Are you over the big wedding and want to enjoy this time with your significant other versus stressing about every detail of a huge party? If that is you, then you have come to the perfect spot to find out how to plan a stress free elopement in Southern California. Planning a wedding is a literal second job, even planning a small elopement takes some work but can be way more enjoyable and fun if done with a few things in mind. I have laid out a few basic things to think of when planning your Southern California elopement so you can tackle this day and enjoy, not stress!

Picking out the perfect location:

First of all, Southern California has got to be one of the most amazing spots to choose from. Home to the perfect climate and all different types of beaches is what truly makes it one of the best places to elope.

When choosing a location, choose one that has lots of beautiful landscapes and or architecture so that you don’t have to spend tons of money and “stress” trying to figure out how to transform the spot. Choose a location that already has the picturesque vibes. My top spots are all in San Diego, OC, Palm Springs, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Within each of these locations there are a ton of options that are all so different and unique. There is everything from beautiful beaches like El Matador in Malibu to Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. If you are looking for less beach and more architecture there are tons of courthouses located along the coast from San Diego to Santa Barbara that are some of the most beautiful buildings I have ever seen. The Mission in San Juan Capistrano is a real charmer as well as the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. The list is LONG and I am here to help you find the perfect spot.

 

Keep the ceremony simple:

Simple ceremonies are the best- they are so sweet and memorable. Don’t overthink it, all you need is an officiant and some personal vows from the heart. Plus if you are eloping with a rad view, you don’t need to worry too much about a bunch of decor! This ceremony was on one of the cliffs in San Diego, they had their gorgeous bouquets by Adorations Botanical Artistry, closest family members and an officiant. The photos turned out so fabulous!

Keep the guest list small:

Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you need to stress about keeping your guest list at zero but it also means you don’t ever need to feel pressure to invite all of your closest friends, you can keep it super simple and just elope with the two of you or you can include your closest family members- whatever you do, do what makes you the least stressed and the most happy.

Include pets:

There is nothing sweeter than wedding photos with your pup, I literally could not handle how cute this little guy was in his floral collar that the bride had her florist create. He was so perfect. It adds such a personal touch to your day and they can serve as the best form of therapy and ease to make your day feel calm, relaxing and of course, stress free!

Choose a professional photographer:

Even though you may not be having the wild reception party, tons of cocktails and dancing and the big grand ball gown doesn’t mean you should skip out on a professional photographer. There is something that cannot be relayed in words about the images a professional (keyword, professional) photographer can create versus an I phone or your uncles 10 year old “professional” camera. There is so much more to photos than having an “ok” camera- it’s the posing, it’s the recommendations on what type of dress/bouquet/location will photograph best and all the gorgeous/thoughtful editing that goes into it. It’s truly worth every penny and one of the very few tangible things you can take away with you from your special day.

To see how to get married at the Pasadena City Hall click here!

Interested in booking an elopement photography package, reach out below!