Bride and groom popping champagne with a champagne stream flying out

Elopement couple posing while the sun sets in Garrapata State Park

Intimate Garrapata State Park Elopement

Jenny + Juan Pablo

Why They Chose to Elope in Garrapata State Park

Jenny and Juan Pablo imagined an elopement day just for them. They enjoy hiking, reading, and spending time outdoors. They loved the idea of getting married in Big Sur, and decided that a Garrapata State Park elopement would be the perfect. Their motivation for eloping was to remain present together during this season of their lives. They did not announce their elopement, so they truly relished these sweet moments! Several months later, they held a Catholic ceremony to celebrate with friends and family.

Aerial image of an elopement couple lying down on the rugged rocks of the California coast

Creating their Vision

Jenny and Juan Pablo reached out only knowing they wanted to get married in Big Sur, and not much else! Ideally they wanted to plan their big day in less than 1 month’s time. Initially, they thought 2 hour would be enough just to cover their ceremony. However, when prompted to think about their best day ever, they realized how much more relaxed their day would be with 6 hours of coverage. Ultimately, they kept their elopement day simple: Juan Pablo’s best friend officiated, and Jenny’s best friend witnessed. All they wanted was to spend a beautiful day on the coast and celebrate with s’mores.

Their Big Sur Elopement Story

Jenny and Juan Pablo had a very relaxed morning with breakfast and light lunch together. Once it was time to get ready, they instructed their friends to not let them see each other until their First Look. Juan Pablo wore his tan suit and gave himself a pep talk in the mirror to prepare for the big moment. Jenny put on her jewelry and dress, while her best friend helped with the veil. While waiting, both finalized their handwritten vows.

First Look at their Lodge

Once they were ready to finally see each other, Juan Pablo waited eagerly on the lodge’s balcony with a view of the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Jenny arrived and they shared an emotional First Look right there. It was the very first time they had seen each other so dressed up. They shared joyful tears, excited to finally get married.

Rugged Coastal Ceremony and Personal Vows

They hopped in the car and headed to Soberanes Point at Garrapata State Park. As avid hikers, they donned their hiking shoes to trek up to the top of Soberanes Point. They chose a small spot just slightly away from the main seating area at the top of the hill. Juan’s best friend had become ordained just for this ceremony, and brought so much of his humor and personality into the ceremony. They took this time to share their personal vows with one another, and shared a first kiss with an incredible view.

Sunset Romantics in Garrapata State Park

After their ceremony, Jenny and Juan Pablo spent 10 minutes alone to take in this newlywed moment. Then, they dismissed their friends home while they spent the late afternoon exploring Garrapata State Park. They hiked all the way around Soberanes Point. The stars were began to come out once they returned to their car.

S’mores to Share

Finally back at the lodge, their friends decorated the space with balloons to celebrate Jenny and Juan Pablo. They popped champagne and shared s’mores over a fire pit. They were so thrilled to have such a fun, yet relaxed day and just allow themselves to go with the flow. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these two!