’t as popular as some other elopement locations.

We are going to list some of our favorite places to elope or visit in New Mexico, but teaming up with an experienced vendor will also be a great way to plan the elopement of your dreams!

White Sands National Park

Location Map

One of our favorite elopement locations in New Mexico is White Sands National Park. Plan an epic glamping trip to admire the rolling white dunes of this magnificent desert. There are 275 square miles of desert to explore, leaving plenty of space to elope somewhere away from the crowd. 

If you’re considering having a small wedding or elopement at White Sands, then a special use permit is required. There’s a $25 non-refundable reservation fee when applying for this permit. 

If you’re planning on camping or having your wedding ceremony at this park, it’s important to read what are some unacceptable and acceptable wedding decorations. Confetti, balloons, glass bottles, and beer bottles, for example, are just some examples of items that are not allowed in this park.

Head over to White Sands National Park for more information on permit rules and regulations. 

Loving the thought of eloping in White Sands? Check out this epic White Sands desert elopement.

Jemez Pueblo

Photo by Crystal Cousin Photo

Location Map

A favorite among our members is the Jemez Pueblo area in New Mexico. If you love the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, but you’re looking for somewhere less known, then this is your elopement destination.

We love this area for its remote and gorgeous red rock formations, perfect for elopement ceremonies or wedding portraits. 

Sandia Mountains

Photo by Crystal Cousin Photo

Location Map

If you’re looking for a mountain view for your New Mexico elopement, then consider checking out the Sandia mountains. This mountain range is located in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties, which is close to Albuquerque! 

We love this area because there are plenty of recreational activities to do during your wedding day including hiking, camping, horseback riding, fishing, and water activities. 

Check out this Desert Harbor Retreat Elopement in Sandia Park.

Rio Grande Valley State Park River

Location Map

In Albuquerque, you’ll find the Rio Grande. This park is known as a bosque, which is Spanish for the forest. This 4,300-acre park extends from Sandia Pueblo through Alburquerque and to Isleta Pueblo.

You have plenty of trails and shady forests to explore. We love this location for its simplicity, beauty, and diverse habitat. This spot is also great for couples who want to plan a picnic after their elopement.

Dripping Springs Natural Area at Las Cruces

Photo by Crystal Cousin Photo

Location Map

This area is perfect for couples who are looking for history and epic landscapes. Las Cruces you can find the Dripping Springs Natural Area. Overlooking the Organ Mountains, which rise to 9,000 feet in elevation.

This place is epic!

You’ll have rocky peaks, narrow canyons, and open woodlands in this area, perfect for elopement ceremonies. This area also has over four miles of easy hiking trails to explore. 

When to Elope in New Mexico

Photo by Crystal Cousin Photo

Like with most places, summers in New Mexico are a no-go for elopements. To avoid more crowds, higher rates, and hotter temperatures, then avoid summer elopements here. 

If you’re convinced to plan your elopement during summer, however, then planning a weekday sunrise elopement is a great way to avoid the crowds and heat.

What is the best month to visit New Mexico? For elopements, we love Spring and Fall because of the cooler temperatures. We specifically recommend May, September, or October for New Mexico elopements. 

However, we would like to remind you that any time can be a great time to elope in New Mexico. New Mexico also doesn’t see much rainfall year-round! If you’re set on a specific date, then reach out to one of our New Mexico vendors to get their opinion.

Spring (March to May)

Averages temperatures: 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C) in lower elevations and 35°F to 60°F (2°C to 16°C) in higher elevations.

Pros:

• Blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery create a vibrant and colorful setting.
• Comfortable weather makes outdoor ceremonies pleasant, with minimal rain.
• Fewer tourists compared to the summer months, offering more privacy.

Cons:

• Windy conditions are common in some areas, particularly in the desert regions.
• Higher elevations may still have lingering snow, limiting access to certain locations.

Summer (June to August)

Average temperatures: 85°F to 100°F (29°C to 38°C) in lower elevations. In higher elevations, temperatures are cooler, ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C).

Pros:

• Long, sunny days provide ample time for ceremonies and exploring the outdoors.
• High mountain regions offer cooler temperatures and lush greenery.
• Summer festivals and cultural events add a festive atmosphere to your elopement.

Cons:

• The desert regions can be extremely hot, making midday ceremonies uncomfortable.
• Afternoon thunderstorms are common, particularly in July and August.
• Popular tourist destinations may be crowded, so consider less-traveled locations for more privacy.

Fall (September to November)

Average temperatures: 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C) in lower elevations and 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C) in higher elevations.

Pros:

• The state’s famous fall foliage, especially in the northern regions, provides a stunning backdrop.
• Cooler temperatures and clear skies make for comfortable outdoor ceremonies.
• Harvest festivals and seasonal events add local flavor to your wedding experience.

Cons:

• Shorter daylight hours may limit the time available for your ceremony and photos.
• Some areas, particularly at higher elevations, may experience early snowfall.

Winter (December to February)

Average temperatures: 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 16°C), while higher elevations see colder conditions, ranging from 20°F to 40°F (-6°C to 4°C), and regular snowfall.

Pros:

• The snow-covered landscapes in the mountains create a magical winter wonderland for your elopement.
• Fewer tourists make for a peaceful and intimate ceremony.
• Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding can add adventure to your wedding experience.

Cons:

• Cold temperatures and snow can limit access to certain locations, especially in the mountains.
• Some areas may be less accessible due to winter road closures or hazardous conditions.
• Limited daylight hours require careful planning to make the most of your time.

New Mexico Marriage License

Photo by Emily Hary Photography

Getting legally married in New Mexico is actually pretty simple. In addition to your paperwork, you’ll need to pay a fee of $25 and apply at the county clerk’s office.

A marriage license must be obtained before your ceremony in order for it to be considered legal. A great thing about obtaining your marriage license in New Mexico is the license is valid immediately and also does not expire.  

New Mexico wedding ceremonies do require at least 2 witnesses. If you’re having an intimate elopement, then speak to your elopement vendors regarding requirements. Another great idea is to ask a friendly hiker to sign. 

Places to Stay in New Mexico

New Mexico offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every couple’s style, whether you’re planning an elopement or simply exploring the Land of Enchantment. From charming adobe inns in historic Santa Fe to luxurious resorts nestled in the high desert, and cozy cabins with mountain views, New Mexico has something for everyone. Whether you seek the rustic charm of a secluded retreat, the convenience of staying in a vibrant city, or the comfort of a boutique hotel, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and soak in the unique beauty and culture that makes New Mexico so special.

 Check out some of our favorites below:

Check out this cottage close to Jemez Pueblo. 

Check out this 2-bedroom home.

Check out this cottage near the Sandia Mountain Wilderness.

Check out this home near Sandia Wilderness. 

Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in New Mexico: