Arizona provides exceptional wedding venues featuring desert views, Sedona red rocks, luxury Scottsdale resorts, and vibrant gardens in Phoenix and Tucson. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) deliver comfortable 70s-80s°F weather.
Winter fits northern Arizona events, while summer needs indoor or evening options to manage heat. Book sought-after venues and vendors 12-18 months ahead for peak seasons. Rely on The Knot Arizona vendors or WeddingWire Arizona for trusted professionals.
Table of Contents
Set Your Budget and Priorities
Establish a firm budget upfront. Arizona weddings typically range from $30,000 to $50,000, influenced by guest count and location—Sedona tends to be pricier.
To-do list:
- Rank essentials (venue, photography) above extras.
- Build in 10-15% contingency.
- Clarify contributions.
Advice for brides: Focus spending on elements that matter most to you, like professional photography instead of heavy decor. Use The Knot budgeting tools for control.
Choose Your Wedding Date and Season
Select fall or spring for ideal outdoor conditions. Fall offers colorful foliage up north; spring highlights desert blooms. Avoid intense summer heat in lower elevations.
To-do list:
- Confirm venue availability.
- Factor guest travel via Phoenix Sky Harbor.
- Arrange indoor backups.
Advice for brides: High-demand dates fill quickly—lock in peak season 18 months early.
Choose Your Wedding Bands and Jewelry
Pick bands that match your engagement ring and add bridal jewelry like earrings or necklaces. Complete 6-9 months before.
To-do list:
- Set a budget.
- Select metals and styles.
- Try options in person.
- Add engraving.
Top jewelry stores: See bonus section or previous recommendations.
Advice for brides: Focus on daily-wear comfort.
Bonus Step: Top 10 Jewelry Stores for Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands in Arizona
Select rings early—many couples shop 6-12 months ahead. Scottsdale and Phoenix host top jewelers with custom options, GIA-certified diamonds, and wedding-specific collections (based on reviews from WeddingWire, Yelp, The Knot, and local awards as of 2026).
- The Estate Watch & Jewelry Company (WatchLink) (Scottsdale) A+ rated since 1997, offering custom engagement rings, wedding bands, estate pieces, and pre-owned luxury.
- Shane Co. (multiple locations)—Extensive selection of engagement rings and bands with strong customer service.
- Robbins Brothers (Scottsdale)—Award-winning for engagement rings, named best by Arizona Foothills.
- London Gold (Scottsdale, Chandler, Peoria)—Premier diamond specialists with abundant styles.
- Oliver Smith Jeweler (Scottsdale)—Custom gemstone and diamond designs, highly rated.
- Brilliant Earth (Scottsdale)—Ethical sourcing with beautiful ring collections.
- The Diamond Guys (Scottsdale)—Custom and lab-grown options with personalized service.
- Schmitt Jewelers (Phoenix)—Classic and modern wedding bands.
- Arizona Diamond Center (Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe)—Unique collections across multiple stores.
Advice for brides: Try on rings in person to assess comfort and sparkle in natural light. Consider custom designs incorporating Arizona elements like turquoise accents for a personal touch.
Handle Legal Requirements: Get Your Marriage License
Arizona has no waiting period or blood test. Licenses cost $83-$98 by county and expire after one year. Both partners must appear with photo ID.
To-do list:
- Apply at any county clerk.
- Provide ID and payment.
- Secure two witnesses.
Advice for brides: Complete this 1-2 months ahead in busy areas like Maricopa or Pima.
Build Your Guest List
Set the guest count early—it drives venue, catering, and costs.
To-do list:
- Start with family and close friends.
- Make A- and B-lists.
- Collect addresses.
Advice for brides: Intimate lists enhance destination-style Sedona weddings and lower expenses.
Hire a Wedding Planner
Planners coordinate details, valuable for out-of-town couples or intricate setups.
To-do list:
- Interview 3-5 options.
- Pick full, partial, or day-of service.
Advice for brides: Day-of coordination ensures you fully experience the event.
Select and Book Your Venue
Options span desert gardens to mountain sites. Reserve early for peak periods.
To-do list:
- Tour 5-7 venues.
- Check capacity and policies.
Advice for brides: Use Arizona’s natural scenery to reduce decor costs.
7. Book Your Photographer and Videographer
Choose professionals experienced with desert light and landscapes.
To-do list:
- Review complete galleries.
- Secure 9-12 months in advance.
Advice for brides: Select those adept at handling bright sun and wind.
8. Shop for Your Wedding Attire
Start gown shopping 9-12 months ahead to allow for production and fittings.
To-do list:
- Attend 3-5 appointments.
- Bring only trusted opinions.
- Account for alterations.
Advice for brides: Choose lightweight, breathable materials for outdoor comfort.
9. Secure Florist, Caterer, and Cake
Feature desert motifs like succulents alongside Southwest flavors.
To-do list:
- Hold tastings.
- Plan heat-tolerant arrangements.
Advice for brides: Incorporate local blooms for affordability and vibrancy.
10. Arrange Music, Officiant, and Other Vendors
Select entertainment that matches Arizona energy.
To-do list:
- Book the officiant early.
- Outline music timeline.
Resources: The Knot for DJs and bands.
Advice for brides: Add local flair like mariachi for excitement.
11. Send Invitations and Manage RSVPs
Mail 6-8 weeks out (save-the-dates sooner for destinations).
To-do list:
- Customize orders.
- Set up a wedding website.
Advice for brides: Include attire notes and heat guidance.
