San Diego Courthouse Wedding Alternative:

What is a self-uniting ceremony?

A self-uniting ceremony is one where you two lead yourselves through reading your vows, exchanging rings, and going in for your first kiss! You will stand up at the "alter" just the two of you and your photographer will not speak during your ceremony --only capture all the special moments as you commit your lives to each other. This type of ceremony is so fun because it allows you to get married with beautiful backdrops, save money by not hiring a professional officiant, and keeps this moment private between you two.

Alternatively, you can write a script and ask a friend or family member to read it and perform your ceremony. Either way, at the end of the night, your photographer will sign your marriage license as the officiant to make your union legal.

Are you LGBTQ+ friendly?

Absolutely! You are welcome and celebrated here!

CAN WE BRING GUESTS?

Yes! Guests can stand around your ceremony site (or bring chairs of their own) and witness your union. They will also be invited in for group photos after the ceremony!

WE ARE AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA, can you help?

You’re not alone - many couples feel this way before working with us! After a decade of working with couples, we’ve developed fun ways to get you feeling comfortable in no time! Your W&F photographer will have loads of silly games and funny activities to help you two have fun together, rather than stress about getting your photo taken. You’ll have so much fun - promise!

Not convinced? Check out our loads of reviews from "awkward" couples, just like you!

WHAT LEGALITIES ARE REQUIRED?

The State of California requires one witness and someone ordained to sign your marriage license.

1. As soon as you book your Mini Elopement, schedule your appointment with the county office to pick up your marriage license and bring it to your Mini Elopement
2. You will perform a self-uniting ceremony (or have a friend read), exchange rings, and share your personal vows with one another.
3. After, I can sign as your officiant as I’m ordained with the Universal Life Church.
4. The State of California also requires one witness's signature. If you bring any guests, they can serve as witnesses. If you do not have a witness present, we can ask someone off the street.
5. Mail your marriage license back to the county within 10 days of your elopement to make it all official!

Can I book more than one mini elopement session back to back?

It sounds to me like you’re looking for one of my Full-Day Adventure Elopement experiences! While my Mini Elopements are a wonderful courthouse alternative, I truly love creating and capturing custom full-day adventures for eloping couples! We can visit your favorite locations and fill the day with fun + meaningful activities. Check out the Full Day Elopement Experience!

What all do we need?

While you only truly need yourselves, here is a list of ideas to help you prepare: wedding outfits + accessories, rings, vow books, marriage license, and water + snacks. You’ll have access to a curated guide to help you prepare for your day and give you fun ideas!

Feel free to make this your own!

How do we book our mini Elopement?

1. Get in touch with the month or timeframe you're looking to elope (contact form below)
2. Book a call to chat about your mini elopement and get a chance to ask questions. This is also a time when we can find an available date on our calendar that works for the two of you!
3. Once a date is selected, we will send you a booking link that will guide you through signing your contract electronically and paying your 50% retainer. The last 50% will be due 1 week after your elopement date. Payment plans can be arranged upon request.