Fall Elopement In Sedona : Sedona Elopement Photographer

October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Fall Elopement In Sedona : Sedona Elopement Photographer

For their Fall Elopement in Sedona – Peyton and Chase knew exactly what they envisioned for their dream wedding day. “We knew from the beginning we wanted to get married somewhere in nature and surrounded by family and friends. Sedona, Arizona is one of the places that takes our breath away and the magic you feel when you arrive in town in unlike a lot of other spots in Arizona. We knew we could find a hybrid of including our “People” during the day but also having our goals hit as well. We were really looking forward to going off alone with you all to do our adventure portion and have that intimate post ceremony moments captured with the epic sunsets and red rocks!”

Sedona is known to be one of the most magical locations in Arizona. The energy vortexes attract many couples wanting a more spiritual feel for their Elopement days. Also while also having an abundance of nearby hiking trails, wineries, and resorts. It is perfect for those who want to make a weekend trip out of their Elopement! The possibilities for Eloping in Sedona are endless. Being an Arizona Wedding Photographer has given us the chance to experience Sedona many times and never gets old!

Peyton and Chase wanted epic views and a secluded location for their Fall Elopement in Sedona. Having visited Sedona many times, we jump at any chance to off-road in our Jeep in the beautiful red rocks! We scouted a few months before their big day to find the absolute perfect location for their off road adventure! Couples are able to do Pink Jeep Tours to access most spots but for a more intimate feel, we always recommend renting your own jeep for the weekend or jumping in the Jeep with us!

Peyton and Chase opted for a breathtaking Airbnb to get ready at. Big open windows with views of red rocks, tons of natural light and a cozy backyard to gather with their closest family and friends for an intimate dinner after their big adventure! It was the perfect place to tie together all of the celebrations for their fall elopement in Sedona. Having a hotel or Airbnb that has plenty of natural light and space for you to get ready the morning of your wedding is a must! They spent their wedding morning getting ready with their families, writing their vows to each other and spending time with their sweet son! It was super intimate and sentimental.

After they finished getting ready we headed to Bell Rock to have a ceremony with their friends and family surrounded by beautiful red rocks. I loved how they made it unique to themselves and had a family member play guitar as they walked down instead of using music and how guests surrounded them instead of it being in rows like a traditional wedding. For their fall elopement in Sedona, Chase and Peyton prioritized an off road adventure to soak in the views and moments together as much as they could. I took them off roading in the jeep to a secluded location where it was only us (and a few pink jeep tours passing through!) we enjoyed a beautiful sunset over the red rocks before heading back to the airbnb for an after glow party. They were welcomed in by guests with sparklers before popping a bottle of champagne and enjoying company and a delicious catered taco dinner! It was such a beautiful fall elopement in Sedona and so special to us to be able to document it!

If you are looking to elope in Sedona, make sure you check out my ultimate guide to eloping in Sedona to help kick start your planning!

VENDORS:

Photography: Charlotte Francis Photo
Florist: Mountain High Flowers
Dress: Made With Love (Australian Designer)
Suit: The Black Tux
Hair Stylist: Saskia Salon
Catering: 89 Agave Sedona
Chairs & Tables: The Event Co

Sedona Winter Elopement : Sedona Elopement Photographer

September 26, 2023October 19, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Sedona Winter Elopement | Sedona Elopement Photographer

This Sedona Winter elopement was chilly but man was it beautiful! Emma and Lauren traveled all the way from the UK to have their elopement day in Sedona and it was pure magic. When I first spoke with Emma and Lauren on the phone to start planning their special day they were originally torn between the idea of Eloping in Iceland or Eloping in Sedona. I am a HUGE fan of Iceland, we even had our own vow renewal there! But ultimately they decided that Sedona’s incredible views, red rocks and magical energy just couldn’t be beat, can you blame them?

Sedona is beautiful year round in my opinion but the season’s do have a big impact on where and when the best time to get married here is! Sedona is busiest during it’s peak tourist seasons which is typically September-November and February-March. The weather is beautiful during these months but you do have to worry about crowding in certain areas and traffic! We do not typically recommend having your wedding during the summer months in Sedona. Not only is it insanely hot but there are also higher chances of monsoon storms that can cause flash floods and be dangerous. Going into their Sedona Winter Elopement Emma and Lauren knew it would be chilly, they are used to it living in the UK but the snow was an awesome surprise!

When couples decide to elope with us we help build your elopement day photo timeline based on sunrise or sunset photos at the end of the day. Most couples prefer that golden hour sunset but Emma and Lauren had a really beautiful sentiment on doing their ceremony at sunrise. It was important to them as a couple to watch the sunrise together that morning so that they could watch the sun rise on this new chapter on their lives. We hiked to the peak overlooking the town of Sedona and had the place almost entirely to ourselves to read vows. It was super windy that morning so we did cut our time a little short here and went to a warmer area to enjoy views instead!

Our second hike of the day for Lauren and Emma’s Sedona Winter Elopement had stunning views of Cathedral Rock in the background and an area lower to enjoy the creek. We spent some time by the creek before they sat down to read hand written letters from their families back home and enjoy a pre packed charcuterie picnic box from Sedona Picnics with some champagne! It was the perfect little treat before our last hike of the day. Lauren and Emma absolutely loved Oak Creek Canyon, the rock formations were stunning and an absolute must see on their trip to Sedona! To our surprise the day before the elopement Sedona happened to get a TON of snow and we were able to spend some time enjoying a winter wonderland in Sedona.

Thank you so much Emma and Lauren for trusting me to capture your Sedona Winter Elopement, it was a day I absolutely won’t forget!

For more information on Sedona Elopements, check out our Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Sedona!

VENDORS:

Photographer: Charlotte Francis Photo
Videographer: Charlotte Francis Photo
Tux: King & Allen Tailoring
Dress: ASOS
Charcuterie Box: Sedona Picnics
Rings: Tiffany & Co.
Watch: Gucci
Bracelet: Tiffany & Co.
Trainers Gucci & Alexander McQueen

Red Agave Resort Wedding Sedona Micro Wedding

September 4, 2023September 4, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Red Agave Resort Wedding Sedona Micro Wedding | Sedona Elopement Photographer

Natalie and Kyle flew all the way from Georgia to have their Red Agave Resort Wedding in Sedona. Knowing how important family was and how they really wanted to be able to spend time with those they loved most and not be overwhelmed by a large guest count, they decided early on in planning that a micro wedding in Sedona would be the best fit for their vision of their wedding day. Micro weddings are a favorite of ours, they are truly the best of both worlds! With micro weddings you are able to have the intimate parts of a low guest count like an elopement but also celebrate with a small group of friends and family. If you are wanting to incorporate some values from traditional weddings, want a smaller guest count but still crave the adventure of epic nature bridals and extra quiet time just you and your partner, I highly recommend considering a micro wedding for your special day!

Natalie and Kyle love the outfoors and the red rocks were so special to them as a couple! When it came time to deciding where they wanted to say i do, choosing a Red Agave Resort Wedding was a no brainer. Red Agave Resort is awesome in so many ways but a few that really sealed the deal for the couple was the insane red rock views from the property, the ability to transform the space to fit their vision of the day and the fact that the resort allows guests to stay in their a-frames making it super convenient for guests traveling for the wedding!

Picking favorite photos from Natalie and Kyle’s Red Agave Resort Wedding was SO hard. They are truly such kind, fun, genuine and easy people to photograph! They were truly just so excited to celebrate their love with eachother and their families the entire day felt like a party with family! A few things I absolutely loved that the couple did to incorporate more of the things they loved were the incredible details that Natalie had set aside for me to photograph.Natalie spent so much time picking every little detail to incorporate and I could definitely tell! I also really loved the taco bar, the neon sign for photo ops for guests, the live music and super cozy family style table they used to create an intimate setting for dinner!

If you loved this Sedona blog and are interested in more Sedona tips, make sure to check out our guide on eloping in Sedona!

Vendors:

Venue: Red Agave Resort

Photographer: Charlotte Francis Photo

Video: Charlotte Francis Photo

Rentals: I Do Rentals / Retro Event Rentals

Makeup: Superstition Makeup Co

Bartenders: Arizona Bartenders

Live Band: Ben and Kassie with my One and Only Band

Cake: Take The Cake AZ

Catering: Modern Tortilla

Flowers: Sedona Florist

Sky Ranch Lodge Wedding in Sedona

August 26, 2023August 26, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Sky Ranch Lodge Wedding in Sedona | Arizona Elopement Photographer

Patrick and Brooke’s Sky Ranch Lodge Wedding in Sedona is one of our absolute favorite weddings to date! There are many reasons why this venue is one of Sedona’s most sought after venues to get married. The venue rests on the side of a cliff overlooking the stunning red rocks high up in the clouds. It truly feels like you are getting married in the sky!

One of our absolute favorite things about photographing weddings is the relationships we get to form with our couples. Patrick and Brooke put all of their trust in us on their wedding day and allowed us to capture them and their families in such a beautiful way! They focused only on each other and let us do the rest so they could spend their wedding day enjoying the company of their closest friends and family surrounded by all of Sedona’s beauty.

One thing that really stood out to me during Patrick and Brooke’s Sky Ranch Lodge Wedding was the time they took into carefully considering all details and really making sure they incorporated things that were special to them as a couple. They were planning a move to Germany shortly after the wedding and make sure to share a cheers cliff side during bridals with some local Germany beers! I also loved them bringing their sweet puppy in for a few photos during reception!

Patrick and Brooke chose the most stunning color palette for their Sky Ranch Lodge Wedding. Warm yellows, oranges, pinks and reds were the perfect colors to accentuate Sedona’s rich color palette. They also chose to decorate with dried florals, macrame and gold accents inside of their reception tent to welcome guests in after enjoying the sunset over the red rocks. Pair that with a pizza bar, some delicious bundt cakes and an awesome DJ and their guests were in for an incredible night!

Thank you Patrick and Brooke for trusting us to capture such a special day for you two!

Vendors :

Venue : Sky Ranch Lodge in Sedona

Photographer : Charlotte Francis Photo

DJ : 7000 Feet of Sound

Pizza : Doughlicious

Bundt Cakes : Nothing Bundt Cakes

Spring Micro Wedding in Arizona

August 26, 2023August 26, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Spring Micro Wedding in Arizona | Arizona Elopement Photographer

For their Spring Micro Wedding in Arizona – Kelly and Ty knew exactly what they wanted to bring their dream day to life. Kelly and Ty dreamed of an intimate and meaningful celebration with their closest friends and family. While we planned their wedding day we originally thought something near the base of the Superstition Mountains could be a good option as the couple loved the idea of a dreamy golden sun drenched wedding. Kelly’s parents offered to hold their wedding at their beautiful Scottsdale home. They knew that they wanted to keep their wedding day small and intimate and holding it at their parents home made it that much more special!

When clients decide on having a Micro Wedding in Arizona our number one tip, especially when the micro wedding is not at a venue or space that typically holds weddings, is to make sure that wherever the couple decides on has plenty of good light and ample photo opportunities. Kelly and Ty’s family home was nothing short of perfection, they could not have had a more stunning wedding location if they tried! The home was only a few minutes away from the mayo clinic hiking trail where we went for their first look and bridal photos prior to their ceremony. After the ceremony we explored the backyard that opened into an expansive desert with tons of beautiful golden light, cacti and mountains!

Kelly and Ty shared hand written vows in front of guests during their ceremony. We were able to capture some of their family and friends reactions to their sweet words to each other as well. Hand written vows are always so special to witness at weddings. A little tip if you are getting married and stressed about vows – write them the day of! Some will say that it is crazy to wait or that it’s bad because it is last minute, but several couples have actually told us they prefer to write their vows the morning of! Writing your vows the day of your wedding is actually much easier because you are so in the moment already that words come easier than they normally would. Another bonus, you get cute photos of you writing your vows too if you wait until the big day!

Their reception space was created with the help of their amazing wedding planner. They were able to transform the ceremony space into an intimate and elegant space where guests could mingle near the fireplace with the dim lit candles, enjoy the delicious food from the personal chef team they hired – who were absolutely PHENOMENAL! and listen to music while they enjoyed each others company. It was the most beautiful Micro Wedding in Arizona and we were honored to be able to capture every minute of it!

Vendors :

Coordinator: Weddings By Heather Renee

Photographer: Charlotte Francis Photo

Florals: The Floral Theory

Rentals: Material Girls Weddings & The Event Co

Cakes: A. Cakes Bakery

Violimist: Selin Eskandarian Esko Violin

Catering: Lil Leto Catering

Dress: Alice in Ivory

Shoes: Harlo

Hair and Makeup: Le Beige Beauty

Invites/Menu: August and White

Welcome Bar and Sign: TSE Calligraphy

Mount Lemmon Elopement | Arizona Elopement Photographer

August 16, 2023August 16, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Mount Lemmon Elopement | Arizona Elopement Photographer

Kassidy and Owen celebrated their Mount Lemmon Elopement just the two of them and their sweet baby boy! Mount Lemmon is located in Tucson, Arizona and was the perfect location for their special day. Not only is this location insanely gorgeous and so versatile but it also holds such a sentimental meaning to the couple. When they first began dating Owen would take Kassidy on dates to Mount Lemmon to look out at the city lights after a hike and enjoy the views, being able to bring them back to celebrate so many years later was so surreal!

This Mount Lemmon elopement took place in January of this year! The weather was still chilly and some areas even had snow. The really awesome thing about Mount Lemmon is the versatile scenery you will see here though! The top of the mountain may have been chilly with snow and intense wind but the base was comfortable and covered in saguaros and sun while the middle of the mountain is covered with lush forest. It is truly one of my favorite locations to bring couples because it is a location where you can really experience it all!

Kassidy and Owen knew that including climbing was an absolute must for their elopement day! This climb was extra special for them though because this was the first rock they climbed when Owen taught Kassidy many years ago, they used to climb on date night together and watch the city lights and now this is the rock where they shared their vows many years later. Thank you so much Kassidy and Owen for letting me capture such an incredible day for you two!

Head to my contact page to book with me as your elopement photographer so that I can create a magical experience for you as well 🙂

20 of Arizona’s Best Wedding Venues To Check Out Right Now

August 2, 2023August 2, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

20 of Arizona’s Best Wedding Venues To Check Out Right Now | Arizona Wedding Photographer

Come along and view our personal guide to Arizona’s Best Wedding Venues! Arizona is one of the warmest and sunniest states in the United States. From it’s sun drenched deserts, saguaros, canyons, mountains and unbeatable sunsets it is no wonder couples travel from all over the world to plan their wedding here!

Arizona’s Best Wedding Venues : Desert

The Paseo

Apache Junction, Arizona

There is no better place for a true Arizona wedding than The Paseo. It is carefully placed at the foot of the majestic Superstition Mountains, surrounded by picturesque native Sonoran Desert; a romantic, completely unique, private outdoor venue. Their motivated staff will ensure your special day is everything you could ever imagine. The Paseo is also family owned and operated making it that much more special!

Inquire about booking The Paseo here!

El Chorro

Paradise Valley, Arizona

El Chorro is an absolutely magical venue to get married and one of Arizona’s best wedding venues in our opinion. Framed by Cambelback mountain and saguaros galore, El Chorro provides a stunning backdrop for weddings. You have access to both the luxurious indoor reception space as well as the outdoors that holds beautiful desert landscape for photos. The space is completely customizable as well giving you the freedom to truly have the wedding ceremony and reception of your dreams!

Inquire about booking with El Chorro here!

Desert View

Apache Junction, Arizona

Desert View is one of Arizona’s newest all-inclusive wedding venues located in Apache Junction. They are set to open in Fall 2023 but we have already had so many of our own couples book this beautiful space! Desert View has two buildings with three distinct areas: the Event Center, the Chapel and the Outdoor Ceremony Location, all with stunning mountain views of the Superstitions!

Inquire about booking Desert View here!

Mountain Shadows

Paradise Valley, Arizona

Say your “I Do’s” in an unforgettable desert setting. Mountain Shadows sits between Camelback and the Mummy Mountains creating the perfect desert backdrop for any wedding celebration! Not only does this venue have a stunning lawn to hold your ceremony but the overlook deck with Camelback Mountain views is the perfect space to enjoy your reception dinner as the sun sets. There is also a ballroom available for couples who wish to have an indoor reception in warmer months!

Inquire about booking Mountain Shadows here!

Arizona’s Best Wedding Venues : Garden

Stonebridge Manor

Mesa, Arizona

Set among lush gardens, Stonebridge Manor by Wedgewood Weddings is an enchanting setting that draws the eye to the magnificent mansion, featuring a choice of climate-controlled modern reception rooms, grand staircases, and large picture windows that flood the event space with natural light. Stonebridge has two options for couples a garden pavillion or a manor courtyard.

Inquire about booking Stonebridge Manor here!

The Meadow : Schnepf Farms

Queen Creek, Arizona

The Meadow is ideal for couples hoping for a quiet, private wedding set in nature. This lush green meadow is tucked away in a 25-year old pine forest, creating an enchanting atmosphere for your big day, with wooden benches, a ceremony arch, and birds chirping around you. The venue will provide large farm tables with benches for you and your guests. It’s a perfect escape for an enchanting wedding of up to 200 guests!

Inquire about booking The Meadow here!

Venue At The Grove

Phoenix, Arizona

Venue at the Grove is perfect for those wanting a lush, shaded and intimate wedding experience. Surrounded by an orchard of pecan trees The Grove provides an environment that lets you escape the Arizona desert scenery and heat.

Inquire about booking with Venue at The Grove here!

The Farm at South Mountain

Phoenix, Arizona

The Farm at South Mountain offers the most unique wedding experience in Phoenix. Voted “Best Wedding Venue in Arizona” by several industry magazines, The Farm’s beautiful gardens and lush Arizona landscape make it a naturally perfect place to tie the knot!

Guests will be instantly transported to another world as they enter the large grassy property with its expansive grove of pecan trees, bright blooming flowers, and enchanting spaces. Evening transforms this beautiful 10-acre property into a romantic wonderland of magical twinkling lights. Dine among the trees, dance under the stars, and celebrate a night truly worth remembering.

Inquire about booking the Farm at South Mountain here!

Gather Estate

Mesa, Arizona

Gather Estate provides the perfect mix of formality, comfort, and class that couples want to receive wedding guests. The atmosphere is perfect for those looking to have a more low-key, intimate gathering among the orchard trees. Indoor and outdoor space availability is also a huge plus at this venue along with the owner Shelley, she is super involved and is always a hit with all couples!

Inquire about booking Gather Estate here!

Arizona’s Best Wedding Venues : Modern

The Croft

Phoenix, Arizona

The Croft Downtown is unlike any other venue in the Phoenix area. The Croft Downtown offers urban cement floors and wood trellised ceilings, paired with stylish and chic décor to create an elegant yet comfortable ambience. This venue is equipped with an enchanting rustic ceremony area and a dedicated lofty reception space for dinner, dancing and entertainment.

Inquire about booking The Croft here!

The Ice House

Phoenix, Arizona

The Ice House has an industrial dream perfect for couples who want to add a flair all their own. Couples can let their imagination run free with this blank canvas venue, the owner has a huge collection of antiques as well that help make couples dreams a reality! The courtyard is absolutely stunning especially at night with the chandelier, the reception space is lit with candles and the perfect moody vibe, they also have an art gallery area for you to hold cocktail hour!

Inquire about booking The Ice House here!

Hotel Valley Ho

Scottsdale, Arizona

From an intimate celebration to a glittering gala, Hotel Valley Ho is the perfect setting for the wedding of your dreams. Originally opened in 1956 and fully restored, the hotel is a true icon of 1950s modernism in Downtown Scottsdale. Enjoy stunning venues like the lush Palm Courtyard and panoramic Sky Line Rooftop atop the seven-story Tower.

Inquire about booking Hotel Valley Ho here!

The Clayton House

Chandler, Arizona

The Clayton House is a dynamic space for all occasions! Previously an abandoned postal storage warehouse, this family-owned venue was renovated to become a one-of-a-kind wedding and event space merging past with present, making this an unparalleled backdrop for your event. Keeping the original frame and character throughout, the space has been renovated into a wedding and event space!

Inquire about booking The Clayton House here!

Northern Arizona Venues

Sky Ranch Lodge

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona Sky Weddings at historic Sky Ranch Lodge is family owned and operated by the Graham family for over 35 years. Sky Ranch Lodge offers premier views of the majestic Sedona Red Rocks along with lodging on site!

Inquire about booking The Sky Ranch Lodge here!

Red Agave Resort

Sedona, Arizona

Red Agave Resort provides a lovely outdoor venue for your wedding and accommodations for your guests, all in an intimate setting amidst a backdrop of stunning red rocks. There are also lodges available for guests to stay overnight on property and a beautiful hiking trail on the property to go off and take scenic wedding photos!

Inquire about booking Red Agave Resort here!

L’Auberge

Sedona, Arizona

At L’Auberge ceremonies may be set in an array of breathtaking backdrops. When booking this venue you have the choice of a hilltop canopy with sweeping red rock views or with flowing Oak Creek as both scenery and soundtrack.

Inquire about booking with L’Auberge here!

Tlaquepaque

Sedona, Arizona

Tlaquepaque offers beauty and charm in the heart of Sedona, Arizona. Specialized in intimate weddings, the vine covered stucco walls, cobble stoned walkways, arched entryways and elegant plazas, provide you with a magical place to design the wedding of your dreams and make forever memories.

Inquire about booking with Tlaquepaque here!

Aldea Wedding In The Woods

Flagstaff, Arizona

The Woods is an outdoor venue set in the gorgeous Flagstaff forest. Ceremony space set amongst the trees, a heated open air pavillion for dining, and 3,000sqft of twinkle lit decking for dancing the night away under the stars! It’s one of our favorite venues in Northern Arizona to give you that perfect forest wedding vibe.

Inquire about working with Aldea Weddings In The Woods here!

Arizona Nordic Village

Flagstaff, Arizona

Arizona Nordic Village is a unique venue in the Flagstaff pines. We love that you are able to rent yurts for wedding, hike around the property and stargaze in the woods without the pollution of city lights. This venue is perfect for anyone looking for an intimate forest wedding in Flagstaff! (stock photo from website!)

Inquire about booking Arizona Nordic Village here!

Cabins On Strawberry Hill

Strawberry, Arizona

Cabins on Strawberry Hill is pefect for you if you are looking for an inclusive venue with everything you need for your wedding in the Flagstaff pines including on site accommodations! Near Payson in the small charming town of Strawberry is the venue Cabins on Strawberry Hill! It’s a pretty short drive away from the Phoenix area and has most vendors you’ll need in their packages!

Inquire about booking with Cabins on Strawberry Hill here!

If you loved this guide but are wanting more of an elopement vibe for your wedding day, make sure you check out my blog on finding the perfect elopement location in Arizona!

What to do if there’s rain on your wedding day?

July 26, 2023July 26, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

What to do if there’s rain on your wedding day? : Arizona Elopement Photographer

We have all heard the phrase “rain on your wedding day is good luck!” When it comes to your wedding day, seeing that ominous rain cloud can feel like the end of the world and instantly send couples into a panic. Whether the weather calls for a light drizzle or shows a downpour the entire day, it is understandable that couples obsessively check the weather and wonder what the heck they are going to do if it does in fact rain on their wedding day. There are a million questions that run through our couples heads – Will our outfits be ruined? How will our photos turn out if it’s pouring rain? Of course, in a perfect world we would have immaculate lighting all day, perfect temps and not a cloud in sight! Rain on your wedding day does NOT have to be a buzzkill though! We try to remind our couples that the weather is ultimately out of your hands and there is no use in stressing over something that has yet to happen, but that does not mean there is no need for a backup plan!

Do we really need a rain plan?

Whether your wedding is in Arizona, where we get nearly no rain 90% of the year or in Oregon where it rains more often than not – yes you need a plan! It could seem silly if you are getting married in an area where it does not rain often but being prepared is key to having a stress free wedding experience and you will thank yourself if the day comes and it does in fact show signs of a drizzle!

Here are 6 tips to help you stay ahead and feel prepared for any weather issues that may pop up!

1. Keep tabs on the weather app

If you are worried about rain on your wedding day, checking the weather app can help you feel a little more in control. The week of your wedding is best to check in my opinion since things can change so often there is no use in stressing over something that has not happened yet. As you get into the week of your wedding if it still is showing rain you can make a plan of action for the day. Is the storm all day, just at morning or just at night? If it is one or the other you could always see about moving your ceremony to an earlier or later time. If it shows rain the entire time you can make a plan to shift your event to all indoors! Please know while yes it is helpful to keep tabs on the weather, checking too often can add to your stress so try and limit it to the week of for a more accurate read.

2. Talk to your Wedding Planner About What Rain on Your Wedding Day Means

If you do not have a wedding planner that you have hired, more than likely there is a contact at your venue that handles wedding coordination that you are in touch with during those final weeks. It is best to keep in touch with the day of contact, especially because they are familiar with the venue and have probably seen what other couples have done when bad weather hits. Your planner will be able to find an appropriate location at your venue or help create a plan of action in the event that it does rain on your wedding day.

3. Create a Back Up Plan

Before even booking a venue you should be thinking about the weather and how different scenarios could affect your wedding day. When touring wedding venues it is important to ask what the plan is if it does rain on your wedding day. Will the venue move the ceremony inside? Are you able to move the time of your ceremony? Does the venue provide a tent or have some sort of cover if they do not have an indoor space? These are all questions to consider when booking your venue. Having a back up plan in place helps to feel more in control of the situation and gives couples less stress when something goes wrong.

4. Come Prepared!

Rain on your wedding day does not have to be the end of the world! If you see rain in the forecast here are a few things you can pack to help to keep comfortable. You will need to bring an umbrella to stay under during the heavy rain if choosing to continue outside for your ceremony. On the plus side, clear umbrellas photograph beautifully and actually add some charm to your photos. We love using them! Another must is a change of shoes just in case one pair gets soggy. You will want to keep in mind wet grass and how easy it is to sink during rain. If your dress is long enough you could wear sneakers outside and change into heels later or you can find some heel protectors here! Having your makeup and hair stylist stay until after the ceremony to provide any touch ups from the rain is an amazing idea as well!

5. Keep Your Guests Comfortable If It Does Rain on Your Wedding Day

Keeping guests comfortable during any weather scenario is a big deal for couples. Just like during the summer heat couples provide guests with paper fans, in the winter there tends to be blankets to wrap with, etc. If you know there will be rain on your wedding day we always suggest getting umbrellas for guests to sit under during the ceremony. If you know far enough ahead you can even buy custom umbrellas that go with your wedding color palette to be more aesthetic!

6. Be Flexible and Embrace The Rain!

The biggest tip I can give you on your wedding day is to trust your vendors and embrace it! Working in the wedding industry for over 6 years I can not tell you how many events have had rain regardless of if it was a sprinkle or a downpour. The most important thing you can do is to embrace it. It is still your wedding day, rain or shine!

If you live in Arizona and are planning to elope, check out our blog on our top 10 locations to elope!

Sedona Elopement at Merry Go Round Rock : Arizona Elopement Photographer

July 25, 2023July 25, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Sedona Elopement at Merry Go Round Rock

For their Sedona Elopement – Sam and Emily knew exactly what they wanted to bring their dream day to life. Sam and Emily told me when planning their dream elopement day : “We knew that a traditional wedding wasn’t for us. Deciding where to elope was easy! We both wanted to travel somewhere we have have never been, and Sedona sold us both very quickly.” Sedona is known to be one of the most magical locations in Arizona. The energy vortexes attract many couples wanting a more spiritual feel for their Elopement. Also while also having an abundance of nearby hiking trails, wineries, and resorts. It is perfect for those who want to make a weekend trip out of their Elopement! The possibilities for Eloping in Sedona are endless. Being an Arizona Wedding Photographer has given us the chance to experience Sedona many times and never gets old.

Having visited Sedona many times, we have also had a chance to off-road in our Jeep. Being able to access those difficult off-road trails that couples come to love and desire for an epic overlook for photos! Couples are able to do Pink Jeep Tours to access most spots but for a more intimate feel, we always recommend renting your own jeep for the weekend or jumping in the Jeep with us!

Emily and Sam opted for a cozy Airbnb to get ready for their Sedona Elopement. Having a hotel or Airbnb that has plenty of natural light and space for you to get ready the morning of your wedding is a must! They spent their wedding morning getting ready and writing vows to each other in the kitchen – it was super intimate and sentimental and all about just them, which is exactly what they wanted! After they finished getting ready we took separate cars and headed to a stunning creek in Sedona to do their first look together. We highly recommend weekdays for Elopements so that you can have the entire space to yourself and don’t have to

worry about crowds!

After an intimate first look, Emily and Sam were off to our favorite off road location in Sedona for more fun! Merry Go Round Rock is one of our favorite, more secluded places to bring our couples who decide on a Sedona Elopement. Merry Go Round is only accessible via an offroad vehicle so typically our couples can only access this location if they book a Pink Jeep Tour or hop in our jeep with us! Still wanting to incorporate some activities from a traditional wedding, the couple decided to share a first dance cliffside surrounded by Sedona’s beautiful red rocks. A little tip if you are eloping and wondering what kind of activities can we include to make our elopement day be THAT much more special? Check out my blog on what activities to include in your elopement day!

One of the things they looked forward to most about their Sedona Elopement was the beautiful views they could share during their vows and sunset photos. They had a jaw dropping view of the red rocks as the sun set along with blue hour overlooking the valley. Back at the Airbnb, Sam and Emily finished the night stargazing and enjoying s’mores fireside. It was an absolute dream ending to their Elopement in Sedona.

What Elopement Activities You Can Include In Your Big Day

April 3, 2023April 3, 2023 ~ Charlotte Francis Photo

Elopement Day Activities : How To Make The Most Of Your Elopement Day

So… you want to get married in a way that represents you as a couple and ditch the stress of a traditional wedding? Our couples come to us from all over the world wanting to plan their dream wedding in an incredible scenic location, but your wedding day is so much more than just a pretty spot to take photos! Sure, elopement days do not include the many activities that traditional weddings hold but that does not make it any less of an experience! Instead of focusing time and money on a huge production for guests, couples are deciding to elope and instead prioritize a day filled with places and activities that are special to them as a couple.

There are many ways to get married, your wedding day does not have to be a one size fits all. If skipping the traditional festivities and planning a once in a lifetime experience sounds more up your alley, consider eloping!

Aside from the vows and ceremony, what do couples actually do on their elopement day? When it comes to helping our clients with planning, this is always the first question we get! We created this to help more couples discover that their elopement day can be anything they dream of and to spark some inspiration on different activities that can be included on the big day to help your experience be unforgettable and everything you could wish for on a wedding day.

Let’s dive in, what is an Elopement?

An elopement can mean different things to anyone. An elopement can be a quick courthouse wedding, a ceremony with just the two of you, an intimate gathering to get married, I could go on and on. For me personally, an elopement is an intimate experience that focuses on the couple and creating an intentional celebration of your love. When couples choose to elope, they prioritize themselves and their experiences instead of feeling obliged to perform in traditional activities that they do not align with.

Couples elope because they want the type of wedding day that they truly enjoy and are excited about. Your wedding day should never feel like a stressful time and planning should not feel like you are checking a box off of a list. a day they want to relive time and time again. Eloping does not necessarily mean it is only you and your partner either. Your celebration can include family, your closest friends or even just the two of you if you prefer it that way. The beauty in eloping is that it can truly look however you want.
A common misconception with elopements are that they are somehow looked at as less of an experience than a traditional wedding, which is absolutely not the case. Elopement days are just as important, and in my personal belief, even more special because you are choosing to go against traditional beliefs to create a day that is tailored to you and your relationship. You deserve just as much documentation and celebration regardless of the way you decide to say “I do.”

How could an elopement even last all day if it’s just me and my partner?

Listen, I totally get how a full day of coverage can seem like a bit much when there is only two of you. The idea of having photos clicked for a full 6-8 hours on your wedding day can feel daunting, but the day goes by so quickly! While it is not a traditional wedding yes, IT IS STILL YOUR WEDDING DAY!
For us, we absolutely are not clicking photos all day long! We create an experience for our couples, so while we may be together the entire day do not stress about needing to be photo ready at all times. Our time together could look like cooking a meal, writing vows, going on a hike, laughing together, exploring new places and stargazing and boom! 6 hours. Your wedding day will truly be a whirlwind of a day and I promise you will want every second documented.

Your wedding day deserves documentation, whether it’s just the two of you or with a full guest count. With traditional weddings it is standard to get 7+ hours of coverage. From start to finish traditional weddings are documented, what makes your wedding day deserve any less?

How to Start Planning Your Elopement Activities

Close your eyes and envision your absolute perfect day from start to finish. Are you enjoying a quiet morning together sipping coffee and reading a book or writing your vows? Are you cooking lunch together and having a picnic at your favorite spot? Are you taking a new hike or trying something brand new for the first time like zip lining or a hot air balloon? Are you in the desert in Arizona or chasing a waterfall in Iceland? Are you traveling to a new location or somewhere familiar and sentimental?

When it comes to envisioning the day, try and let go of realistic expectations and what seems logical. Focus on creating a day that will align with you, give you joy and excitement and be the most incredible experience of your life. That’s what your wedding day should be about! Ignore what social media says to do, what your family expects of you and what society deems appropriate as a wedding. Your wedding day is all about celebrating your love in the most intentional way.

20+ Elopement Activities You Can Enjoy On Your Wedding Day

Elopements are not a one size fits all. Your elopement experience should be so much more than just exchanging your vows and snapping a few quick photos. When it comes to deciding what activities to include on your wedding, ask yourself what makes us happy? What do we enjoy doing together? Is there a new place we want to see or a new thing we have been dying to try out? Is there a sentimental activity we can incorporate? The options are truly endless! Here are a few of our favorite ideas you can incorporate to have an out of this world elopement experience!

Adventurous Elopement Activities

Stargazing
Have a campfire with s’mores!
First dance by a campfire or under the stars
Sparklers
Make breakfast together
Have a picnic
Go to a craft brewery
Hiking
Backpacking
Jeep off-roading
Helicopter tour
Kayaking
Rock climbing
Snorkeling
Snowshoeing
Skiing or Snowboarding
Zip-lining
Watch the sunrise or sunset
Hot Air balloon
Taking a bath together
Read a book
Go horseback riding
Yoga
Play an instrument or listen to music
Read letters from family and friends
Write letters to each other to open on an anniversary
Paint together
Soak in hot spring or lagoon

If you need some help on where to start planning your elopement, check out our 10-step-guide on how to elope! Wandering Weddings also has a great blog on Elopements and how to help couples decide if Eloping is the right decision for them, check that out here!

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Here are 6 tips to help you stay ahead and feel prepared for any weather issues that may pop up!

1. Keep tabs on the weather app

2. Talk to your Wedding Planner About What Rain on Your Wedding Day Means

3. Create a Back Up Plan

4. Come Prepared!

5. Keep Your Guests Comfortable If It Does Rain on Your Wedding Day

6. Be Flexible and Embrace The Rain!

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What Elopement Activities You Can Include In Your Big Day

Elopement Day Activities : How To Make The Most Of Your Elopement Day

How could an elopement even last all day if it’s just me and my partner?

How to Start Planning Your Elopement Activities

20+ Elopement Activities You Can Enjoy On Your Wedding Day

Adventurous Elopement Activities

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