How to Elope in Sedona
If you’re the type of couple that loves feeling small in a stunning natural landscape then Sedona just might be the elopement destination for you. Sedona is one of the most scenic mountain towns in the country, known for its iconic red rock formations, nearby ponderosa pine forests, and numerous viewpoints that will take your breath away. Located just over two hours from the South Rim entrance of the Grand Canyon, and about 45 minutes from Flagstaff, Sedona is known for its spiritual vortexes and New Age vibe.
Choosing to elope in Sedona offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. World-class spas, unique shopping, and art galleries are plentiful in this artsy community, as are epic hiking and mountain biking trails (more than 400 miles worth). The town sits amidst red rock, bright blue sky, and green juniper trees, guaranteeing stunning elopement photos. Sedona is also a close drive to a handful of national monuments and state parks, as well as just under a two hours drive from Phoenix.
This guide will cover all your questions about eloping in Sedona, from what time of year is best to how much a Sedona elopement package will cost you. It will also outline all of our favorite locations for small weddings in Sedona, as well as what you need to make your big day legal.
What are the best places to elope in Sedona?
Crescent Moon Day Use Area
For Sedona elopements, we love the Crescent Moon Day Use Area, which sits between Oak Creek and Cathedral Rock. This is one of the most photographed locations in the Southwest and what a lot of people envision when they think of Arizona’s high desert and Sedona specifically. You can choose to elope wherever you want within the day use area. Reservations are required, a maximum of 15 guests are allowed, and no alcohol is permitted.
The Chapel at Tlaquepaque
This adobe chapel, located in Sedona’s quaint shopping district, is our favorite indoor venue in the region and ideal for daytime ceremonies when you want to beat the heat. Completely non-denominational, the Chapel at Tlaquepaque has beautiful stained glass windows and a tranquil, oasis-like feel. The maximum guest count for a small wedding here is typically 40 people, but due to Covid-19 that number is currently 16.
The Briar Patch Inn
We love this charming lodge, which sits adjacent to a peaceful creek in a shaded Sedona canyon. Choose to have your intimate ceremony here with up to 20 guests (currently 16 due to Covid-19) at the kiva area, creekside terrace, or lower garden. There are no televisions, phones, or WIFI in the onsite cabins, adding to the tranquil vibe. Note that the Briar Patch Inn only allows small weddings from May through September and that alcohol is allowed.
Grand Canyon National Park
Gorgeous colors of orange, red, and purple combine at this natural world wonder, which changes drastically depending on the time of day and the light. No matter what viewpoint you choose to elope at in the park—options include Pima Point, Grandeur Point, Shoshone Point, Moran Point, or Lipan Point—your photos will capture the vast valleys and mind-blowing scenery. We highly recommend a sunrise or sunset elopement here.
Permits for a Grand Canyon elopement are required and can be purchased up to a year in advance (permits typically process in about four weeks). Your small wedding here can include up to 20 guests typically (currently 16 due to Covid-19) and no alcohol is allowed.
Flagstaff
Flagstaff is a charming mountain town, home to Humphrey’s Peak, Arizona’s tallest mountain, Northern Arizona University, and Arizona’s best ski resort, the Arizona Snowbowl. Surrounding Flag, as the locals call it, is great hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, 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. For elopements, we also love the Arboretum at Flagstaff, which offers forested backdrops and panoramic mountain views.
Can you get married the same day in Sedona?
Arizona does not have a waiting period, meaning your elopement can take place the same day you get your marriage certificate.
