Haley and Danny’s sunset Sedona elopement at Lovers Knoll was pure magic. They wanted a relaxed, flexible wedding, so they decided to ditch a traditional ceremony for an intimate getaway with just their parents. And it couldn’t have been more perfect! No strict schedules or tons of people to juggle—just the couple enjoying their day at their own pace, savoring every meaningful moment. I couldn’t have been more honored to be there to capture their special day!
Breaking Tradition
They couldn’t wait to get married and start a new life together. But the stress of wedding planning and hosting everyone for their big day? It wasn’t for them. So they ditched a traditional big wedding for an intimate elopement. I always say the happiest couples are the ones who choose to do things THEIR way, so I couldn’t have been more excited when they told me their plan.
But when Haley and Danny told me that they planned to elope in Sedona I was even more excited! While they had only traveled there once before, they knew immediately it was the place for them. And since Sedona is one of MY favorite places in the world, I couldn’t wait to give them tons of recommendations – from locations, to hotels, to restaurants – to bring their exact vision to life. With over a decade of experience as an Arizona photographer, I’m always here to help and lend my expertise, no matter what kind of wedding you’re dreaming of. And if your heart is set on Sedona, count me even more in!
Sharing the Love
However, even though they decided to elope, they didn’t go solo—they brought their parents along for the ride! Eloping doesn’t have to be about going off alone. It’s more like a simplified version of a wedding, minus all the extra headaches and costs that come with a traditional ceremony and reception.
While their group may have been small, let me tell you, the emotions were NOT. From the excitement of getting ready, to the laughter as we hiked to the ceremony spot, to happy tears during their vows, you could feel the group’s special bond throughout the day. As a photographer who values family connections, I couldn’t get enough of this group! You could FEEL the love between them all, and that shines through in each and every photo.
Chasing Moments, Not Schedules
Instead of a day filled with tight timelines and chaos, they got to run on their own schedules and soak up a few key, meaningful moments. They chose to get ready at Enchantment Resort, a beautiful hotel with sweeping views of Boynton Canyon, and do a special first look there with their parents cheering them on.
From there we did a quick trek up to Lovers Knoll for their ceremony, a spot I suggested for maximum scenery with minimal sweatiness. And it did NOT disappoint! The view against the red rocks was the perfect spot for their intimate ceremony and vow exchange, especially as golden hour began to set. We wrapped up the day with some sunset portraits before the group left for a relaxed dinner reservation back at their resort.
Overall, it was clear that breaking tradition and doing things their own way made for a relaxed day packed with fun, love, and unforgettable moments. So if you’re considering doing something different for YOUR wedding, take this as your sign to go for it! And know that if you work with me as your photographer, I’m here to support your vision 100% of the way.
Planning your own Arizona wedding or elopement but not sure where to start? Check out my blog, The Best Wedding Planning Checklist & Vendor List, for a complete rundown of everything you’ll need – whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony like Haley and Danny, a big traditional wedding, or something in between. And if you find yourself with more questions than answers, simply email me at maya@mayapapayapictures.com — I’d love to help!
Vendor Credits
Hotel: Enchantment Resort
Hair/Makeup: Joanne at Sedona Beauty Team
Officiant: Sharon at Earth Elopements
Florist: Jazz Bouquet
