Elopeing
In Humboldt county
A How-To Guide
Traveling to Humboldt County
Humboldt County feels tucked away and peaceful, but there are several easy ways to get here for your elopement or post-wedding session. Many couples choose to fly into the California Redwood Coast–Humboldt County Airport (ACV), which is the closest airport to the redwoods and coastline I photograph most often. Others enjoy turning the trip into part of the experience by driving from San Francisco through Northern California or traveling down from Oregon along the scenic coast.
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or building it into your honeymoon, I also have blog guides with recommended places to stay, local experiences, and favorite things to do while visiting Humboldt County HERE.
Growing Trend:
Post-Wedding Photos
What if you didn’t rush through portraits on a packed wedding day—but instead built an entire experience around them?
• More couples are choosing a simple courthouse or at-home “I do”
• Then traveling to Humboldt County for private vows in the redwoods or along the Northern California coast
• I help you design a slow, intentional photography experience centered around light, location, and story
• Guidance includes where to stay, when to plan each part of your day, and how to move through it without feeling rushed
• We intentionally leave space for golden light, weather shifts, and unscripted moments that feel cinematic and real
• You can personalize your session with meaningful details like lanterns, vintage maps, hiking boots, florals, or a “just married” sign
• The focus is on creating space for presence, connection, and imagery that feels like your story—not a timeline
• You bring your attire, vow books, and a few personal touches—and everything else is built around an experience that feels grounded, intentional, and unforgettable
Plannig your elopement
in Humboldt County
Ridgefield Events
150 Guests
- Friday: $10,900 venue fee
- Sat: $12,900 venue fee
- Sun: $8,900 venue fee
ALL-INCLUSIVE micro weddings/elopements package.
Direct link HERE
Sequoia Park
40-200 guests
On-site locations:
Glatten T- 60 people standing , 40 seated
Windstorm Meadow- 200 standing and seated
Sequoia park Gazebo -provide seating 100 (has plug in)
Flower garden small gazebo- 40 standing only (Flowers May- September)
$200 application fee/permit
Direct link to rental locations break down of fees and guidelines HERE
Sue Meg State Park
25-200 people
On-site locations:
Wedding rock -25 standing
Patricks point -30
Campfire center- 200
Palmers point -100 standing , 50 seating
Agate beach
$200 application fee/permit
Direct link to permits required HERE
Make an appointment at the county clerks office to obtain a marriage license. They typically cost under $100. The license is good for 90 days and can be used immediately. INFO HERE
You need one witness (That can by me, BTW!)
Have someone marry you. Whether it’s an ordained minister or a best friend
(NOTE: California does offer a confidential marriage license which means it is not part of public records)
Legal Requirements
Popular locations to elope are:
Sue Meg State Park
Trinidad State Beach
Avenue of the Giants
Samoa Dunes
High Bluff Overlook
luffenholtz beach overlook
Centerville Beach County Park
Other Locations:
ceremonies Not allowed:
Fern Canyon
James Irvine Trail
Stout Grove
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
These four areas are considered off limits for ceremonies BUT you can take photos in any of these places during the day of your elopement. So if you were hoping to make a detour to explore Fern Canyon, you can absolutely do that (and I highly recommend it)! Taking advantage of these stunning locations for portraits or candid shots adds unique, timeless beauty to your wedding day memories without the restrictions of holding the ceremony there. Just plan accordingly to ensure your day flows smoothly and you capture those special moments in some of Humboldt County’s most breathtaking spots.
Hour 1- Location 1. Ceremony/vow exchange. Family photos and portraits of bride and groom. Travel time to location 2.
Hour 2 -Location 2. Timed perfectly for golden hour pictures
Add on hours: Getting ready photos at air bnb or reception.
An incredible advantage to eloping in Humboldt County is the diversity of scenes all within about 20-45 minutes of each other! You can start with your ceremony in the redwoods in Eureka and drive 25 minutes away to finish the day with golden hour pictures at Wedding Rock in Trinidad.
Timeline Example:
What to Know When Planning Your Elopement
Vendors
Officiant, florist, cake… check out the list of all the vendors you might want to consider HERE
Legal Requirements
Research marriage license rules and regulations for your chosen location to ensure your elopement is legally recognized.
Props
A cathedral veil, lanterns, champaign and wine glasses, mini cake, vow books and a bridal bouquet are some of my favorite props to consider taking using at an elopement.
Permits and permissions
Redwoods National and State Parks require a permit for any ceremony that happens within the park boundaries. START HERE
location
Choosing a location that reflects your personality and love story- whether it’s a redwood forest. a quiet beach or a charming landscape.
Guest list
Decide if you want an intimate ceremony with just the two of your or a small group of close family and friends.
Timing and Season
Consider the best time of year for weather, lighting, and availability of your preferred location.
Attire
Humboldt County’s weather is known to be unpredictable and colder than anywhere else in California. Ensuring you have layers is a must!
Backup Plan
Depending on the season you choose, you may want to a plan B date.
Dog as a Witness
Yes! Your dog can be a witness when you elope in California because California does not require a second witness for a marriage license
Investment
$1,990
If you’re planning a local elopement that’s simple and doesn't require all-day coverage, then this is what you’ll want to book!
2 hours Coverage
If you need more time, let’s chat! I offer a per-hour rate if you need more time.
Planning Help
I have a variety of location ideas throughout Humboldt County that photograph beautifully, including more private spots for a quieter experience.
With experience in wedding timelines, I can help guide the flow of your day so we’re always working around the best light and creating space for the moments that matter most.
We can also talk through timing together to make sure everything feels relaxed, intentional, and aligned with the kind of photos you’re hoping for.
Adding a theme or a few thoughtful props to your elopement can also be a fun way to bring personality and creativity into your photos, making the experience feel even more unique to you.
Sneak Peeks
A handful of photos delivered within a few days!
Professionally Edited Photos
All the best photos in a high resolution digital gallery
“Wow! What a truly wonderful experience shooting with Bethany! Such a kind, fun and helpful photographer! Loved every minute and the photos turned out so soooo beautiful! She perfectly captured the vision!”
-Harmony