Big Sur Elopement With Family
Jordan + Dominick
Jordan + Dom’s Big Sur Elopement: Redwood Vows & Coastal Magic
Some love stories come full circle, and Jordan and Dom’s elopement was exactly that kind of magic. I first photographed them during their proposal and engagement session back in St. Louis — so when they decided to elope a year later in Big Sur, I was beyond honored to be part of their story again.
Big Sur wasn’t just a pretty location to them — it was the place. Jordan has family in nearby Monterey and visits almost every year, so the redwoods and cliffs already felt like home. They love how temperate the weather stays (that dreamy mid-50s coastal air), how the wildflowers dot the hills in spring, and how the rugged coastline meets forest in the most cinematic way.
And they didn’t want to miss any of it. So we planned a day that wove together all of Big Sur’s best: redwood groves, coastal overlooks, and mountain views — all with their closest people by their side.
Redwood First Look & Private Vows
We started the day at their stunning Airbnb in Pebble Beach — think golden morning light, cozy garden views, and all the excitement that comes with getting ready. Jordan was surrounded by the moms and her sister-in-law; Dom by his best friend and the dads. She even surprised Dom with a gorgeous watch he’d been eyeing for months (with some sneaky help from his best man).
From there, we made our way to the redwoods along Soberanes Canyon Trail. Jordan and Dom wanted a quiet, private moment to see each other for the first time and read their vows — just the two of them. So we staggered our hike to keep them separate until that first look. Among the towering redwoods, they met. It was emotional, intentional, and intimate in the way only private vows in nature can be. I definitely teared up.
Clifftop Ceremony with Family
After portraits in the redwood grove, we reunited with their family at the Garrapata Bluffs for the ceremony. It was important that the location be easily accessible — especially since Jordan’s aunt (who officiated the ceremony and has also married all her nieces and nephews!) had recently had knee surgery. This bluff-top spot was perfect: minimal walking, panoramic views, and space for everyone.
Jordan’s aunt led a heartfelt ceremony with a few thoughtful readings woven in. It was intimate — just seven guests — and filled with joy. After they said “I do,” we took family portraits with the cliffs and ocean behind us, and then sent their loved ones back to the Airbnb to prep for dinner while we stayed back for sunset portraits.
Sunset on the Coast & A Sentimental Celebration
Golden hour in Big Sur hits different. We wandered the cliffs, soaking in the breeze, the light, the birds flying overhead — it was quiet and awe-filled. Just them, newly married, taking in the view as the sky shifted colors.
Back at the Airbnb, a private dinner was waiting. They’d hired a caterer to serve an intimate meal with their closest people, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. There were spontaneous, heartfelt toasts. So many laughs. A first dance on the balcony. Sweet parent dances that brought just the right touch of tradition to an otherwise unconventional day.
It was real. Relaxed. So full of heart.
Tips for Eloping in Big Sur
1. Plan around accessibility.
Not every viewpoint or trail in Big Sur is guest-friendly. Some require steep stairs, narrow paths, or longer hikes. If you’re bringing family along, especially older relatives, you’ll want to prioritize spots that are easy to reach while still delivering those jaw-dropping views. Garrapata State Park and Soberanes Canyon are excellent choices because you can access cliffs, redwoods, and open meadows without a strenuous trek.
2. Rent an Airbnb with great lighting and space.
Airbnbs aren’t just for sleeping — they can anchor your day. Choose one with plenty of natural light for getting-ready photos, a backyard or balcony for post-ceremony dinners, and enough space for your group to gather comfortably. It makes the whole day flow so much smoother when you don’t have to shuffle everyone to multiple venues.
3. Don’t skip the private vows.
Couples often feel nervous about reading their most heartfelt words in front of others. Jordan and Dom solved this by reading their vows privately in the redwoods before the ceremony. It gave them a moment to breathe, connect, and really let the emotions sink in. You can still share rings and repeat short vows during the ceremony itself, but carving out this quiet time often makes the day feel more grounded and intentional.
4. Embrace the full-day experience.
Elopements don’t have to be “shortcuts.” In fact, some of the best ones stretch across an entire day — from sunrise hikes to golden-hour portraits to a candlelit dinner. Think about what feels special to you: maybe it’s tide-pooling at Garrapata Beach, watching whales from the overlooks, or ending the night with a private chef’s meal. You get to choose what fills your hours, and there’s no rulebook saying it has to be quick.
5. Expect coastal weather quirks.
Big Sur is known for its fog, breezy afternoons, and cool evenings. The good news? It’s rarely too hot, and the shifting moods of the coastline only add to the magic. Layer up with cozy wraps or jackets, and embrace the moody skies as part of your story. The photos end up looking cinematic no matter what.
6. Work with the land, not against it.
Big Sur is rugged, wild, and beloved for its untouched beauty. Stay on marked trails where possible, respect closures, and choose Leave No Trace–friendly florals or ceremony setups. It ensures that the same beauty will be there for years to come — and couples always appreciate how their elopement feels like it belongs to the landscape, not staged against it.
7. End the night with something personal.
Whether it’s a backyard dinner like Jordan and Dom’s, a bonfire on the beach (where allowed), or a late-night champagne toast, closing the day with intention matters. Elopements are about more than just the “I do” — they’re about celebrating in a way that feels wholly yours.
Vendors
Photography | Sally G Photography
Hair & Makeup | Malina Terra
Catering | Coastal Roots
Cake | Angelina’s Bakery
Dress | Mia Grace Bridal
Suit | Suit Supply
READY TO START PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT? REACH OUT NOW!
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
