6 Tips to Make Your Vegas Wedding Special and Memorable

A Las Vegas wedding can be glamorous, quirky, intimate, or downright unforgettable – it just depends on how you plan it. While Vegas is known for fast-paced ceremonies and neon-lit chapels, that doesn’t mean you have to settle for something rushed or cookie-cutter. With a bit of forethought and the right local vendors, your Vegas wedding can be just as meaningful and stylish as any traditional ceremony.

Here are six tips to help you plan the perfect Las Vegas wedding.

• Choose a Chapel or Venue That Fits Your Vibe

Las Vegas is known for its quickie chapels, but the options go far beyond neon signs and drive-thru vows. You can find chapels that are elegant, modern, bohemian, vintage, or themed.

Before you book, think about what atmosphere feels right. Do you want something classic and romantic with candlelight and soft music? Or are you picturing something bold and playful, like a pink Cadillac ceremony or a rooftop with a panoramic city view?

Many venues now offer custom packages that let you choose your decor, music, and officiant, so you can tailor the ceremony to your tastes. Don’t be afraid to step away from the stereotypes — Las Vegas has some truly stunning venues, from lush garden courtyards to desert overlooks just outside the city.

• Personalize the Ceremony

Even if you’re keeping things short and simple, your wedding can still feel deeply personal. This is where small touches make a big difference.

• Write your own vows, or include a reading that means something to you. 
• Choose music that tells your story — whether that’s a Sinatra classic, your favorite indie track, or an Elvis serenade (because, hey, it’s Vegas). 
• Bring symbolic details, like a custom bouquet, a family heirloom, or a handwritten note to exchange right before the ceremony.
• If you’re eloping to Las Vegas, you can make it even more meaningful by creating your own private ritual afterward — a celebratory toast, a quiet walk down Fremont Street, or a sunset photo shoot in the desert. 
• Hire Local Pros Who Know the Vegas Scene

One of the smartest things you can do for your Vegas wedding is to work with local professionals who understand the city’s unique rhythm. Photographers, florists, makeup artists, and officiants who specialize in Vegas weddings know how to navigate the fast-paced schedule, the lighting conditions, and the logistics that come with getting married in the entertainment capital of the world.

Ask chapels and venues for their recommended vendors — they often have partnerships with trusted pros who can deliver high-quality service without the guesswork. Local photographers, in particular, can guide you to the best spots for those iconic shots. (If you’re flying in, book appointments early and confirm details in writing so everything runs smoothly when you arrive.)

• Plan for the Little Details

Even in a city built for spontaneity, a little preparation goes a long way. Make sure you’ve handled the basics — your marriage license, identification, and any necessary reservations. (In Las Vegas, you can apply for your marriage license online ahead of time and pick it up quickly at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau.)

If you’re eloping, double-check your package to confirm what’s included: officiant, flowers, photography, and transportation are usually standard, but extras like live streaming, hair and makeup, or extra photos might cost more.

And while Vegas weather is typically warm and sunny, it can get hot — really hot — during the summer months. If you’re planning outdoor photos or a desert ceremony, schedule them early in the morning or at sunset when the light is softer (and the temperatures are cooler).

• Decide How You’ll Celebrate

Not every wedding needs hundreds of guests and a grand reception. In fact, many couples come to Las Vegas specifically to simplify things. A Las Vegas elopement can be the perfect way to focus on just the two of you.

Eloping doesn’t mean skipping the magic. You can still dress to the nines, book a professional photographer, and celebrate with dinner at one of the city’s incredible restaurants afterward. 

If you do want guests, Vegas is a great place to host them. The city offers endless entertainment, group dining options, and accommodations to fit every budget. You can even plan a small post-ceremony gathering at a suite or a restaurant.

• Capture the Magic With Iconic Photos

Las Vegas practically begs to be photographed. The city offers backdrops you won’t find anywhere else — sparkling lights, vintage signs, desert landscapes, and elegant hotel interiors. Hiring a skilled photographer who knows how to balance those backdrops with your personal style can elevate your entire experience.

Before the ceremony, scout photo spots or discuss ideas with your photographer. Maybe you want classic glamour shots along the Strip, moody night portraits under the lights, or something whimsical downtown. Some couples even book “day-after” photo sessions to explore scenic spots like Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire without feeling rushed.

If your chapel includes a photo package, ask if you can add time or extra locations. Those little upgrades often turn into some of your favorite keepsakes from the day.

Having the Perfect Vegas Wedding

At its core, the perfect Vegas wedding is about creating an experience that feels like you. The beauty of getting married in Las Vegas is the freedom it gives you to define what your day looks like. 

You can keep it simple, go big, or blend the two in a way that fits your story. Have fun with it!