If you are reading this then there is a chance you are thinking about eloping in Tucson! As a Destination Elopement photographer, I can confidently say…Tucson is one of the most magical places I have ever been. Hands down. There are so many gems around the Tucson area, but nothing beats the Saguaro National Park! If you are looking for towering Saguaro trees with mountains surrounding it on the horizon then this may be the perfect place for you and your fiance.
I wanted to compile a list of suggestions and things you may need to know if you choose to elope in Saguaro National Park in Tucson!!
Floral by: Cultivated by Faith (aka my best friend)
Which side of Saguaro National Park should you get married in?
First thing to know is that there is an East and West side of the Saguaro National Park! If you pull up a map, you will see that they are divided! I learned through Junebug Weddings that the West side tends to be more tame, while the Eastern side tends to be a little more wild! These images are from the Eastern side of Saguaro National Park, and I can definitely speak to it being overflowing with cactuses of all sorts, bushes, and towering Saguaros. This made it a little hard to find a good spot so I’d suggest choosing a spot on the Western side of Saguaro.
Wedding Permit for Saguaro National Park
If you are getting married within Saguaro National Park, you will have to apply for a special use permit! There is a small fee of $100 for this permit! I highly encourage you to attain a permit, even though it seems easier to go without one! Here is the link to apply for a permit! Though you may not need a permit if you choose a location outside of the national park boundaries! There are plenty of Saguaros all around so it’s worth considering.
Where should we stay?
We stayed at The Posada by The Joshua Tree House which is bordering Saguaro National Park! It is the most magical place you will ever stay! It is incredibly beautiful and every room has so much thought and detail put into it! There is a magical pool, and stunning views surrounding it! If you choose to bring family or friends, there are multiple rooms on the property so you can all stay together! I will be doing a blog post specifically talking about the Posada soon.
Floral by: Cultivated by Faith (aka my best friend)
4. Watch out for cactuses and wildlife!
I was being incredibly careful and watchful throughout our time there, especially during the ceremony! Unfortunately, I somehow backed up into a cactus. Ouch. Let me save you the pain — be SUPER careful! Cactuses are painful and not easy to get out! I was thankful to not have backed into anything poisonous. Along with that, you have the joy of getting to see so many beautiful creatures! Some of those creatures may be snakes that could potentially be venomous! They aren’t going to be looking to go after you, but just be care where you step! :)
5. Eloping during sunset or sunrise
I always encourage couples to have their ceremony during sunrise or sunset! You will get the most MAGICAL golden light, not to mention the gorgeous blue hour after the sun falls behind the mountains(pictured below)!! Another plus of this is that it will be much cooler in the morning & evening!
6. remember to respect the land.
My most important tip is to remember to respect the area you are in! It’s such a wonderful place so let’s do our part to keep it that way! Pick up any trash that you see ( even if it’s not your own), don’t step on any plants, and tread carefully!
I hope these tips were helpful!! If you choose to elope in the Saguaro National Park, I can guarantee that you won’t be disappointed! If you have any questions about eloping in Tucson, or are looking for an elopement photographer, feel free to send me an email!
Keep adventuring, friend!
Liz
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Florals: Cultivated By Faith
Photography: Liz Rudman
Videography: John Stambaugh (United Media Collective) aka my husband
Lodging: The Posada by The Joshua Tree House