Are you considering a Big Sur elopement, but you’re overwhelmed with where to start? This one’s for you! Whether you fell in love with the crashing waves, the broad sky, or the sheer magic of Big Sur, eloping on this part of the California coastline is a stunning way to celebrate your marriage. Keep reading to learn all about how to elope in Big Sur!
Why Big Sur?
Big Sur has some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve ever seen, hands-down. Looking at these photos, it’s hard to believe that this beautiful destination is in the US! Plus, thanks to the variety of scenery, this location is perfect for forest elopements to stunning beach photos. It is the perfect elopement destination for couples who prioritize photos with a stunning view!
1. Figure out Your Budget
Once you’ve decided you want to elope in Big Sur (woohoo!), it’s time to set your budget. This might be one of the hardest parts of planning your elopement, because you’ll probably have to make a few tough decisions. I tell my elopement couples to prioritize preferred vendors, and to remember this is a once in a lifetime experience. You and your partner will also be able to start deciding what is most important to you both while keeping budget in mind! When most people think of eloping, they often picture a simple, low-key ceremony with just the couple and maybe a witness or two—no big dress, no fancy flowers, and definitely no extravagant details. While it’s true that eloping can be a more intimate and budget-friendly option compared to a large wedding, there’s a misconception that it means you have to skip the wedding dreams you’ve always had.
The reality is that eloping can be as simple or as extravagant as you want it to be—especially when you choose a stunning location like Big Sur, California.
2. Create Your Guest List
Now that you have a budget estimate for your Big Sur elopement, the next step is to decide on your guest list! While a lot of elopements I photograph are just the couple, you and your partner may decide to include others. Whether you want to include a few family members, just friends, or a mix of both, every elopement is different. Make sure that you are both being authentic to your elopement vision, whatever that looks like! I know some couples who didn’t invite anyone to their elopement because that’s what they’d seen on social media, only to regret not having family present for their special day.
Remember, do what’s best for you and try not to listen to anyone other than your partner when making decisions.
3. Choose a Location (or more)
As I said earlier, Big Sur offers a wide variety of different location options. With your partner, answer the following questions: What kind of vibe are you looking for? How do you want your ceremony/reception/photos to look? Do you want to be surrounded by nature, or have everything indoors (or a mix of both)? Big Sur is full of incredible places to exchange vows. If possible, I suggest hiring someone who is familiar with the area you’re wanting to elope. Check out their portfolio and see if any location(s) speaks to you.
4. Choose the Season
Choosing your date definitely ties into the vibes you hope to have for your elopement. Big Sur transforms drastically throughout the seasons. Once you’ve chosen your season, narrow down on your dates (with consideration on your preferred vendors). One of the things I love most about Big Sur is that no matter what time of year you choose to elope, the beauty of this place shines through. While I don’t favor one particular season over another for a Big Sur elopement, each season brings its own unique charm and character to the landscape, which can make certain locations even more magical at different times of the year.
For example, spring offers lush greenery and the beautiful calla lilies that really make you feel like you’re not in California. In contrast, summer provides long, golden sunsets and warmer weather, ideal for a beachside celebration with cliffside views. Not to mention the few weeks of gorgeous wildflowers! Fall is another stunning time, when the landscape takes on rich, earthy tones—perfect for those looking for a more romantic, intimate vibe surrounded by coastal cliffs. And winter, while cooler, has the advantage of fewer crowds and dramatic, moody skies, creating a dreamy and peaceful atmosphere.
The beauty of Big Sur is that each season highlights different aspects of this amazing location. Whether you prefer the vibrant blooms of spring/ summer or the quieter, misty days of winter, I’ll help you find the best spots and design an elopement that works for you, no matter the time of year.At the end of the day, it truly depends on what you are both envisioning for your elopement!
Looking for a Big Sur elopement photographer?
Your elopement is to celebrate you, and the start of your marriage. If you’re planning an elopement, I would love to hear from you! Fill out my contact form here, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can! In the meantime, take a peek at this couple who chose to take their photos in Big Sur!
