How to Plan a California Elopement: The Complete Guide for International and Out-of-State Couples
California has a way of making people want to get married in it. The kind of light that hits the coast in the late afternoon, the way the desert goes gold and violet at sunset, the redwoods that feel like standing inside something sacred — there's a reason couples travel from all over the world to elope here.
If you're planning a California elopement from out of state or from abroad, this guide is for you. We're going to walk you through everything: what you actually need to get legally married here, the best locations, how to plan a timeline that doesn't feel rushed, and what working with a dedicated elopement team looks like from start to finish.
(And yes — we travel to you wherever you are in the U.S., and we're especially passionate about welcoming international couples to California's most stunning landscapes.)
Do You Need to Be a California Resident to Elope Here?
Nope. California has no residency requirement for marriage. Anyone — from anywhere in the world — can legally marry in the state of California as long as you obtain a valid California marriage license before your ceremony.
Here's what to know about the license:
You apply in person at any California County Clerk's office — both partners must be present.
Bring valid government-issued photo ID (passport works perfectly for international couples).
The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
There's no waiting period — you can marry the same day you get the license.
Cost is typically $35–$100 depending on the county.
When you work with us, our officiant and planner partner handles all the logistical guidance around your license so you're never left guessing. We've got you covered from the first question to the final signed document.
The Best California Elopement Locations for Destination Couples
California is enormous, and where you elope matters. Here are some of our favorite locations — each with a completely different energy.
The California Coast (Big Sur, Cambria, Torrey Pines)
If you've ever dreamed of cliffs meeting ocean, Big Sur is your answer. The coastline here is wild, cinematic, and — in the right light — genuinely breathtaking. For a more accessible coastal elopement, Cambria and Torrey Pines offer incredible ocean views with a bit more ease in terms of logistics. These are particularly popular with international couples who want the California coast experience without the extreme remoteness of Big Sur.
The Desert (Joshua Tree, Lone Pine, Death Valley)
There's something deeply romantic about the desert. The silence, the scale, the way the light transforms everything at golden hour — Joshua Tree and Lone Pine are two of our most-requested locations, and for good reason. The landscape looks like nowhere else on earth, and the photography opportunities are extraordinary. Desert elopements work beautifully year-round, especially in the cooler months of October through April.
The Mountains and National Parks (Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Lake Tahoe)
Want to get married under the tallest trees in the world? Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer a quiet, ancient kind of magic. Lake Tahoe delivers stunning alpine scenery with a range of accessibility options. These locations are especially popular for summer and early fall elopements when the weather is at its most welcoming.
What Does a California Elopement Actually Look Like?
The beauty of eloping in California is that there is no single template. Your day is completely yours to design. Here's a glimpse at what a half-day elopement experience might look like:
You arrive at your chosen location — already knowing exactly where you're going, because we've planned the timeline together.
Getting-ready portraits, if you'd like them, at a nearby spot with great light.
Your ceremony — officiated by our trusted partner, at the location you've chosen, with vows you've written yourself.
Portraits — relaxed, guided, and designed to feel like you're just exploring together while we happen to be documenting it.
Golden hour. The light California is famous for.
We include timeline assistance and planning guidance with every experience. You're not figuring this out alone — we've done this many times and we genuinely love helping couples design a day that reflects them.
Planning Your California Elopement from Abroad: What to Know
International couples have a few extra logistics to navigate, but none of them are deal-breakers — and we've helped couples from Europe, Latin America, Asia, and beyond plan seamless California elopements.
A few things to know:
Your passport is valid ID for the marriage license application.
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to legally marry in California.
Plan to arrive at least a day or two before your elopement to account for travel fatigue and time zone adjustment.
If you need a visa to enter the U.S., check that your visa category permits marriage (a tourist visa does permit marriage in the U.S.).
We can help recommend accommodation, local vendors, and logistics for making your trip as smooth as possible.
We are particularly passionate about welcoming international couples to California. The coastline, the desert, the forests — these landscapes are extraordinary, and being able to share them with couples who have traveled across the world to say their vows here is something we genuinely treasure.
What's Included When You Work with Mariela Campbell Photography
We believe in full transparency from the very first inquiry — so here's exactly what you can expect when you book with us:
Pre-wedding consultation call to plan your day together
Timeline assistance and planning guidance
Your officiant and planner (included in elopement packages)
A fresh bouquet and boutonniere
Film and digital photography — medium format + 35mm film woven throughout your experience
Sneak peek gallery within 5 days
Same-day mini Polaroid prints in a mini leather album
4×6 prints of your film captures.
Online gallery with full print release — your images, yours to keep forever
Half-day elopement experiences start at $4,500. Our two-day experience, which includes 14 hours of coverage across two days, starts at $10,500 with all U.S. travel included.
Ready to start planning? Reach out here — we'd love to hear about your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international couples legally get married in California?
Yes. There is no residency or citizenship requirement to marry in California. You simply need to obtain a California marriage license in person before your ceremony.
How far in advance should we book for a California elopement?
We recommend booking 3–12 months in advance, especially if you have a specific date or location in mind. Popular locations during peak season (May–October) fill up quickly. That said, we do occasionally have availability for shorter timelines — reach out and we'll let you know.
Do you travel outside of California for elopements?
Yes! We travel throughout the U.S. for elopements and intimate weddings. California is our home base and a specialty for destination and international couples, but we are happy to travel anywhere your adventure takes you.
What is the best time of year to elope in California?
It depends on your location! The California coast is beautiful year-round but can be foggy in summer. The desert is stunning in fall and spring. The mountains are ideal in summer and early fall. We're happy to help you think through the best timing for your chosen location.
Do we need permits to elope in California national parks?
Yes — most national parks and many public lands require permits for weddings and elopement ceremonies. Our officiant and planner partner handles permit navigation as part of our elopement experience, so you don't have to figure this out on your own.
→ Plan your California elopement with us → Inquire now
