Epic Sedona Elopement on Schnebly Hill | Jeeps, Dogs & Sunset Views
Kwynn and Nick are big-time adventure lovers — the kind of couple who’d rather be off-roading in the wild than anywhere indoors. So when it came time to plan their elopement, they knew exactly what they wanted: an off-road adventure in Sedona, surrounded by their closest people (and pups), doing what they love most.
Even though they live in Ohio, they had visited Sedona before and completely fell in love with the red rocks, epic views, and endless trails. There was no doubt — this was the place they wanted to say “I do.” Planning an elopement from across the country can be a challenge, but that’s where I came in. I helped them find the perfect location, connect with awesome local vendors, and, most importantly, get set up with Jeep rentals from Barlow Jeep, because off-roading was non-negotiable.
When their day arrived, I met them at their Airbnb in Sedona, where they were getting ready surrounded by excitement (and dog energy, which is always a win in my book). I captured some sweet getting-ready moments and their first look, which was filled with so much joy. Then it was time to load up the Jeeps — three of them, to be exact — and hit the trail.
We headed to Schnebly Hill, one of Sedona’s most iconic off-road routes (and yes, you can earn a Jeep Badge of Honor for completing it!). It’s bumpy but manageable — perfect for beginners with the right vehicle and a sense of adventure. Kwynn led the charge, driving the white Jeep with Nick riding shotgun and their best friends in the back. Her dad piloted the red Jeep full of parents (his first ever off-road experience — and he crushed it!), while the rest of their friends piled into the blue Jeep. I followed behind in my Jeep, capturing the journey along the way.
After a fun, scenic drive, we arrived at our destination: Merry-Go-Round Rock, just in time for golden hour. The weather was perfect — clear skies, warm light — and the views? Unbeatable. With the sun dipping low, Kwynn and Nick stood in front of the cliffs, surrounded by their loved ones (and their adorable pups), and exchanged vows in one of the most epic elopement settings you can imagine.
After their ceremony, they popped champagne and celebrated with their crew before taking some family photos in that magical light. Then their guests headed back down the trail toward Sedona for dinner while the three of us stayed behind to capture sunset portraits at the edge of the cliffs — just Kwynn, Nick, the pups, and the glowing red rocks. It was absolutely unreal.
Once we wrapped up, we made our way down the trail as the sunset lit up the sky, making for the perfect end to an unforgettable day. Back at their Airbnb, we wrapped things up by signing their marriage certificate — yep, I’m ordained and can make it official!
Kwynn and Nick, I’m so grateful I got to be part of your incredible elopement adventure. Wishing you both (and your pups) a lifetime of happiness, off-road fun, and many more adventures together.