Caitlin & Zach’s Epic Cathedral Rock Elopement

A Love Story at Sunset

Caitlin and Zach knew from the start that they wanted an adventure that blended Sedona’s wild beauty with intimate moments surrounded by their closest people. And what better place than Cathedral Rock, with its breathtaking valley views and fiery red cliffs?

The day kicked off at the Sedona Trail Shuttle, where family, friends, and their pastor lined up for the ride into the heart of the red rocks. Zach, ever the steady presence, rode up first with the family, while Caitlin followed a bit later so they could share a first look at the trail crossing—just the two of them, framed by Sedona’s iconic landscapes.

As the group made their way up, we quickly realized that even the mid-level overlook—chosen for accessibility—was a bit tricky for the grandparents. No problem. A quick pivot led us to a closer spot, and honestly, it was perfect. The golden light spilled across the red rock formations, wrapping everyone in warmth as Caitlin made her way to Zach.

Their first look was everything—Zach, waiting as Caitlin, looking like a desert princess, walked toward him. Her waist-length braid caught the breeze, and her tulle dress seemed to float in the sun. With their family gathered, they exchanged vows, rings, and a whole lot of love before sealing it all with a celebratory toast under the shade of a juniper tree.

Then, the real adventure began.

With the family cheering them on, Caitlin and Zach laced up their hiking boots—Zach in his Marine boots—and set off toward the top of Cathedral Rock. They hiked up the steep trail in their wedding clothes, her dress trailing behind like something out of a dream. There were a few tricky parts that Zach had to help Caitlin up, but that just made the adventure even more memorable.

And then we made it! The top of Cathedral is something to behold. The views stretch endlessly as the sun begins to dip in the distance. We ventured out onto the iconic ledge for insane images, with the light streaming through Caitlin’s dress as they spun and danced, overlooking the valley below.

Then we took some time for them to just be as they laid back on the warm rock, ran hand-in-hand across the plateau, and just existed in the magic of the moment. We began our route down the mountain with the setting of the sun. And then, as blue hour set in, we pulled out the lanterns, lighting up their final moments on the rock with a soft, intimate glow for a few farewell images.

Cathedral Rock is always breathtaking, but on this night, with Caitlin and Zach’s love at the center of it all, it felt like pure magic.