Los Angeles
Elopement Guide

How to Plan a Simple but Elevated Elopement Experience in Los Angeles

How to Legally Get Married in Los Angeles

MARRIAGE LICENSE

To legally get married in Los Angeles, you’ll need a California marriage license obtained in person at the County Clerk’s Office. This costs $91 and is valid for up to 90 days. Apply for your license online and then schedule an appointment to pick it up.

LA County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk Locations:

  • Norwalk

  • Beverly Hills

  • Lancaster

  • Van Nuys

  • East Los Angeles

  • LAX Courthouse

  • Florence / Firestone

CEREMONY REQUIREMENTS

In addition to your marriage license, you’ll need an officiant and at least one witness for your ceremony. The signed license must be returned within 10 days.

SYMBOLIC CEREMONY

 If you’re traveling to LA for your elopement and want to skip the trip to the county clerk’s office altogether, you can opt for a symbolic ceremony instead. In this case, you’ll do your legal ceremony (the “official” paperwork) at your local courthouse before or after your trip at a time that is convenient for you. Then on your Los Angeles elopement day, you can just focus on celebrating each other and enjoying the fun experience you’ve planned!

COURTHOUSE CEREMONY

Marriage ceremonies can be performed at each of the county clerk branches. Once you’ve obtained your marriage license, you can book an appointment up to 3 weeks in advance. These ceremonies last about 15 minutes and cost $35. Most locations offer appointments on Wednesdays or Fridays during their office hours. You can bring a witness with you (this can be your photographer if you’re having the ceremony photographed) or you can pay an additional $20 for a witness provided by the county clerk.

If you’re having your ceremony photographed, the Beverly Hills Courthouse is the most visually aesthetic building. If you’re just picking up your license and having your ceremony elsewhere (or doing your ceremony privately without a photographer) I recommend choosing the county clerk location that is most convenient for your trip/plans.

CUSTOM CEREMONY

If a courthouse elopement isn’t your vibe, the good news is that you can have your ceremony at one of the many other locations that LA has to offer. These range from intimate private venues, luxury hotels, to scenic public land with ocean views or mountain views. As long as you have a marriage license and the other ceremony requirements, you’re good to go! You’ll find a list of the best LA elopement locations in the section below.

Best Elopement Locations in LA

EL MATADOR BEACH

One of the most scenic beaches in the LA area. With cliffs above the beach, large sea stacks, and a wide stretch of sand to walk along. This location is a great choice for a simple ceremony and/or post wedding portraits.

ETIENNE ESTATE

Italian Renaissance meets Mediterranean architecture at this beautiful estate in Pasadena. This is the perfect choice for an elegant, European inspired elopement. Indoor and outdoor spaces offer a variety of photo backdrops and ceremony options. Reach out for booking rates and more information.

PASADENA CITY HALL

This historic building in Pasadena is known for its Mediterranean and Spanish Revival style architecture. This is a great low cost option as no fees are required  for photos or simple ceremonies on the property. Keep in mind that due to it’s easy public access, it is not a very private option.

GREYSTONE MANSION

Located in Beverly Hills, the Greystone Mansion is a Tudor Revival mansion that sits on a large, beautifully landscaped estate with formal English gardens. Though not as exclusive as a private venue (the grounds are free and open to the public) this location is elevated, unique, and picturesque. You can rent out the Formal Garden for your ceremony or purchase a permit to take photos on the property. Learn more here.

GRAND VIEW MALIBU

With views of the Pacific and the Santa Monica Mountains, this venue offers the perfect ceremony site for those looking for a private space to host a luxury elopement ceremony. I recommend working with a local florist/planner to create an elevated floral installation that will compliment the natural scenic backdrop. Learn more here.

GRIFFITH PARK

A classic Los Angeles location. This is a great option if you want a view of the city but don’t want to be right in it. There are lots of beautiful photo spots at the Observatory, however I recommend walking up the nearby trails to get away from the crowds for your ceremony.

STONE MOUNTAIN ESTATE

This European inspired venue is nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, offering incredible views and exclusivity. Onsite there are 2 interior rooms available to use as getting ready spaces, so this location is convenient if you want to capture some pre-ceremony moments. Due to the space and exterior layout, this location is also ideal if you’d like to plan a small celebration with loved ones as part of your day. Learn more here.

MALIBU CREEK STATE PARK

This state park in the Santa Monica Mountains is a beautiful outdoor location for a ceremony or photos with canyon views, meadows, and wooded areas. Learn more here.

Best Places to Stay for Your Los Angeles Elopement

Santa Monica Proper: This hotel is a design lover’s dream! With warm, natural tones the interior spaces are chic, luxurious, and perfectly aesthetic. Getting ready photos here are a no-brainer. While the hotel is walking distance to the beach, I recommend heading further up the coast to Malibu for the best coastal views. (Other Santana Monica Hotels: Fairmount Miramar | Casa del Mar)

1 Hotel West Hollywood: An aesthetic luxury hotel right on the sunset strip with a core mission of sustainability. The on-site restaurants and numerous other amenities make this an excellent place to stay for your elopement celebration. Book the Canyon Hills Suite for the best views and space to get ready for your day and take advantage of the wraparound terrace for photos after you’re all dressed up. Griffith Park is also just 30 minutes away. (Another luxury hotel option in Hollywood: Dream Hotel)

Nobu Ryokan Malibu: An oceanside hotel based off a traditional Japanese-style inn. On the coast of Malibu with only 16 rooms available, this location offers exclusivity and romantic views. The amenities here make this a great location for couples who want an intimate and relaxing stay. Some of the best natural scenery in Malibu is just a short drive away!

Beverly Hills Hotel: This world famous location is perfect for couples who want to feel like Hollywood Royalty. The unique and colorful interiors make beautiful getting ready spaces and the exterior grounds are a lush paradise. Complete your elopement experience with a chic poolside photoshoot or rent a classic car for fun photos at the iconic hotel entrance. The Greystone Mansion is also less than 10 minutes away.

The Langham Huntington: If you’re interested in booking Etienne Estate for your elopement or taking photos at the Pasadena City Hall, this luxury hotel is one of the best options in the area. Like much of Pasadena, it has a charming, historic elegance and the added bonus of being a bit away from the busier parts of LA.

Hotel Bel-Air: An exclusive property in the heart of Bel-Air with stylish, contemporary designs and lush gardens. For the best experience, book one of the suites with attached outdoor spaces. Or if you really want to go grand the presidential suite is unmatched for its elegance and exclusivity. Greystone Mansion is about 15 minutes away. (Other luxury hotels in Beverly Hills: Wilshire | Hilton)

Dowtown LA Proper Hotel: This visually stunning hotel blends Spanish and Mexican designs with contemporary California art, offering a unique, one of kind place to stay. The premium corner suites, specifically, are an aesthetic dream. Go up to the rooftop for panoramic views of DTLA. For portraits and ceremony, I recommend an alternative location.

Conrad Los Angeles: Another DTLA hotel worth it’s own mention. This modern hotel has a beautiful, elegant design and is in a prime location next to some of DTLA’s most notable buildings. Book one of the penthouse suites to have the most space for getting ready and enjoy the city views from the large terraces.

AIRBNB / VRBO: If a hotel isn’t your vibe or you’re looking for options at different price points, I highly recommend searching for private rental homes on Airbnb or VRBO. While they typically don’t come with all the amenities of a luxury hotel, you’ll have a wide selection of spacious, private, and beautiful homes to choose from. Some properties may also allow small ceremonies so your accommodation can double as your elopement location.

Note:

Whether you’re booking a hotel room or a private Airbnb, make sure to check before booking if you plan to have photos taken on the property. More exclusive hotels may have extra restrictions regarding photos and/or an additional fee. It’s always worth it to get proper permissions in advance.

Los Angeles Elopement Planning Tips

How to Elevate Your Experience

ELOPE ON A WEEKDAY

Weekdays are always ideal when it comes to crowds, pricing, and vendor/venue availability. If you need to do a weekend date, I highly recommend booking a private venue space. Many public locations actually don’t allow shoots or ceremonies on the weekends so it’s best to plan and research in advance.

BOOK AT LEAST ONE PRIVATE SPACE

If you’re planning to elope in a public location, like a park or beach, I suggest booking a place to stay that will also be a good option for photos. Not only will this mean that you’ll have more of your experience documented, but it’s adds an element of intimacy when you are able to share moments away from other people. Having these quieter moments will make a big difference in your overall experience!

PLAN YOUR DINNER IN ADVANCE

Making dinner plans in advance means one less thing to worry about on your elopement day, instead it will be something that you look forward too! Research restaurants near where you’re staying or where you’ll be ending your day and make reservations ahead of time. Some restaurants may even have private spaces for a more romantic meal. Another fun option if you’re staying in an Airbnb is to hire a private chef to cook for you while you unwind in a cozy setting. I especially love this option when there is an intimate dinner table setup on a balcony or outdoor space. 

WEAR YOUR DREAM ATTIRE

Eloping doesn’t mean you have to dress more casual or that you can’t wear traditional wedding attire. I’m a big fan of custom suits and designer gowns, but the most important thing is that you buy outfits that you feel good in and that you’re excited about. This is a once-in-lifetime day and it’s worth dressing up for!

BOOK A CLASSIC CAR

If you’ll be driving from location to location, the best way to do it is in style with a vintage car. This makes for a really fun experience as well as an awesome photo-op! Some of the best places for car photos are in the driveways of private estates, along the canyon roads, or at scenic viewpoints overlooking the coast.

HIRE PROFESSIONALS TO HELP BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE

Elopements naturally tend to be more simple than traditional weddings, but the three main vendors that I recommend investing in for your day are your photographer, a hair/makeup artist, and a florist! Getting your hair and makeup done professionally will help you feel and look your best - especially since you will be photographed more than usual. Florals are a fun way to show some of your personal style and elevate your images. At a private venue, this could look like an artful floral installation for your ceremony or a simple bridal bouquet also goes a long way. Photos, of course, are the only things you have left to remember the day by once it’s all over.

Los Angeles Elopement Photography Packages

Custom Elopement Experience

Up to 8 hours of coverage to capture a full day celebration or to split between 2 consecutive days. This is perfect for couples who are traveling in for their elopement and looking to make it a truly fun and unique experience. A full day could include some candid, laid back pre-ceremony moments at your luxury hotel, a drive through the canyon to your ceremony spot at a private estate, vows with a scenic back-drop, post-ceremony portraits and champagne, and then a private dinner for two. Alternatively, this coverage could include a shorter sunset beach photoshoot on the day before your elopement, plus your elopement day from getting ready to sunset. The possibilities to customize your experience are endless!

Includes:

  • 48 hour sneak peek & final gallery delivered in 7 weeks

  • High-resolution images in an online gallery

  • Complimentary album design

  • Local vendor reccomendations

  • Photography permit (if applies)

Beginning at $7000

Half Day Elopement

Up to 6 hours of coverage to capture the essentials of an elopement day with a few custom elements. This could include pre-ceremony coverage, a first look, vows, portraits in one or two locations, and a small post-ceremony celebration (cakes, drinks, dinner details). This is the recommended coverage if you plan on having guests included in your getting ready time, ceremony, and portraits. Alternatively, this timing may allow travel between two locations that require a bit of extra time. For example, the city and the coast.

Includes:

  • 48 hour sneak peek & final gallery delivered in 6 weeks

  • High-resolution images in an online gallery

  • Complimentary album design

  • Local vendor reccomendations

  • Photography permit (if applies)

Beginning at $6000

Simple Elopement

Up to 4 hours of coverage for pre-ceremony moments, vows, and portraits. This can include 1 or 2 locations, including your hotel/accommodation. Can be booked up to 6 months in advance.

Includes:

  • 48 hour sneak peek & final gallery delivered in 5 weeks

  • High-resolution images in an online gallery

  • Complimentary album design

  • Local vendor reccomendations

  • Photography permit (if applies)

Beginning at $5000

Mini Elopement

Up to to 2 hours of coverage for a simple ceremony (no guests) and portraits in 1 location. This coverage is typically scheduled at sunrise or sunset for best lighting. Can be booked up to 3 months in advance.

Includes:

  • 48 hour sneak peek & final gallery delivered in 4 weeks

  • High-resolution images in an online gallery

  • Complimentary album design

  • Local vendor reccomendations

  • Photography permit (if applies)

Beginning at $4000

Meet Carrie

Your Los Angeles Elopement Photographer

While I travel for most of my work, Los Angeles is where I call home and over the years, I’ve discovered some of the best ways to create a truly unique and meaningful elopement experience in this diverse city. I’m a firm believer that no matter how small your wedding size it, you deserve to celebrate it in a big way. As a photographer who specializes in elopements, I bring a personal and intentional approach to documenting your day. By taking the time to get to know you and understand who you are and what’s important you, I’m able to help bring your story to life in a meaningful way through your photos. I encourage my couples to prioritize their experience and stay present  — to enjoy the memories of your wedding day while you’re living them. I am a skilled observer with an eye for anticipating moments, capturing emotions, and when needed, providing natural guidance that doesn’t feel intrusive. This blend of candid storytelling and editorial direction results in photos that are an artistic yet authentic representation of your day.

If you’re planning an elopement in Los Angeles and looking for a photographer to partner with for the day, I’d love to chat!

Inquire Here

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes! The two main areas I assist with during the planning process are location scouting/research and timeline building.

    I’m also happy to share vendor and accommodation recommendations and assist with permits when needed.

    I do not book any services on your behalf or do any day-of duties like setting up decor, managing guests and vendors, coordinating supply pickups, etc. If you’re looking for someone to manage those types of tasks, I can send over some amazing planner recommendations!

  • I take on elopements in Los Angeles with up to 10 guests, unless you are booking a private venue. Note that a significant increase in guest count may impact pricing.

  • Yes, if you're having a larger wedding but resonate with my work and approach, please reach out! I'll provide a custom quote based on your wedding size and scope of plans. In general, I require a minimum of 6 to 8 hours and only book weddings in LA that are hosted at a private venue.

  • No, the scope of work involved for elopements, no matter how simple, is much more significant than a regular photoshoot. Plus, your wedding day deserves so much more than that! You won't get the same experience or types of wedding photos you see in my portfolio in just an hour or two.

  • If you have another location in mind please share when you reach out :) Pricing shown applies to any location in Los Angeles County. If you are interested in a location outside of LA, separate pricing applies and a custom quote will be provided.