Step 1: Define What Elopement Means to You
There’s no single way to elope. For some couples, it’s a quick courthouse “I do” and breakfast after. For others, it’s a full-day experience with portraits, vows in a beautiful spot, and a private dinner somewhere they’ve never been.
You get to decide how it looks and feels — just make sure it’s what you actually want.
Step 2: Choose Your Location
Some locations require permits
Eloping in Las Vegas
Vegas is one of the easiest places in the world to get married. There’s no waiting period, and you can get your license the same day. Whether you want a drive-thru chapel or an epic desert backdrop, you’ve got options.
Some favorites:
A Little White Chapel
Sure Thing Chapel
Downtown Las Vegas Courthouse
Red Rock Canyon
Nelson Ghost Town
There’s also no shortage of vendors here who specialize in quick, stylish elopements.
Eloping in San Francisco
San Francisco is another solid choice — it’s classic, romantic, and surprisingly easy to navigate if you keep it simple. You can elope at City Hall, on the beach, or anywhere in the city that feels like you.
Top picks:
San Francisco City Hall
Baker Beach
Sutro Baths
Golden Gate Park
Your own neighborhood spot
SF elopements work especially well on weekdays when crowds are low and parking is less of a headache.
Step 3: Make It Legal
In Las Vegas:
No appointment needed
Go to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau
Bring valid ID
$102 fee (as of 2025)
License is valid immediately
In San Francisco City Hall:
You’ll need an appointment, book through SF County Clerk
Bring ID
$120 fee (as of 2025)
You can also add a civil ceremony appointment at City Hall if you want one
For other states, check the local marriage license rules — some require a waiting period, some don’t. You’ll need an officiant unless you're in a self-solemnizing state like Colorado.
Step 4: Book a Photographer
Once you know where and when, the next step is documenting it. Elopements might be simple, but the photos don’t have to be. We’ve shot everything from 15-minute courthouse ceremonies to full-day elopements in the desert or overlooking the ocean, and we can help guide you through whatever version feels right.
Coverage is flexible — hourly, a few hours, or the whole day. We’re based in Vegas and California, but always open to travel.
Step 5: Add Whatever You Want
Just because you're eloping doesn’t mean you can’t make it feel intentional. Small details go a long way.
Think about:
Writing your own vows
Bringing a bouquet or boutonniere
Dressing up or keeping it casual — whatever fits
A small dinner or drinks after
Playing music from your phone or a tiny speaker
Or talk to us about handling it all for you
Keep It Simple, Keep It You
The best thing about eloping is the freedom to do it however you want. No expectations, no pressure. Just the two of you, committing to each other in a way that feels honest and real.
If that’s your plan, and you want it captured with care — we’d love to be there for it.
Get in touch
Tell us about your event
