Both Las Vegas and Hawaii are popular elopement locations, but they're not right for everyone. The glitz and glamour (or should we say, clamor) of Vegas does not always mesh with a couple's idea of romance and the cost of flying to Hawaii's shores is becoming increasingly prohibitive.
A recent industry survey from The Wedding Report indicates that "destination weddings have gotten closer to home." It's no wonder, with air fares (and everything else) skyrocketing. Why not elope to the sunny shores of the Pacific for a breathtaking sunset beach wedding?
While many of California's Pacific Coast popular wedding sites in Monterey and the Bay Area require you to obtain a permit regardless of the size of your wedding, the beauty of Santa Cruz is that there is rarely a need to obtain a permit. Our Santa Cruz Wedding Officiants are locals who know of the best spots in the area for your intimate wedding ceremony.
If you need a reason or two (or a hundred) to forego getting married at the courthouse, click here.
A recent industry survey from The Wedding Report indicates that "destination weddings have gotten closer to home." It's no wonder, with air fares (and everything else) skyrocketing. Why not elope to the sunny shores of the Pacific for a breathtaking sunset beach wedding?
While many of California's Pacific Coast popular wedding sites in Monterey and the Bay Area require you to obtain a permit regardless of the size of your wedding, the beauty of Santa Cruz is that there is rarely a need to obtain a permit. Our Santa Cruz Wedding Officiants are locals who know of the best spots in the area for your intimate wedding ceremony.
If you need a reason or two (or a hundred) to forego getting married at the courthouse, click here.
Lyssabeth's Santa Cruz Wedding Officiants can perform a simply beautiful secular (civil) or nondenominational religious elopement ceremony at any location in Santa Cruz. You may choose to celebrate with just the two of you or perhaps you'd like to share your ceremony with a few friends and family members. Either way, you'll be guaranteed a romantic and memorable experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Here are a few of our favorites. Click on the names or thumbnails for more information and photos.
Here are a few of our favorites. Click on the names or thumbnails for more information and photos.
Santa Cruz Elopement Locations
Elope with Lyssabeth's Santa Cruz Wedding Officiants
Santa Cruz Elopement FAQs
What are the requirements to obtain a marriage license in California?
*Their are two types of marriage licenses available in California--a Public Marriage License and a Confidential Marriage License.
*Public license can be obtained at ANY County Clerk's Office in the state. It does not have to be obtained in the county in which you are to be married; any county is fine.
*Confidential Marriage License is only good in the county in which it is issued (meaning you must hold you ceremony in the same county where you obtained the license).
*The cost for a marriage license varies by county.
*You must go together and bring photo ID (Note to out-of-staters: Marriage licenses can only be obtained Monday through Friday during regular business hours, so keep this in mind if you're planning a weekend elopement.)
*If you have been married before, you will need to know your date and place of divorce or widowhood.
*There is no waiting period; the county clerk will give you the license right away.
*The license is good for 90 days.
*Your Lyssabeth's officiant will file the license for you after the wedding.
What is the address for the County Clerk for Santa Cruz?
701 Ocean St., Room 210
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831-454-2060
Website
Hours Mon - Fri 8:00 - 5:00
Download an application for a Santa Cruz Public License here.
Download an application for a Santa Cruz Confidential License here.
Do I need to be a resident of the state of California to be married there?
You do not need be a resident of the state of California or even of the United States, to be legally married here. You must present valid photo identification.
Are the above locations the only places available for my elopement ceremony? Will you help me find a different location?
You are free to select a different location than the ones above; they are simply suggestions of sites where we've performed a number of elopements. Elopement ceremonies are offered within 15 miles of the closest officiant's home office, so there is a good chance we can accommodate you at most locations within the Santa Cruz area.
Our primary function is to perform an eloquent intimate wedding ceremony for you. We're happy to answer a question or two about the sites with which we're familiar, but please bear in mind that in order to keep the elopement price affordable, we need to be fairly expeditious in the pre-booking process. We're unable to research additional sites for you or to reserve a site on your behalf.
Are there any permit fees for the above outdoor locations?
Some of the above sites do require permit fees, even for a small elopement ceremony. When we are aware of the need for a permit, we have noted it on the site's web page. Please be advised that regulations for permits can change and it is the couple's responsibility to obtain the proper permits when required.
In many public parks, the permit only guarantees that there will be no other weddings scheduled at the site on your day and time. It does not preclude members of the public from being nearby during your ceremony. We have found, however, that most folks are quite courteous and respectful when there is a wedding going on.
Are there any additional fees involved?
In public parks, there is often a daily entrance fee. We ask that you pay this fee for our officiant.
How far in advance do I need to schedule my elopement ceremony?
We have no advance notice requirement. Oftentimes elopements can be scheduled with very little notice, depending upon officiant availability. This is easier on a weekday than it is on a weekend, or course. The sooner the better, especially if you have your heart set on a particular location, day and time.
We cannot hold your date without payment in full, but once payment is received, your elopement ceremony is guaranteed.
Do you have an indoor backup location if the weather is bad on the day of my elopement?
Like the show, we go on no matter what! We do not have our own venue. We come to you! Remember that a backup location can be your hotel room, or your home if you live in the Santa Cruz area. If not, then you might want to consider reserving an indoor spot either as your first choice or as an "insurance" policy in case of inclement weather. We have partnered with several B&Bs in the area who have offered the use of their beautiful parlors for your intimate ceremony for around $75 to $100.
How much does the Elopement Ceremony Cost?
Santa Cruz Elopement Ceremonies begin at $220. Factors that affect the price include location, additional guests and any (optional) customizing of the ceremony.
Can I choose my officiant?
For the Elopement Ceremony, assigning the closest available officiant will result in the lowest cost. If you prefer an officiant who has to travel further to access your site, then that mileage and time will be reflected in your price quote.
How long is the Elopement Ceremony? Can I modify it or add any extras?
The Elopement Ceremony is a beautiful pre-written service that is approximately 10-12 minutes long. We offer five (5) different versions of the Elopement Ceremony. You can listen to the words of the various Elopement Ceremony versions here. We'll also send you a copy before the ceremony. The Elopement Ceremony is an alternative to the County Courthouse ceremony and is meant to be performed as is. If you'd like something more customized, we're happy to accommodate you at a slightly higher cost.
Do I need a witness? Will you provide one?
One witness is required for a Public Marriage license. Oftentimes, the officiant will have a friend or family member willing to accompany them and they will be your witness for a token fee ($30, paid to the witness directly). Bear in mind that the witness can be your photographer, if you choose to have one.
We'd like a few photos of the ceremony. Do you offer any photography services?
Lyssabeth's Wedding Officiants are ceremony experts, so that's what we stick to. However, our officiants have friends and family members who are considered talented amateur photographers and are often willing to accompany the officiant and take photos of the ceremony as well as some posed shots afterwards (with your camera) for around $50.
If you'd like this service, tell us when you book and we'll see what we can arrange. Please note that these are not professional photographers and Lyssabeth's does not warrantee their results. However, if you want some decent-quality digital photos for a little bit of money, this would be an excellent option.
If you prefer to have a professional photographer, we'll be happy to refer you to one.
Ready to Elope?
Our photos and descriptions of our magnificent Santa Cruz California locations will likely convince you that an elopement on the sunny shores of our picturesque Pacific Coast will be the most stress-free, romantic and breathtakingly beautiful way to celebrate the start of your married life together.
We'll even make the process of booking your elopement ceremony as easy as pie. Simply contact us here or call us at 831-250-6445. We'll answer your questions, take some basic information along with your credit card payment, send you a contract and get you on our calendar. It's that simple!
Or, if you prefer, fill out the form below to get started on your California elopement. We'll get back to you within one business day. Or call us at 831-250-6445.
Note: Fields with an * are required
What are the requirements to obtain a marriage license in California?
*Their are two types of marriage licenses available in California--a Public Marriage License and a Confidential Marriage License.
*Public license can be obtained at ANY County Clerk's Office in the state. It does not have to be obtained in the county in which you are to be married; any county is fine.
*Confidential Marriage License is only good in the county in which it is issued (meaning you must hold you ceremony in the same county where you obtained the license).
*The cost for a marriage license varies by county.
*You must go together and bring photo ID (Note to out-of-staters: Marriage licenses can only be obtained Monday through Friday during regular business hours, so keep this in mind if you're planning a weekend elopement.)
*If you have been married before, you will need to know your date and place of divorce or widowhood.
*There is no waiting period; the county clerk will give you the license right away.
*The license is good for 90 days.
*Your Lyssabeth's officiant will file the license for you after the wedding.
What is the address for the County Clerk for Santa Cruz?
701 Ocean St., Room 210
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831-454-2060
Website
Hours Mon - Fri 8:00 - 5:00
Download an application for a Santa Cruz Public License here.
Download an application for a Santa Cruz Confidential License here.
Do I need to be a resident of the state of California to be married there?
You do not need be a resident of the state of California or even of the United States, to be legally married here. You must present valid photo identification.
Are the above locations the only places available for my elopement ceremony? Will you help me find a different location?
You are free to select a different location than the ones above; they are simply suggestions of sites where we've performed a number of elopements. Elopement ceremonies are offered within 15 miles of the closest officiant's home office, so there is a good chance we can accommodate you at most locations within the Santa Cruz area.
Our primary function is to perform an eloquent intimate wedding ceremony for you. We're happy to answer a question or two about the sites with which we're familiar, but please bear in mind that in order to keep the elopement price affordable, we need to be fairly expeditious in the pre-booking process. We're unable to research additional sites for you or to reserve a site on your behalf.
Are there any permit fees for the above outdoor locations?
Some of the above sites do require permit fees, even for a small elopement ceremony. When we are aware of the need for a permit, we have noted it on the site's web page. Please be advised that regulations for permits can change and it is the couple's responsibility to obtain the proper permits when required.
In many public parks, the permit only guarantees that there will be no other weddings scheduled at the site on your day and time. It does not preclude members of the public from being nearby during your ceremony. We have found, however, that most folks are quite courteous and respectful when there is a wedding going on.
Are there any additional fees involved?
In public parks, there is often a daily entrance fee. We ask that you pay this fee for our officiant.
How far in advance do I need to schedule my elopement ceremony?
We have no advance notice requirement. Oftentimes elopements can be scheduled with very little notice, depending upon officiant availability. This is easier on a weekday than it is on a weekend, or course. The sooner the better, especially if you have your heart set on a particular location, day and time.
We cannot hold your date without payment in full, but once payment is received, your elopement ceremony is guaranteed.
Do you have an indoor backup location if the weather is bad on the day of my elopement?
Like the show, we go on no matter what! We do not have our own venue. We come to you! Remember that a backup location can be your hotel room, or your home if you live in the Santa Cruz area. If not, then you might want to consider reserving an indoor spot either as your first choice or as an "insurance" policy in case of inclement weather. We have partnered with several B&Bs in the area who have offered the use of their beautiful parlors for your intimate ceremony for around $75 to $100.
How much does the Elopement Ceremony Cost?
Santa Cruz Elopement Ceremonies begin at $220. Factors that affect the price include location, additional guests and any (optional) customizing of the ceremony.
Can I choose my officiant?
For the Elopement Ceremony, assigning the closest available officiant will result in the lowest cost. If you prefer an officiant who has to travel further to access your site, then that mileage and time will be reflected in your price quote.
How long is the Elopement Ceremony? Can I modify it or add any extras?
The Elopement Ceremony is a beautiful pre-written service that is approximately 10-12 minutes long. We offer five (5) different versions of the Elopement Ceremony. You can listen to the words of the various Elopement Ceremony versions here. We'll also send you a copy before the ceremony. The Elopement Ceremony is an alternative to the County Courthouse ceremony and is meant to be performed as is. If you'd like something more customized, we're happy to accommodate you at a slightly higher cost.
Do I need a witness? Will you provide one?
One witness is required for a Public Marriage license. Oftentimes, the officiant will have a friend or family member willing to accompany them and they will be your witness for a token fee ($30, paid to the witness directly). Bear in mind that the witness can be your photographer, if you choose to have one.
We'd like a few photos of the ceremony. Do you offer any photography services?
Lyssabeth's Wedding Officiants are ceremony experts, so that's what we stick to. However, our officiants have friends and family members who are considered talented amateur photographers and are often willing to accompany the officiant and take photos of the ceremony as well as some posed shots afterwards (with your camera) for around $50.
If you'd like this service, tell us when you book and we'll see what we can arrange. Please note that these are not professional photographers and Lyssabeth's does not warrantee their results. However, if you want some decent-quality digital photos for a little bit of money, this would be an excellent option.
If you prefer to have a professional photographer, we'll be happy to refer you to one.
Ready to Elope?
Our photos and descriptions of our magnificent Santa Cruz California locations will likely convince you that an elopement on the sunny shores of our picturesque Pacific Coast will be the most stress-free, romantic and breathtakingly beautiful way to celebrate the start of your married life together.
We'll even make the process of booking your elopement ceremony as easy as pie. Simply contact us here or call us at 831-250-6445. We'll answer your questions, take some basic information along with your credit card payment, send you a contract and get you on our calendar. It's that simple!
Or, if you prefer, fill out the form below to get started on your California elopement. We'll get back to you within one business day. Or call us at 831-250-6445.
Note: Fields with an * are required
Home About Us Ceremonies Our Officiants FAQ Products Articles DIY Name Change Contact Us
©Copyright Lyssabeth's Wedding Officiants 2002-2012
©Copyright Lyssabeth's Wedding Officiants 2002-2012
