How to Elope in Phoenix, Arizona
Have you been dreaming of a desert elopement surrounded by cacti, sunshine, and sweeping views? Phoenix, Arizona is the perfect place to say “I do” in a way that’s both intimate and unforgettable. If you're wondering how to elope in Phoenix, Arizona, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from legal requirements to the best desert locations.
Keep reading below to learn the beginning stages of how to plan your Phoenix elopement.
Why Elope in Phoenix?
Eloping in Phoenix offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and city convenience. Here are a few reasons why Phoenix is one of the best elopement destinations in the Southwest:
Year-round sunshine: Phoenix has over 300 days of sunshine a year. Making it the sunniest place in all of North America and an ideal spot for outdoor elopements (just not in the summer time when it’s over 105º).
Diverse landscapes: From towering saguaro cacti to red rock vistas, the Sonoran Desert has so many different backdrops to get married. Whether you're looking for a simple courthouse ceremony or an epic sunrise or sunset elopement somewhere in the open desert, you’ve got lots of options.
Accessibility: With a major international airport in the middle of the city (Phoenix Sky Harbor) and countless places to stay throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and other surrounding areas–it makes planning a destination elopement from out of state a lot easier.
Unique activity options: You can include a spa day at a resort in Scottsdale, go horseback riding in Apache Junction, explore hiking trails throughout the entire Phoenix Metro, or take a hot air balloon ride out in Glendale–there are genuinely endless options for things to do on or around your elopement day.
Step 1: Understand the Legal Requirements to Elope in Phoenix
To legally get married in Phoenix, Arizona, you'll need to follow a few simple steps:
1. Apply for a Marriage License
Visit any Maricopa County Clerk of the Superior Court location.
Both parties must be present in person with valid photo ID and your social security number.
No waiting period and no blood test required.
The marriage license is valid immediately and for up to 12 months.
The cost is currently $98 (subject to change).
Tip: If you’re an Arizona resident, you can begin the application online and finish it in person to save time.
Check out my blog post: How to Elope in Arizona for additional information.
2. Hire an Officiant
Arizona requires a licensed officiant to legally marry you. This includes but is not limited to:
A religious or civil officiant
A judge or justice of the peace
A friend or family member ordained online
Me! I’m ordained & can legally marry you two. I offer it complimentary with my elopement packages (some restrictions apply depending on guest count).
3. Have at Least Two Witnesses
You must have at least two witnesses over the age of 18 to sign your marriage license. If I’m not officiating your ceremony–I can count as one witness! If you don’t want and/or plan to have guests at your elopement, that’s okay! Typically most areas we go will have at least a few people around and a lot of my couples have asked people on trails to sign as a witness.
Step 2: Choose the Perfect Phoenix Elopement Location
Phoenix offers a variety of dreamy desert elopement spots. The place that’s right for you all depends on how much hiking you want to do (if any at all), what type of desert landscape you like the most (ie. open desert, traditional mountains, red rock style mountains, tall cacti, etc). Here are some of my favorite spots:
1. Papago Park
Iconic red sandstone buttes, palm trees, and desert flora make Papago Park a great option if you’re looking for a central Phoenix location. This area is a short drive from the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and has accessible areas if you have guests attending that aren’t as mobile. Options for renting a ramada (picnic site area) for post-ceremony celebrations.
2. South Mountain Park & Preserve
One of the largest urban parks in the United States! Mile and miles of trails and panoramic desert views—perfect for sunrise or sunset ceremonies and adventure elopements. Trails that are just a short walk from the parking lot or options for multi-mile long trails.
3. Saguaro Lake
Located just outside of Phoenix in Mesa, Arizona. Saguaro Lake is an amazing spot if you’re wanting something that’s not common in the desert–water! You still get mountains and cacti, but have the scenery of Saguaro Lake as the backdrop for your elopement. There’s options for picnic areas or even boat tours/rentals depending on how adventurous you want to get on your wedding day.
4. Lost Dutchman State Park
Another location that is just outside of Phoenix, located in Apache Junction, Lost Dutchman State Park is one of the most beautiful areas in all of the Phoenix Metro. The Superstition Mountains are a great backdrop if you’re wanting dramatic mountain views (that keep getting more beautiful as the sun continues to rise and/or set) and tall saguaros throughout the whole park. This is a great spot if you have guests that can’t walk a far distance–options for renting sites within the park to ensure you have the area you want on your wedding day. Additional options for couples wanting to have a more adventurous day that includes hiking.
Check out my blog post all about how to elope at Lost Dutchman State Park for more details.
5. Phoenix Courthouse Elopement
Want something short, simple, and sweet? Opt for a courthouse ceremony in Downtown Phoenix!
Read my whole blog post: How to Plan a Downtown Phoenix Courthouse Elopement
*I have a whole Phoenix Location Guide I share with my couples once booked that offers more locations & detailed spot/trail information.
Step 3: Hire Your Phoenix Elopement Photographer
Your elopement deserves to be documented! No matter the size or amount of detail that goes into it, your wedding day is important. This is also not a “traditional” way of getting married so it can sometimes be an overwhelming process due to a lack of information out. It can feel like you’re having to figure out all the details on your own when this is supposed to be easier and more stress-free than if you were planning a gigantic wedding, right? That’s where I come in!!
When I say that I specialize in elopements, I don’t mean that I just show up day-of and take some photos and then leave. I’m here with you throughout the whole process. I’ll share planning guides with you so you can have a step by step plan of what to do and how to prepare, I help you find the perfect location (both in scouting and through my already made location guides for the Phoenix area), I give you local vendor recommendations so you don’t have to do even more searching for things like a hair and make up artist, florist, baker, or videographer, and I’m here to just help answer any questions along the way. I help craft your day to include all the things you want and maybe give you ideas for things you may have not even thought of.
Read more about me and how I got started as a photographer and became a full-time elopement photographer in Phoenix, Arizona.
Hi, it’s me, Samantha Rose Photography!
When searching for a Phoenix elopement photographer, look for someone who:
Knows the desert and landscapes well.
Offers packages that includes help with planning, timelines, and locations.
Specializes in elopements and understands the ins and outs of a wedding day out in nature.
Will share full elopement galleries with you as examples and can share sample timelines.
Sample Timeline:
12:00 p.m. - Details and final getting ready photos at hotel/Airbnb
1:00 p.m. - First look at getting ready location
1:30 p.m. - Head to ceremony location
2:00 p.m. - Arrive at location, find spot for ceremony
~2:15 p.m. - Begin ceremony
2:35 p.m. - Ceremony concludes – sign marriage license, group photos (if guests are present)
3:00 p.m. - Champagne or sparkling cider pop/toast
3:30 p.m. - (If group present) Group heads back to hotel/Airbnb. Couple heads to other location for time with just the two of them.
4:00 p.m. - Arrive at second location
Explore area – hike around and find spot for picnic
4:30 p.m. - Enjoy picnic and mini cake cutting
5:00 p.m. - First dance during golden hour, portraits
5:30 p.m. - Enjoy the sunset :)
6:00 p.m. - Begin walk/hike back – head to dinner for more celebrations!
Ready to start planning your Phoenix Elopement?
Step 4: Plan the Details
Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean there’s not details to decide! This is a quick overview of some of the most important things to start thinking about, but I help with making sure you’ve gone over everything you may need/want for your day.
When is the best time to elope in Phoenix?
Late fall, winter, and early spring are the best time of year to get married outdoors in the Phoenix area.
To avoid the heat, I suggest: November, December, January, February, March, and early April. Some years are cooler than others, but often times it doesn’t stay below 100º on a regular basis in Phoenix until Halloween night. Then by the end of April, things are already heating up again into the high 90s. If you’re an Arizona local–some warmer weather may not deter you since your body is used to it. For those coming from out of state (especially more mild climates), I recommend sticking to the above months!
What vendors to include in your elopement?
You can keep your day as simple as you like and DIY whatever you want, but these are the most common vendors that my couples end up using for their elopement days.
Florist
Hair and makeup artist
Baker
Small picnic or dinner setup
Videographer
Officiant
Where to stay in Phoenix for your elopement?
The Phoenix Metro is HUGE! A lot of areas are considered “suburbs” of the city of Phoenix and some are closer than others. If you’re flying into the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and want to be within easy driving distance to a lot of different areas, I recommend staying in central Phoenix, Scottsdale (south Scottsdale is very close to Phoenix and Tempe), or north Tempe. These areas will keep you close to both the city life, but put you within a 30-45 minute drive of popular hiking trails (some even closer). If you’re wanting to get away from the city and don’t mind a farther drive, north Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Apache Junction are popular spots for more direct access to nature and mountains–if staying in these areas, you will need to rent a car.
The Phoenix Metro is a very car-centric area and it is recommended to rent a car, no matter where you’re staying, if you want to be able to access other areas of the city easily.
What to bring to your Phoenix elopement?
This is a quick, shortened version of some of the most important items to bring on your elopement day. I create a full, customized list for you depending on when and where your elopement day ends up being, but these items are always included:
Marriage license
Black pen
1-2 liters of water per person (this is a must in the desert)
Snacks/Picnic Items
Vow books
Deodorant, tissues, blotting papers
Backpack for carrying supplies
Bag for trash – it’s important to clean up any mess that could be made from a cake cutting, champagne toast, or picnic. Read more about planning an eco-friendly elopement.
Want more information about all the details to consider for your wedding day? Check out my full blog post guide: How to Plan an Elopement.
Step 5: Celebrate Your Way
This day is about you two and you’re choosing to elope so that you can celebrate your love for each other exactly how you want. You can include traditional aspects or throw everything out the window and do your own thing. You can include loved ones in your day or have it just be you two. You can tell people beforehand that you’re eloping or have it be a surprise once it’s all done. You can plan a fancy dinner for afterwards or go to In-N-Out for burgers and shakes.
This is your day–your way. And I’m here to help you make whatever elopement ideas you’re dreaming up a reality.
Let’s start planning your Phoenix Elopement.
Phoenix Elopement FAQs
Q: Do we need a permit to elope outdoors in Phoenix?
A: Some locations, especially state parks, may require a permit for ceremonies or professional photography. Check with the park's office for up-to-date info. I help with permit info/application (if needed).
Q: Can we elope in Phoenix with just the two of us?
A: Yes! You need an officiant and two witnesses over the age of 18, but I can act as one witness and we can find another if needed!
Q: What should we wear for our desert elopement?
A: Lightweight, breathable attire is key. Flowy dresses, boots/closed-toed shoes, and neutral colors photograph beautifully against the desert backdrop. Make sure you can walk around easily in your wedding attire without it falling down or being too tight!
Considering eloping somewhere in Arizona, but not in Phoenix? Check out these guides on other beautiful Arizona locations.
Everything to know about Eloping
So before we dive into this, let me introduce myself. I’m Samantha Rose, I’m an elopement & intimate wedding photographer that’s based in Phoenix, Arizona. The reason I’m writing this is to help answer any questions people may have about what elopements are, how elopements work, & basically why they’re becoming more popular. For me, I’m all about helping create a day that’s special for you & your partner. Whether that’s going on an adventurous hike & saying your vows at the top of a mountain or having a small ceremony where you got engaged - you deserve to have your dream day exactly how you want. Let’s create a day that’s unique to the two of you & all about celebrating your love.
What to know about elopements
Arizona Elopement Photographer
What is eloping?
Just to clear things up right at the beginning - no, you do not have to go to Vegas & get married by someone dressed up as Elvis. The idea of eloping has changed A LOT in just the last few years. When you Google the definition of “eloping” it says: “run away secretly in order to get married, especially without parental consent.” Again, this is NOT what eloping is anymore. I don’t think there is one exact definition of eloping, but to me - eloping is when you & your partner make the decision to have a wedding completely centered around the two of you. You’re not concentrating on putting on a party for other people or feeling like you have to include typical traditions. It’s a day focused around expressing your love (& most the time includes an epic adventure).
Are elopements just a trend?
Do I think elopements are becoming more popular? Absolutely. Do I think they are trendy? Absolutely. Do I think they’re going to stick around? Absolutely.
Elopements are on the rise, there’s no doubt about it. I do not think they are a trend that’s going to come & go though. Which makes me so happy. I LOVE that more couples are making the decision to have a day just about them. If a big, traditional wedding just doesn’t feel right to you - you’ve probably already started looking at the alternatives. I think it’s taken awhile for more people to start eloping because it’s felt a little taboo for so long. Couples have different reasons for eloping - whether it’s because of your relationship with your family or you just love the outdoors & want to center your day around that. When you’re surrounded by traditional weddings for so long & all the traditions that they entail - it can make you feel like that’s what you have to do. I’m here to tell you though that you can do whatever you want for your wedding.
Do you tell people that you’re eloping?
The easiest way to answer this is that you can tell people that you’re eloping. If you want to. By no means do you have to tell anyone, but the “new norm” is that elopements aren’t something you run away & do & don’t tell people about. It’s still your wedding day - you’re just choosing to make it a celebration centered completely around the two of you.
If you think it will be easier for you & your partner to tell the people in your life afterwards that you decided to elope, then that’s probably the right decision for you two! The hard truth is that, not everyone may understand why you don’t want a traditional wedding. You may feel pressure from certain people in your life to not elope or to still try to do things in a way that isn’t true to you. By eloping, you may feel like you’re making a selfish decision, but that’s okay! You’re allowed to be selfish - it’s your wedding!
If you do want to tell people beforehand - have a plan for how to tell them if you think they may want you to go a more traditional route. Talk to your friends & family & explain why having an elopement means so much.
Can you include your family/close friends in your elopement?
Absolutely! You’ll probably find a lot of photographers referring to this as an “intimate wedding” because typically now elopements are referring to when it’s just the couple, the officiant, & photographer (& possibly videographer). No matter what you call it though, yes, you can include others.
Whether it’s a destination location or somewhere close to home - by having others there, it may change or affect how you go about your elopement day. You may want to say your vows on top of a mountain, but that may be unrealistic to have family members hike up there with you. Your loved ones can be waiting down at the bottom for you to celebrate once you’ve made it ‘official’ or maybe you want to say your vows at a simpler location with others around you & then head up by yourselves after for photos. Or maybe you want to go the route of having the whole day be just the two of you & then celebrating with all your friends & family at a small reception or dinner later on.
You have a lot of options. And a lot of things may factor in to what you decide to do. This is where I can help you figure out a realistic timeline for the day, choosing locations, & what may be the best option for your day.
Is an elopement spur of the moment? Or can/do you plan it out?
This goes back to how elopements have changed a lot. Sometimes, elopements may still be spur of the moment. Plans change & people decide last minute that they don’t want to have a traditional wedding so in less than a month they plan an elopement.
I’d say this isn’t the typical thing to do anymore though. Just like a normal wedding - elopements take planning! You have to choose your attire, florals, photographer, videographer, hair & makeup artist & THE LOCATION! The best part about all of this is though - these are all decisions just focused around the two of you. You’re not figuring out plans for pleasing other people, which already makes the planing process a lot less stressful.
If you ask me though, if you know that you want to elope - don’t wait to plan it. You want to find vendors that feel right for your elopement day & most the time, you still will have to book things pretty far in advance (for photographers, it’s most typically a year). And when you factor in traveling - it’s still a lot to plan. I’m here to help you figure out all the details though.
Can I still include traditional things in my elopement?
Yes, absolutely! In case you haven’t picked up on this yet, you can do & include whatever you want.
Want to wait & see each other until you say your vows? You can!
Want to do a first look beforehand? You can!
Want to get ready together? You can!
Want to include something old, something new, something borrowed, & something blue? You can!
Want to write letters to each other & read them beforehand? You can!
You can include anything & everything or nothing at all. I’m here to help you plan it all & create your dream day, exactly how you imagine it.
*Bonus: Do you still go on a honeymoon if you elope?
I’d say this depends on where you decide to elope. If you’re choosing to stay in your home state for your elopement & just travel a few hours away, you’re probably still going to want to go somewhere for your honeymoon! If you’re traveling out of state or even out of the country though - the trip typically will be your honeymoon. You can plan your elopement at the beginning of the trip that way you can celebrate the rest of the time & use it as your honeymoon.
So… Should you elope?
If you ask me - yes. Without a doubt, I think you should elope. To me, eloping is one of the most romantic & intimate ways to begin your marriage. You’re focusing on just the two of you & your love & all the things that mean the most to your relationship.
This isn’t about what I think though - this is about what you want. Did you read this post & picture you & your partner saying your vows in a beautiful destination? Did the idea of not throwing a party for other people, but planning a day centered around exactly what you want excite you? Are you already looking up ‘best places to elope’? If you said yes to any of these - I think that should answer that eloping is probably right for you.
I want to help all the lovers & dreamers out there that want to take the not-so-typical route for their wedding day & plan an adventure solely around their love. For some, this may be a tough decision, but I’m here to help & plan all the details. If you have any questions about eloping or just want to chat - send me an email.
Samantha Rose Photography is a Phoenix, Arizona based elopement & intimate wedding photographer. She’s passionate about helping couples plan their dream adventure wedding focused around their love. When she’s not photographing couples she can be found hiking, planning her next trip, or binge watching Criminal Minds.
Phoenix, Arizona Elopement at Papago Park
Papago Park Elopement Inspiration
As an elopement photographer based in Phoenix - often times when people think of an adventure elopement in Arizona, they think you have to go up North towards Flagstaff & Sedona. The thing is - we can plan your elopement anywhere. This is a day structured around exactly what the two of you want. It’s your wedding day. If you want to celebrate with a small hike around Papago Park or go to the top of Cathedral Rock - then let’s do it! The beauty is that there are endless options & the only people we have to please are the two of you.
Five Things to Remember When it Comes to Eloping
No you don’t have to run off to Vegas in secret to elope. The definition of what an elopement is has changed a lot over the past few years. What it really is: two people that are in love that want their marriage celebration to be solely focused on just the two of them.
This day should be a true reflection of what your relationship is. There’s no specific guide book to follow. There’s no certain traditions you need to include. This is a time to make new traditions of your own.
There’s no doubt that the location of your elopement plays a big factor for the day. Do you want to explore someplace new? Someplace that means a lot to you both - like where you got engaged or went on your first date? Do you want to explore a whole new state? Once you start planning, think about what means the most to you & would represent your love.
Don’t forget the big draw to eloping is that it’s supposed to be a relaxed & stress free day! You’re not concerned about other people’s schedules, who is wearing what, or how many people you have to provide dinner for. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
As your photographer - I’m here for more than just taking photos & capturing memories. I’m here to plan your unique adventure. From location options, timeline planning, vendor recommendations, & all the in between. You are not planning this alone. Let’s start working on your epic elopement.
Have any questions about what goes into planning your dream day? Whether it’s about where to start, how to pick a location, or just the nitty-gritty details - let’s chat!
Phoenix Elopement Vendors Featured:
Photographer: Samantha Rose Photography
Florals: Prettiest Blooms
HMUA: Destiny Rosignolo
Dress: Brilliant Bridal
Suit: Nick’s Menswear
Samantha Rose Photography is a Phoenix, Arizona based elopement & intimate wedding photographer. When she’s not capturing couples in love she can be found hiking a new trail in the Valley, buying too many plants, or listening to a true crime podcast.