Planning a Destination Elopement Day Timeline with Your Photographer

When it comes to planning your elopement, one of the most common questions I hear is: How many hours of coverage do we really need? The answer depends on your vision for the day. Whether you want a laid-back morning with loved ones, a jaw-dropping adventure at golden hour, or both, your elopement should feel uniquely you. Let’s dive into Ashley and Jordyn’s 8-hour Sedona elopement for inspiration and tips to help you decide how to plan your elopement day timeline!

Ashley and Jordyn’s Full-Day Sedona Elopement

Ashley and Jordyn are morning people, so their day kicked off bright and early at 8 a.m. They invited close family to their Airbnb, where everyone gathered to make breakfast together. It was such a sweet way to start the day—surrounded by love, laughter, and an incredible view of Sedona’s red rocks from the patio.

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After breakfast, Ashley and Jordyn got ready for their ceremony. Their ceremony location was stunning, with the red rocks as the backdrop. We lingered afterward for portraits, capturing those just-married moments while the morning light painted the landscape.

Once the ceremony wrapped up, Ashley and Jordyn took a break to enjoy their afternoon. They went hiking with their family, explored some scenic trails, and shared lunch—making the most of their time in Sedona.

Later, we met back up for sunset coverage. We started with cozy photos of Ashley and Jordyn snuggling on the couch at their Airbnb.

Then, we hopped into a 4×4 with our guide for an unforgettable adventure to Merry Go Round Rock. They even showed us a few hidden gems along the way! We stayed at the top until the sun dipped below the horizon, soaking up every golden moment.

The day ended with dinner back at their Airbnb, surrounded by family. It was relaxed, stress-free, and exactly how Ashley and Jordyn envisioned their elopement day!

Love Notes from Ashley and Jordyn’s Destination Elopement

“My husband (ahh) and I are from New York, decided to elope in Arizona and searching for a photographer in a different state seemed like such a challenge but after chatting with Kali it was an easy choice. We had such a great experience with Kali and Tyler, they are such great, warm, and friendly people that made our day that much better. We have received our sneak peak and are already obsessed and can’t wait to see the rest. Thank you both so much for the amazing work that you do!”

How to Decide How Many Hours of Elopement Coverage You Need

Ashley and Jordyn booked 8 hours of coverage, which gave us time to document their full day—from breakfast to sunset adventures and their evening celebration. So, how do you determine how much time you need for your elopement?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

1. What’s your vision for the day?

Do you want to include getting ready, a first look, or a quiet breakfast together? Are you planning a ceremony with family, a private hike, or an epic sunset adventure? Think about the moments that matter most to you.

2. Will you include multiple locations?

If you’re dreaming of exploring different spots, like hiking trails or scenic overlooks, factor in travel time. For Ashley and Jordyn, the mid-day break allowed them to enjoy Sedona with their family and set the stage for a magical sunset session.

3. How much flexibility do you want?

Elopement days often feel more relaxed than traditional weddings, but having enough coverage gives you space to soak in the moments without feeling rushed. Ashley and Jordyn’s 8-hour timeline let them enjoy their day at their own pace.

A Sample 8-Hour Elopement Day Timeline

If you’re considering full-day coverage, here’s an example inspired by Ashley and Jordyn’s day:

8:00 a.m. – Breakfast and getting ready with family
10:00 a.m. – Ceremony + portraits at your ceremony location
12:00 p.m. – Break for lunch, explore local trails, or relax
4:00 p.m. – Sunset session (cozy Airbnb photos + adventure to epic locations)
6:30 p.m. – Sunset portraits at a scenic overlook
8:00 p.m. – Dinner celebration with family

Why Full-Day Elopement Coverage Is Worth It

Ashley and Jordyn’s elopement was a reminder of how special it is to capture a couple’s entire story. From the quiet moments of the morning to the golden glow of sunset, every part of their day reflected who they are as a couple. If you’re planning an elopement, don’t be afraid to dream big—your day should feel like you.

Still not sure how to plan your elopement day timeline? Let’s chat! I’d love to help you create a timeline that fits your vision perfectly. Whether you’re eloping in Sedona or somewhere else, I’m here to make sure your day is everything you’ve imagined—and more.

Destination Elopement Photographer Based in Arizona | Kal M Photos

Whether you’re seeking to infuse a non-traditional vibe into a conventionally classic wedding or crafting an entirely unprecedented way to say “I do,” you deserve more than just an ordinary photography experience. So, you deserve a destination wedding photography and videography experience as distinctive as you are, and my friend, you’ve just discovered it. Secure your date here!

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