Why Scottsdale & Phoenix Are Wedding Hotspots

• Golden desert light — ideal for dreamy wedding photos
• Luxury resorts, garden estates, and modern venues
• Mild winter and spring seasons (October–April)
• Easy travel from California, Nevada, and nationwide

1. Plan Your Ceremony Around Golden Hour

The desert sun is beautiful — and intense. Schedule your ceremony 60–90 minutes before sunset to capture that soft, golden light that flatters every skin tone and makes your photos glow. Morning weddings can also work beautifully in spring months.

2. Choose a Desert-Friendly Dress

Lightweight fabrics like chiffon, silk, and crepe are perfect for staying cool. Consider ditching heavy ball gowns and opting for something flowy and breathable. Bonus points for dresses that move with the wind — they photograph like a dream!

3. Provide Guest Comfort: Shade & Hydration

Desert heat is no joke. Offer parasols, shaded lounge areas, sunscreen stations, and lots of cold water. Personalized fans or iced welcome drinks also go a long way in keeping guests happy and your wedding classy.

4. Be Mindful of Hair & Makeup

Desert heat + makeup = a challenge without the right team. Hire local HMU artists experienced with Arizona or Southern California weddings. Ask for humidity-resistant products and soft glam that complements natural tones.

5. Incorporate Local Florals

Succulents, air plants, eucalyptus, and dried accents hold up better in the desert than delicate florals. They also create a modern, earthy look perfect for Arizona and Southern California weddings. Work with florists who specialize in desert blooms.

6. Prepare for Wind & Dust

Plan for breezy conditions with secure hairstyles and decor that won’t blow away. Use heavy bases for centerpieces and consider grounding ceremony arches. Veils are gorgeous but can be tricky — consider a veil clip or short veil for more control.

7. Don’t Skip the Permits

If you’re eloping in public desert lands or having a ceremony at places like Desert Botanical Garden or Tonto National Forest, be sure to check what permits are required for events and photography. Some areas limit group size or restrict certain vendors.

8. Book Vendors Experienced with Desert Weddings

From photographers and planners to florists and caterers, working with vendors who know the desert climate will make a huge difference. They’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your day runs smoothly — even if the wind picks up or temperatures spike.

9. Make the Most of the Scenery

Use your venue’s natural beauty in your design. Let the cacti, rocks, and open sky shine. Keep your decor minimal and elevated, letting the surroundings speak for themselves. Think terracotta palettes, sunset hues, and neutral textures.

10. Hire a Photographer Who Specializes in Desert Light

Desert light is magical — if you know how to use it. We’re based in Arizona and Southern California and have years of experience capturing desert weddings with vibrant, natural style. From direct sun to shaded cactus gardens, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

📸 Contact Lovelee Photography to see if we’re available for your Arizona desert wedding date!

Bonus Tip: Have a Backup Plan

It may be dry, but Arizona and SoCal can still get rain or extreme heat. Talk to your planner about tents, indoor options, and what to do in case of a weather curveball. Peace of mind = more room for joy on your big day!

Popular Desert Wedding Locations in Arizona & Southern California

• Andaz Scottsdale
• El Chorro, Paradise Valley
• Mountain Shadows Resort
• Joshua Tree National Park (SoCal)
• Palm Springs, California
• Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Why Scottsdale is a Dream Wedding Destination

Scottsdale, Arizona is renowned for its breathtaking desert landscapes, luxury
resorts, world-class golf courses, and vibrant arts scene — making it one of the most
sought-after wedding destinations in the Southwest. Whether you envision an intimate
desert elopement or a grand celebration under the stars, Scottsdale offers an array of
beautiful venues and photo opportunities that capture the essence of the Southwest.

As professional Arizona wedding photographers who
have shot dozens of weddings in Scottsdale and the surrounding areas, we know that timing
your wedding to the right season can make all the difference in your experience and
wedding photos.

What Makes Timing Your Scottsdale Wedding So Important?

Scottsdale’s desert climate means temperatures vary widely throughout the year,
influencing not only your comfort but also your venue options, guest experience, and
wedding photography conditions. Choosing the ideal month for your wedding ensures:

• Comfortable temperatures for outdoor ceremonies and receptions
• Beautiful natural light and scenic backdrops for stunning photos
• Venue availability and pricing advantages
• A memorable experience for you and your guests

Best Months to Get Married in Scottsdale

March to May: Springtime Magic

Spring is arguably the most popular time for weddings in Scottsdale. From March through
May, daytime temperatures range from the high 60s to mid 80s°F — ideal weather for outdoor
events. The desert flora bursts into bloom, creating vibrant and colorful scenery that
adds a natural, romantic touch to your photos.

Spring also brings moderate humidity and longer daylight hours, allowing plenty of time
for golden hour photography. Popular venues book quickly during these months, so it’s
wise to reserve your date well in advance.

September to November: The Beautiful Fall Season

Fall is another excellent wedding season in Scottsdale. After the intense summer heat
subsides, September to November offers pleasant weather with temperatures averaging
between the mid 70s and low 90s°F. The cooler evenings are perfect for sunset ceremonies
and dancing under the stars.

Fall weddings benefit from spectacular sunsets and soft, warm light that enhances the
natural desert tones in your wedding photos. This season also tends to be less crowded
than spring, sometimes allowing for more venue flexibility and potential cost savings.

Winter Weddings: December to February

Winter in Scottsdale is mild compared to many other parts of the country, with daytime
highs averaging in the 60s and lows occasionally dropping below 40°F at night. This
season is great for couples seeking an off-peak wedding date with fewer crowds and unique
lighting conditions.

Keep in mind that shorter daylight hours require careful planning to maximize natural
light for photography. Indoor ceremonies and receptions are popular in winter, but many
outdoor venues remain available with cozy heating options.

Summer Weddings: What to Expect From June to August

Summer in Scottsdale is hot — sometimes dangerously so — with temperatures regularly
exceeding 100°F and even reaching 115°F or higher. Outdoor ceremonies during the day are
often uncomfortable for guests and risky for bridal parties.

However, if you love the idea of a summer wedding in Scottsdale, consider a late evening
ceremony or a fully indoor event with professional cooling systems. As photographers, we
are well-versed in making the most of these conditions with quick photo sessions and
creative lighting techniques.

Seasonal Wedding Photography Tips in Scottsdale

Spring & Fall

These seasons offer soft, warm light perfect for natural portraits and golden hour
photos. The blooming desert plants in spring and the dramatic skies in fall provide
beautiful, unique backgrounds. We recommend scheduling your couple portraits during
sunrise or sunset for the best light.

Winter

Winter light is cooler and softer. Plan for earlier photo sessions due to the shorter
days. Cozy props like shawls and blankets can add charm to your photos while keeping you
comfortable.

Summer

Utilize shaded venues and plan portraits around early morning or late evening. Our
photography style adapts to these conditions with off-camera lighting and shaded spots to
avoid harsh midday sun.

How Venue Selection Ties into the Best Time of Year

Scottsdale boasts an impressive variety of wedding venues—from desert golf clubs and
luxury resorts to botanical gardens and art museums. Many venues have seasonal pricing
and availability, so your wedding date may impact your options.

Popular venues like The Boulders Resort,
Kierland Resort, and
The Scottsdale Omni tend
to book quickly during prime wedding months in spring and fall.

Off-peak months may offer better pricing and more flexibility but require careful
consideration of weather and daylight conditions.

Why Hire a Local Scottsdale Wedding Photographer?

Hiring a local photographer like Lovelee Photography means you get more
than just pictures—you get expert knowledge of Scottsdale’s best locations, hidden gems,
and seasonal light patterns. We tailor our approach to the time of year to capture your
wedding day perfectly.

We also understand the nuances of desert weddings—from managing heat to planning for
unexpected weather—and can provide practical advice to make your day smooth and
stress-free.

Check out our Scottsdale wedding photography portfolio to see
how we capture the beauty of every season.

Final Thoughts: Plan Your Scottsdale Wedding for the Perfect Season

The best time of year to get married in Scottsdale depends on your vision, guest
comfort, and venue availability. Spring and fall remain the top choices for most couples
due to ideal weather and stunning natural beauty.

Winter can be a charming and intimate alternative, while summer weddings require more
strategic planning but offer unique opportunities for nighttime celebrations.

Whatever season you choose, booking a professional, experienced wedding photographer is
key to preserving the memories of your special day.

Contact Lovelee Photography today to check
availability and start planning your dream Scottsdale wedding.