The Ultimate Guide to Planning your California Elopement

So, you’re dreaming about ditching the big wedding stress and keeping things simple, romantic, and so you? Then you’re probably wondering how to elope in California? Trust us, you’ve picked the perfect place! With jaw-dropping beaches, epic mountains, and every type of scenery you can imagine, California is basically a dream come true for elopements. But planning one can feel a bit overwhelming when there are so many amazing options. That’s why we put together this ultimate guide on how to elope in California to help you create a day that’s unforgettable and totally yours.

So what is an elopement anyway?

Elopements have come a long way from the whole “running off to Vegas” vibe. Nowadays, eloping is more about choosing an intimate, meaningful way to get married without all the stress of a big wedding. It’s just you, your partner, and a day that’s all about your love story. No drama, no pressure. Just the good stuff!

Why California Is the Spot for Your Elopement

Trying to decide why you should elope in California? Here’s why it’s a no-brainer: California has everything from rugged cliffs and golden beaches to towering redwoods and sun-soaked deserts. Plus, the weather’s pretty awesome most of the year, which means you can plan your elopement whenever you want. Whether you’re all about beachy boho vibes or forest fairytale feels, California’s got you covered.

Benefits of planning an elopement in California

There are numerous benefits to planning an elopement in California. First and foremost, an elopement allows you to have a more personal and meaningful experience. Without the distractions of a traditional wedding, you can focus on each other and the love you share, creating a truly intimate ceremony.

Eloping in California is often more budget-friendly compared to a traditional wedding. With fewer guests to accommodate, you can allocate your resources towards creating the perfect elopement experience.

Considerations when planning a memorable California elopement

Before diving into the planning process, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind when planning your California elopement. First, decide on the size of your guest list. While elopements are typically smaller affairs, you may still want to include a few close friends or family members. Determine the maximum number of guests you’d like to invite to help guide your venue selection.

Next, think about your budget. Establishing a realistic budget early on will help you make informed decisions throughout the planning process. Consider all the elements you’d like to include in your elopement, such as accommodation, transportation, and any additional activities or experiences you’d like to enjoy during your time in California.

Lastly, consider the logistics of your elopement. If you and your partner are traveling from out of state or even from another country, make sure to account for travel and accommodation arrangements. Research local marriage license requirements and allow enough time to obtain any necessary documentation.

Choosing the perfect location for your California elopement

One of the most exciting aspects of planning a memorable California elopement is choosing the perfect location. California offers a wide array of breathtaking landscapes, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re drawn to beaches, mountains, deserts, to even cityscapes, California has the perfect spot for you

The Best Places to Elope in California

• Beach Lovers: Check out spots like San Diego or Santa Barbara for those golden sands and ocean views. For a more dramatic vibe, head north to Big Sur where cliffs meet the Pacific in the most epic way.
• Mountain Magic: Thinking about how to elope in California with mountains in the background? Yosemite and the Sierra Nevadas are basically made for elopements, with waterfalls, wildflowers, and those dreamy golden hour shots.
• Magical Desert Vibes: Hands down. Joshua tree is the perfect location for your elopement if you’re craving tranquility and magical sunsets. With sweeping open views of the expansive desert to incredible rock formations. Joshua Tree has it all.
• Redwood Romance: For those who want a fairytale feel, eloping among Northern California’s redwoods is pure magic. The sunlight streaming through those massive trees? Unreal.

It’s not always sunny in California

When planning your memorable California elopement, it’s important to consider the weather. California is known for it’s great weather, but it’s still essential to be prepared for anything depending on the time of year and location! When planning how to elope in California, you’ve got to think about the weather even though it’s usually pretty awesome. Coastal spots can be a little foggy in the mornings and mountains can get chilly, so plan for layers and keep an eye on sunset times for those golden hour photos. And honestly, a bit of fog or mist just makes for even more stunning and moody photos.

Keep this in mind when planning your ceremony time and attire. Layering is key to staying comfortable and ensuring you can enjoy your elopement to the fullest. Consider providing blankets or shawls for your and/or your guests and have a backup plan in case of wild weather.

Legal requirements for how to elope in California

Before exchanging your vows in California, it’s important to be familiar with the legal requirements for getting married here. To obtain a marriage license, both you and your partner must appear in person at a county clerk’s office. You’ll need to provide valid identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, as well as proof of age.

It’s also worth noting that California has no residency requirements, meaning you can get married in the state regardless of where you live. Keep in mind that marriage licenses are only valid for a specific period of time, so plan your elopement accordingly!

Once you’ve obtained your marriage license, you’ll need to have an authorized person like a minister or a judge, perform the ceremony. After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license. Then you’ll return it to the county clerk’s office to ensure your marriage is legally recognized.

Planning the Perfect Elopement Day

When you’re deciding how to elope in California and want to make the day feel amazing and stress free, a timeline is your best friend. Start by determining your desired date and work backwards from there. Consider factors such as the availability of your chosen location, any travel arrangements, weather/sunset schedule and the time needed to obtain your marriage license.

Plan for getting ready, photos, the ceremony, and some chill time to just soak it all in. Remember to factor in travel time between locations if you plan on having multiple stops throughout the day. Make sure to schedule your ceremony around sunset if you’re after that golden hour glow. Check out this resource to look up sunset times for any date of the year: California Sunset Times And here’s a hot tip: book your photographer early! You want someone who gets your vision and can capture every smile, happy tear, and those sneaky hand squeezes.

How to elope in California: Vendor Edition

Figuring out how to elope in California is exciting, but finding the right vendors to bring your vision to life? That’s where the magic happens! The right photographer, officiant, and florist etc can make your elopement feel straight out of a daydream. So let’s chat about how to find your dream team!

Start by searching for local vendors in the area you’re planning to elope. Look for people who specialize in elopements and have portfolios that make you feel something. Instagram and Pinterest are basically your BFFs here, and don’t be shy about sliding into some DMs or filling out inquiry forms!

Need a little help? Ask friends, family, or even online communities for recommendations. People love to share their favorite vendors. Also, checking out reviews and testimonials is a must; they’ll give you the real scoop on what to expect.

When you reach out to vendors, be upfront about your vision, budget, and any must-haves. This helps you figure out how to elope in California without any stress and makes sure you’re teaming up with people who totally get your vibe. The right vendors won’t just show up, they’ll go above and beyond and help you create an elopement that’s everything you’ve ever dreamed of!

Choosing a photographer for your California elopement

When it comes to planning an elopement in California, choosing the right photographer is a BIG deal. You want someone who can capture all the dreamy, emotional, and let’s-be-honest, Instagram-worthy moments of your day. So, how do you find the one? Let’s break it down!

Start by creeping on some portfolios. Check out Instagram, websites, or even Pinterest. Look for a photographer whose style makes your heart do a little happy dance and gives you all the feels. The one’s who you can easily see yourselves in their photos.. You want someone who captures real emotions and moments, not just stiff poses.

Once you’ve got a few favorites, reach out and set up a consultation! This is your chance to chat about your vision, what kind of photos you love, and all the little details. Don’t forget to ask about their experience with eloping in California. Especially if they’ve shot in your dream location before. Bonus points if they offer extras like engagement sessions or albums!

Make sure to get the lowdown on pricing and what’s included in their packages, too. Don’t be afraid to ask for something custom if what they offer doesn’t exactly fit your needs and wants. And above all, trust your gut. Choose someone who feels like a friend, gets your vibe, and makes you feel comfy in front of the camera. After all, they’ll be tagging along for one of the most epic days of your life!

Creating the perfect California elopement experience

When planning your memorable California elopement, it’s important to consider all the elements that will contribute to creating a perfect experience. Think beyond the ceremony itself and consider how you can make your elopement truly memorable.

Consider incorporating personal touches that reflect your unique story and relationship. Whether it’s writing your own vows, exchanging meaningful gifts, or including elements that represent your shared interests or hobbies, these personal touches will make your elopement feel even more special.

Additionally, take advantage of the incredible surroundings that California has to offer. Plan activities or experiences that will enhance your elopement, such as a sunrise hike, a sunset picnic, or even a hot air balloon ride. These additional moments will make your elopement feel like a true adventure and allow you to create memories that extend beyond the ceremony itself.

Budgeting for your California elopement

One of the best parts about figuring out how to elope in California is that it can be way more budget-friendly than a traditional wedding. But it’s still smart to plan a budget! Think about costs for your location (or permit if you’re going off the grid), travel, outfits, flowers, and any fun extras like a private chef or a sunset picnic.

Research the average costs for elopements in California to get a sense of what you can expect to spend. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the location, time of year, and the specific services you require.

Frequently asked questions about how to elope in California :

1. Do I need a wedding planner for my California elopement?

While hiring a wedding planner is not necessary for every elopement, it can be beneficial. Especially if you’re planning from out of state or want assistance with logistics and vendor coordination. A wedding planner can help alleviate stress and ensure that everything runs smoothly on your special day.

2. Can I have guests at my California elopement?

Absolutely! While elopements are often smaller in scale, you can still include a few close friends or family members in your ceremony. Just be sure to consider the size of your chosen venue and adhere to any guest limitations or restrictions.

3. How far in advance should I book vendors for my California elopement?

It’s recommended to book your preferred vendors as far out as possible! Especially if you have a specific date or location in mind. Popular vendors tend to book up quickly, so securing their services early will ensure availability.

Conclusion

Your elopement should feel like an adventure. Whether that’s hiking to a hidden spot, sharing your favorite tacos on the beach, or just slow-dancing under the stars. It’s all about making memories that’ll have you smiling every time you think back to your wedding day.

Ready to start planning your California elopement? We’re here to help with all the inspo, tips, and good vibes you need to make it the best day ever.

Still need convincing? Check out our blog post “5 Reasons You Should Elope in California“