Helping Queer Couples Elope Right Now

LGBTQ+ Couples: How to Elope Quickly in Phoenix, Arizona

Helping queer couples elope right now! Many LGBTQ+ couples feel the urgency to make their partnership legal as soon as possible. Elopements offer a deeply personal way to celebrate love, especially during times of urgency. Whether you’re planning your elopement due to time-sensitive concerns or simply want an intimate ceremony in the Scottsdale or Phoenix, Arizona area, we’re here to help you.

This guide will help you explore beautiful ceremony locations, share personalization ideas, recommend trusted vendors, and provide tips for creating a heartfelt experience—no matter how quickly you’re planning your elopement.

Elopement Ceremony Locations in Phoenix

Helping queer couples elope right now all starts with the ceremony location! Phoenix is home to diverse landscapes and venues perfect for a romantic elopement. For all of these locations we recommend keeping your guest list under 10 people, this will remove a lot of stress. Here are our favorite ceremony locations for an elopement:

1. Papago Park
   • Known for its iconic red rock formations, this park provides a stunning desert backdrop. The Hole-in-the-Rock area is the most popular area of the park, and it’s usually pretty crowded. But we know of a few secret spots that are just perfect for a small and private ceremony.
2. Desert Botanical Garden
   • This breathtaking garden showcases the unique beauty of Arizona’s desert landscape. With vibrant cacti, blooming succulents, and curated pathways. It offers a magical setting for an intimate ceremony. Remember to budget for the entrance fee for all of your guests.
3. South Mountain Park
   • Perfect for adventure-loving couples, South Mountain offers sweeping desert vistas and secluded trails. Dobbins Lookout is a favorite spot for breathtaking views at golden hour. There are many trails with beautiful and secluded vignettes for your ceremony to take place. Make sure all of your guests wear the proper footwear to hike a little bit.
4. Courthouse Elopement
   • A simple and timeless option, getting married at the Maricopa County Superior Court is an efficient and stress-free choice. Judges or justices of the peace can officiate your ceremony, and the courthouse offers an intimate setting for exchanging vows. Perfect for couples looking for a low-cost option with a city vibe!
5. Private Homes or Family Properties
   • A family home or private property can be a meaningful venue that’s close to your heart. Whether it’s your childhood backyard or a relative’s garden, this option adds a lot of personalization and can be very cost effective.

Elopement Celebration Ideas After the Ceremony

Once you’ve exchanged vows, celebrate your love with a memorable experience. Here are some unique ideas to make your post-ceremony celebration special:

1. Dinner at a Fine Dining Restaurant
   • Durant’s: A Phoenix institution known for its classic steakhouse vibe, perfect for an intimate and celebratory meal.
   • The Gladly: Known for its contemporary ambiance and excellent cocktails, it’s a great spot for a relaxed yet upscale dinner.
   • Your Favorite Date Night Spot: Pick a restaurant you often go to for date nights and keep the sentimental vibes flowing
2. Desert Picnic Under the Stars
   • Hire a luxury picnic company to set up a romantic, private dinner in the desert or your family home. Picture fairy lights, plush seating, and delicious catered food under the starry Arizona sky.
3. Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride
   • Celebrate your love with breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert. Many companies offer champagne toasts and private rides for an unforgettable experience.
4. Cocktail Party at a Rooftop Bar
   • Toast your elopement with craft cocktails at Outrider Rooftop Lounge, which offers stunning city and mountain views.
5. Relaxing Spa Day
   • After your ceremony, unwind at a luxury spa like the Joya Spa at Omni Scottsdale Resort. Enjoy a couple’s massage, private pool time, and pampering to start your married life stress-free.
6. Private Chef Experience
   • Host an intimate dinner at your family property with a private chef who can create a personalized menu just for you.

Personalization Ideas for a Heartfelt Elopement

1. Ask a Close Friend or Family Member to Officiate
   • In Arizona, anyone can be ordained online to legally perform a wedding ceremony. Having someone who knows and loves you both officiate adds a deeply personal touch to your vows.
2. Incorporate a Meaningful Ritual
   • Bring elements from your life together into the ceremony, like exchanging personal letters, or including a shared family tradition.
3. Choose a Venue That Holds Special Meaning
   • If you and your partner share a favorite hiking trail, park, or café, consider it for your elopement. Alternatively, use a loved one’s home as a cozy and sentimental location.
4. Create a Custom Playlist
   • A soundtrack of songs that represent your relationship can set the tone for your day. Play it during the ceremony or while getting ready.
5. Invite Loved Ones Virtually
   • For those unable to attend in person, consider livestreaming your ceremony. This way, family and friends can still share in your special moment.

“Pay What You Can” Vendor Recommendations

These vendors are willing to work with you on your quick timeline for a “pay what you can” budget. We all want to help you elope right now!

• Photographer: Myself Sara Bishop Photography
• Planner: Abby with Copper Blossom Events
• Planner: Natalia with Matchbox Event Co.
• DJ/MC: Michael Duke
• Florist: Ian with Plum Studios

Tips for Planning a Quick Elopement

1. Start with the Legal Details
   • Arizona requires no waiting period after obtaining a marriage license, making it easier to plan quickly. You’ll need to apply in person at the Maricopa County Clerk’s Office with valid identification.
2. Focus on What Matters Most
   • Prioritize booking your planner and photographer first. A planner will help you organize details quickly and help relieve stress. Especially with using locations that are not typical. These essentials will ensure your day is seamless and memorable.
3. Lean Into the Intimacy
   • With less time to plan, keep it simple and heartfelt. Use the smaller scale of your event to focus on the details that matter most to you as a couple.
4. Find LGBTQ+ Friendly Professionals
   • Work with inclusive vendors who will celebrate your relationship and provide a supportive, affirming experience.
5. Communicate With Loved Ones
   • If you’re not inviting guests, explain your decision to family and friends – many will understand.

A Note of Support

Helping queer couples elope right now is really important, and we hope to make it all easier and more fun. Planning an elopement, especially on a tight timeline, can feel overwhelming. Remember, your love and commitment are at the heart of this celebration. No matter where you’re exchanging vows!

If you need guidance, more vendor recommendations, or someone to capture your day, reach out. I’m here to celebrate you, document your love story, and ensure your day is everything you’ve dreamed of.

Let’s make it happen—because love always wins.

If you want help planning your elopement in other areas of the United States, check out this resource from Off Beat Wed.