elopement Photography &
Planning Support All in One
What is an Elopement?
I’m Kristin, a California elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.
This page breaks down what an elopement truly is, how it differs from a traditional wedding, and what to consider when planning an intentional elopement day.
You’ll gain clarity, confidence, and a clear understanding of what comes next without the overwhelm.
An elopement is an intentional, intimate way to get married that centers the experience around the two of you — not a guest list, a packed timeline, or outside expectations.
Today, elopements look very different than they used to. They aren’t about running away or skipping something meaningful. Instead, they’re about slowing down, being present, and choosing a wedding day that actually feels like you.
An elopement can be just the two of you or include a small group of your closest people. It can happen somewhere scenic and outdoors, or somewhere simple and easy to access. What matters most isn’t the location or the size — it’s the intention behind the day.
At its core, an elopement is about creating space for a meaningful, stress-free wedding experience, without the pressure to perform or follow traditions that don’t fit.
What Is an Elopement?
And yes, elopements are still real weddings.
You’re legally married, vows and all.
What an Elopement Is
(and Isn’t)
- An intentional, meaningful way to get married.
- Focused on the experience, not the production.
- Typically just the couple or small guest count.
- Flexible, relaxed, and centered around how you want the day to feel
- Often outdoors and scenic, but not required
What an Elopement Is
What an Elopement Isn’t
Common Questions About Eloping
Absolutely. Eloping doesn’t mean excluding the people you care about. Many couples choose to include immediate family or a few close friends, while still keeping the day calm and meaningful.
Most elopements include just the couple or a small group of close loved ones. Guest counts are typically kept intimate — often around 0–15 people — especially for outdoor locations and public land.
Yes. An elopement is a fully legal marriage, just like any other wedding. You’ll obtain a marriage license and have an officiant present (or self-solemnize where allowed), just without the pressure of a large event.
Is an elopement legal?
How many guests can an elopement have?
Can we still include family or friends?
Do elopements still feel like a “real” wedding?
Very much so. In fact, many couples say their elopement feels more meaningful because it’s focused on the marriage itself — not a packed timeline or outside expectations.
Do we need permits?
Sometimes, yes, especially for outdoor locations. Permit requirements depend on the location, guest count, and type of ceremony. The good news is that the process is often much simpler than couples expect.
Eloping with Kristin Smith Photography
A Simple, Intentional Way to Plan an Elopement That Actually Feels Like You
As your elopement photographer and planner, I don’t just show up on the day —
I help you shape the entire experience from the beginning.
These steps from my elopement guide are here to give you clarity, direction, and confidence — even if you don’t have everything figured out yet.
what is an elopement
I’m a California elopement photographer and planner for couples who want a wedding day that feels intentional, relaxed, and genuinely fun.
I don’t just show up with a camera, I help you plan your elopement from the beginning. From talking through locations and logistics to building a timeline that flows, I’m there to guide you, cheer you on, fix your dress, and keep the day feeling calm and easy.
I care about what lights you two up and what makes your connection yours, and I help create an elopement day that feels like it was made just for you.
I specialize in elopements across California, especially Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, and help couples navigate the planning process without it feeling overwhelming.
Hey, I'm Kristin!
"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin
Some couples choose a completely private experience, while others include a small group of their closest people. Some want an easy-access location with incredible views, while others are up for a short hike or exploring multiple spots throughout the day.
There’s No One Way to Elope
- Just the two of you
- A small group of family or friends
- An easy-access scenic location
- A short hike to a quieter spot
- A sunrise or sunset ceremony
- Exploring multiple locations in one day
There’s no “right” way to elope.
the goal is to create a day that feels intentional, meaningful, and true to you.
Is an Elopement Right for You?
Elopements tend to be a great choice if:
- You want a relaxed, intentional wedding day
- You value experiences over traditions
- You don’t want to host a large crowd
- You want time and space to be present with each other
- You’d rather focus on meaning than a packed timeline
If planning a big wedding feels overwhelming, stressful, or like it’s drifting away from what you actually want — that’s often a sign that eloping could be a better fit.
There’s no “right” choice when it comes to getting married. But if you’re drawn to something simpler, more personal, and less performative, an elopement might already be calling your name.
You’ve Got This,
Now Let’s Make It Easy
Now that you understand what an elopement is, the next step is having someone in your corner to help make it all feel simple and stress-free.
This isn’t just photography.
this an experience built around the two of you!
The laughter, the quiet moments, the adventure
are captured beautifully and wrapped in a stress-free,
red-carpet process from start to finish.
Planning Support: Location scouting, permits, timelines, vendor recommendations — I handle all the behind-the-scenes details so you can focus on what matters most: each other.
Creative Touches: From faux florals and color palettes to the tiny details that make your day look and feel cohesive, I’ll help design your setup so it’s both beautiful and stress-free.
Faux Florals: Custom faux florals are included with every elopement. I’ll help you choose a bouquet and boutonnière that match your colors, location, and vibe — no wilting, no stress, and they photograph beautifully in every season.
Picnic, Cake, & Toast: Celebrate your “just married” moment with a cozy picnic setup, a mini cake, and a bubbly toast (non-alcoholic options available!). It’s the perfect way to slow down and take it all in together.
Two Photographers (Add-on): When you want full coverage, my husband Rick joins me — capturing your day from every angle so nothing goes unseen.
Day-Of Coordination: I’ll keep your day running smoothly from start to finish so you don’t have to think twice about what’s next.
Sneak Peeks & Final Gallery: A handful of teasers within 24 hours (because I know you’ll be dying to relive it), and your full gallery delivered within 45 days — filled with images that bring it all rushing back.
the experience
Take a peek at what I offer to make your elopement experience easy, intentional, and actually enjoyable.
"It was important to us that we kept things relaxed and private and Kristin knew exactly where to take us and made us feel at ease."
- Alex & Taylor
Create your elopement with me
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Kristin Smith Photography
Kristin is a Northern California elopement photographer who helps couples plan and photograph intentional, stress-free elopements in places like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite and epic California locations.
From location guidance and timelines to documenting the day itself, I’m here to make the entire experience feel relaxed, meaningful, and easy.
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