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Elopements

All inclusive elopement planning and photography. Adventurous and untraditional.

Elopement Photographer based in San Luis Obispo, CA

ready to plan your elopement?

for the wildly unique couples and Travel lovers

You didn't need a guest list to make it official, just the two of you, a breathtaking backdrop, and a love too big for a ballroom. Whether that's a cliff in Big Sur or a quiet corner of your favorite city, I'm ready to go wherever the adventure takes us.

we might be a

great fit IF

you're planning a destination elopement, or you're happy to hop on a flight to make Central California feel like your own private escape. I love working with couples who are traveling in from out of state, and I keep it simple, so all you have to do is show up.

My all inclusive elopement packages handle the planning, permits, and logistics, whether we're eloping along the Central Coast or somewhere further out. I'm also actively dreaming bigger, toward more destination elopements abroad, in places like Italy, France, and Spain, so if that's the trip you're imagining, I'd love to talk about it. Wherever we end up, the goal is the same: a day that feels completely like the two of you, far from anyone else's expectations.

THE PROCESS

chat with samantha

Inquire to schedule a discovery call, share your plans, dreams and questions, and see if we are a fit.

secure your date

We'll work together to secure a date and finalize booking details so you're officially on my calendar.

plan and prep

From engagement session to day-of timelines to styling questions, I'm here for you.

enjoy and celebrate

You get to relax, be present and enjoy living in the present while I document all the special moments.

Inquire to learn more

Heirlooms

Preserve your Memories

Heirloom prints and albums are one of my favorite parts of this work, and one of the most overlooked. It's easy to let your gallery live only on a hard drive, but printed images are what actually get held, framed, and passed down. That's the difference between photos you have and memories you can touch.

I always encourage my couples to plan and budget for this from the start, because it matters more than most people realize until later. These are the images that show up at celebrations of life, or on ordinary days when you're simply missing someone who shared that day with you.

My Photography Style

editorial

emotive

Untraditional

Elevated

Storytelling

are you ready to work

TOGETHER?

Elopement photography packages begin at $3,500 and the average couple spends $8,500 for an all-inclusive elopement.

We create custom collections based on your preferences, destination, travel needs, and creative direction.

For more details on elopement collections and to find out more about a custom package, please get in touch.

What's the difference between an elopement and a wedding?

An elopement is typically a smaller, more intimate ceremony with just the two of you or a handful of loved ones, while a wedding usually involves a larger guest list and more traditional planning. Neither one is less meaningful, they just reflect different priorities.

What does an all inclusive elopement package actually include?

An all inclusive package bundles photography with planning support like permits, location scouting, and vendor coordination. It also includes hair and makeup, flowers and a picnic for 2. I have a few package options with different inclusions. Mine is built exactly that way, so all you have to do is show up.

How much does an elopement cost compared to a full wedding?

Elopements are generally far more affordable since you're not paying for a large guest list, venue, or reception. Exact investment depends on location and which package you choose and I'm happy to walk you through current pricing.

Do I need a permit to elope somewhere like Big Sur or a state park?

Many public locations, including parts of Big Sur and California's state parks, require a permit for elopement ceremonies or photography. I handle this for my all inclusive couples so you're never caught off guard on the day.

How many guests can I bring to an elopement?

There's no official limit, but most elopements stay under 10 to 20 guests to keep things intimate. Elopements are more of a pop up style with no formal seating for ceremony. Some couples bring no one at all, and that's just as beautiful.

What's the best time of year to elope in California?

Spring and Fall tend to offer the most comfortable weather and softest light along the Central Coast, though every season has its own beauty here. I can help you choose a date based on the look you're going for.

How far in advance should I book an elopement photographer?

I recommend reaching out 3 to 6 months ahead, and even earlier for a destination elopement abroad, though booking sooner never hurts. My availability is often more flexible than a typical wedding since elopements don't have to fall on a weekend, and choosing a weekday can even help you avoid crowds depending on your location.

Can an elopement photographer help plan the whole day, not just take the photos?

Yes, and it's one of my favorite parts of this work. With my background in wedding planning, I help guide the timeline, location, and small details so your day feels effortless. Depending on the package you choose I can be very involved in planning or be a guide as you plan.

Is eloping legally binding, or do we need a separate ceremony?

As long as you have a marriage license and an officiant present, an elopement ceremony is just as legally binding as a traditional wedding. It's simply a smaller, more intentional version of the same thing. I in fact am ordained to marry my couples and is included if you want me to legally marry you and keep the elopement intimate with just the two of you. We can discuss more of how this works.

What should we wear for an elopement versus a traditional wedding?

Elopement attire tends to be a little more flexible and adventure ready, especially if you're hiking to a viewpoint or exploring a new city. Wear what feels most like you, whether that's traditional or completely unexpected. I have photographed many couples in full dresses and suits in the mountains. You don't have to shy away from great wedding attire if you are not going the traditional route.

Frequently asked questions

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WHAT Clients ARE SAYING

“She went above and beyond, not missing a single detail and making the day so special for us... Despite not having met her in person until the day of our elopement, it felt like she was one of our lifelong friends.”

- Meagan E.

Elopement Photography

“Samantha helped us plan a gorgeous beach elopement and basically made my pinterest board come to life. The photos she took are beautiful and will help us remember how special the day was.”

- Np

Elopement Photography

“We came to Big Sur from Michigan to celebrate our 14 year anniversary and to just capture memories from the trip. Samantha went above and beyond and took the time to get to know us and mad us feel so comfortable.”

- Colette W.

Elopement Photography