Rachel & Peter’s Romantic San Diego Elopement: Starting in the Courthouse and in La Jolla Cliffs
Rachel and Peter’s San Diego elopement was filled with heartfelt moments, family love, and golden California light. Their day began with a courthouse ceremony in downtown San Diego and ended with a private vow exchange at sunset on the La Jolla cliffs. Every part of their day reflected what eloping is all about—intention, connection, and a celebration of love without limits.
Courthouse Ceremony at the San Diego County Administration Center
The day started at the San Diego County Administration Center, where Rachel and Peter exchanged vows surrounded by their closest family. They originally planned for an outdoor ceremony overlooking the bay, but due to an event happening nearby, the county moved all ceremonies indoors.
The change of plans didn’t dampen the magic one bit. Inside the courthouse’s indoor ceremony room, emotions ran high—every word, every glance, every happy tear. Their ceremony was intimate, raw, and filled with love.
Afterward, we stepped outside to capture family photos beneath the palm trees and art-deco architecture that makes downtown San Diego such a charming backdrop for elopement photography. The mix of modern design and coastal air gave their photos a timeless yet vibrant feel.
💍 How to Book a Courthouse Elopement in San Diego
If you’re dreaming of a simple yet meaningful San Diego courthouse elopement, here’s how to make it happen:
- Book Your Appointment – Head to the San Diego County Clerk’s website to schedule both your marriage license and civil ceremony appointment.
- Fill Out the Application – Complete your marriage license application online ahead of time to make check-in easy.
- Bring Valid ID – Both partners must bring government-issued photo IDs to your appointment. Your ceremony will take place at the beautiful San Diego County Administration Center by the bay.
Exploring Downtown San Diego
After their ceremony, we explored the heart of downtown San Diego together. Rachel and Peter ran through city streets hand-in-hand, laughed between the palm-lined sidewalks, and fully soaked in that “we just got married” energy. These moments captured the excitement and authenticity that make San Diego elopements so special—pure joy, real connection, and zero pressure.
Sunset Vows & First Dance in La Jolla 🌅
As the sun began to dip, we met again for a private moment on the tall, rugged ocean cliffs of La Jolla. With waves crashing below, Rachel and Peter exchanged personal vows they had saved just for each other. The cliffs were glowing in golden light as they shared their first dance, barefoot in the sand, surrounded by the rhythm of the sea.
This is what elopement days are made of—peaceful, cinematic, and completely your own.
Ending the Night with Lantern Photos ✨
To end the night, we brought out lanterns for one last set of portraits. The soft, warm glow contrasted beautifully against the deep blues of the ocean and night sky—one final magical moment before the day came to an end.
Rachel and Peter’s San Diego elopement was proof that even when plans change, love always finds a way to shine. Whether it’s in a courthouse room or on ocean cliffs, what matters most is being present in the moment and celebrating your story your way.
Ready to Plan Your San Diego Elopement? 🌊
Whether you’re saying “I do” at the courthouse, on a beach, or atop a coastal cliff, your San Diego elopement deserves to be captured beautifully. As a San Diego elopement photographer, I’ll help you every step of the way—from planning your timeline to location scouting, permits, and documenting every candid, emotional moment.
💌 Let’s start planning your San Diego adventure together!
👉 Inquire about your San Diego Elopement here.
