I met Shem and Cami on the trailhead, and right away I knew that they were itching for an adventure! Since Sedona is full of beautiful options, we had a couple different hiking trails in mind as options for their elopement location. On the fly, we decided to switch up the original plan for a long, flat trail with one that had a steeper incline. At the end of the day, it was the perfect way to celebrate, and these two were definitely up for the challenge!

P.S. If you’re interested in planning your own Sedona elopement, I have an entire detailed guide on How to Elope in Sedona here.

First Look at the Trailhead

Shem and Cami decided to change into their wedding attire on the trailhead for a first look. We took our time enjoying the view from the start of the trail and appreciating a 70 degree afternoon in February. Since we decided to hike Cathedral Rock, we knew in advance that we might see a lot of other hikers. It was a busy trail, but that didn’t take anything away from these two enjoying each of the little moments from their desert elopement.

Golden Hour Hike to Cathedral Rock

As the sun started to sink below the plateaus behind us, we decided to get a move on the trail. I wasn’t sure whether they were going to decide to exchange their vows on a lower cliff and return down, or continue to the peak of the trail. Some decide to switch around plans for a more relaxed elopement day, but not S and C.

With adventurous souls like these two, they were determined to reach the peak before the sunset. They shimmied up the vertical climb rocks and kicked ass all the way to the top, and we arrived at the peak in perfect time for golden hour. The sun gave a beautiful glow as they cheered from the cliffside and passersby cheered along with them. When the sun dipped below the horizon, we headed back down enjoying the clear skies of blue hour.

Midnight Margaritas and a Headlight First Dance

Before saying goodbye after this beautiful celebration, Cami and Shem stopped to enjoy an Arizona favorite– prickly pear margaritas. They had packed a small picnic and drinks in their Jeep, and opened up the back to enjoy it. Clinking their glasses to their love story was the perfect way to top off the night.

The desert sky started to show off stars, and we cranked up the Jeep lights for them to share a first dance in the dirt. Spinning in the red sand gave a magical effect, and S and C’s elopement ended in pure joy. I had so much fun exploring Sedona and adventuring with the two of you!