Private Desert Ceremony in Las Vegas

celisseanne

My husband and I had a civil ceremony but thought we'd have a super small (our parents only) wedding ceremony so we have nice photos and really, just to make our parents happy. We've narrowed down our options to maybe an in-suite wedding in a Vegas hotel or a ceremony in the dessert. My dad is a minister so he can be the officiant but I don't really know where we can drive to, get out of the car, and have this simple ceremony, since I've sadly never ventured off the strip. There are wedding packages that take you to an outdoor site that includes a photographer, officiant, etc. but we don't need any of that since we're getting our own photographer. Has anyone done that before and not need a permit of some sort? Location suggestions? Appreciate the feedback! 

reinainnyc

Hi, I'm getting married in the grand canyon and my vendor allows me to use my own minister, photographer with no charge.  You just have to call around and ask because I also spoke to another vendor who charged a fee for using outside vendors for these same things.

Sounds like doing a valley of fire ceremony would make sense for you; all you need to do is get a permit.

celisseanne

Thank you reinainnyc! I looked into Vally of Fire as well. We're thinking of going to the desert flats and doing something there. Still trying to figure out if I need a permit. It's going to be super simple and short. The photog session, I'm sure, will take longer!

vegasgroom

Helicopter to somewhere cool might be interesting.  I know the guy that married my wife and I does those from time to time:

http://themobileminister.com/Locations.html

kazzy

You might also consider Calico Basin at Red Rock Canyon, which is not as far as Valley of Fire. They have a sort of boardwalk area with a viewpoint that is really quite lovely for ceremonies. You do need a permit for that location, but it's quick and easy from what I've heard. 

A wedding there: http://www.littlevegaswedding.com/2013/06/calico-basin-red-rock-wedding/#.UnLTY5RgbZY

Info on permits and the venues there: http://www.blm.gov/nv/st/en/fo/lvfo/blm_programs/blm_special_areas/red_rock_nca/recreation/weddings.html

Also don't be afraid to ask your photographer. They should be an amazing wealth of knowledge!