Romantic Courthouse Weddings in Southern California: Best Locations, Planning Tips & Photography Ideas
Courthouse weddings are becoming the go-to choice for couples who want a fast, meaningful, and stress-free way to say "I do." In this blog, we share why courthouse ceremonies are perfect for last-minute love stories—including our own! Discover top courthouse wedding locations across Southern California, nearby photo-worthy spots, and essential planning tips. Whether you're tying the knot in Riverside, San Diego, or Beverly Hills, Last Minute Photoshoot is here to help you capture every intimate moment with heart and style.
Courthouse weddings are becoming the go-to choice for couples who want a fast, meaningful, and stress-free way to say "I do." Whether you're planning your wedding in under a month (like we did!) or craving an intimate moment with your person, courthouse ceremonies can be just as memorable as any lavish event.
A quiet "I do" at the courthouse—simple, beautiful, and full of meaning. Whether you're eloping or keeping it intimate, we'll be there to capture every heartfelt moment. Book our Courthouse Wedding Photography Package today. 💍📸
From scenic coastlines to dreamy vineyards, we specialize in capturing unforgettable “Yes!” moments across SoCal. Whether it’s last-minute or carefully planned, we’ll help you pull it off beautifully—with natural light, fast turnaround, and timeless photos.
👉 Browse Engagement Packages
Our Courthouse Wedding Story
My wife and I tied the knot at a courthouse. We picked the first available date—May 20—and had less than a month to plan. It was quick, simple, and perfect. With the help of our family and friends, we made it happen. We showed up on time, walked into the chapel-style room at the Moreno Valley Courthouse, said our vows, and walked out as wife and wife. The best part? They handed us our official marriage license on the spot.
Why People Choose Courthouse Weddings (Especially Last Minute)
1. Fast & Easy
Perfect for couples who:
Want to skip the stress of planning
Need to be legally married quickly (for military, medical, immigration, or housing purposes)
Crave something simple and intimate
2. Affordable
Most courthouse ceremonies cost less than $100–$150, plus the marriage license. It’s ideal for couples saving for a home, honeymoon, or just avoiding wedding debt.
3. Sentimental & Personal
There’s something romantic about skipping tradition and getting married simply because you can’t wait.
What You’ll Need (Even for Last-Minute Weddings)
A valid government-issued ID
A marriage license from the county you’re getting married in
Some counties require a witness (some provide one for a fee)
Be on time—they won’t hold the ceremony if you’re late
Top Courthouse Wedding Locations in Southern California
Moreno Valley Courthouse
Simple, efficient, and very accommodating
Nearby photo spots: Sunnymead Park, Box Springs Mountain Overlook, March Field Air Museum
Riverside Historic Courthouse
Gorgeous classical architecture with marble columns
Nearby photo spots: White Park, Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, Downtown Riverside murals
San Diego County Administration Center
Waterfront location with flexible appointments
Nearby photo spots: Waterfront Park, Embarcadero Marina Park, Little Italy
Old Orange County Courthouse (Santa Ana)
Beautiful red-brick historic landmark
Nearby photo spots: Santora Arts Building, Grand Central Art Center, Artist’s Village
Laguna Hills Civic Center
Peaceful and laid-back
Nearby photo spots: Laguna Niguel Regional Park, Aliso Creek Trail, Top of the World
Norwalk Courthouse (Los Angeles County)
Central hub with multiple ceremony rooms
Nearby photo spots: Heritage Park, Cerritos Sculpture Garden, Porto’s Bakery in Downey
Beverly Hills Courthouse
Elegant and iconic
Nearby photo spots: Beverly Gardens Park, Rodeo Drive, Greystone Mansion & Gardens
Tips to Make Your Courthouse Wedding Special
Dress the part – Whether it’s a white jumpsuit, a bold suit, or something unique, wear what feels you. Our experience at the Moreno Valley Courthouse was quick and heartfelt. They even issued our license right after the vows.
Bring a bouquet or boutonnière – It elevates both the mood and the photos.
Hire a photographer (like us!) – At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in capturing courthouse ceremonies and spontaneous love stories.
Celebrate afterward – A cozy brunch, backyard toast, or weekend getaway keeps the joy going.
Be prepared – Bring your rings, IDs, paperwork, and a witness if needed.
Fun Fact
In California, couples can legally marry with a Confidential Marriage License witnessed by the county clerk—no officiant required!
Final Thoughts
Courthouse weddings are proof that simple doesn’t mean less meaningful. If you're planning a last-minute ceremony in Southern California, know that it can still be romantic, intentional, and unforgettable. Let Last Minute Photoshoot help you capture your love with timeless images and heartfelt candids.
Book your courthouse wedding shoot with us or check out our Last-Minute Love Elopement Package to get started.
From scenic coastlines to dreamy vineyards, we specialize in capturing unforgettable “Yes!” moments across SoCal. Whether it’s last-minute or carefully planned, we’ll help you pull it off beautifully—with natural light, fast turnaround, and timeless photos.
👉 Browse Engagement Packages
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Celebrate Mother’s Day in Temecula Wine Country: Photo-Worthy Brunches, Family Fun, and Our Spring Mini Photoshoots
Celebrate Mother’s Day in Temecula with unforgettable moments and beautiful portraits. This blog is your complete guide to spending Mother’s Day in Southern California’s wine country—featuring scenic winery brunches, creative workshops, and family-friendly events, all perfect for photos. Whether you're a local or visiting from Riverside, San Diego, Orange County, or Los Angeles, discover the best photo-worthy locations across Temecula. Plus, book one of our limited Spring Mini Mother’s Day Photoshoots, which includes a 30-minute session, 20 edited high-res images on USB, and 5 prints—ideal for gifting and preserving memories. From vineyard views to garden setups, we help turn your celebration into lasting keepsakes.
Mother’s Day is a time to slow down, celebrate, and show gratitude to the women who have given us everything. If you’re looking for the perfect way to make Mother’s Day unforgettable, Temecula offers a charming blend of scenic vineyards, elegant brunches, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly events—all perfect for capturing beautiful memories.
This year, whether you're a local or visiting from Riverside, Orange County, Los Angeles, or San Diego, make Temecula your destination. And if you want to preserve the day forever, we are offering Mother’s Day Spring Mini Photoshoots in some of the most beautiful locations across Temecula.
Whether you're planning a proposal, an event, or a creative shoot and just want to talk it through—we’re here for it. Book a free consultation and let's bring your vision to life together.
👉 Book a Free Consultation
What’s Included in Our Mother’s Day Spring Mini Session
Celebrate the occasion with a professional, relaxed photoshoot designed to highlight this special time with your loved ones.
Mother’s Day Spring Mini Package Includes:
A 30-minute photoshoot in a beautiful Temecula setting
20 professionally edited high-resolution photos delivered on a USB
5 printed photos in various sizes, ready for framing or gifting
This is perfect for families, couples, or even three generations celebrating together. Whether it's casual brunch moments or elegant portraits among the vines, we help you turn the day into lasting memories.
Wine Country Brunches Perfect for Mother’s Day Photos
Europa Village – French-Inspired Brunch and Vineyard Views
Address: 41150 Via Europa, Temecula, CA 92591
Top Photo Spots: European-style courtyards, vineyard paths, tiled fountains
Europa Village offers a French countryside feel without leaving Southern California. Their Mother's Day brunch features multiple courses paired with sparkling wines, making it perfect for elegant family portraits under vine-wrapped archways or candid shots during brunch.
Altísima Winery – Sparkling Hilltop Brunch
Address: 37440 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592
Top Photo Spots: Scenic hillside terraces, vineyard walkways, arched stone entryways
This modern winery offers panoramic views of Temecula Valley, providing a perfect backdrop for capturing Mother’s Day smiles against rolling vineyards and golden afternoon skies.
Falkner Winery – Garden Dining with Panoramic Views
Address: 40620 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591
Top Photo Spots: Garden gazebo, rose-lined pathways, winery overlook
Falkner Winery’s elevated estate provides a unique vantage point of the valley below. It's ideal for family group photos in their lush garden areas or lifestyle shots with sweeping vineyard backdrops.
Hands-On Workshops and Creative Experiences
Akash Winery – Yoga and Floral Design
Address: 39730 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591
Top Photo Spots: Vineyard patio, floral design tables, minimalist modern tasting room
Start Mother’s Day with a relaxing yoga class among the vines, followed by a floral arranging workshop. The vineyard patio offers open-air beauty perfect for capturing candid family shots or creative close-ups of your floral masterpieces.
Miramonte Winery – Charcuterie Workshop
Address: 33410 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591
Top Photo Spots: Outdoor patios, sunset vineyard views, rustic tablescapes
Build a photo-worthy charcuterie board while enjoying live music and premium wines. Capture relaxed family moments framed by soft lighting and scenic vineyard views.
Fairy Garden Workshop – Murrieta
Address: 25125 Madison Avenue, Murrieta, CA 92562
Top Photo Spots: Crafting tables, whimsical garden setups, bonding moments with children
This workshop is perfect for families with young kids. Creating a fairy garden offers not only a fun gift for Mom but also a sweet setting for capturing pure, joyful moments.
Family-Friendly Outdoor Celebrations
Longshadow Ranch Winery – Brunch with Live Music
Address: 39847 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591
Top Photo Spots: Barn scenes, pony rides, vineyard trails
This family-friendly event offers brunch, craft beers, estate wines, live music, and even pony rides for the kids. A relaxed setting where natural moments and rustic backgrounds make every photo memorable.
Old Town Ranch – Free Mother's Day Festival
Address: 43550 Dash For Cash Circle, Temecula, CA 92592
Top Photo Spots: Glamping wagons, open-air dancing floor, country vendor markets
Old Town Ranch hosts a lively and free Mother's Day celebration filled with food trucks, line dancing, and local artisans. Great for casual group shots and vibrant candid photography.
Coming From Out of Town?
If you're visiting Temecula for Mother's Day from nearby counties, here's what you can expect:
Riverside County to Temecula: approximately 45–60 minutes
San Diego County to Temecula: approximately 60–75 minutes
Orange County or Los Angeles County to Temecula: approximately 90–120 minutes
Tip: Be sure to book brunches and workshops early. If you plan to book a photoshoot, consider bringing two outfits—one semi-formal for winery portraits and one casual for family fun at outdoor events.
Final Thoughts
Mother’s Day only comes once a year. Whether you’re sipping champagne at an elegant winery, crafting a fairy garden with your children, or dancing under the open sky, Temecula offers a beautiful backdrop for celebrating and creating memories.
This year, take it one step further. Let us capture your Mother’s Day story with our Spring Mini Photoshoots—available for a limited time across Temecula and surrounding areas.
Spots are limited. Contact us today to book your Mother’s Day Spring Mini Session and turn this year’s celebration into timeless keepsakes.
Whether you're planning a proposal, an event, or a creative shoot and just want to talk it through—we’re here for it. Book a free consultation and let's bring your vision to life together.
👉 Book a Free Consultation
How to Plan the Perfect Surprise Proposal in Southern California (With Fairy-Tale Vibes)
Planning a surprise proposal in Southern California? Whether you're dreaming of a sunset beach engagement or an intimate vineyard moment, our expert guide covers everything you need to know—from the best proposal locations across San Diego, Los Angeles, Temecula, and beyond, to tips on how to capture the perfect “Will you marry me?” moment. We recently photographed a stunning surprise proposal at a private estate in Temecula, where Life’s Short Picnic created a romantic, fairy-tale-worthy setup that took our breath away. This blog highlights why Southern California is one of the top places to propose, how to plan the perfect surprise, and how our customizable “Will You Marry Me? Proposal Photoshoot” package ensures your special moment is captured beautifully from start to finish.
When it comes to surprise proposals, nothing beats the magic of planning a moment your partner will never see coming—but will never forget. Southern California is one of the most romantic regions in the country, offering dreamy backdrops from coastlines to vineyards. Whether you're planning something intimate or grand, here's how to create a proposal that feels personal, memorable, and magical.
From scenic coastlines to dreamy vineyards, we specialize in capturing unforgettable “Yes!” moments across SoCal. Whether it’s last-minute or carefully planned, we’ll help you pull it off beautifully—with natural light, fast turnaround, and timeless photos.
👉 Browse Engagement Packages
Why Surprise Proposals Are So Powerful
A surprise proposal is more than just a question—it's a moment of genuine emotion, raw reaction, and pure joy. It’s a time when love and intention collide, and as photographers, we live to capture that instant forever.
Whether you're down on one knee under a golden sunset or tucked away in a candlelit vineyard, the element of surprise creates a beautiful tension. And when that ring comes out? Time slows, hearts race, and the real story begins.
Best Surprise Proposal Locations in Southern California
Here are some top locations where couples have popped the question, with stunning results:
1. Sunset Cliffs, San Diego
A dramatic ocean backdrop with rugged cliffs—perfect for golden hour proposals.
Address: Ladera St, San Diego, CA 92107
2. Griffith Park Observatory, Los Angeles
Get down on one knee with sweeping views of the city and the Hollywood sign in the background.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
3. Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach
Secluded, enchanting, and home to the famous "Pirate Tower"—this beach feels like a hidden gem.
Address: Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
4. Prospect Park, Redlands
With its historic charm and tree-lined pathways, this park offers a romantic, garden-style setting.
Address: 1352 Prospect Dr, Redlands, CA 92373
5. Temecula Wine Country
Vineyards, rolling hills, and private estates make this area a go-to for intimate, luxe proposals.
Whether you're planning a proposal, an event, or a creative shoot and just want to talk it through—we’re here for it. Book a free consultation and let's bring your vision to life together.
👉 Book a Free Consultation
A Fairytale Moment in Temecula
One of our favorite surprise proposals took place at a private estate in Temecula, where we partnered with the talented team at Life’s Short Picnic. They transformed a simple backyard into an enchanting wonderland, complete with floral arrangements, candles, and custom decor that made it feel like something out of a fairytale.
From the string lights to the soft cushions and picnic layout, every detail added to the romance—and our job was to make sure no moment went uncaptured. The look on her face, the tears, the laughter—it was pure magic.
This is the kind of surprise proposal that blends personal touches with professional elegance. And it’s why we always recommend working with vendors who understand how to bring your vision to life.
Tips for Planning a Surprise Proposal in SoCal
1. Choose a location that’s meaningful
Whether it’s where you had your first date or a dream destination, tying the moment to your story adds even more impact.
2. Work with a planner or vendor team
Companies like Life’s Short Picnic specialize in creating jaw-dropping setups that feel effortless and authentic.
3. Hire a photographer (that’s us!)
You only get one shot to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment. We blend into the background while documenting every raw, emotional second.
4. Have a plan B
If you're planning an outdoor shoot, always have a backup location or weather plan.
5. Make it yours
Bring in details like your favorite song, custom signage, or a post-proposal toast. It’s the little things that make a big difference.
Let’s Capture Your “Yes” Moment
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in surprise proposal photography throughout Southern California—from scenic overlooks in San Diego to romantic estates in Temecula and hidden gems all across L.A. and the Inland Empire.
To help bring your vision to life, we offer our “Will You Marry Me? Proposal Photoshoot” package. This includes a fully guided experience where we help with:
Location scouting
Timing the perfect shot
Capturing candids before, during, and after the big moment
A mini engagement-style session after the proposal
High-quality edits for you to share and cherish forever
Need something more personalized? We love going the extra mile and can customize the shoot to match your love story, whether you're planning a quiet moment or a grand gesture.
Whether you’re popping the question in a vineyard, on the beach, or at home with a dreamy setup like the one we recently captured with Life’s Short Picnic, we’re here to help you preserve the magic.
📸 Ready to plan your surprise proposal? Let’s talk details and get everything lined up—because the adventure truly begins with “yes.”