After moving from Chicago to Los Angeles, I had quite a few inquiries about LA elopements and tons of questions about elopement locations. Now that I’m settled in with a wide variety of SoCal sessions and weddings under my belt, I’m finally ready to launch this much-anticipated guide for you! There are so many extraordinary venues and locations for a gorgeous Los Angeles elopement, but these are my all-time favorites (so far!)
The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Los Angeles: From City Halls to Secret Hideaways
If you’ve made it to this guide, congratulations are in order—you’ve decided to elope in Los Angeles, the city of dreams, stars, and Instagram-worthy elopement spots. As a SoCal elopement photographer, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to spill the tea on the best places to say “I do” in style. I’m excited to take you on a tour of some of LA’s most fabulous, offbeat, and photogenic spots.
Whether you’re in love with nostalgic, filmy images or bold flash photography and artistic editorial compositions, these gems never disappoint! There’s a wide variety of settings on this list, and I hope you find the right place for your big day. As always, I am here if you need more info or options.
Why Los Angeles Is the Perfect Elopement City for Locals & Visitors
If you’re thinking of eloping, Los Angeles is basically Cupid in city form. Imagine saying “I do” against a backdrop of Hollywood glitz, beachside bliss, or mountaintop magic. LA is like a Swiss Army knife of wedding venues—endless options and all equally iconic. Forget the stress of a traditional wedding and ditch the drama over seating charts; instead, trade vows under the palm trees and then hit up a food truck for some post-nuptial tacos. With year-round sunshine and a flair for the dramatic, Los Angeles makes eloping feel less like running away and more like running toward pure, unadulterated awesomeness.
How to Pick a Los Angeles Elopement Location
Choosing an elopement location is like picking a dessert from a gourmet menu—each option has its own unique flavor, but all are amazing. If you’re all about efficiency, the city hall ceremony is your no-fuss, minimalist macaron. Backyard vows? Think of it as the homemade apple pie—warm and intimate with personal touches. A sophisticated urban setting is your elegant tiramisu, full of layers and a dash of city chic. Opting for an iconic historic venue? That’s your crème brûlée, rich with history and a touch of timeless class. And for nature lovers, a natural setting with a view is your artisanal cheesecake, a phenomenal classic. Think of what setting best suits your style, personality, schedule, and interests.
15 Best Places to Elope in Los Angeles
1. A City Hall: The Glamorous, The Classic, and The Underrated
Beverly Hills City Hall: This iconic Spanish Renaissance building oozes sophistication. If you want your elopement to scream “glamour” without breaking into a sweat about guest lists, Beverly Hills City Hall is your spot. Exchange handwritten vows under intricate ceilings and art deco detailing that’ll make your photos look like they belong in a Hollywood classic. If you’re going for those glamorous Old Hollywood vibes, this might be your option.
Note: The inside is not all that impressive. If you want that gorgeous Hollywood aesthetic during your vows, consider getting married outside city hall; there are many parks in the area like Will Rodgers Memorial Park that are perfect for an intimate ceremony (as seen below).
Pasadena City Hall: Unfortunately Pasadena City Hall no longer allows weddings or elopements—the City of Pasadena no longer performs civil ceremonies (find more on that here). However, the grounds and gardens outside are gorgeous! You’d never believe this architectural marvel serves as city all—it’s like the last romantic scene of your favorite rom-com. With its Mediterranean vibe, beautiful archways, grand staircase, and that iconic rotunda, this is where timeless romance meets undeniable elegance. Imagine a showstopping dip kiss in that breezeway! Seriously, the photo ops at this location are endless. This location would be great for pre- or post-elopement photos like the ones shown below.
Another option would be to do an intimate, symbolic vow exchange in the gardens.
**Explore my favorite courthouses and city halls in this post.
2. A Private Residence: Borrow or Rent the Dream
Do you know someone with a fancy house? Brilliant! If not, hit up Airbnb or VRBO for an eye-catching vacation rental. Private residences offer a sense of intimacy and personalization that you just can’t get anywhere else: your place, your time, your day, your way. Picture lush gardens, modern architecture, and no strangers in the background of your wedding pics. Bliss.
3. Your Favorite Bar or Restaurant: Cheers to Love!
Have you ever considered exchanging vows at your favorite cocktail bar? Some of LA’s trendiest bars and restaurants offer private spaces for intimate ceremonies. Plus, you get to toast with your favorite cocktail right after you say, “I do.” Cheers to that! We can certainly go high-end and high fashion, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be fancy. Some of my favorite post-nuptial shots are with couples who grabbed pizza or brews at their favorite dive.
4. A Los Angeles Beach: Surf, & Sand
Whether you’re a Venice Beach boho babe or a Malibu luxury lover, eloping on a Los Angeles beach is pure magic. We can hop over to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, sneak over to a secluded cove in Malibu, or enjoy the sandy beaches of El Matador. All options make for a romantic, fun, and flirty Los Angeles elopement experience! Golden sands, crashing waves, and a sunset that looks like it’s been dipped in honey – this is what elopement dreams are made of. Just make sure to check the tide schedule—nobody wants to start out in soggy wedding attire!
5. A Los Angeles Mountain View Overlook: Sky-High Love
LA’s overlooks are spectacular for those who prefer heights over depths for their Los Angeles elopement. Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon, Topanga Park, and Mulholland Drive provide breathtaking vistas over the city and intimate nooks for savoring the moment. An overlook will make for some epic elopement photos. Just remember, the higher you go, the more dramatic the wind—hold onto your veil! The photos? Epic. The feels? Unmatched.
6. The Griffith Observatory: Sunrise Only
The Griffith Observatory is a star-studded tourist attraction, but it’s another wonder at sunrise. If you’re early risers (or have enough coffee to pretend to be), Griffith Observatory at sunrise is a sight to behold. With the city waking up below, you’ll feel like you have LA all to yourselves. There’s something ethereal about saying “I do” as the first rays of sun peek over the city: just you two, a few early birds, and the universe. Just be prepared for a little morning chill—it’s totally worth it for that ethereal first-light glow.
7. Greystone Mansion: A Regal Affair
Envisioning a luxury affair for your elopement? Try the Greystone Mansion. With its elaborate gardens and impressive architecture, Greystone Mansion is a Jane Austen novel come to life. Perfect for couples who want a subtle touch of Old Hollywood glamor.
8. Etienne Estate: Exclusivity and Elegance
Etienne Estate, a newer kid on the block, mixes rustic charm with modern luxury. With its sprawling grounds and beautiful interiors, you can have a picture-perfect elopement that feels both intimate and grand. Hidden away in the hills, it’s like Napa Valley got transplanted to LA with some Mediterranean and Italian influences. The estate is ideal for couples who want a vineyard vibe without leaving the city. It’s like having your own slice of paradise – perfect for a posh, intimate ceremony.
9. Lavender Marketplace: Fragrant and Fabulous
For a boho-chic vibe, Lavender Marketplace is a hidden gem. Imagine tying the knot surrounded by fragrant lavender fields and rustic charm. It’s an Insta-worthy paradise that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of LA.
10. Paramount Ranch: Wild West Romance
For something a bit quirky and a lot charming, consider Paramount Ranch. For the cowboy and cowgirl at heart, Paramount Ranch offers a rugged Western backdrop straight out of a movie set. It’s beautiful, fun, and perfect for couples wanting something different. Add a little ‘yee-haw’ to your special day. Plus, you can tell people you eloped at a movie set – instant cool points.
Other Unique Option for Los Angeles Elopements (My Honorable Mentions)
- Chateau Marmont: Luxe and iconic for your rock ‘n’ roll fairytale. Chateau Marmot is a legendary hotel that oozes old-school Hollywood glamour. Perfect for couples who want to feel like stars.
- Peerspace Rentals: From eclectic lofts to industrial warehouses, Peerspace has a plethora of unique venues to make your elopement one-of-a-kind. It offers flexibility to find a unique venue tailored to your style.
- A Photo Studio: Minimalist and chic. If you’re all about the aesthetics, why not rent a photo studio? With customizable backdrops and perfect lighting, your photos will be oh, so fabulous and ready for the front cover of your favorite magazine.
- On a Boat: Nautical nuptials, anyone? Eloping on a boat offers a unique way to celebrate your love while cruising the Pacific. I’m in love with boat photos, and it’s such a fun and memorable experience!
- Virginia Robinson Garden: A botanical paradise. This historic estate and garden in Beverly Hills offers an intimate and lush setting. It is ideal for those who want a secluded, natural elopement.
Thanks for Viewing my Los Angeles Elopement Guide!
And that wraps up my ultimate Los Angeles elopement guide (for now). Whether you’re looking for something grand, scenic, unique, or intimate, this city has a spot that’s perfect for you. Now, go out there and make some beautiful memories! 🌴🌞🎥
Love and light,
Hanna, your LA elopement photographer
Meet Your Los Angeles Wedding & Elopement Photographer
Hey there! I’m Hanna Walkowaik, your go-to wedding photographer from sunny Los Angeles, periodically stopping in Chicago and NYC. I jet-set worldwide to freeze love in its tracks. Whether it’s a grand wedding or a secret elopement, I’m all about capturing your story with both digital and film magic.
Expect vibrant colors, candid moments, and a dash of nostalgia in every shot. I blend editorial flair with documentary realness to deliver stunning portraits and memories worth framing. Armed with a Bachelor of Arts in photography, I bring an artistic, deliberate, and technically sharp eye to your special day.
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