Ultimate wedding & party destination since 2009

Whimsical and woodsy Big Sur elopement

November 16, 2021

Big Sur is one of our fave places to elope in California, and Kristen + Javier’s nuptials remind us why. These two got engaged just before COVID hit, and wedding planning during the pandemic only reinforced what, deep down, they wanted all along: an intimate ceremony in Big Sur amongst the Redwoods. Keep scrolling for more incredible portraits by The DeLauras!

Whimsical and woodsy Big Sur elopement Whimsical and woodsy Big Sur elopement Whimsical and woodsy Big Sur elopement Wilder Flowers whipped up a sweet blush bouquet for our bride Kristen.

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They choose Glen Oaks Big Sur for their venue and lodging, which is a rustic-modern hotel nestled in the redwoods.

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Why they chose Big Sur… On our second date, we started talking about our favorite places, and Kristen shared her love for Big Sur. We planned our first road trip together to Big Sur very early into our relationship, and have spent many trips back there together since then. Hence, it seemed fitting to elope in Big Sur. It’s hard to explain how dreamy and breathtaking Big Sur is for those who haven’t been—we love the redwoods, cliffs, ocean, mountains, and smell of nature. The recent mudslides and wildfires highlight all the more reason to cherish and care for the area. We feel really grateful and lucky that we got to have our elopement in Big Sur, despite being in the middle of a global pandemic.

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The bride tells it, One moment that really sticks out is when the DeLauras serendipitously had us hike up a cliff just south of Bixby Canyon Bridge to take photos. It was exhilarating to be standing next to a cliff in the wind while also mindfully taking in the moment. It was breathtaking to be together in love, taking in the nature on that Big Sur cliffside. It was also pretty epic to have our ceremony surrounded by the redwoods and all they represent for us. Our dear friend Amanda eloquently wrote some beautiful pieces into our ceremony about how the coastal redwoods represent resilience, interconnectedness, and nurturance. 

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Love how they got portraits in all of the different Big Sur settings, from the woods to the beach!

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So sweet! Congrats to Kristen + Javier!

Photographers: The DeLauras | Venue & Lodging: Glen Oaks Big Sur | Flowers: Wilder Flowers | Hair & Makeup: Blush Monterey, Beauty by Hailee, Hair by Marissa | Dress: Rosa Clara | Boots: Freda Salvador | Groom’s Suite: J Crew | Groom’s Shoes: Nisolo | Rings: Diamonds Forever San Diego | Food: Susie Cakes Bakery, Big Sur Bakery, The Perfect Crumb | Vow Books: Field Notes