Some weddings are all about the glitz and glamour. Pauline and Ryan? They opted for something wilder—an off-road elopement deep in the red rock canyons of Sedona. With their lifelong friends along for the ride and a decked-out Toyota 4Runner leading the way, their day was less about tradition and more about adventure, laughter, and epic views.
A Ceremony with a View
Schnebly Hill Road isn’t for the faint of heart. Rugged, steep, and filled with red dust that clings to everything, it’s the perfect playground for anyone who loves off-roading. And for Pauline and Ryan, it was the ideal backdrop for their vows.
We stopped mid-canyon at a secluded overlook—one of those spots that feels like a secret, even in a place as beloved as Sedona. The sun beamed down, the wind swirled, and in the distance, tiny waterfalls trickled from the recent rains. Against this untamed landscape, they exchanged vows, with only the canyon and their closest friends as witnesses.
Sunset, Charcuterie & A Sprinkle-Topped Cake
After sealing the deal, it was back to the 4Runners to tackle the rest of Schnebly Hill Road. The final stop? The legendary Merry-Go-Round Rock. Here, perched on a ledge with a panoramic view of Sedona’s red rock spires, Pauline and Ryan set up a private picnic. Charcuterie, a sprinkle-covered cake, and an impromptu feast shared with friends—it was a celebration as laid-back and joyful as they are.
As the sun dipped lower, we explored the famous rock formations, capturing golden-hour portraits that perfectly encapsulated their adventurous, free-spirited love.
Champagne & Headlights—The Perfect Sendoff
Before making the bumpy descent back down the mountain, Pauline and Ryan popped a bottle in the glow of their headlights—one last wild moment before heading into their next adventure together.
Some weddings are about tradition. Others are about throwing caution (and a little red dust) to the wind and crafting a day that feels 100% you. Pauline and Ryan did just that, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
Pauline & Ryan’s Wedding Vendors:
- Hair and Makeup: Patricia Vega
- Florals: Etsy
- Videographer: Escape and Adventure
Interested in a Sedona Elopement?
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Hi! I’m Shannon Durazo
A former project manager turned your Sedona elopement photographer, go-to problem solver, and Adventure Buddy
Are you ready for a nature-filled wedding or an epic elopement adventure? Let’s make it unforgettable. I’m here to do more than take photos—I’m here to help you create a day that feels as incredible as it looks. From scouting jaw-dropping locations and sharing vendor recommendations to crafting timelines that catch that golden-hour magic, we’re building more than a wedding day; we’re creating art while putting your experience first. Whether it’s hiking a mountain, off-roading to a secret spot, or chasing sunsets, we’ll make memories as unique and extraordinary as your love story.
I specialize in capturing both intimate elopements and weddings in Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Northern New Mexico.
