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
• 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
• 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
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
“If I could give Bethany more than five stars, I would.
Bethany photographed our elopement in Northern California, and I truly cannot imagine having anyone else there with us. We were married in the Avenue of the Giants and then traveled to the coast afterward for beach photos in the same day and she handled every part of it flawlessly.
From the very beginning, her communication was outstanding. She scheduled an initial phone call to get to know us and understand our vision, and then another call the week before the wedding to go over details and make sure everything was in place. She was incredibly kind, helpful, and reassuring throughout the entire process. She made sure we got exactly what we wanted while also guiding us on what to expect, offering thoughtful suggestions, and helping the day flow naturally.
The timing of our ceremony was especially important, and Bethany played a huge role in making sure everything ran smoothly. She kept things on track without ever making us feel rushed or stressed. She was also wonderful with the parents who came along with us and respected exactly how we wanted the day to unfold.
And then there are the photos. They are absolutely stunning. Every single person who has seen them has raved about how beautiful they are. Somehow, she captured not only the scenery but also the emotion and joy of the day in a way that lets us relive it every time we look through our gallery.”
-Brittany
Planning Your Elopement in Humboldt County
Humboldt County is one of the most magical places in Northern California to exchange vows. From towering redwood forests and hidden trails to dramatic coastal cliffs and peaceful beaches, this area offers endless possibilities for couples looking for an intentional, meaningful elopement experience.
Why Choose a Local Humboldt County Elopement Photographer?
Planning a destination elopement is about more than choosing a beautiful location—it’s about creating an experience that feels effortless and unforgettable. As a local Humboldt County elopement photographer, I know the hidden gems, the best times for beautiful light, and the locations that allow you to experience the redwoods and coastline in the most magical way.
From knowing where the sun filters perfectly through the trees to understanding when the coast has the most beautiful atmosphere, having someone local helps take the guesswork out of planning. I can help guide you through location options, timeline ideas, and the little details that make your day feel relaxed, intentional, and completely yours.
Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows beneath ancient redwoods, exploring forest trails hand in hand, or ending the day with sunset portraits along the Pacific Coast, Humboldt County offers a rare combination of adventure and beauty. My goal is to help you not only capture incredible photographs, but to have an elopement experience that you’ll remember forever.
Ridgefield Weddings | Arcata, CA
Guest Capacity: Up to 150 guests
A beautiful venue surrounded by nature, offering an elegant setting while still feeling connected to the beauty of Humboldt County.
Venue Pricing:
Friday: $10,900 venue fee
Saturday: $12,900 venue fee
Sunday: $8,900 venue fee
Learn more about Ridgefield Weddings: HERE
Sequoia Park | Eureka, CA
Guest Capacity: 40–200 guests
A classic Humboldt County location featuring towering trees, beautiful gardens, and multiple ceremony options throughout the park.
Available Ceremony Locations:
Glatten Trail
Up to 60 standing guests
Up to 40 seated guests
Windstorm Meadow
Up to 200 guests (standing or seated)
Sequoia Park Gazebo
Seating provided for up to 100 guests
Electrical outlet available
Flower Garden Small Gazebo
Up to 40 standing guests
Flowers typically in bloom May–September
Permit Information:
$200 application fee/permit required
Location details, fees, and guidelines: HERE
Sue-Meg State Park | Trinidad, CA
Guest Capacity: 25–200 guests
For couples dreaming of a coastal elopement, Sue-Meg State Park offers breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, and some of the most iconic scenery on the Northern California coast.
Available Ceremony Locations:
Wedding Rock
Up to 25 standing guests
Patrick’s Point
Up to 30 guests
Campfire Center
Up to 200 guests
Palmer’s Point
Up to 100 standing guests
Up to 50 seated guests
Agate Beach
Beautiful coastal option
Permit Information:
$200 application fee/permit required
Permit details and requirements: HERE
Legal Requirements for Your Humboldt County Elopement
Planning an elopement in Northern California is a beautiful and meaningful experience, but there are a few legal steps to make sure your marriage is official.
1. Obtain Your Marriage License
Before your elopement day, you’ll need to make an appointment with the County Clerk’s Office to apply for your marriage license.
A few things to know:
Marriage licenses typically cost under $100
Your license is valid for 90 days
You can use your marriage license immediately after receiving it
You can find more information and apply: HERE
2. You’ll Need One Witness
California requires one witness to sign your marriage license.
If needed, I’m happy to be your witness! 🤍
3. Choose Someone to Officiate Your Ceremony
You’ll need someone legally authorized to perform your marriage ceremony. This can be:
An ordained minister
A professional officiant
A friend or family member who becomes ordained
This is a beautiful opportunity to make your ceremony feel personal and meaningful by choosing someone who knows your story.
California Confidential Marriage License Option
California also offers a confidential marriage license, which means your marriage record is not available as part of the public record.
This can be a great option for couples who want a little more privacy with their marriage details.
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
“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