I LOVE when people create meaningful small weddings & elopements reflective of their personalities and relationships. Billy & Jane are friends of mine & my husband’s, and though they had been together for more than 10 years, Jane wasn’t really into the whole idea of having a big traditional wedding. After chatting with her at the dog park, watching our dogs play together, I told her that more and more people are opting to have small outdoor weddings or elopements in beautiful locations in Arizona instead of traditional weddings at wedding venues. That idea really resonated with them, as they are both very outdoorsy & adventurous people- they frequently did long hikes together including recently hiking Mt. Fuji in some really terrible weather. Off they went in planning and I think this wedding came together really beautifully! You really can’t go wrong with the Salt River, especially in winter with fall colored leaves and the beautiful river and mountains as a backdrop. The only thing that could have made it better was having their adorable chocolate lab Hazel in the wedding- but since she’s as crazy as my puppy, I totally understand why she got left at home! I also love how they incorporated Jane’s teen sons and brought their guests’ into their ceremony by the laying of the hands tradition. This is also a prime example of why you shouldn’t worry at all about clouds on your wedding day- you won’t always get a sunset, however you will get beautiful, even lighting throughout the whole time.
Jane’s wedding dress: Modcloth
Florals (minus the flower crown): Camelback Flower Shop
Contact me if you’re thinking of having a small wedding or elopement in Arizona– I’d love to help. I’ve shot many outdoor intimate weddings & elopements in Arizona and can help get you started on planning, as well as have some wonderful vendor suggestions to make your planning process easier. Easy all inclusive elopement packages are available. One of the great benefits of planning your own small outdoor wedding or elopement is you can make it 100% unique to you. Don’t want to do anything traditional? No pressure!
