Intimate Sedona Elopement
First Look
I was honored to be the elopement photographer for Mariana and Izick. They wanted to hold an intimate elopement in the midst of the red rocks of Sedona. I consider Mariana and Izick’s day to be a true elopement: there were no other guests, just them. Usually when there are no guests present at an elopement, I act as a witness. The other witness for this elopement ceremony was the guitarist.
Mariana’s engagement ring was totally unique. Izick had it custom made especially for her.
While Mariana received finishing touches on her makeup, Izick waited patiently at the trailhead in a tiny corner of Sedona. Sedona can get very crowded at the more popular hikes, like Cathedral Rock. It’s nice to find spots like this that are more secluded and peaceful.
As they waited to see each other, Mariana and Izick held back their excitement. The Sedona red rocks made a breathtaking backdrop.
Needless to say, Izick’s breath was taken away when he saw Mariana.
Not all weddings need to have a first look. However, I strongly suggest that my couples have one. It creates ease for the couples to navigate the rest of the day, especially if they travel to several spots together.
There isn’t really an “aisle” for the bride to walk down at elopements, so a first look allows them to have that special moment of seeing each other for the first time.
Walk to the Sedona Elopement Ceremony
After the first look, there was a bit of a walk to get to the elopement ceremony location. We decided to create a loop, so we took the road on our way there. I snagged some pictures along the way as they skipped and ran down this quiet Sedona road.
Elopement Ceremony
Mariana and Izick never saw the elopement ceremony location beforehand, so it was a big surprise. Let’s Knot and Say We Did planned and organized this elopement ceremony, so they chose a spot beneath a tree overlooking Sedona. Izick exclaimed that the spot was perfect because the tree looked like it had been planted there purposefully.
Elopement Tequila Shots
Every elopement ceremony is different. I’ve seen Celtic hand-fasting ceremonies, branding creation ceremonies, shot ceremonies, and so much more. Elopements can be as special and unique as you want them to be. Mariana and Izick decided to take tequila shots to celebrate their vows. They created personalized glasses and a board to make it even more special.
Rich with Let’s Knot Weddings officiated the elopement, and poured out the tequila shots.
Exchanging Rings
Exchanging rings at an elopement symbolizes unity and eternity together. Most couples choose to exchange rings as a symbol of their love. This intimate Sedona elopement also had a ring exchanging ceremony.
First Dance
Mariana and Izick’s elopement was unique because they decided to hire a live musician. If you’re considering having a first dance, I highly recommend finding a musician that’s willing to join you to the ceremony. If you can’t find musician, at least bring a speaker loud enough for you to hear your first dance music. Playing your first dance on a smart phone guarantees you will only catch a few notes over the wind and other elements.
Signing the Marriage License
Sedona elopements usually don’t have tables to use for signing licenses. For this elopement, Mariana and Izick used each other’s backs to sign the marriage license. In Arizona, two witnesses are required to also sign the marriage license. At this Sedona elopement, the musician and the photographer (me) were the witnesses. Some elopements I’ve photographed in Sedona don’t include a musician. In these situations, you can ask a random hiker or someone at the trailhead to act as your witness.
Couples Portraits
As a photographer, golden hour is what I live for. Golden hour in Sedona creates the most dreamy lighting. Most photographers choose to take couples photos the hour before sunset to capture the golden light.
Sedona Elopement Photographer
If you’re curious about eloping in Sedona, don’t hesitate to reach out to me! We’ll go over locations, timelines, and other useful information about Sedona. I am a photographer, but I am also your guide to eloping in Sedona. Click HERE to get in touch with me.
You can also check out my blog on How to Elope in Sedona by clicking HERE.
Sedona Elopement Vendors
Planner/organizer: Lets Knot and Say We Did
Officiant: Rich from Lets Knot and Say We Did
Musician: Russel Allen
Hair and Makeup: Beauty By Bobby
Florals: Lets Bloom Designs
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