Eloping in Phoenix AZ

Does the idea of desert vibes mixed with urban sophistication sound like the perfect combo for your elopement? Here’s what you need to know about eloping in Phoenix, AZ!

 Why you Should be Eloping in Phoenix, AZ

Nestled in the heart of Arizona, Phoenix has a vibrant cityscape framed by iconic saguaro cacti and the majestic Superstition Mountains on its doorstep. You can have the best of both worlds: wide open desert landscapes and big city vibes. There are plenty of hidden gems around the city that would make the perfect destination for an elopement!

This is truly a destination with everything you need: diverse landscapes, luxurious hotels, world-class dining, and even Old Town Scottsdale with it’s Western flair (which I love, of course!). Whether you envision exchanging vows out in the desert dotted with cholla and saguaro cacti or seeking thrilling adventures like hot air balloon rides or off-roading, Phoenix gives you endless possibilities for creating your dream elopement.

Phoenix Elopement Locations

When you’re looking to plan your elopement, you can go one of two ways: you can choose a venue to still give you the feel of a typical wedding day, or you can choose more of an adventure elopement out in nature. Here are a few Phoenix elopement locations that I love!

Lost Dutchman State Park

If you’re wanting the vibes of an adventure elopement, but want the convenience of being close to Phoenix, Lost Dutchman State Park is your best bet! This location perfectly fits exactly what you’d want for an Arizona elopement: desert plant life, plenty of cacti, dramatic mountains, and the stunning golden sunsets. It is such a beautiful place to explore and it creates a stunning backdrop for an elopement!

It has ramadas, trails, and campgrounds that can all be used for your elopement or wedding, or you can keep it simple and just choose a ceremony spot with the mountain backdrop! There are some locations in the park that may take more of a hike, but for this session it was just a short walk to over to an area filled with cacti and unobstructed views of the stunning mountains.

The Paseo

Nestled at the base of the Superstition Mountains, The Paseo offers a private outdoor venue perfect for weddings and events. This stunning location has lush grass ceremony areas with a raised stage that gives you amazing views of the mountains and the Sonoran Desert. If you do have guests for your elopement, they would enter through the most elegant iron gates into the beautifully landscaped property.

From sunset cocktail hours overlooking the majestic Superstitions to its intimate, family-operated charm, The Paseo provides a unique Arizona wedding experience. Established in 2014 out of a love for Arizona’s beauty, this venue ensures every detail is meticulously cared for, creating an elopement experience that will be unforgettable!

The Andaz

Tucked away in the vibrant Sonoran Desert near Old Town Scottsdale, the Andaz is not only a top-notch resort, but also an incredible setting for weddings and elopements. Spread across 23 acres of lush landscapes against the backdrop of Camelback Mountain and the desert’s vivid hues, this venue seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern sophistication.

Featuring expansive outdoor lawns, cactus gardens, and stylish indoor spaces totaling 45,000 square feet, the Andaz can provide both an intimate location for your elopement, as well as the convenience of staying right on the property. This venue is a perfect combo of elegance and the allure of Arizona’s desert landscapes.

The Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain Resort

Located in Paradise Valley, Arizona, Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain Resort is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas across its expansive 53-acre property. This exclusive resort caters perfectly to intimate gatherings, ensuring privacy and tranquility throughout your event.

If you’re wanting gourmet dining on top of a beautiful location, this is your spot! They provide themselves on having top-notch dining, which can add so much to your experience. You can choose from multiple event spaces, including the Views Ballroom, Sunset Room, and Praying Monk dining room, each with unique charm. With special perks like a complimentary honeymoon suite for guest counts over 50, Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain Resort provides everything needed to create a memorable and luxurious elopement experience.

Desert Botanical Gardens

Located on the borders of Tempe, Scottsdale, and Phoenix, Desert Botanical Garden is filled with natural beauty and the desert plant life that makes this part of the country so breathtaking. This beautiful venue has both indoor and outdoor spaces, scenic courtyards, and open-air pavilions, including the Steele Herb Garden giving you breathtaking sunset views.

For anyone who’s obsessed with cacti, mountains, and greenery like I am, Desert Botanical Garden is an ideal choice for an elopement. It can accommodate up to 40 guests, if you want to bring along some of your favorite people. And, it’s perfect for hosting out-of-town guests that want to experience the dreamy landscape of Arizona.

Eloping in Phoenix AZ: When is the Right Time?

Choosing the time for your Phoenix elopement is crucial to ensure you have the best day. Fall, winter, and spring are undoubtedly the best seasons, each offering distinct advantages. Fall provides warmth, winter brings cooler temperatures, and spring showcases blooming flowers and revitalized landscapes. These seasons offer ideal conditions for a memorable elopement in Phoenix.

On the other hand, Phoenix summers are not the most ideal time for outdoor events. While the area boasts a “dry heat,” summers can be exceptionally hot, especially during the daytime. If you’re planning an elopement during summer months, it’s essential to take precautions to stay comfortable and safe in the heat.

Regardless of the season, scheduling your elopement on a weekday is your best choice. Weekdays typically offer more privacy and intimacy, particularly at popular ceremony locations in Phoenix.

How to Elope in Arizona

To legally marry in Arizona, begin by obtaining an Arizona marriage license. Procedures and requirements may differ from your home state, so understanding Arizona’s guidelines is essential. Both partners must visit a Justice Court office together to apply in person.

Arizona Marriage Laws:

• License Filing Fee: $83
• Legal Age to Get Married: 18
• Waiting Period: None (marriage can occur immediately after obtaining the license)
• Witnesses Needed: 2 witnesses over the age of 18
• License Expiration: 12 months from issuance date
• Blood Test Required? No
• Arizona Residency Required? No

If planning to marry on public lands such as national or state parks in Arizona, make sure to have the specific wedding permits. These permits ensure compliance with park regulations, which may include location restrictions, setup guidelines, and facility usage. For more details on obtaining these permits and specific requirements, visit the official website of the chosen park.

Arizona Elopement Photographer

Hi, I’m Lo, an Arizona Elopement Photographer and I will forever be obsessed with the desert vibes in Arizona! It has so much incredible natural beauty and plenty of opportunities to explore, so I’m always ready to go back. So if you’re looking for someone to help you plan your Arizona elopement + tell your love story, I’d love to chat!