Inspiration for Eloping in Southern California

Elopements have quickly become a favorite option for couples wanting a unique and intimate wedding experience. There’s something wildly romantic about escaping to say “I do”  at a breathtaking location with only your inner circle of friends and family. California has a wide variety of locations for your dream elopement. In this post, I’m sharing three elopements I’ve had the joy of photographing—each one set in a stunning, unforgettable location. You’ll find inspiration, tips, and precious moments to help you envision your own beautiful beginning.

Bride and groom standing in front of a gazebo exchanging vows.
Bride and groom in the mountains.
Bride and groom having a picnic with their wedding cake, in black and white.

1. A Mountain Elopement in the Mountains

For the mountain lovers like me, Idyllwild California is such a beautiful destination for elopements. It is a easy to reach location that is just as beautiful as any other mountain in California. I had the pleasure of shooting at Strawberry Creek Inn, which not only has break taking views but offers intimate lodging for your and your loves ones to stay in.

Why I Love It: The California mountains offer seclusion, grandeur, and a deep connection to nature. It’s the perfect setting for couples who love the trees, greenery, and intimacy that the mountains have to offer.

Evan & Payton standing with their officiant praying together during their cereomy.
Bride and groom sitting together.
Details of the brides bouquet.

2. A Romantic Vineyard Elopement in Wine Country

Nestled in the heart of Temecula is Wine Country with so many stunning venues to choose from. I had the pleasure of being at Europa Winery to capture the sweetest elopement. This venue is something straight out of your European dreams.

Why I Love It: California’s wine country offers a peaceful, timeless charm. With its warm hues, intimate tasting rooms, and scenic views, it’s ideal for couples who want a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere.

Bride and groom running on the beach at sunset during their beach elopement.
Bride and groom holding their rings together.
Bride and groom walking together in black and white.

3. A Dreamy Beach Elopement in Solana Beach

Set against the stunning backdrop of Solana Beach, this location offers a breathtaking setting for a romantic elopement that couples will cherish forever. I had the honor of capturing a beautiful ceremony with the couples closet family right on the shore of Fletcher’s Cove Beach, which I consider my hidden gem of a beach. This secluded spot is framed by stunning cliffs and the shoreline, providing a serene environment for the couple to exchange their vows.

Why I Love It: I always recommend Fletcher’s Cove Beach for it is always calm, and secluded with hardly any people on the beach to distract from the elopement.

Bride and groom walking together outside.
Bride and groom on a staircase, groom pointing out.
Bride and groom walking under shade from forest of trees.

4. An Intimate Claremont Elopement

Looking for something a little different? Claremont is a beautiful city tucked away in Los Angeles with a variety of beautiful venues and other beautiful locations with stunning architecture and landscaping. This particular elopement Katie and Sebastian shared their first look and took some bride & groom portraits at Scripps College before heading to a relatives house to have an intimate ceremony.

Why I Love It: Claremont has such a wide variety of options to elope at that meet any couples style and needs.

Final Thoughts:

I hope this inspired you and gave you more direction on planning your dream elopement in Southern California.

Thinking of eloping in Southern California and still in search for a photographer to capture it all? Inquire here and let’s chat about all the exciting details of your special day!

xoxo 

Autumn Rose Photography