Absolutely! Including family members in your elopement photos can add so much meaning to your day. Whether it’s just your parents, siblings, or a small group of close loved ones, we can carve out time to capture those special moments.

A lot of couples choose to have an intimate ceremony with family present, followed by some group photos. Then, we can set aside time for just the two of you to explore and soak in the day. This balance allows you to include your family while still focusing on the intimacy and adventure of your elopement. I’ll help guide the flow so everyone feels included without taking away from your vision.

The best time of year to elope in Big Sur really depends on the kind of experience you want, but most couples find that late spring through fall (roughly May–October) offers the most reliable weather and easiest access to coastal viewpoints. During these months, you’ll typically see warmer temperatures, more golden sunsets, and less chance of rain closures along the coastline and Pacific Coast Highway.

That said, Big Sur is known for its microclimates, which means the weather can shift dramatically even within the same day. Summer often brings coastal fog—especially in the mornings and evenings—which creates that soft, dreamy, moody look many couples love. Fall is often considered the “sweet spot” because you still get beautiful light, fewer crowds, and more consistent visibility along the cliffs and beaches.

Winter and early spring can also be incredibly beautiful if you’re drawn to a more dramatic, intimate atmosphere. You may experience rain or road closures at times, but in return you get lush green landscapes, powerful waves, and far fewer tourists. Ultimately, the best time to elope is less about perfection and more about the kind of mood and energy you want your day to feel like.

3. What is the best time of year to elope in Big Sur?

4. How crowded is Big Sur for elopements?

Big Sur can feel surprisingly different depending on the day, time, and location—but overall, it’s a popular destination, so some areas can get busy, especially during weekends and peak travel months. Iconic spots along Pacific Coast Highway like overlooks, beaches, and pullouts can have tourists stopping throughout the day, particularly around midday and sunset hours.
That said, “crowded” doesn’t usually mean packed everywhere—it just means you have to be intentional with timing and location choices. With a well-planned elopement in Big Sur, most couples still experience plenty of quiet, intimate moments by choosing sunrise sessions, weekdays, or lesser-known viewpoints. Part of my role is helping you navigate that so your day feels private, relaxed, and focused on the two of you instead of the people around you.

5. How do we get around Big Sur on our elopement day?

Getting around Big Sur on your elopement day is mostly done by car, and it’s all about slow, scenic driving along Pacific Coast Highway. This stretch of coastline is winding, narrow in certain areas, and full of pull-offs where you’ll want to stop for views, photos, or just to take everything in. Because of that, travel always takes longer than expected—but in the best way possible.

For a smooth elopement day in Big Sur, I always recommend planning extra buffer time between locations and keeping your timeline flexible. Parking can be limited at popular spots, and cell service is often spotty, so having a guided plan ahead of time is key. The goal isn’t to rush from place to place—it’s to move slowly, explore intentionally, and actually enjoy the journey along the coast together.

6. How long should we book a photographer for a Big Sur elopement?

The amount of photography coverage you need for your Big Sur elopement really depends on the kind of experience you want to create. Two hours is perfect for couples planning a simple ceremony, a nearby portrait location, and a relaxed, intimate experience focused on the most meaningful moments. It’s a great option for sunrise or sunset vows along the coast while still documenting the beauty and emotion of your day.

For couples wanting a more immersive adventure, additional coverage allows your elopement to unfold more naturally without feeling rushed. Extra time creates space for multiple locations throughout Big Sur, slow moments together along the Pacific Coast Highway, getting ready photos, private vows, exploring the redwoods, or ending the evening with sunset views and celebration moments. The more time you have, the more your gallery feels like the full story of your experience instead of just a small piece of it.