Here’s your guide to planning the perfect elopement in San Diego! You may have heard the term ‘elopement’, ‘micro-wedding’ a lot recently, but what is it exactly? What is an elopement exactly?
elope/əˈlōp/ eloped; eloping
1a : to run away secretly with the intention of getting married usually without parental consent
b : to run away from one’s spouse with a lover
2a : to slip away : ESCAPE
In other words, it’s a modern way to tie the knot, make the day about you two, without all the extra and fluff of a big wedding. It’s a day to make all YOU.
Here’s a guide to planning an epic day!
Pick a location—
Sunset Cliffs – epic cliff views, perfect at sunset (hence the name), elopement can be viewed here
Coronado Beach – for those looking for more f a coastal beach vibe. Located in front of the Hotel Del, features long stretched of beaches as well as some small sand dunes
Balboa Park – if beach isn’t your thing, Balboa Park has a lot of architecture, tropical plans as well as a cactus garden
County Clerk – the pink building downtown, currently legal marriages can be done in the marriage hut, couple have opted for portrait locations in one of the locations above, great for something intimate and personal
… if you’re open to driving
Glamis Sand Dunes – big dunes that make you feel as if you’re in the Sahara Dessert, only 2 hours from San Diego. Ideal if it is only two of you, and/or perfect for bridal portraits days after wedding or elopement
Palm Springs – think, retro, hot and desert, Palm Springs is a destination of its own, a favorite hotel is Korakia Pensione
Joshua Tree – unique desert scape with big boulders, which make for great photos
How—
Legal marriages can be done at the County Clerk office downtown.
Local officiants can be found here.
*something you may not know— a friend or family member can act a s a ‘officiant’ if they get ordained online. The process is fairly simple. Ideal for small micro-weddings or elements.
The Fun Stuff—
FLORALS— every girl loves flowers am I right?! Florals complete the wedding look in my opinion, they add a touch of detail.
Some favorite florals in the San Diego area…
Wildflower San Diego – fresh blooms
Reed + Rye – Natural floral bouquets which are stunning, and can be saved for months to come!
Native Poppy – made to order floral shop, or choose your florals on the spot and have them make something fresh for you.
Fox and Flora – stunning blooms in perfect colors
MAKE-UP/HAIR
Beauty by Stacey + 1011 Makeup
Dress—
All about the dress! Whether you’re coming from local or visiting the area, the dress will be your top priority. Some things to keep in mind…
- Make sure you’re comfortable and get dress tailored if needed.
- Flowy & loose dresses photograph best since they have a lot of movment
- Made to order dresses can take anywhere from 3-12 to make early
Favorite Dress Shops in San Diego—
Grace Loves Lace, boho paradise with flow silhouettes and lace designs
The Dress Theory, variety of dress designs for every gal, including brands such as Rue De Seine
Last minute elopement? No worries, these online shops have some options. Remember— an elopement dress doesn’t have to be a traditional ‘wedding dress’, it can be a modern day elopement dress whether its long or short, white or off white.
*Tip- not sure of sizing? Order two sizes and return the one you won’t be using, most stores offer free returns.
Celebrate!—
You’ve said your vows and tied the knot, now it’s time to celebrate! Whether its just you two or a small group there are many things you can do.
- Pop some champagne! (Makes for a great photo op as well)
- Have a favorite desert, such as cupcakes
- Go out to eat in your favorite restaurant
- Have a mini-honeymoon
- Rent a vintage car and go for a sunset ride
Happy planning! Be sure to plan and do what you want for your day! Treat yourself and have the best day!
To chat about elopements, click here. To view more of my elopement stories, visit here.
