What Is an Elopement Wedding? (And Why More Couples Are Choosing One)

What Is an Elopement Wedding (and Why So Many Couples Are Choosing It)?

Elopements have come a long way from the old stereotype of running off to Vegas in secret. These days, a modern elopement is all about doing things your way—intimate, intentional, and deeply personal. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small circle of your favorite people, elopements are about celebrating your love without the pressure (and price tag) of a big traditional wedding.

So what exactly is a modern elopement, and why are more couples opting for it? Let’s break it down.

Elopement 2.0: What Is an Elopement Today (and What It Really Means Now)

Gone are the days when eloping meant skipping town without telling anyone. A modern elopement is a small-scale wedding, often in a beautiful setting, with the focus squarely on the couple. You can keep it just the two of you, or invite a few of your closest family and friends. Some couples elope at city hall, but many head to scenic locations like mountaintops, beaches, gardens, parks—or wherever feels special to them.

The key difference? Modern elopements are intentional. You’re choosing to celebrate your marriage in a way that reflects who you are as a couple, not what tradition says you should do.

Get information about San Diego beach and park permits here.

Why Couples Choose to Elope

Every couple has their own reasons, but here are some of the most common:

• Less stress: No guest list drama, no seating charts, no endless planning spreadsheets. Just you two, doing your thing.

• More flexibility: You’re not tied to a big venue’s schedule or rules. You can elope on a weekday, at sunrise, or halfway up a hiking trail if you want to.

• Focus on what matters: Elopements are all about the experience—not the production.

• Budget-friendly (but not “cheap”): Many couples still splurge on a dress, flowers, photography, travel, and a gorgeous dinner. The difference? You’re investing in your experience, not a big party for 100+ guests.

• Perfect for shy or non-traditional couples: If being the center of attention isn’t your thing, an elopement might be the perfect fit.

And yes, it’s super common for couples to host a celebration with friends and family later on—whether that’s a dinner party, a backyard BBQ, or even a one-year anniversary bash.

What’s the Difference Between an Elopement and an Intimate Wedding?

This is a question I get a lot—and honestly, the lines can be blurry.

In general:

• Elopement: 0–10 people. Focused on the ceremony and couple portraits. Usually a shorter event.

• Intimate (or micro) wedding: 10–50 people. Often includes a small reception or dinner, and more structure to the day.

If your day still has a full timeline, wedding party, and reception—even with a smaller guest list—it’s probably an intimate wedding.

Where Can You Elope?

Elopements can take place anywhere—on a beach at sunset, in your own backyard, at the local courthouse, or somewhere totally off the beaten path. The beauty of an elopement is that the location is entirely up to you. Whether it’s at cliffside overlooking the ocean or a quiet, intimate spot that holds sentimental meaning, you’re free to make it whatever feels right for you.

San Diego is Full of Stunning Elopement Locations

You’ve got cliffs in Point Loma, the coves in La Jolla, historic gardens in Balboa Park, or even charming courthouses in downtown. There are so many places that feel romantic, scenic, and special without needing elaborate decorations or logistics.

You Don’t Have to Hike to a Remote Overlook to Have a Beautiful Elopement

Some couples choose the simplicity and ease of a courthouse wedding—and honestly, it can be just as meaningful. The San Diego courthouse Downtown Waterfront Park location offers a beautiful setting that’s accessible and full of charm. I’ve photographed many San Diego courthouse elopements and put together a full guide on what to expect, how to plan, and how to make it feel personal. If that’s more your style, you can check it out here.

You Can Still Include Traditions (If You Want!)

Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you have to skip the cake, rings, or wearing the dress of your dreams. You can keep things as traditional or untraditional as you’d like. I’ve photographed couples who wore suits and gowns, walked down a makeshift aisle, exchanged vows, cut a mini cake, and toasted with champagne afterward.

On the flip side, I’ve also had couples wear matching Converse sneakers, read private vows with no officiant, or skip the formal attire altogether. The beauty of eloping is: there are no rules.

Elopements Still Deserve Beautiful Photos

Elopements offer a kind of freedom that traditional wedding days often can’t, especially when it comes to location and lighting.  Without a rigid timeline or limitations of a venue, we can plan portraits around the best natural light and explore scenic spots that wouldn’t be accessible during a typical wedding schedule.  It’s a more relaxed approach that often leads to some of the most beautiful and memorable images.

I always recommend hiring a photographer (hi, that’s me!) and even a videographer to capture the day. You can share the experience with loved ones who weren’t there, and have beautiful memories to look back on forever.

Planning an Elopement Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Yes, you’ll still need a marriage license, an officiant (or a friend who’s ordained), and someone to take photos. But beyond that? You’re free to keep it as simple or as detailed as you like. Want to say your vows barefoot on the beach and grab tacos afterward? Let’s do it. Dreaming of a garden ceremony with a few loved ones and a cozy dinner? Totally doable.

If travel is involved, there’s a little more logistics—like booking a place to stay, maybe scouting the location ahead of time, or finding a local florist for a bouquet. But compared to traditional wedding planning, it’s much more manageable.

Thinking About Eloping in San Diego?

San Diego is one of the best places to elope—with beaches, cliffs, gardens, parks and a charming courthouse, you’ve got so many beautiful options. I’ve photographed lots of elopements and intimate weddings here, and I’d love to help you plan a day that feels like you.

Need help choosing a location? Want to know more about the process? You can check out a featured intimate wedding, or reach out to me. If you’re ready to get started, let’s talk about what kind of elopement feels right for your story.