So you’re considering Arizona as the location for your destination wedding? Great choice! Arizona boasts year-round sunny weather, and is home to not only desert climate, but mountain views outside the Phoenix metro in Sedona, Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon.
Here are a few points to consider as you begin your wedding plans:
1. Pick a date.
We have two main wedding seasons here- Fall (September-November) and Spring (March-May). You will see an occasional wedding during the winter months and summer is quiet as temperatures exceed 100 degrees. Due to the severe summer temperatures, Saturday weddings book up a year or more in advance for spring and fall dates.
- 2. Book early in the spring. Due to the gorgeous spring weather (seriously, its perfect!), Major League Baseball teams host spring training seasons across the Phoenix metro, bringing fans from across the nation. This coincides with spring break for many families, so hotel rates are typically higher during these months.
- 3. Considering an outdoor ceremony AND reception?
- Check the city ordinance for noise restrictions. Depending on the location, you may be required to bring your DJ or live band indoors earlier than your reception ends, making it a better decision to host an indoor reception following your outdoor ceremony. *Side note: Always make sure your venue has a contingency plan for inclement weather. Although rare, dust and rain storms still roll through the valley!
- 4. Consult with your vendors in person. Although it can be convenient to research and book online, pictures can be deceiving or not what you envisioned. Schedule a planning trip to meet with your planner and venues in person, even consider taking your engagement photos with your photographer (perfect for save the dates and seeing how you work with your photographer). You will feel much more confident going into your wedding weekend. For additional tips on picking your vendor team, check out expert advice from local photographer, Melissa Jill Photography.
Stay tuned for more advice and tips on planning your destination wedding in Arizona!
Photo credits: Melissa Jill Photography // Venue: Sanctuary Camelback // Gown: BHLDN // Suit: Ted Baker
