How to Elope in California
The Complete California Elopement Guide
Dreaming of an adventurous Elopement in California?
If you're idea of an epic elopement involves sharing your vows in a wild, surreal destination- California will go above and beyond!
As elopement experts, we have done a ton of research on eloping all over the world, and created in-depth guides for adventurous couples just like you!
How to obtain a marriage license in California:
Requirements to Apply for a Marriage License in California:
- Both parties must have a valid photo ID, a driver's license, passport, etc., to confirm identity and show proof of age
- You do not have to be a resident of California to get married there
- There is no waiting period in California
- There is no blood test required in California
Pick Up a California Marriage License
You and your spouse can complete this application prior, or go to the local County Clerk Office to get your marriage license. You will have 90 days to get your marriage license signed. Be sure to check the specific county's requirements and fees for obtaining a marriage license.
Step
One
Return your Signed Marriage License.
An authorized clergy, judge, Clerk-Recorder's Office (marriage commissioner or vital-records clerk), or Deputized relative or friend (one-day deputy commissioner) along with at least one witness will need to sign your Marriage License. Once signed, you will have 10 days to return the signed License to the County Clerk Office.
Step
TWO
You're Legally Married in California!
You will not receive a Marriage Certificate when you return your signed License. After two business days, you can order your Marriage Certificate from the County Clerk Office.
Step
Three
If you know you want your wedding day to be filled with laughter, adventure, and love- eloping is going to be the best decision you ever make!
If you want a team of elopement experts who fully understand and support your wildest dreams of having an epic wedding day, we are here to help with the entire experience!
We not only love elopements to our core, but we also know how to plan a badass wedding day in surreal destinations!
You know you deserve a wedding day that is intentional and memorable, so you're ready for the next step!
Your California elopement Photographer who is ready for a
While we try to keep information about elopement locations updated as frequently as possible, things are always changing!
It's important to always do research and contact the national/ state parks well in advance, to ensure there are no new guidelines, requirements, or restrictions!
When we help you design your epic elopement experience, I will always provide the most recent information regarding permits and guidelines for locations!
Be sure to leave no trace when visiting beautiful outdoor locations- it is crucial for the health and longevity of the environment.
A reminder for choosing your elopement location
The Best Places to Elope in California:
Yosemite National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Redwood National and State Parks
Mammoth Lakes
Death Valley National Park
Special Use Permit May Be Required
While we 100% believe in transparency, as elopement experts we have dedicated a lot of time searching far and wide for hidden gem locations that are less crowded, and more surreal!
While we recommend general areas, gorgeous state and national parks, and other popular locations- we have a personal database of thousands of locations across the United States! When you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you find locations that perfectly suit your unique elopement.
Ready to start planning your epic elopement?
The best time of year to elope in California:
If you're looking for an elopement destination that is perfect! During the spring, wildflowers bloom, there are less tourists, and the temperatures are warm!
Year Round
Spring
Like many states, California is beautiful in the fall! Beautiful, vibrant colors of foliage and the temperatures are perfect! Eloping in September- November allows you to avoid the high number of tourists, and there's less chances of rain!
fall
If you're dreaming of eloping in the California deserts, winter is the perfect time of year to go! The deserts in spring and summer are insanely hot, so opting for late fall and winter will make your desert adventures much more enjoyable!
winter
It's no secret that the summer time in Arizona gets HOT, but if you want tolerable temperatures- elope in the spring! Some parts of Arizona also have beautiful wildflowers that bloom in the spring!
Summer
Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in California
"Do I need permits to elope in California?"
Q:
A:
Some locations, such as national parks and state parks, typically require a special use permit or a wedding ceremony permit when you are having a ceremony within the park. Some parks only require a permit if the wedding/ elopement will have 75 guests or more. If you are just enjoying the park and having photos done, you may not need a permit for your elopement, but a photo/ film permit may be necessary for your photographer or videographer.
Be sure to check each location's regulations and requirements to ensure your elopement day goes as smooth as possible!
If you book your elopement experience with me, I will help you with all of the logistics and legalities of your elopement day!
"Can we have our friends and family present for our elopement?"
Q:
A:
Of course! Typically, intimate weddings and elopements have less than 30 guests! Lots of couples dream of having an epic elopement, but would like to have their beloved family and friends join them for part of the day!
If you dream of celebrating with more of your friends and family, you can plan a post-elopement party! Click here to learn more about how to plan a post-elopement party!
Your elopement can be:
- Just the two of you!
- The two of you + an officiant & witnesses
- Up to 30 of your closest friends & family!
"If I am coming to California to elope from another state, will I need to file a marriage license in California?"
Q:
A:
I always recommend filing for your marriage license in the state/ county in which you are eloping in! However, if you have already went to the courthouse and filed your marriage license in your home state, or want to deal with the paperwork later on down the road, you will have a "commitment ceremony," which isn't legally binding.
Choosing to file your marriage license before or after you elope is completely fine, what really matters is when you and your partner commit your lives to each other! Just keep in mind that you are not legally recognized as married until a marriage certificate is obtained.
California ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
Photo and Photo + Video Packages Available.
What Every California Elopement Experience Includes:
From 4 Hours to Multiple Days of Coverage that Preserves your Epic Day
In-Depth Planning to create your Personalized Elopement Experience
No Added Fees- All Travel Costs for the Whole Crew are Covered
