Big Sur Elopement Photographer

Mariana & Maurilio’s Coast California Elopement

If you’re searching for a Big Sur elopement photographer, Mariana and Maurilio’s day is a perfect example of how to plan an intentional, well-paced elopement on the California coast.

Their August elopement in Big Sur included a redwood ceremony, a champagne stop at Bixby Bridge, and dramatic cliffside portraits wrapped in moody coastal fog. It was intimate, relaxed, and thoughtfully designed around the landscape.

Getting Ready at Glen Oaks Big Sur | Mountain View Cabin

Mariana and Maurilio stayed in the Mountain View Cabin at Glen Oaks, one of the best places to stay for a Big Sur elopement. The property blends modern design with the surrounding forest, making it ideal for couples who want privacy and easy access to multiple ceremony locations.

Having your accommodations close to your ceremony site simplifies the timeline and allows for a slower, more relaxed morning — something I always recommend when photographing elopements in Big Sur.

A Sunny Redwood Ceremony with Celtic Handfasting

The couple chose to exchange vows in the redwoods on a beautiful sunny August day. The light filtered softly through the trees, creating a natural cathedral effect that felt quiet and grounding.

They incorporated a Celtic handfasting tradition into their ceremony — a symbolic ritual where their hands were tied together with cord to represent unity and commitment. Including meaningful traditions like handfasting makes a Big Sur elopement feel deeply personal while still keeping the ceremony simple.

Redwood groves are one of the most sought-after ceremony locations for couples planning a Big Sur elopement because they offer:

• Privacy
• Wind protection
• Even, flattering light
• A peaceful atmosphere away from Highway 1

Champagne at Bixby Bridge

After their ceremony, we made a quick stop at Bixby Bridge for a champagne toast. As one of the most iconic landmarks on the coast, it’s a classic location for couples eloping in Big Sur.

Because this area can be busy — especially in summer — we kept this portion efficient and intentional. This is one reason I always recommend weekday elopements (more on that below).

Moody Cliffside Portraits & First Dance in the Fog

From there, we headed to the cliffs. While the morning had been sunny in the redwoods, the coastline shifted into classic Big Sur mood — rolling fog drifting over the cliffs and softening the horizon.

The contrast between the warm forest ceremony and the dramatic coastal portraits gave their gallery incredible variety. On the cliffs, Mariana and Maurilio shared their first dance overlooking the ocean — just the two of them, surrounded by mist and movement.

This is why couples hire a Big Sur elopement photographer who understands how quickly conditions change here. In one afternoon, you can experience sun, fog, and coastal wind — and each adds something different to your story.

Why August Is a Great Month for a Big Sur Elopement

Mariana and Maurilio chose to elope in August, which is one of the best times of year to get married in Big Sur.

Here’s why August works so well:

• Generally warmer temperatures
• More predictable weather patterns
• Longer daylight hours for flexible timelines
• Higher chance of clear mornings inland in the redwoods

While coastal fog is always possible (and often beautiful), August tends to offer stable conditions compared to winter and early spring.

Why You Should Plan a Weekday Big Sur Elopement

If you’re planning a Big Sur elopement, I strongly recommend choosing a weekday rather than a weekend.

Big Sur is one of the most visited destinations in California, especially during summer. Weekend tourism means:

• Heavy traffic on Highway 1
• Limited parking at popular locations
• Larger crowds at viewpoints
• Higher vendor demand and pricing

A weekday elopement gives you:

• More privacy at ceremony and portrait locations
• Easier travel logistics
• Better availability for vendors and venues
• Often more flexible rates

For couples who want an intimate, uninterrupted experience, weekday elopements are the best choice.

Planning Your Own Big Sur Elopement

Mariana and Maurilio’s day was thoughtful, flexible, and centered around meaningful moments — from their Celtic handfasting ceremony in the redwoods to their foggy cliffside first dance.

If you’re beginning to plan your own celebration, you can find detailed location ideas, permit information, and timeline tips inside my Big Sur Elopement Guide.

As a Big Sur elopement photographer, I help couples design days that feel intentional, scenic, and stress-free — whether that includes redwoods, iconic bridges, dramatic cliffs, or all three.

If you’re dreaming of an August Big Sur elopement with epic coastal views and intimate moments, this coastline offers everything you need.