Judy and Justin’s Big Sur Adventure Elopement

Getting Ready for their Big Sur Elopement

The day began when I met Judy and Justin at their  Airbnb. A sweet cabin-style property with a gorgeous garden. When I arrived, I found Judy casually putting together her bouquet and getting ready, while Justin enjoyed coffee on the deck. I was so excited for them to see this area, and the spots I had picked out for them! It was my first time meeting Justin, and we instantly bonded over our love for the stunning scenery all around us. The job of being an adventure elopement photographer, is often much more than simply taking photos. You are a confidant, a guide, maid of honor, coordinator, and so much more! Meaning, that while my couples are getting ready they often need my assistance either zipping, or tying up wedding dresses, checking makeup and hair, or putting on boutonnières.

While Judy and Justin got ready, I busied myself with taking plenty of ‘getting ready’ photos, and chatting to them about the day ahead. Judy knew she wanted to hit up a few key areas like Pfeiffer Beach. She knew she wanted photos in these areas, but wanted to keep alive the element of surprise and keep the schedule of events fairly loose. I’ve found that’s the key to capturing natural reactions during adventure elopement photography, keep them guessing, and let the wonders of Big Sur reveal themselves spontaneously.

That First Look Moment

As mentioned, the eloping couples’ pretty California Airbnb had an adorable garden attached, and it was surrounded by acres of woodland. And so, we felt it was the perfect place for them to have their first look moment. Once the pair were ready, Justin and I went outside and waited for his bride to enter the garden. Standing patiently, and looking out towards the forest, our groom quietly anticipated the big moment, while I positioned myself on the other side of the garden. During these ‘first look’ shots, I always attempt to remove myself from the groom’s line of sight, or at least be as invisible as possible, so as not to alter any natural reactions. Once they had been reunited, Judy and Justin were giddy with excitement, and I left them to really soak up the moment before we set off into the woods.

A Ceremony in the Woods

During one of my initial discussions with Judy, she mentioned that she’d always envisioned her wedding ceremony would be surrounded by trees. A natural, spiritual moment that she felt eloping to California could easily produce. And she was spot on! Big Sur is blessed with towering redwoods that create the most beautiful backdrop for elopement photography.

Judy took the lead and it didn’t take her long to find the perfect little clearing for their ceremony. A serene setting, quiet and calm, only punctuated occasionally by the sound of birds, or breeze whistling through the trees. They began to read aloud their vows to each other. In turn, they declared their love and promises to one another, while I captured every moment from afar, and up close, during the more intimate moments. It was a very heartfelt, and special elopement, one that I felt privileged to be a part of and glad to capture in photography.