Are you thinking about throwing traditions to the wind, and eloping? There are also many misconceptions surrounding elopements. Regardless, if you're looking for an amazing and unique experience, then Big Sur might be the perfect fit for you! Couples who elope have a lot to choose from when it comes to planning the perfect day including the location! If you’re looking for an intimate wedding that will allow you to enjoy some time with just your spouse-to-be then eloping may be the right fit.
Elopement FAQ's
Why couples are choosing to elope?
Here's why couples are choosing elopements in 2023:
Elopements are becoming more popular. The trend of eloping has been on the rise, especially in recent years after the pandemic. Elopements are more affordable than traditional weddings and you can keep costs low by having your ceremony at an Airbnb or outdoors somewhere beautiful, and may only pay a small fee for a permit instead of hiring an event space (which can cost thousands).
Because you don't have to worry about finding a venue or catering services to accommodate a large guest list, you can simply focus on the most important things: your marriage license, officiant (who'll marry you), and your photographer/videographer!
This makes eloping much less stressful than planning a traditional wedding—which is especially helpful if you're already busy with work or other obligations in your life!
Elopements are more personal. Since it's just you and your partner at these ceremonies, they feel more intimate than traditional weddings where you're surrounded by hundreds of guests. This makes it easier to connect with loved ones on a personal level during these special days; which makes them even more memorable when they're over!
What will an elopement look like?
An elopement is an intimate and personal way to celebrate the union of two people. It's all about you, your love, and the location in which it happens. It means that when you choose to elope, no one else needs to be there for you to consider it a success—you'll have a special moment with just your partner (and officiant/photographer).
Your guests are welcome at any later wedding celebration or party (we can help with those too!). The point of an elopement is that it represents just how much you love each other, not who loves you best or who gets credit for making it happen.
The best elopements are those that feel like a vacation, an adventure, or just a way to spend time together. It's a chance for you and your partner to explore the location and take in the sights. We can help with this by suggesting some great places to visit while you're there.
How do I plan my day-of timeline?
As you plan your itinerary, keep in mind that there are some logistical considerations to be aware of. If you're eloping during the summer months (May - September), you'll want to take advantage of the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets by getting up early or staying out late. However, if your ceremony is taking place during another time of year (October - April), it might not make sense to wake up at 3 AM for a sunrise! We recommend leaving yourself at least an hour for getting ready depending on personal preference.
If you're having a traditional wedding, this is the part of the day that you'll want to give yourself plenty of time for. If you have a large bridal party, making sure everyone can get ready in their hotel rooms on time before heading over to the location or at the venue and photographing a lot of groupings before the ceremony. Depending on where your ceremony takes place and how many people are involved, this could take anywhere from 3-4 hours.
Candid or posed photos?
At an elopement, some couples want to capture candid moments and others prefer a more formal posed set of photos. I tend to get a variety of both but always ask about your preferences in more detail when you book with me.
If you're considering a small wedding, then I recommend at least 2 hours for photos, but coverage is recommended to be at least 4 hours to capture more aspects of the day. If you're looking for something more relaxed and fun with your photographer, then we can make your session last longer! The key is to make sure that there is enough time for all the pictures that will be taken and how much time each couple would like to spend with their photographer during the day before or after their vows and at several locations.
You can always add more time for photos if desired! Some eloping couples like doing a first look shoot on a day before the actual ceremony. This way they get those formal portraits done without worrying about timing issues or being rushed while getting ready on your wedding day!
Who should I invite to my elopement or intimate celebration?
Once you've picked your location, it's time to think about who should be invited to your elopement.
-Family and friends (If you're having a small wedding, you are more than welcome to invite your family and closest friends.)
-Officiant
-Florist
-Wedding planner(s)/coordinator
-Photographer/Videographer
Your officiant sets the tone for the whole day! Make sure to talk over the phone with your officiant to make sure your personalities mesh and the same goes for your Photographer/ Videographer, Planner and/or coordinator!
These are just a few examples! If you'd like additional suggestions for vendors or inspiration photos from other couples' intimate celebrations, send me an email at laurenmakennaphoto@gmail.com
CHOOSE BIG SUR AS YOUR DESTINATION AND YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT!
Big Sur is a beautiful place to elope. There are many reasons why, but we'll start with the most important one: The solitude. Big Sur is an area of California that can hardly be called remote, but it's still far enough away from most people for you to get some peace and quiet. You won't see any cars on the road or buildings popping up around you when you're there! You just need your vehicle and perhaps a tent if you want to camp out during your trip, but other than that? You're all set! And since there aren't any big cities nearby either (and therefore no crowds), there's no need for security or anything like that either. There are however, many short term rental opportunities a little north in Point Lobos, Carmel, and Monterey.
Eloping in Big Sur is an excellent choice. You have a variety of options for your ceremony and celebrations, including private beaches, luxury hotels, local restaurants and wineries. The scenery is beautiful and the weather is great all year round. There are many things to see and do that will make your elopement memorable for years to come.
WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR LIFE TOGETHER THAN IN A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE BUSYNESS OF LIFE AND FOCUS ON EACH OTHER? WE ARE HERE FOR YOU EVERY STEP OF THE AY, SO DON'T HESITATE TO REACH OUT. I WOULD LOVE TO CAPTURE YOUR LOVE STORY!
- STAY ON TRAILS & KEEP THE WEST WILD-
"We couldn’t have dreamt of a better photographer. Our wedding was absolutely perfect, and that wouldn’t have been possible without Lauren. Not only she’s incredibly passionate and talented, but she’s also a great communicator who guided us along the way since the beginning. Planning a destination wedding isn’t easy. Lauren helped with a lot of great referrals. She answered every email and message right away. She even picked up our cake the morning of our wedding. In a way Lauren has been the best friend I didn’t know I needed. Thank you Lauren from the bottom of our hearts! You reflected our love in every picture, and now those memories will live forever thanks to you."