Many people visit Sedona to enjoy the breathtaking views in one of the most unique and stunning places in the country, so it’s no surprise that an increasing number of couples are opting for a Sedona elopement. The incredible red rocks and swirling centers of energy make it an especially magical place with a beautiful backdrop to say your “I dos.” Even if you’ve seen images of this northern Arizona town on your Instagram feed or in travel magazines, nothing can prepare you for the jaw-dropping scenery on your wedding day.
Once you’ve decided that Sedona is the place for your elopement, there are some important details you won’t want to forget during the elopement planning process. While it may not be like a big Sedona wedding, there’s still a lot to think about.
Of course, that’s why we started Arizona Elopement Collective. It’s your ultimate Sedona elopement planning guide that eliminates the time, effort, and stress involved in creating your dream experience so that you can simply enjoy your big day. That said, you probably don’t want any huge surprises either, making it important to be aware of all the pieces of the puzzle for the perfect Sedona elopement.
Permits and Passes for Your Sedona Wedding Ceremony
You probably won’t need a permit for your adventure elopement, although it depends on the location you choose. Certain state parks do require special use permits, and for trails, you might need a Red Rock Pass to park at the trailheads. They can be purchased at self-service machines in most locations or online in advance for $5 per car/per day, or $15 for a weekly pass.
For Sedona elopements that are planned independently, it’s a good idea to confirm what is needed with the Forest Service. Of course, this is something Arizona Elopement Collective can take care of for you as part of the planning process.
Keep in mind that elopement ceremonies cannot be held in National Wilderness Areas. Also, setting up things like tables, chairs, and arches is not allowed on National Forest Service Land, and no matter where you elope, rice, rose petals, birdseed, or any non-native species are prohibited in Sedona.
The Marriage License
Just like anywhere else, if you want your marriage to be official, you’ll need a marriage license from the state of Arizona. It can be issued at any county clerk’s office. If you’re a resident, you can go to the office closest to your home or place of employment, but there is no county clerk’s office in Sedona.
Those who are coming from out of state might want to obtain it at the Yavapai County Superior Court located in Camp Verde, about 30 minutes away. While this office does accept credit and debit cards, many only take cash. Be sure to check in advance if you go elsewhere. If you’re flying into Phoenix, you could obtain your marriage license via the Maricopa County Clerk of the Superior Court.
There is no waiting period, but you’ll both need to go in person and bring your official photo IDs, such as a passport or driver’s license. Keep in mind that marriage licenses expire after 12 months, so you’ll need to use it before then.
Also, two witnesses over the age of 18 and an officiant will need to sign it. If you don’t have your own witnesses, an all-inclusive elopement through Arizona Elopement Collective will make sure you’re covered so you don’t have to spend a second worrying about it. Either way, after your ceremony, it must be returned to the office it was issued from within 10 days to make it official.
The Time and Date Can Make a Big Difference
Choosing the time and date for your wedding ceremony is one of the most important considerations if you want to elope in Sedona. While it can be done at any time of the year, if you want to avoid searing heat or big crowds at popular spots like Cathedral Rock, Merry Go Round Rock, Bell Rock, or Oak Creek, there are better times than others. For more privacy on your wedding day, choose a weekday for your Sedona elopement and you’ll be less likely to encounter big buses loaded with tourists.
Sedona can also become over-saturated with visitors during school breaks and during the summer when 100+ degree days are not uncommon. From November through March, snow is possible. While a light dusting can make for even more enchanting landscapes to be surrounded by during your Sedona wedding, there are extra precautions you’ll need to take.
The weather is generally best in the spring and fall, although the crowds are thick around March, April, and October. Speak to your Arizona elopement team to get the inside scoop!
The Vows
While you’re probably thinking a lot more about those epic red rock formations, there’s one thing you definitely won’t want to forget: your vows. Many couples don’t think to prioritize their wedding vows, but they’re the heart of wedding ceremonies and the foundation for a marriage.
They should be a reflection of you as a couple—we’re assuming you love Sedona, so you might want to incorporate that aspect of your Sedona elopement and/or a special tradition that’s meaningful to you. Focus on creating a personalized script that weaves your story in a beautiful, poetic way.
The key is to ensure that your big elopement day is uniquely you, so take your time and give it some extra thought! Writing your vows is not something you want to forget or put off until the last minute. And if you’re really struggling, speak to your officiant for some guidance. If they’re also part of your elopement team, they can help you find the perfect words for your innermost feelings.
We know how stressful it can be to get your innermost thoughts down on paper. To help couples create the perfect vows for their elopement, Arizona Elopement Collective has developed its own vow writing guide we’ll send you when we start the planning process.
Accommodations/Flights/Rental Cars
As you would for any travel destination, you’ll need to book your flights, accommodations, and a rental car as part of your Sedona elopement. Ideally, secure these as far in advance as possible. You don’t want to wait until the last minute only to find that all the best places to stay are sold out.
- Arriving in Phoenix: Reserving a standard vehicle to get you to Sedona is fine, and if you plan on tying the not in one of the easy-access locations that’s all you’ll need.
- Off-roading vehicles: For those on an elopement adventure that requires off-roading, you’ll need to look into a company that provides off-road service or a Jeep rental for use on your elopement day. Your elopement team is your best bet for finding and securing what you’ll need.
- Hotels and vacation rentals: In general, the closer to your ceremony site, the better. Depending on the size of your group, you might want to consider a block of rooms at a hotel or a larger Airbnb so that all of your family and friends can be together. That doesn’t mean limiting your options! Speak to your elopement team about hidden gems in the area you want. At Arizona Elopement Collective, we have partnerships with some of the most incredible properties in Sedona. We make sure our clients always get the best deals on the top Airbnbs for their adventure.
The Vendors
Who you bring to your wedding space matters—and not just your guests. It’s essential to choose vendors that are in line with your style, from wedding photography to a jeep rental company.
Reading reviews and scouring portfolios will provide a decent look at who might be a good fit, but you’ll want to make calls and set up some interviews. Having worked with so many in the area, we’ve become experts at matching couples with the right vendors. Whether it’s an elopement photographer for the best wedding photos or a caterer providing great food, we can connect you with the perfect people for your tastes. Your love is unique and you deserve a wedding experience.
What to Pack
Besides your wedding attire, day-to-day clothing, accessories, toiletries, and wedding rings, there are some things specific to both Sedona and an elopement that many couples forget. Having a list will ensure you don’t forget the essentials.
- Reusable water bottles
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hiking boots
- Portable phone charger
- A blanket to change behind (or sit on)
- Thermoses with coffee or another warm beverage for early morning/evening/cold season treks
- Winter additions: gloves, beanie, layers topped with a jacket
The Timeline
When the day you’ve been dreaming of is finally here, you won’t want to feel rushed. Scheduling is key. You’ll need time to be properly rested and fed whether you’re planning an early morning or a sunset ceremony. Going “hangry” is not a mood you want to set! Couples can easily get so wrapped up in the preparations and festivities that they forget to eat, but nourishing food and hydration are essential—especially in a dry climate like Sedona.
If you plan to have a hair and makeup artist, ask how long it will take to get ready and add 30 minutes. We like to ensure the experience feels spacious and relaxed, and we allow at least two hours on average for makeup plus at least an hour to get dressed. That way, your preparation is a chance to center yourself and soak up some restorative calm on your big day.
Even getting dressed takes longer than you probably expect. Gowns can be notoriously complicated. For example, if you have one that buttons down the back, it will take longer to put on and you’ll need a crochet hook.
Finally, consider the driving time to the parking lot or ceremony site and add a little cushion room in case of traffic. Whether you’ll be hopping into a 4×4 for off-roading from a trailhead, embarking on a short trek, or setting out on an intense hike, make sure you give yourself a reasonable amount of time plus some extra considering your clothing and gear. Of course, Arizona Elopement Collective takes care of all the details for you!
Kicking Off a Lifetime of Love
This blog article is an extension of our ultimate guide to a Sedona elopement. If you are looking for more information on how to plan your perfect Sedona elopement, give our guide a read.
Now, we understand that the long list of things NOT to forget can almost feel overwhelming even for an elopement experience. That’s why we started Arizona Elopement Collective. Our team thrives on helping to make a Sedona elopement perfect for every unique couple, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Look forward to a stress-free Sedona wedding that perfectly kicks off a lifetime of love by checking out our Sedona elopement packages now!
