Romantic Desert Elopement in Sedona with Their Dog | April + John

Inspiration

Karen Castor Photography, an Arizona Elopement Photographer, captures April and John’s Desert Elopement in Sedona.

Table of Contents

Recapping This Desert Elopement in Sedona
- From the Beginning to the End
Words from the Couple About Their Desert Elopement in Sedona
Their Desert Elopement in Sedona Timeline

Recapping This Desert Elopement in Sedona

April and John’s elopement was special because they are truly so crazy about each other. They decided to tie the knot in a relaxed and intimate way. Before their big day, they bought a cool Toyota Tacoma, which made their adventure even more perfect.

The bumpy ride up the dirt road was fun, and it felt like their love journey—full of ups and downs but worth it.

From the Beginning to the End

When we found a quiet spot, April and John exchanged vows and rings. It was just them, which made it super sweet and personal. As they continued up the mountain, we took some stunning photos and they danced for the first time as a married couple.

Everything just felt so spontaneous and easy.

To end their day, April and John shared cake on the back of their truck, with their dog Banjo joining the fun. It was simple but so them—relaxed, happy, and full of love.

Their elopement wasn’t just about getting married; it was about celebrating their love in the most chill and genuine way possible.

Words from the Couple About Their Desert Elopement in Sedona

Why did you choose to elope?

“We knew that we wanted something private and intimate. A traditional wedding was never something we were attracted to. As a couple, we’ve always valued experiences over material items. We love taking road trips and off-roading, so the idea of throwing an elopement in the mix was a dream!”

How was your elopement?

“Our elopement was everything we envisioned and more. We booked an afternoon elopement which worked out nicely. Having the day allowed us to ease our nerves and not feel rushed. We were able to enjoy a late breakfast and get ready together. We even had enough time to grab a small cake and run back to the AirBnB after having forgotten the bridal skirt. Whoops! Glad we realized that before we headed up the trail.

Instead of renting a jeep, we decided to use our truck. We had just purchased it before the trip, so it was the most epic way of breaking it in. It also allowed us and the pup to feel more comfortable. The road was rough but it was fun and adventurous. There were a good amount of other tourists on the trail but they were all respectful and many cheered us on.

Karen is so organized and is on top of time management. She knows exactly how much time it takes to get to each location and how much time we should spend. It was also fun to be her guinea pig by checking out a new spot.

We tend to feel uncomfortable in front of the camera but that’s not an issue with her. She can easily guide you and is a true talent behind the lens. She knows the best angles and how to work around nature’s beauty and obstacles.

Our favorite parts were embracing each other while surrounded by Sedona’s stunning scenery. But also, enjoying drinks and cake with our pup on the tailgate.”

Do you have any regrets about your elopement?

“The only regret we have is not having a picture with Karen. Karen was a part of our experience and someone we will never forget.”

What advice do you have for future couples looking to elope?

“If you are thinking about it, just do it. You won’t regret it. Everyone we know that has had a traditional wedding has expressed how they wish they did an elopement like us.

It’s easy to get lost in all the planning of a traditional wedding. Not to mention how you sometimes have to give in to what others want or envision for you. But with an elopement, it’s just the two of you (and maybe a few close friends and family).

This type of elopement did require months of planning but again, it was all about what we wanted which made it feel all the more special.”