Monument Valley Wedding w Sunrise Session at Horseshoe Bend

Bride and groom exchange their wedding vows during their Monument Valley elopement

The Arizona desert has a lot to offer; in this case we started off the day with sunrise portraits at Horseshoe Bend and then drove to the Utah Arizona border for P + T’s Monument Valley wedding.

You’ve probably seen photos of Horseshoe Bend, especially since it blew up on Instagram in the past couple of years. What used to be a little known roadside gem has since exploded into a major tourist destination, now complete with paid parking and plenty of space for the tour buses to roll in. The best way to beat the crowds is to head to this stunning spot at sunrise. While there will still be folks around, it’s far less than the evening rush at sunset. And for stellar views like this, it’s worth sharing with a few equally awed spectators.

Engaged couple help each other walk along the rim at Horseshoe Bend in Arizona at sunrise

Engaged couple stand holding hands at Horseshoe Bend in Arizona at sunrise

Adventurous engagement portraits at Horseshoe Bend near Page Arizona

Adventurous couple stand on the edge of Horseshoe Bend at sunrise

Kissing couple taking their engagement portraits at Horseshoe Bend at sunrise

Adventurous couple take portraits at sunrise in the Arizona desert at Horseshoe Bend

Adventure couple sit on the edge of Horseshoe Bend with the Colorado River far below

Engagement couple sit on the rim of Horseshoe Bend at sunrise

Engaged couple sit and snuggle at Horseshoe Bend outside Page Arizona

Adventurous couple snuggle together as the sun rises over Horseshoe Bend in the Arizona desert

Next on our list of destinations was to head to Monument Valley (in Navajo: Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii) on the Utah Arizona border. This land is part of the Navajo Nation and we felt extremely honored to be exploring this natural wonder. After getting ready out of the back of their trusty Subaru, we found the perfect ceremony spot for P + T to exchange their vows. Aren’t their world map wedding rings gorgeous? After their ceremony, we explored the area a bit for portraits before saying goodnight.

Pro Tip: You’ll definitely want to be driving in a high clearance vehicle with a smooth suspension. There is no pavement once you pass the Visitors Center and as you explore further in, the roads can be bumpy. It’s a wonderful adventure and so fun to explore the area, but having the right vehicle will literally make your experience much smoother.