When Emily and Matt reached out for their Sedona elopement, I was so happy to help them plan the perfect day! They’d tied the knot earlier at Lovers Leap Overlook but hadn’t felt that magic in their original photos, so we set out to give them the experience they truly deserved in December.
I’m a firm believer in making every part of the day an experience in itself. Emily and Matt got ready together, in the coziest cabin overlooking Sedona’s red rocks. There’s something about seeing couples prep for the big moment side by side that makes the day feel whole. And hey, let’s normalize the groom getting pampered too! Matt got to relax, feel special, and soak in those little quiet moments with Emily before heading to Lovers Leap.
Before their ceremony, we kicked the day off with an adventure session. We had to plan a bit as you need to take a shuttle if the tiny parking lot for this trailhead is full. Thankfully, we were able to find a shuttle easily! I loved the dress Emily chose for this part of their day. Also, the rock here was smooth enough for her to run around with bare feet! My absolute favorite part of their elopement!
Then we headed to the second location for their ceremony. And Emily changed into a different dress, and honestly I LOVE a dress change! Each of her dresses fit the vibes of each location perfectly.
Originally, Emily and Matt had planned for Lovers Leap Overlook as their Sedona elopement location. But when we arrived, someone had scattered THOUSANDS of plastic rose petals, and that completely ruined the serenity of the area. (Buttheads, right?) But I’m quick on my feet and found a little more secluded spot nearby with equally stunning views and few hikers and bikers.
But this also brings me to the point that I’m a huge advocate for Leave No Trace principles. It’s about showing respect to nature, so that each couple—and every visitor after them—can enjoy these wild spaces as they were meant to be.
Emily and Matt met in junior high in a chorus class they had together. She had a major crush on him and they flirted a bunch, but Matt never made a move. They lost touch for a few years until reconnecting again in their early twenties. A random Facebook message from Matt with a cheeky “Hey Monkey Butt” re-started it all.
Emily let him chase her for a bit, but soon enough, the universe worked its magic. They realized that Emily lived the next street over from his best friend’s house where he had spent a lot of time. It felt like a sign, so Emily finally gave him a chance and the rest is history! They’ve been inseparable ever since!
“We are beyond happy! I was filling up with tears! You captured soooooo much more than I could have imagined. So many emotions and priceless moments. I hope you know how gifted you are. Your creative lens is crystal clear. We feel so blessed! Thank you, from Matt and I, for spending that day with us and working your ass off to capture these moments.”
Planning an elopement should be exciting and stress-free, and that’s exactly what I aim to provide. With my experience, attention to detail, and passion for adventure, I’ll help you craft an elopement day that is truly your own. From the moment you book with me to the day you say your vows, I’ll be there to make sure every detail is handled so you can focus on what really matters!
Ready to have me by your side as your Sedona elopement photographer and planner? You can check out my portfolio here, and when you’re ready – send me a message here! I cannot wait to hear from you!
Learn more about planning your winter elopement in Sedona here!
Vendors:
Photographer: Me, Amanda Kluesner
HMUA: Ash with Desert Sage