Elope in Sedona

What’s the best time of year for a Sedona elopement?

We highly recommend eloping during shoulder season in Sedona, which is roughly September through November, as well as March through May. During those months there tends to be less people and more mild temperatures. Because of the high desert environment winters can actually get quite chilly in Sedona, although snow is rare (if you want a snow-filled wedding, plan on eloping at the Grand Canyon or in Flagstaff). Despite Sedona’s higher elevation, summers can still be very hot, with daytime temps reaching upwards of 90-degrees. Thus, many people find daytime summer elopements in Sedona intolerable for more than a couple minutes without shade.

What time of day is best to elope in Sedona?

We recommend eloping during golden hour, or the hours surrounding sunrise and sunset. Our favorite Arizona elopement locations are mostly in the high desert and as such, we advise avoiding midday and afternoon ceremonies when temperatures are at their hottest and the sun can be a photographer’s worst nightmare. If you’re drawn to a more popular elopement location, such as the Crescent Moon Day Use Area, we highly recommend eloping on a weekday when the likelihood of a more intimate ceremony increases. Because it’s so awesome, Sedona is incredibly popular!

How much will a Sedona elopement cost?

Eloping or hosting a small wedding in Sedona can be a great way to save money. Although there are a plethora of high-end spas and resorts in the area, there are also numerous affordable Airbnbs and other lodging options. On average, a vacation to Sedona costs about $930 per person per week. There are also two airports in Phoenix, ensuring flights remain affordable year round. We do recommend renting a car for your Sedona elopement, so you’ll also want to factor in that cost.

Our Sedona elopement packages begin at $450 for a basic ceremony, which includes advice on ceremony locations, custom officiation services, and the actually enactment of your ceremony. Prices rise if you want to include photography and flowers. Our top-end package costs $2,525 and even includes a day of helper who can stream your ceremony, as well as hair and makeup services for one person.

It’s important to note that some Sedona elopement locations also require additional permit or venue rental fees.

What’s the best way to get to Sedona, Arizona?

Many people choose to drive to Sedona for their elopement or small wedding, flying into one of Phoenix’s two airports and taking in the scenic drive from a rental car. Some hotels and resorts also offer shuttle services. Flagstaff Airport is the closest small commercial airport to Sedona, located roughly 45-minutes drive away via AZ 89A, which passes through beautiful Oak Creek Canyon.

What do I need to legally elope in Sedona?

To get married in Sedona you’ll need a valid ID (a birth certificate, passport, or state-issued ID works), your social security number, and the presence of both parties when picking up your license. An Arizona marriage license costs $83 and no matter what county you get it in, your marriage license can apply to a wedding ceremony that takes place anywhere in Arizona. You will need an officiant to perform the ceremony and sign your marriage license, which can then be mailed to the Clerk of the Superior Court.

Note that Sedona Municipal Court does not issue marriage licenses and you have to contact one of the county superior courts to obtain a marriage license. The superior court closest to Sedona is Yavapai County Superior Court located on Highway 260, in Camp Verde, or the Coconino County Superior Court in Flagstaff.

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.

Do I need witnesses to elope in Sedona?

The state of Arizona does require two witnesses. If you’re looking to have a private Sedona 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.