What is an adventure elopement?

Unlike a City Hall wedding, an adventure elopement is usually outdoors - getting to the location where you’ll say your vows is an integral part of the experience! It doesn’t always have to be a serious trek, though. David and Michelle opted to get married in the Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve and I would estimate we only hiked 10 or so minutes from the trailhead, though it took 20 or 30 minutes of driving straight into the forest from Half Moon Bay to get to the trailhead in the first place.

Can I still do a first look if I elope?

Absolutely! These two stayed at a Bed and Breakfast in Half Moon Bay called the Nantucket Whale Inn the night before their wedding. After David finished getting ready, Michelle blindfolded him and then got ready herself. They drove separately to the trailhead - he in his car, her in her close friend/officiant’s vehicle, and we did a first look at their wedding site.

Do i need an officiant for an elopement?

An officiant is completely optional for weddings in California and Colorado. In this case, the couple’s officiant was found-family of the bride and groom, and her presence there was a sweet addition, but couples in California are able to make their vows official through a process called self-solemnization. In short, you can marry yourselves with as few or as many people there as you like!

Is Purisima Creek Redwood Preserve a good place to elope?

If you’re looking for a redwood forest in the Bay Area to elope to, this is one of the most stunning spots I’ve shot in Northern California. We saw a few hikers on the trail, but one of them gasped when she saw Michelle and told her she looked like a princess (she really did) and it was a sweet wedding day memory. If you have any questions about Northern California elopements, hit the button below!