I personally always saw myself of having a big elaborate wedding when ever that day came. The wedding I fantasized about was far different than what actually took place. I'm not saying it wasn't elaborate - (worked out in fine detail.) because it was definitely worked out in fine detail. Over the top - not quit but more like ON TOP. On Top of GRAND CANYON. It could not have been any better. The pictures where perfect. I had no guest lists (because I was so far from home. ) I had no wedding party. It was a stress free wedding. I have over 700 pictures to show.
To plan your wedding at the Grand Canyon I suggest starting atleast 60 days ahead.
1.- Pic your day
If you are planning to have guest than of course you will want to pic a Saturday or Sunday. When selecting a date keep in mind the Grand Canyon is A National Park, with that said it attracts millions of visitors every year. There are also 4 sections of the canyon North, South, East, and West Rim. Depending on date of your wedding these could be closed. September or October is good time of year. I suggest the South Rim of the Canyon because I am not familiar with any other areas. You don't have quit as many travelers this time of year.
2. Make Hotel Reservations- Do this immedietly 60 days in advance. If you plan on staying inside The Grand Canyon National Park there are hotels such as the El Tavar Hotel inside the Park. but they book up well in advance and your room and hotel may be limited staying in the park. Staying outside the park may require a 45 minute to 2 hour drive depending on location but can save money. There are some nice hotels outside the park that offer nice wedding accomidations including wedding cake, dinner, etc. Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams, AZ is one suggestion.
2.. Who will marry you? Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, or pastors of recognized religious society's. Costs, Discuss Vows Options with them, they may suggest a location at the Canyon, and the Date the person is available. You will have to google this for more info and decide unless you have been referred to one by your pastor. You will want to decide on this early because he or she will be able to refer you and help you in obtaining a marriage license and hotels, etc. Judge Bill Sutton of Coconino County, AZ is licensed to officiate a marriage on the Canyon and is rather cheap. He also has lots of suggestions about location such as Grandeur Point at the South Rim, Vows, etc.
3. Marriage License - this can be done through the mail. Do this at least 6 weeks in advance because you will be mailing back & forth more than once to the County Courthouse in Arizona. I suggest a 2- 3 day certified mail carrier so that you can track your package. Approximate costs is $72 but could change at any time.
4. Purchase a Special Permit and Parking Pass at the Grand Canyon, this website will help with all your questions. Approximately $125 subject to current laws and restrictions which may change at anytime.
5. Purchase Airline Tickets - if you will be traveling by plane. Airlines usually go up on tickets 2 weeks prior to the departure date. This is standard for all airline. Purchasing Tickets should be done as early as possible and suggest your guest (if any) do the same. You should not stress over guest's arrangements or worry with that being your responsibility. Remember this is suppose to be a STRESS FREE wedding.
6. Rental Car Arrangements- Research rates and sign up for the company's (coupon or savings plan prior to booking.) this will save you some money. Also, I suggest you get a very large car probably even an SUV, make sure your rental car is aware that you will be bringing lots of luggage (and especially if you have a large wedding dress.)
7. Schedule your HAIR AND MANICURE AND PEDICURE at the same salon. You don't want to be driving all over a town you are not familiar with looking for there location on the day of your wedding. Schedule with in 1 month of your wedding day and early in the morning. Some stylist may even come to your hotel to do this. Have a picture of what you want your hair to look like. Remember this person does not know you and you want this day to be perfect. A picture can speak a thousand words to a stylist.
8. Shop for your dress and husbands attire.
9. Immediately following check-in at your hotel (or prior to) locate a local floral shop, visit there and see if they are capable of making an arrangement for your bouquet. Bring 2 or 3 pictures of your favorite bouquets out of a bride magazine, because depending on the season and flowers the florist may have a problem with obtaining fresh flowers if she does not already have them in stock.
Now you are ready to say I do! You can visit and get a peek of just a few of my photos below. I have over 700 pictures. If you would like more info and suggestions just leave a comment and I will do my best to respond quickly.
Grand Canyon Wedding Photos
