Wondering when the best time is to get married at San Francisco City Hall for beautiful light and fewer crowds? In this guide, I break down the best days and times to plan your ceremony or photo session inside this iconic building, plus insider tips for timing, lighting, and avoiding the busiest hours. I also share why privately renting City Hall for an evening or weekend wedding is such an incredible experience — from having the entire building to yourselves to saying your vows anywhere you choose, even on the grand staircase. If you are dreaming of a romantic and elegant City Hall wedding, this guide will help you plan a day that feels calm, beautiful, and completely you.

One of the biggest style questions brides ask while planning their wedding or elopement is simple but important: veil or no veil? A veil can feel soft, romantic, and timeless, while going without one can feel modern, effortless, and beautifully you. In this guide, I break down the pros and cons of each option, how veils photograph outdoors, tips for windy or adventurous elopements, and some gorgeous alternatives like bows, birdcage veils, capes, floral crowns, and more. No matter what you choose, the most important thing is that you feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourself on your wedding day.

Can you elope in Yosemite in winter? Absolutely yes. Winter in Yosemite feels like stepping into a quiet snowy dream, with soft light, peaceful landscapes, and far fewer crowds than the busy summer season. In this ultimate guide, I am sharing everything you need to know about planning a winter elopement in Yosemite, including what to pack, what parts of the park are open, how to stay flexible with weather, and why renting a cozy cabin can make your day even more magical. If you are dreaming of a romantic, intimate elopement surrounded by snow kissed cliffs and towering pines, Yosemite in winter might be the perfect place for you.

Experience the magic of eloping under Moab’s breathtaking night sky. With its world-famous red rock landscapes and designated Dark Sky Parks, Moab offers some of the clearest stargazing on earth — the perfect setting for an adventurous, romantic elopement. Learn why Moab’s dark skies make it one of the best places to elope, plus get tips on planning your own starlit celebration, where to stay, and the best spots beyond Arches National Park.

Can you have both a wedding and an elopement? Absolutely yes. This guide explains how to combine the joy of a wedding celebration with the intimacy of an elopement. Discover creative ways to plan both, include loved ones, and design a day that feels completely true to you, whether that means a destination adventure or a quiet moment just for two.

Planning a wedding in Olympic National Park means you are surrounded by dramatic coastlines, lush rainforests, and mountain views that make every moment unforgettable. But with the park being so large, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. From historic lodges like Lake Crescent to cozy A-frame cabins and unique glamping spots, your accommodations will shape not just your experience but also your photos. In this guide, I share the best accommodations for your Olympic National Park wedding — including lodges, cabins, rentals, and hidden gems — so you can find the perfect place to relax, celebrate, and begin your marriage adventure.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding day surrounded by towering redwoods and sparkling twinkle lights, Deer Park Villa in Fairfax is one of the Bay Area’s most magical venues. Tucked away in Marin County, it combines the romance of an ancient redwood grove with the convenience of being just minutes from San Francisco. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your wedding at Deer Park Villa — from ceremony and reception details to photography tips and what makes this venue so unique.

Discover why Cathedral Beach on the Merced River is ideal for intimate Yosemite weddings. Learn about its secluded riverfront setting, natural beauty, photography opportunities and planning tips.

Thinking about eloping in California? Discover why Mendocino is the perfect intimate wedding destination that no one talks about — wild cliffs, redwoods, moody skies, and no crowds.

Elopements are more popular than ever in 2025, and for good reason. From saving money to choosing breathtaking destinations like Yosemite, Big Sur, or even a safari in Africa, eloping gives couples the freedom to celebrate their love their way. Discover 10 detailed reasons why couples are choosing elopements over traditional weddings and how to plan your own unforgettable day.

Discover the top Bay Area wedding venues from romantic gardens and scenic wineries to coastal spots and historic architecture. Featuring Filoli, Nestldown, City Hall, Jefferson Street Mansion, Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, and more.

Planning your Zion National Park elopement Discover the best places to stay from cozy cabins and glamping domes to luxury resorts plus why your getting ready space and stargazing opportunities can make your photos even more magical

Planning a San Francisco City Hall wedding? The hotel or Airbnb you choose to get ready in can make all the difference in your photos and your experience. This guide covers the best places to stay in SF for stunning getting-ready photos, dreamy light, and first look locations—plus bonus tips for rooftops, cable cars, and elegant interiors.

Connie and Max planned a big wedding with their loved ones—but before that, they escaped to Yosemite for a private elopement adventure just for the two of them. From a peaceful sunrise at Cathedral Beach to star photos under the Milky Way, their day was filled with meaning, beauty, and joy. This blog shares their full story, how they balanced both an elopement and a full wedding, and how you can too.

Planning a romantic wedding in the Bay Area? Old St. Hilary’s in Tiburon is one of the most unique and charming wedding venues in Northern California. This guide covers everything you need to know—from ceremony details and shuttle tips to the best reception venues, accommodations, and photo locations nearby. If you're dreaming of a timeless, intimate wedding with coastal views, Old St. Hilary’s is the perfect spot.

Looking for the most elegant places to take your engagement photos in San Francisco? From the iconic architecture of City Hall to the timeless beauty of the Palace of Fine Arts and the European charm of the Legion of Honor, this guide highlights three of the best spots for a romantic, sophisticated engagement session in SF. Plus, tips on how to add a second, nature-inspired location to make your gallery even more diverse and personal.

Looking for the perfect place to stay for your Yosemite wedding or elopement? From luxury lodges to cozy cabins and budget-friendly stays, this guide highlights the best Yosemite accommodations with beautiful natural light—ideal for getting ready photos. Discover which spots are great for couples, guests, and even intimate ceremonies, plus why your getting-ready space can make a big impact on your wedding gallery.

Thinking about including your dog in your adventure elopement or City Hall ceremony? Whether you're saying “I do” on a mountain top or the marble steps of San Francisco City Hall, this guide covers everything you need to know about eloping with your pet. From pet-friendly elopement locations and how to prepare, to rules at national parks and City Hall, plus tips for getting the best photos—we’ll help you make sure your furry friend is part of your unforgettable day.

Looking for the best Moab elopement locations beyond Arches National Park? This complete guide covers five stunning and lesser-known spots around Moab — including Dead Horse Point, Castle Valley, Fisher Towers, and more. Learn why these scenic, crowd-free locations are perfect for your elopement, plus get tips on planning, permits, and the best places to stay in Moab for a stress-free and unforgettable wedding experience.

Wondering if you should include a first look in your elopement? This blog breaks down why a first look can be one of the most emotional and memorable parts of your wedding day. Learn how to plan the perfect first look, why choosing the right accommodations matters, and how to include loved ones like parents or friends in this special moment.