February 10, 2023 / Elopement
6 Tips for Planning a Big Sur Elopement
Boho Big Sur Elopement with an Intimate Beach Ceremony
Ah, this Big Sur elopement is one of my favorite boho winter weddings yet! Big Sur is loved for its breathtaking views and beaches. But let me introduce you to Veronica and Bryce, and their corgi, the real MVP of the day!
These two wanted to keep their big day intimate, surrounded by their closest fam and fur baby, Nismo (who stole the show in his little tux). To make their day even more special, they hired a professional picnic company to set up a cozy, intimate spot for just them to enjoy after the ceremony.
I couldn’t have asked for a better couple to work with. Veronica does photography too and had a clear vision for what she wanted, but trusted my creative vision to bring it all to life.
Their day was just the beginning of our journey working together. Since their elopement, I’ve photographed them a few more times, and she’s told me she’s a “forever client.” I’m excited to share some of those sessions with you soon. But for now, let me show you how their big day went.
And, if you’re planning a Big Sur elopement, stick around till the end. I’ll be sharing my top 6 tips to make your day just as dreamy as this one.
Big Sur Elopement: A Forever Anniversary Date
Big Sur is a special place for Veronica and Bryce. They’ve always celebrated their dating anniversary in the area, so when it was time to plan their wedding, they knew immediately what they wanted: an intimate Big Sur elopement. In fact, they eloped on December 17th, which was their dating anniversary, which is now their forever anniversary.
Details of the Day: An Intimate Beach Ceremony
We started the day with the ceremony on the beach about three hours before sunset. As a photographer, this was the perfect lighting situation, and Veronica and I planned it that way intentionally for golden-hour photos.
Veronica walked down the staircase to meet Bryce and their adorable corgi, Nismo. I mean, seriously, that little tux he’s wearing is the cutest. When I say he stole the show, you can see why.
Family Photos on the Beach
Since we were working before sunset (I always say I’m chasing the sun), we kept things nearby for the family photos. Both sides of the family were so much fun, supportive, and everyone had a great time. The babies even gave me smiles…and maybe some baby fever. Ha!
Once family photos were wrapped up, it was time for me to whisk the couple away for a bit.
Perks of Eloping: Stolen Moments Alone
We started taking their couples’ photos on the beach and then moved to the nearby cliffs. It was a little too cold that day to splash in the water, but they were brave enough to get in briefly.
The views in Big Sur are simply stunning and never get old, no matter the season or weather. Their photos have a classic, laid-back California vibe that perfectly matches the vibe of their elopement
A Romantic Picnic with a View
The couple hired a professional picnic company to set up a spot for us to take photos and give them a chance to really take in their day together. That’s part of the allure of eloping, afterall, is to have extra time with just your partner to soak it all up.
I helped them find a spot for the picnic setup before the ceremony began and chose a spot on the cliffs overlooking the water. I was really able to stand back and let them have privacy and also capture sweet moments where I guided them into a few poses. As the day wrapped up, they enjoyed their first dance, followed by a gorgeous sunset. And Nismo enjoyed every second of it too. He was the perfect gentleman for his parents.
When I asked Veronica what the most memorable part of their wedding day was, she said, “The picnic overlooking the ocean and having our corgi celebrating with us! It was absolutely perfect! Also, having our first dance on the coast of Big Sur was wonderful.”
Now let’s dive into some tips to keep in mind if you’re planning an elopement in the area for yourself.
6 Tips for Planning an Outdoor Big Sur Elopement
No matter where you decide to get married, the weather is always out of our control. But with a little planning, you can prepare for it and embrace the fun of it all.
Here are 6 tips to keep in mind while planning your Big Sur elopement or wedding, starting with the weather, of course!
- Embrace the Weather
Big Sur can be prone to sudden changes in weather, so it’s best to be prepared for rain, fog, rain, and wind. But don’t let the fear of the weather dampen your day. I always encourage clients to plan for potential weather situations, and embrace whatever happens, and enjoy the day. It’s part of the unpredictable fun, and can make for some really great stories (and photos) to share later.
2. Beach Access
Beach access can change quickly in the area, so it’s always best to keep your plans flexible. While you may have your heart set on expansive sands available on your wedding day, we never really know what Mother Nature will decide, ya know? Depending on the tides, swell, and how much sand storms kick up or take away, access can look different daily. So it’s just something to keep in mind if you’re planning a Big Sur elopement.
Veronica and Bryce got married in the winter (December 17th, 2021). It wasn’t a rainy winter that year, so we had great accessibility to the beach that day. But just this past winter, we had rainfall that lasted over three weeks in a row and that kicked up a lot of sand and access in some areas.
3. Windy Weather
The cliffs in Big Sur are stunning, but they’re also usually windy. Some days are windier than others, and hair can go haywire. But again, don’t let that hold you back. There are plenty of great hairstyles (and hats) to keep the hair in check. But honestly, as a photographer, I’m all for the wind-blown look. Queue the drama, right?
4. Cold Weather
The cliffs are also higher, making the temperature feel much colder on windy days. So if you’re planning to have photos taken in the cliffy areas, consider bringing a little shrug or wrap to keep you dozy. You can also pack disposable hand warmers (they hide discreetly) and warm up your hands between shots.
5. Cell Phone Reception
Phone reception is virtually non-existent in the area. So make sure you know exactly where you’re going (as well as your guests) before you head out for your big day. It’s not a bad idea to go the old-school route of printing a map or bringing walkie-talkies! I’m all for having an unplugged ceremony, but walkie-talkies are a must-have for a Big Sur elopement.
6. Photography Coverage
Planning an elopement in Big Sur is a special experience, and I don’t want you to feel rushed on your big day. That’s why I recommend choosing a package of at least 3 hours. The coastline here is vast, so getting from one location to another can take some time, especially if you factor in driving, parking, and walking to the shooting spot.
If you have any questions about how much time you’ll need, I’m happy to help you figure that out. The important part is deciding where you want photos taken, and then we work backward in filling in the time needed.
Vendor Credits
As always, I want to thank the vendors for pulling together this perfect boho Big Sur Elopement for Veronica and Bryce.
- Officiant: Brian Borgia with Weddings in Monterey
- Wedding Dress: Flutter Dress
- Suit: Rossini Men’s Wear
- Florals: Hart Floral
- Doggy Tuxedo: Happy Dog Pet Couture
- Picnic: Pillows and Picnics
A Forever Client
Veronica left this kind review for me on Google, and I had to share it here. It means so much to me to work with repeat clients. She’s now a forever client, and I am so excited to share some of her other sessions on my blog soon.
The best part about planning a Big Sur elopement is that it’s tailored to be exactly what you want. Whether you prefer an intimate celebration like Veronica and Bryce, an adventurous day with multiple stops, or a full-day celebration surrounded by your loved ones, the choices are all yours.
And if you’re looking for an adventure-loving photographer who’s passionate about documenting all of the details of your wedding, drop me a line. We’ll chat about what you’ve planned so far to see if we’re a match.
I don’t often shoot in the mornings, but when I do… I am really not even sure why I was nervous 🤷♀️I miss living in Hawaii and shooting sunrise as much as I short sunset!
So here’s the thing. I am obsessed with Pfeiffer Beach, but it’s a tricky one for various reasons. One of those being wind, and not the good kind. Made it work with one of my favorite families, but I have definitely had to reschedule that location before. Iykyk!!
I haven’t yet met a toddler who didn’t like being thrown in the air. Although, there are times that they aren’t into it, like if they are hangry…or in a middle of a random meltdown. I am certain all of us have been tossed up in the air by one of our parents at some point in our childhood ✨
I know I already said it, but I’ll say it again. The most rad couple at one of my favorite beaches. Bonus gorgeous sunset…the most memorable evening ✨
