How to elope in Arizona
If you’re dreaming of a red rock wedding with miles of unimpeded desert views and cacti for guests, then an Arizona elopement is for you! The landscapes of Arizona are vast and wild, the perfect small wedding location for couples that want to be awed by nature. Whether you choose to elope at the world wonder that is the Grand Canyon, the spiritual high desert town of Sedona, or amidst the streams and pine forests of Flagstaff, we’re here to provide the lowdown on eloping in Arizona.
What are the best places to elope in Arizona?
Our favorite elopement destinations in Arizona are the areas around the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff, and Sedona. The Grand Canyon is world-famous for good reason: gorgeous colors of orange, red, and purple adorn the vast valleys, while multiple points along the rim offer awe-inspiring scenery. There’s also nothing like a Grand Canyon sunrise or sunset, where every slight change in light completely transforms the landscape.
Flagstaff, located an hour and a half from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, is considered the park’s gateway. The charming mountain town is home to Arizona’s tallest mountain (Humphrey’s Peak), as well as a handful of Native American pueblo sites and cliff dwellings. The Mariposa Meadow, located at the Arizona Nordic Village in Flagstaff, is a great option for a DIY-style small wedding with onsite yurts for overnight stays. We also love the Arboretum at Flagstaff, which offers forest and panoramic mountain views.
Sedona, roughly two hours south of the Grand Canyon and just 45 minutes from Flagstaff, is one of the most scenic towns in the country with numerous viewpoints that will take your breath away. Sedona is a high desert town known for its spiritual vortexes and New Age vibe. Spas and galleries are plentiful in this artsy community, as are epic hiking and mountain biking trails. The town sits amidst red rock formations, bright blue sky, and green juniper trees, guaranteeing stunning wedding photos.
For Sedona elopements, we love the Crescent Moon Day Use Area, which sits between Oak Creek and Cathedral Rock. The adobe Chapel at Tlaquepaque on the other hand is an indoor venue—perfect for beating the heat—located in the heart of Sedona’s quaint shopping district. We also recommend the Briar Patch Inn, a lodge and venue location that sits adjacent to a tranquil creek in a shaded Sedona canyon.
Does an Arizona elopement require witnesses?
The state of Arizona does require two witnesses. So if you have your heart set on an elopement with just you and your partner then you might have to improvise by asking a kind stranger to sign your marriage certificate. While your photographer can always serve as a witness, your officiant can’t legally marry you and serve as a witness.
