Tiffany and George’s Big Sur coastal elopement was incredible! They are both busy, hardworking people. The kind who make the most of their time off and love to travel, explore, and stay active together. A traditional wedding never felt much like them. 

Tiffany and George wanted something intentional, peaceful, and surrounded by the redwoods. They were drawn to the incredible contrast of quiet redwood groves and wild cliffside views, so Big Sur was the perfect fit.

Getting Ready + First Look at Glen Oaks

The couple and their families stayed at Glen Oaks Big Sur, turning their elopement into a full weekend getaway and truly soaking in the experience. Glen Oaks is one of my favorite places to recommend for couples who want to enjoy forest vibes and also avoid large crowds. 

Tiffany slipped into her dress inside one of the cozy cabins, and the forest made the sweetest, most serene backdrop for their first look. This was also a great opportunity to enjoy the moment together before the rest of the adventures begin.

Flowers by @fancypansyartdesign

Coastal Elopement Ceremony with Family

After the first look, everyone gathered and caravanned out to Soberanes Point for the ceremony. They exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by their families at a quiet bluff overlooking the crashing waves. They also included a tea ceremony as a nod to tradition, and had a bubble machine blowing bubbles, as well! Bubbles floating through sea air are as dreamy as they sound, and it was such a cute idea!

Lunch at Nepenthe

After the ceremony, everyone headed to Nepenthe, a gorgeous restaurant on the cliffs of Big Sur. With colorful umbrellas, incredible views, and the coziest family-style tables, it was the perfect place for a mid-day break. They had awesome food, celebratory toasts, and got to just soak in the moment. There’s something so special about sharing a meal together after saying your vows!

Tiffany and George’s elopement was the perfect example for how you don’t have to choose between a big wedding and eloping alone. Your day can be whatever you want it to be!

Big Sur Coastal Elopement Adventures

For the second half of their split-day, Tiffany and George changed pace. They shared a private vow exchange during a quiet picnic on the lawn at Glen Oaks and shared a red velvet cake. The couple had to versions of vows for the day, and they had saved these vows just for each other, and I loved how personal and intentional it felt.

We ended the day with a coastal adventure at Rocky Point. We wandered along the cliffs, chased sunset light, and the wind playfully tugged at Tiffany’s veil. It was the perfect way to end their day.

Kind Words from the Couple 

“CHRISTINAAAAAAA SHUT YOUR MOUTH RIGHT NOW WE’RE ALL DYING OVER THESE!!!! YOU ARE SO AMAZING I CANT EVEN HANDLE IT” 

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 Big Sur Coastal Elopement?

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.