Planning Resources and Inspiration Galleries
Planning an elopement or less-traditional wedding can be both exhilarating and stressful. I’ve used my experience helping couples plan and execute over 150 elopements and outdoor forward weddings to put together a ton of resources to help you through the process.
Browse location guides, general wedding and elopement planning tips, and inspiration galleries to help you plan your favorite adventure yet!
Hi! I’m Shannon Durazo
A former project manager turned your Southwest elopement photographer, planning guide, go-to problem solver, and Adventure Buddy
Planning Resources
FEATURED Planning REsources
How to Elope in Arizona: Best Places, Tips & Packages
Plan your Arizona elopement with epic desert & mountain spots, plus expert tips from a local pro. Easy permits, big vibes—start here for your dream day! Updated for 2025
Choose Which Type of Location:
Elopement Location Guides
Location roundups
specific location details
Choose Which Type of Event You are Planning:
Galleries for Inspiration
Featured Galleries
Thea & Rodrigo’s Two Day Arizona Micro Wedding and Rock Climbing Adventure
Thea & Rodrigo’s two-day Arizona micro wedding blends family vows among saguaros with a wild Sedona rock climbing adventure—pure magic!
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All Galleries
Two Person Elopements/ Vow Renewals
Elopements and vow renewals with just the couple and *maybe* an officiant.
Elopements with guests and Microweddings- Under 25 People
Couples getting married with between 1-25 guests.
Weddings- Over 25 People
Wedding days that include over 25 family and friends on the guest list.
Adventure Portraits- Engagements, Proposals, Just Because
Any portrait session that is not an elopement, wedding, or vow renewal
Arizona
Colorado
Utah
California
Hiking
Most elopements have at least a small amount of hiking involved. These are days that included 2+ miles of hiking to and from location(s).
Off-road Adventure
High clearance or super remote areas that require a bit more planning go here.
Unique Adventurous Activities
Helicopter rides, rock climbing, mountain biking, hot air balloon rides, tattoos, and more! Get inspired by these bold wedding and elopement choices.
Venue weddings and elopements that had a reception
With Pups
I absolutely want to meet your pups if you want to bring them along.
With Farm Animals
Donkeys, horses, alpacas- oh my! I love animals of all types and sizes.