You might want to elope in Big Sur…
….because of the romantic restaurants, quiet redwood groves, windy cliffs and stunning beaches….or maybe you initially wanted to have a big wedding in Big Sur but quickly realized it wasn’t for you…maybe because of the difficulties in booking one of the few venues or the logistics for your guests due to how remote it is. Whether you are planning an intimate wedding of immediate family and besties, parents/siblings, or just the two of you…you have picked the perf place! But even the chillest of brides and grooms still want a beautiful, intentional, and romantic day they can remember forever. Whether that be a gorgeous dress, whimsical flowers, a heartfelt and proper ceremony, and of course, gorgeous photos. Timeless photos become even MORE important so you can share photos of your elopement or intimate wedding in Big Sur with your loved ones.
I shoot dozens of elopements and intimate weddings in Big Sur each year and here is my advice on eloping in Big Sur or even Carmel by the Sea.
Hire Local Big Sur Vendors
Hire local vendors for our insider intel on locations. Big Sur is a rugged coastline of dozens of miles of intricate trails, hidden beaches, and beautiful vistas. I see so many destination photogs shoot the same old tired, tourist ridden spots. As local photographers, we can find the perfect spot for you based on what you are looking for.
Decide what is important to you.
Ex: Photography (obvs!) to share and look back on for a lifetime to remember how you FELT, and maybe an epic bouquet, hair/makeup worthy of your wedding day, or an officiant who is professional (on time, personalized ceremony, intentional, PRINTS it out instead of ipad). And forget the details that don’t matter to you! That’s one of the best parts of eloping. A lot of my couples are able to splurge because it’s just the two of them, often making a reso for a splashy 5 star dinner, like at Post Ranch Inn, with stunning ocean views.
Enjoy the extra time that you will have.
Time to relax, breathe deep, connect with your partner, and enjoy your day. It also means you have more time to go on an epic adventure session in your wedding dress. You never know where light will be magically coming through the trees or dipping below the mountain, or when you will see a tricked out VW bus that matches your wedding dress (see above), but eloping gives you all the time in the world to make epic pictures. It’s the reason I am honestly in love with photographing Big Sur elopements and intimate weddings! Say hi to me with the form below!
Eloping or having an intimate wedding in Big Sur offers couples all of the romance, beauty, and CONNECTION you may be dreaming about for your wedding day all while costing a fraction of the price. But if you still want stunning fine art photography to share your day, shoot me a message below! I would love to capture your day!
xo, Kristen, Better With You Photography
