Sarah and Austin’s intimate fall elopement was everything you dream about when you think Big Sur in this gorgeous season! There were towering redwoods, soft moodiness in the air, and a coastline that makes your jaw drop every single time.

They traveled all the way from Virginia to experience the magic of Big Sur, wanting a day that felt quiet, personal, and totally them. They envisioned a relaxed elopement where they could “spend the day with their best friend.” And honestly… that’s EXACTLY what happened!

Dreamiest Fall Elopement in Glen Oaks

Glen Oaks is one of my all-time favorite places for elopements in the area. Their cabins sit inside the most immaculate private redwood grove, and they offer onsite dining, and even a room with double outdoor vintage tubs—yep, that’s the one Sarah and Austin chose. Too fun!

If you’re staying on the property, you can elope right there in the grove at no extra charge and no extra permits necessary. Truly, no other place in Big Sur offers this! 

A Slow, Sweet Start to the Day

Sarah and Austin chose to start their day slow, wrapped in robes, sipping drinks on the porch of their cabin, surrounded by towering trees and that crisp fall air.

Initially, they thought they might want to do a first look, however, they ended up choosing to get ready together, which is something I absolutely love for elopements! After helping each other get dressed, they wandered out for a short hike through the redwoods.

HMU: @kloseupbeauty & Flowers: @fancypansyartdesign

Their Cozy Fall Elopement Ceremony

The couple slowly walked to their ceremony spot, a babbling creek just behind their cabin. Their ceremony was heartfelt, intimate, and beautiful in the most effortless way. I doubled as an officiant for their ceremony, which I include in my California elopement packages for a truly private elopement experience!

Exploring Garrapata Beach + Fall Elopement Picnic on the Cliffs

After their creek-side vows, we headed deeper into the forest to explore the groves and capture portraits among the massive redwoods. And then it was time to head towards the coast!

We drove out to Garrapata for a seaside charcuterie picnic (or adult lunchables, as they call it) overlooking the waves. Between bites of cheese and sips of rosé, Sarah and Austin soaked in those rugged cliffs and moody fall skies. They were all smiles as they ran barefoot on the sand, which was SO sweet!

At one point, we even stopped a seagull from stealing another beachgoer’s car keys, haha!

Soberanes Point at Sunset

We wrapped up the evening exploring Soberanes Point, one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in Big Sur. The cliffs were glowing, the fog rolling in, and the views were absolutely stunning.

They shared bites of their wedding cake overlooking the ocean, and talked about how excited they were to head back to their cozy redwood cabin for the night. 

This was a second marriage for both of them, and they wanted to do things differently this time. The whole day felt like a beautiful rhythm between exploring and relaxing — adventurous, but still totally intimate. It was an incredible honor documenting their love and all the fun along the way. 🥹💗

Kind Words from the Couple 

“WOW! 🤩 I am amazed that you got these edited so quickly! They are perfect!!!!!! Thank you so so much! 🥰” 

Related Elopement Planning Resources You Might Find Helpful

• Big Sur Elopement Guide
• How to Plan a Big Sur Redwood Elopement
• Best California Redwood Elopement Locations (in case you’d like to head outside Big Sur)

Planning Your Own Fall Elopement in Northern California?

I’m Christina, your Northern California and beyond adventure elopement photographer. Planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences are my jam. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make the most amazing memories and have stunning photos that you can share with all of your loved ones. This is a day where you get to look back and say, “Wow, we did that!”

My Big Sur Redwood elopement packages offer a half-, full–, or multi-day experience! I offer a ton of flexibility in designing our time together and would love to get to know you more to help you plan! To learn more, head over to my contact form, and we can get together on a call!

Every elopement package includes:

• Help you hand pick a location
• Provide resources and custom location guides on lodging, activities, and the best places to indulge in delicious foods
• Scout locations with boots on the ground to find the best places and lighting for your ceremony and photos
• Secure the right location permits to make sure your wedding is legal!
• Recommend vetted vendors to help make your dream of a day come true. 
• Create your custom timeline (there are 2-3 options to choose from!) with room to breathe and enjoy your day.
• Deliver a joyful experience along with swoon-worthy photos in your own online gallery!
• Have a backup plan for it all!
• Deliver sneak peeks within 72 hours and a full wedding gallery within 6 weeks! 
• Provide a Fine Art Wedding Album design for you to print and hold onto your photos to thumb through for years to come.