Whether you’ve already decided to elope in California or you're just starting to explore the idea of a California elopement, you’re taking a meaningful step toward a wedding day that truly reflects your relationship. Just you and your partner, choosing to get married with intention, how empowering is that? Eloping is an exciting and unforgettable experience, and it should feel as authentic as your love. Dreaming of coastlines, trees, hiking trails, mountain backdrops, and breathtaking desert expanses? Then eloping in California might be just what you’re looking for. And the best part; we are an experienced California elopement photographer duo!
California Redwoods Elopement
Why Elope in California
California is a playground full of diverse landscapes! With its wide variety of geographical features, California is the perfect option for an outdoor enthusiast looking to solidify their bond with a dreamy wedding day on the West Coast. California features so many natural characteristics that sets it apart from other states. The Golden State has an endless coastline and several major hub cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego with several gem towns and cities in between (Santa Barbara, anyone?)
California boasts beautiful national parks and national forests that are so unique, they’re one of a kind. We love helping couples plan their Joshua Tree National Park elopement or Redwoods National Park wedding!
For those who still need convincing, California has so much to offer that it makes for a great honeymoon spot where you can explore the entire duration of your elopement trip.
Joshua Tree Elopement
Best California Elopement Locations
There are endless options for eloping in California and we’re passionate about every corner of our home state. For those wanting to get a taste of what the state has to offer, we’ll start with some of the big ones. If you like the vibes of any of the ones on our list, there’s a guarantee we have other spots just as great to share with you when planning your elopement.
Big Sur
Big Sur is a beautiful and accessible stretch of coastline just south of Monterey and Carmel, both towns make great starting locations with plentiful hotel and AirBnB options. During your trip down the 1 toward Big Sur you’ll see beautiful coast views with cliffs, trails, and ocean views. It’s an iconic stretch of coastline that makes for magical elopement pictures.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a diverse ecosystem where two deserts meet. The land is rich with more plants and animals than you’d expect from a desert landscape but by taking a quick glance you can see the beauty in the area. Take a look at one of our Joshua Tree elopement shoots to see just how stunning it is!
Redwood National and State Parks
The Redwoods are well known for their enormous trees, stretching over 350 feet tall. The parks are filled with ferns and massive tree trunks that give you a glimpse into another one of California’s most unique landscapes. It’s really a sight that you have to see for yourself, but if you want some ideas on how it could look for your wedding day check out our Redwood elopement.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is referred to as the American Riviera and it absolutely feels like you’ve stepped into a different country. It’s home to a mission, historic and beautiful courthouse, south facing coastline, and mild climate. Santa Barbara is a perfect location to elope, honeymoon, and explore.
Santa Barbara Elopement
When is the Best Time of Year to Plan a California Elopement?
California has an interesting climate that makes it suitable for eloping most of the year in most locations. Snow only reaches some of the higher elevations, or temporarily in the desert. At peak summer some locations like the desert can be very hot. Places like Santa Barbara are a great year round option, the deserts are best for spring and fall temperatures, and the mountains are great year round (especially if you’re intentionally wanting some snowy cabin vibes in Big Bear). It just depends on what type of backdrop vibes with you: California can make it happen!
Legal Requirements for Eloping in California
California differs from some of the other states because you only need one witness and your officiant, both 18 or older. There is also the option to self solemnize if you’d like to keep things to just you, your partner, and your photographer. Licenses can be obtained from the county office that you plan to elope in and pay their small fee. Of course, we’re always happy to help you figure out the fine details of the legal requirements and any permits depending on your elopement location.
Joshua Tree National Park Elopement
Hiring an Elopement Photographer or Officiant
Having an officiant for your elopement can mean that you don’t have to take care of the paperwork yourself. Self solemnizing is an option in California but can mean taking up more time and responsibility. We’re always happy to provide our recommended vendors for officiants.
A photographer that vibes with you is just as important as the location you picked. An elopement photographer should be able to help you find your dream location, make vendor recommendations, help you source permits and navigate the legal requirements, quickly adjust to any changes, make you feel comfortable in front of a camera, and set up your timeline for the day. We pride ourselves with our ability to provide our clients with a vast wealth of knowledge and experience.
Final Tips for a Memorable California Elopement
Once you’ve picked your location, your photographer, and your officiant, round out the day by including some special activities. This could be including a picnic or meal of your favorite foods, including an activity that would make for fun pictures, or finding the perfect song for your first dance. There are plenty of ways to make your special day even more special by incorporating the things you live, trying something new, or going for an activity that’s unique to the location. A 4 seater bike in Santa Barbara, a steam train through the woods, or rock climbing in Joshua Tree, the options are endless!
Santa Barbara Courthouse Elopement
Whether you're planning an elopement in Oregon, Washington, California, or anywhere around the globe, we couldn't be more elated for you! Drop us a message and let's get planning to make your dream elopement a tangible event!
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