Top 5 Elopement Spots in Monterey Bay

by Tatiana Scher | May 29, 2024 | Blog

Top 5 Elopement Spots in Monterey Bay

Planning an elopement in Monterey Bay offers breathtaking locations, but it’s crucial to understand the importance of permits. Not only do permits ensure that your ceremony is legal and respectful of the natural environment, but they also prevent potential disruptions.

1. Big Sur

2. Point Lobos

3. Carmel Beach

4. Lovers Point

5. Asilomar

Wedding photographers should be particularly mindful of permitting requirements to avoid being asked to leave by a ranger, which could derail your special day. Below are the top 5 scenic elopement spots and their permit details:

1. Big Sur

Why Elope Here? Big Sur’s dramatic coastline, with its rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views, is perfect for elopements. The natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for unforgettable wedding photos.

Permit Requirements

Pfeiffer Beach: Requires a special use permit for ceremonies. Contact the Monterey Ranger District for details.
Garrapata State Park: A permit is needed for groups larger than ten. Applications can be obtained through California State Parks.

Accessibility

Big Sur’s locations vary in accessibility. Pfeiffer Beach has a challenging path that may be difficult for those with mobility issues. Garrapata State Park offers some accessible trails but check specific paths ahead of time.

2. point lobos

Why Elope Here? Known as the “crown jewel” of the California State Park system, Point Lobos offers stunning ocean vistas, picturesque coves, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s an idyllic spot for a tranquil and intimate elopement.

Permit Requirements

A special event permit is required for wedding ceremonies. Contact the park’s administration for specifics on availability and fees.

Accessibility

Point Lobos has several wheelchair-accessible trails and viewing areas. Parking is available close to many scenic spots, making it relatively easy for guests with physical limitations.

3. Carmel Beach

Why Elope Here? Carmel Beach, with its white sands and scenic views of Pebble Beach and Point Lobos, is a charming location for a beachside elopement. The gentle waves and stunning sunsets add to the romantic ambiance. The downfall of Carmel Beach is that it always has a good number of visitors, but in the bright side, dogs are welcome.

Permit Requirements

For small gatherings, permits are generally not required. However, for larger groups or setups, you may need to contact the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Accessibility

Carmel Beach has accessible paths and parking areas. There are beach wheelchairs available for those who need them, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the ceremony comfortably.

4. Lovers Point

Why Elope Here?Lovers Point, in the bohemian town of Pacific Grove, offers a beautiful blend of rocky outcrops, sandy beaches, and sweeping views of Monterey Bay. It’s a rather popular spot for both locals and visitors and offers a very unique sight during the spring months with the super bloom of purple flowers called the “purple carpet”.

Permit Requirements

For small gatherings, permits are generally not required. For larger events or setups, contact the City of Pacific Grove for permit information.

Accessibility

Lovers Point is very accessible, with parking available close to the park. There are paved paths and accessible facilities, making it a convenient choice for guests with physical limitations.

5. Asilomar

Why Elope Here?Asilomar State Beach offers a combination of rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and dune ecosystems. It’s a quieter location, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful, scenic elopement spot.

Permit Requirements

Permits for small weddings are available through the California State Parks website. Contact the park office for specific requirements and fees.

Accessibility

Asilomar State Beach is very accessible, with parking available right off the road. There are paved paths and accessible restrooms, making it a convenient choice for guests with physical limitations.

My takeaway

Understanding the permit requirements and planning accordingly ensures a smooth and stress-free wedding day. Secure your permits in advance, respect any restrictions, and follow Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful locations pristine.

There are many other memorable picturesque spots in the area that I can recommend, including Big Sur, and I can help you navigate the permitting process.

Most locations require at least 60 days’ notice for permits, and some do not allow events on weekends or holidays.

Additionally, some popular spots can be crowded, impacting the sense of intimacy. If you are looking for a less trafficked location, ask me for recommendations. Contact me for more detailed information and to start planning your perfect elopement.

Love Beyond the Ordinary

by Tatiana Scher | Jan 22, 2024 | Elopements

In the vast landscape of weddings and elopements photography, there’s a unique category reserved for those like M+M—an unordinary day marked by personal traditions that defined their celebration.

From our first chat, it was clear we were a match made in wedding heaven. Their vision? Simple—fun, colorful, unconventional, and all things that spark their joy: furry companions, a beautiful scenic ceremony spot, pink here and there, and a casual bike ride around their beloved neighborhood.

Once they checked all their boxes with me and with our compatibility set as their photographer (which is paramount for someone that will third wheel with you all day during your wedding day), we dove into customizing their dream day. They had a solid vision, and together, we fine-tuned the details: scouting locations, planning a timeline to catch the best light at different spots, and curating a playlist that set the perfect mood.

Preparation is everything for a seamless wedding day: You gotta have a timeline that includes even the time you’ll get up and have breakfast, a plan “B” for unpredictable weather, scheduling vendors with plenty of time ahead, a day-of coordinator if there are any guests involved, reservations, and a playlist filled with songs that echo the spirit of the day—all essential. In the end, our meticulous planning resulted in a flawless day, a testament to their commitment to celebrating love in their unique way.

Their ceremony, was held earlier in the day at a dog-friendly spot to make sure their furry babies could join. Family photos with their trusty blue Subaru followed, ending in a laid-back champagne and purple pie celebration picnic by the ocean cliffs of Big Sur. See the work of the amazing creator of such a fun and delicious unordinary treat here.

After a short break in the photography coverage, we rendezvoused at the Monterey Wharf for a sunset bike ride, chasing the last light of the day before joining friends at the Dust Bowl Brewing Co. The result? A candid blend of moments, uniquely captured for M+M, immortalizing their special day with authenticity and love.

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Big Sur Family Photoshoot Adventure

by Tatiana Scher | Jan 5, 2024 | Babies, Beach, Families, Group Sessions, Kids & Toddlers, Sibblings

Embarking on a family photography adventure in the landscapes of Big Sur, Monterey, and Carmel is about more than just capturing beautiful landscapes — it’s about creating memories with your loved ones to last you a lifetime. As an experienced family photographer specializing in unposed, elevated, and playful sessions in the scenic central coast of California, I understand the initial concerns many parents have, especially when dealing with what they might think are uncooperative young children.

Success in family photography is rooted in meticulous preparation—both practical and mental. Through a comprehensive pre-session call, I ensure my clients are well-informed and equipped to make the most out of our time together. Clients often worry about potential obstacles, such as uncooperative kids (or spouses) and unpredictable weather.

During our prep call with this family, we covered all those various scenarios, from bad weather to strong winds and high tides, ensuring that mom felt confident and relaxed during the session.

As we embraced the unpredictability, allowing the children to lead the way through fun, play, and exploration, the restults were genuine moments that truly reflect the family’s unique dynamics and each of their personalities.