You’re dreaming of a California elopement because you want to escape it all, right? No stress, no distractions—just pure joy, adventure, and the two of you surrounded by nature. This is your chance to create a day that’s entirely about your love, free from the pressures of a traditional wedding.
Maybe you're envisioning a dramatic cliffside ceremony in Yosemite at sunrise, or along Big Sur’s rugged coastline or maybe a cozy vow exchange beneath towering redwoods. Perhaps you’re dreaming of a laid-back beach elopement in San Diego, a simple “I do” at the San Francisco courthouse, or an intimate lakeside celebration at Lake Tahoe. Whatever your vision, California has endless possibilities, and you've come to the right place!
Yeah, I’m your elopement photographer in California, but I’m so much more than that too. My top priority is making sure your day feels effortless and unforgettable. I’ll help you stress less, explore more, and soak in every incredible moment together.
It’s just you two and me (and if you want to include some of your favorite people, I’ll help you brainstorm ways to make it extra special for a small group too). Sounds like a dream, right?
California is basically elopement heaven. From epic mountain views to dreamy beaches, this state has all the vibes. I'm gonna share some of the best spots for you!
The Eastern Sierras are where adventure meets crazy-good scenery. Mammoth Lakes, Crowley Lake, Sonora Pass—it’s all stunning. Whether you’re into lakeside views, alpine trees, or rugged mountain vibes, this spot’s got you covered, and it's much more secluded than Yosemite, perfect for the couple who wants to get away from it all.
Eloping in the California redwoods feels like stepping into a fairytale. And there are so many gorgeous options to choose from: Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Calaveras Big Trees, Redwoods NP, & Sequoia NP. These trees are massive, magical, and totally unforgettable. I'll help help you choose the best redwoods location based on the experience you're looking for!
San Francisco is perfect for couples who want city vibes and a side of nature. You could elope at City Hall and finish your evening with a sunset and Golden Gate as your backdrop at Baker Beach. There are so many amazing places in SF to include in your day, from the Sutro Baths, The Palace of Fine Arts, or the funky vibes of Haight-Ashbury. Whatever your desiring, if you're looking for the perfect mix of urban cool and stunning views SF's got you covered!
San Diego is a sunny beach dream. Sunset Cliffs, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines—all amazing spots to tie the knot. Plus, it's perfect weather pretty much all year round. You can’t go wrong. I lived in SD for almost 9 years, and I still go back frequently to visit family, so I know this place like it's home and have a load of insider tips for you when it comes to food
- bryanna and alex
Everything you need to know to start planning your Yosemite Elopement
Yosemite Valley Elopement on a moody and rainy December day.
Discover the best waterfall elopement spots in the US!
Read my step-by-step guide on how to plan your Big Sur Elopement
I'll help you brainstorm your dream California elopement and pick the best spot!
HOW DO I CHOOSE AN ELOPEMENT LOCATION?
will we need to obtain a permit for our elopement?
Do we need to hire an officiant?
WHAT DOES AN ELOPEMENT TIMELINE LOOK LIKE?
How many hours will I need my photographer?
How many photos will we receive?
Can I include family at my elopement?
When should we book our photographer?
Of course! If the location allows, we can plan for up to 20 guests. Just keep in mind that as the guest count grows, factors like parking, seating, and bathroom access may limit the locations we can choose. Just make sure they are up for the adventure! I recommend inviting only the people you know will help keep the day’s focus on YOU! Some couples prefer to include a very small group (or no one) at the elopement ceremony and then they plan a reception or party to follow on the date or at a later date. There are no rules when it comes to elopement weddings, and that’s part of the freedom!
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I typically deliver an average of 50 photos per hour of coverage, but it all depends on the activities throughout your day, and how much time we spend shooting and making memories versus traveling in between locations.
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Most couples really value having all the memories from their elopement day together, from getting ready, until sunset, which is why most of my elopement packages include all-day photography coverage. A few couples may just want some photos from their ceremony, as well as bridal photos inside the park, which can take some time when you're traveling through Yosemite's vast regions. For less photography coverage opt for 6-hours or a "half-day" package.
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Your day can be exactly what you want to make of it, but in most cases we will need to plan out travel time to the locations (including drive time, parking, and hiking to the spot) time for getting ready, the vows, and the post-ceremony celebration, as well as any special activities you want to plan to share together on your big day.
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In California you are required to have an officiant for a legal marriage. You can have a friend or family member get ordained and officiate your ceremony. If you prefer to exchange your own set of written vows, I am ordained and would be happy to officiate!
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For most locations, including national parks, state parks, and BLM land, a permit is required. I’ll handle the paperwork for you by reaching out to the parks and securing the necessary permits, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. I also know of some secret areas where a permit isn’t required!
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This is the fun part, but if you're not sure then that's what I'm here for! During our initial consult I'll help you brainstorm some locations based on the information you share about yourselves, your relationship, interests, hobbies, etc, and I'll help you find the perfect spot to elope based on those things! I've captured elopements in California and Hawaii, and have traveled to all corners of this state, so I'm confident with the variety California has to offer, we are going to find the absolute perfect spot for you!
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FAQs