The Best Time of Year to Get Married in Arizona
A Photographer & Videographer’s Perspective
Couples planning an Arizona wedding almost always ask: What’s the best time of year to get married here? The answer depends on more than just the calendar—it’s about how the desert looks, how it feels, and how it photographs and films. From golden sunsets spilling across saguaros to candlelit evenings in resort courtyards, Arizona’s seasons transform weddings in ways that go beyond weather. Having captured celebrations across Tucson, Phoenix, and Sedona, I’ve seen firsthand how each season creates a unique atmosphere. Here’s what to know as you choose the right month for your story.
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Spring Weddings in Arizona (March – May)
Spring is one of the most coveted wedding seasons in Arizona. Temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s, making it comfortable for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Desert wildflowers begin to bloom, saguaros sprout their crowns of white blossoms, and everything feels alive. In Phoenix, venues like Royal Palms, The Phoenician, and Desert Ridge take on a lush, tropical feel, while in Tucson, Tanque Verde Ranch and Saguaro Buttes glow with fresh greenery against the mountains.
From a visual perspective, spring is a dream. The desert light is warm but not too harsh, creating soft golden tones at sunset and even mid-day images that don’t feel washed out. Films capture movement in the breeze, color in the landscape, and a natural vibrancy that translates beautifully. The only drawback? It’s the busiest season of the year. Couples should expect to book venues and vendors at least 12–18 months in advance to secure prime dates.
Summer Weddings in Arizona (June – August)
Summer weddings in Arizona require a sense of adventure. Temperatures regularly soar past 100 degrees, but with that heat comes some of the most dramatic skies you’ll ever see. Monsoon season (late June through early September) delivers rolling thunderclouds, lightning storms on the horizon, and sunsets so fiery they look painted.
For couples willing to brave the heat—or plan ceremonies around sunrise or sunset—summer can deliver once-in-a-lifetime visuals. Imagine vows with storm clouds building over the Catalina Mountains in Tucson, or drone footage soaring over the Superstitions during a glowing post-storm sunset at The Paseo in Phoenix. Many luxury resorts like the Arizona Biltmore, The Phoenician, or Sanctuary Camelback provide elegant indoor ballrooms for comfort, while still offering access to outdoor terraces for golden-hour portraits.
Another perk? Discounts. Many venues and resorts offer lower rates in the summer, making it an appealing choice for couples wanting high-end settings at more accessible prices.
Fall Weddings in Arizona (September – November)
Fall is Arizona’s other prime wedding season—and for many, it’s the best. The weather cools into the 70s and 80s again, evenings turn crisp, and sunsets linger with deep orange and magenta hues. In Sedona, Cathedral Rock and Sky Ranch Lodge glow dramatically against the autumn sky. In Phoenix, Sanctuary Camelback and El Chorro look especially breathtaking as the desert light softens. In Tucson, Hacienda Del Sol and The Buttes at Reflections are framed by Catalinas that burn gold at twilight.
Photographs in fall capture warmth and depth, with golden-hour portraits that feel cinematic. Videography thrives here—the long sunsets and slightly cooler air create a comfortable flow for outdoor ceremonies and open-air receptions. Many couples also embrace seasonal details: earth-toned florals, candlelit courtyards, and cozy atmospheres that pair perfectly with the desert palette. Like spring, fall fills up quickly, so early booking is a must.
Winter Weddings in Arizona (December – February)
Winter weddings in Arizona are often overlooked—but they’re one of the state’s best-kept secrets. While much of the country is dealing with snow and freezing temperatures, Arizona enjoys crisp, sunny days in the 60s and 70s. The light is cooler and softer, giving photographs an even, natural tone all day long. For videography, winter provides clarity and atmosphere without the haze of summer or the intense contrast of spring.
Sedona in winter is nothing short of magical—the red rocks stand out vividly against pale skies, and occasional snow creates surreal, once-in-a-lifetime images. In Phoenix, venues like Mountain Shadows or The Scott glow with lanterns and fireplaces, making the desert feel cozy yet sophisticated. In Tucson, La Mariposa or Loews Ventana Canyon create peaceful atmospheres surrounded by mountain silhouettes and starry skies.
The bonus? Winter is less competitive than spring or fall, giving couples more date options and often more affordable rates. It’s also perfect for destination weddings, since guests escaping colder climates are thrilled by Arizona’s sunny, mild atmosphere.
So, when is the best time of year to get married in Arizona? The truth is, each season tells a different story. Spring and fall are the most popular for their comfort and glowing light. Summer rewards adventurous couples with monsoon skies and bold desert drama, often at a lower cost. Winter provides soft skies, cool air, and intimate celebrations without the crowds. As a photographer and videographer, I’ve learned that your timing isn’t just about weather—it’s about how you want your story to look, feel, and live on in images and films. Whatever season you choose, Arizona will shape your day with a beauty and atmosphere that’s unforgettable.
