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.
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.
Romantic Boho Elopement in Joshua Tree: Vows, Rugs, and Sunset Kisses
Looking for a dreamy, intimate way to elope in the California desert? A boho picnic elopement in Joshua Tree blends golden hour magic with cozy styling, emotional connection, and stunning visuals. In this blog, we’ll show you how to plan a romantic desert elopement surrounded by layered rugs, dried florals, and soft desert light. Whether you want to exchange vows beneath boulders, sip champagne at a styled picnic, or stargaze from a private Airbnb, this guide covers it all—including the best locations in Joshua Tree, ideal timing, and what's included in our customizable Last Minute Love Elopement Package. Perfect for couples who want beauty without the pressure of a big wedding.
If your ideal elopement includes soft sunlight, vintage rugs, wild desert blooms, and a slow, intentional vibe—then a boho picnic elopement in Joshua Tree might be the perfect choice. This dreamy and earthy take on “I do” brings together everything couples love about the desert: the wide-open skies, warm textures, and creative freedom to make it your own.
Forget tradition. This is about romance, style, and connection.
Why a Boho Picnic Elopement Works So Well in Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree offers the perfect backdrop for a bohemian desert elopement. The muted tones of the sand, the sculpted rock formations, and the dramatic sunsets pair beautifully with layered textiles, dried florals, and earthy decor.
Plus, with elopements becoming more personalized than ever, a styled picnic adds intimacy and charm without the pressure of a big event. Whether you want it minimalist or full-on Pinterest-worthy, you can tailor every detail to your aesthetic.
What a Boho Picnic Elopement Looks Like
Visualize this:
You arrive at a hidden ceremony spot—like Cap Rock, Indian Cove, or a piece of private BLM land just outside the park. Waiting for you is a cozy desert setup: layered rugs, macramé pillows, a low table with candles and dried flowers, and a curated picnic spread.
You read your vows as the sun sets behind the boulders, surrounded by warm tones and the soft sounds of nature. Then you sit back, share a drink, toast to your love, and maybe even dance barefoot in the sand.
It’s slow. It’s beautiful. It’s yours.
Styling Details to Include
For couples who love aesthetics, here are some creative styling ideas to elevate your Joshua Tree picnic elopement:
Rug layering: Mix Moroccan, tribal, or vintage rugs for texture
Pillow lounges: Use poufs, cushions, and woven seating
Dried florals: Pampas grass, bunny tails, and sun-bleached palms
Low boho tables: Add candles, crystal glasses, and terracotta plates
Champagne or rosé: Toast the moment in your own style
Handwritten vow books: Adds a personal, timeless touch
"Marry Me?" signage or LED letters: Optional but photogenic
Lanterns + string lights: Perfect for post-sunset ambiance
Want to go all out? We work with local picnic and styling companies who can set everything up for you—from the décor to the florals, even champagne on ice. You just show up and say “yes.”
Best Time of Day for Your Picnic Elopement
Golden hour (just before sunset) is the ideal time for this style of shoot. It adds a dreamy glow to your portraits and enhances the natural warmth of the desert palette. We typically start with couple’s portraits, lead into the vow exchange, and then wrap with cozy picnic moments and candid shots.
Where to Elope in Joshua Tree with a Boho Setup
Here are a few ideal locations for this elopement style:
Cap Rock (permits required, accessible, iconic views)
Indian Cove (gorgeous rocks and more privacy)
Hidden Valley (classic Joshua Tree aesthetics)
BLM Land Outside the Park (more flexibility and less regulation)
Airbnb Property with Scenic Views (perfect if you want total privacy + comfort)
We help guide you to the best option based on your guest count (if any), mobility, and the overall vibe you’re going for.
What’s Included in Our Boho Picnic Elopement Package
Our Last Minute Love Elopement Package is made for couples who want to embrace the beauty of the desert and the intimacy of a styled celebration—without the stress of planning it all.
✔️ 1.5 Hours of Coverage
Perfect for golden hour portraits, your vow exchange, and time to relax at your picnic setup.
✔️ 30+ Edited High-Resolution Images
Delivered via an online gallery—no watermark, no fuss. Includes candid, posed, and styled detail shots.
✔️ Location Guidance
We’ll help you select a spot that fits your vibe, whether it’s inside Joshua Tree National Park, on private land, or at a gorgeous Airbnb.
✔️ Planning Assistance
Quick phone or Zoom consult to discuss styling, timing, lighting, permits, and what to bring.
✔️ Sneak Peek Within 48 Hours
You’ll receive 3–5 highlight photos within two days so you can announce your elopement and relive the moment.
✔️ Vendor Referrals for Styling
Want a picnic setup, “Marry Me?” signage, lights, or florals? We’ll connect you with local vendors who specialize in curated desert elopements and boho setups.
Final Thoughts
A boho picnic elopement in Joshua Tree is more than a photoshoot—it’s an experience. It’s for couples who value intentionality, connection, and the chance to slow down and celebrate their love surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you want minimalist romance or styled perfection, this is your sign to elope your way.
Ready to start planning?
View our Last Minute Love Elopement Package or contact us to schedule a quick call. We’d love to help bring your desert dream to life.
Stargazing Desert Elopement in Joshua Tree or Anza-Borrego: Say "I Do" Beneath the Stars
Dreaming of an unforgettable elopement experience under the stars? This blog breaks down everything you need to know about planning a stargazing desert elopement in Joshua Tree or Anza-Borrego—two of California’s top dark sky destinations. From sample timelines and location tips to the benefits of booking an elopement during a meteor shower, we’ll guide you through creating a magical, intimate ceremony set against the night sky. Whether you’re envisioning a spontaneous “just us” vow exchange or a styled shoot with string lights, signage, and a stargazing Airbnb, this is your complete guide to planning a cosmic desert elopement. Plus, learn what’s included in our customizable elopement photography package—designed for couples who want emotion-filled moments and breathtaking imagery without the stress.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a wedding that feels like a cosmic love story, a stargazing elopement in Joshua Tree or Anza-Borrego might be exactly what you're looking for. Far from the noise of the city, surrounded by stillness and starlight, you and your partner can exchange vows in one of the most romantic, intimate, and unforgettable ways possible—beneath the Milky Way.
Whether you’re planning a spontaneous desert elopement or a destination micro-wedding, southern California’s desert is the perfect place to escape, connect, and begin your forever.
Why Choose a Stargazing Elopement in the California Desert?
Joshua Tree National Park and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park are two of the best places in California to elope under the stars. Both are certified International Dark Sky Parks, meaning minimal light pollution and unbeatable nighttime skies. It’s no wonder so many adventurous couples are choosing to elope here.
Benefits of a desert stargazing elopement:
Deep emotional intimacy with zero distractions
Unique and cinematic photos under the stars
Romantic quietude, ideal for heartfelt vows
Creative lighting and long-exposure portraits
The flexibility to celebrate your way—with no strict timelines or rules
And here’s a bonus tip: Check the meteor shower calendar before you book.
There’s nothing more magical than a sky full of shooting stars as you pop the question or say “I do.” Celebrate the moment with a champagne toast under hundreds of streaking meteors—a once-in-a-lifetime moment you’ll never forget.
Sample Timeline for Your Stargazing Elopement
3:30 PM – Golden Hour Portraits
Begin your desert elopement with warm golden light among the Joshua trees or Anza’s rugged canyons. These are the dreamiest daylight portraits you'll treasure forever.
5:00 PM – Blue Hour Vows
As the sun sets, we capture your vow exchange during blue hour—when the sky glows soft and cinematic. This is one of the best times to shoot intimate moments.
6:30 PM – Stargazing Ceremony + Nighttime Portraits
As the sky darkens, it’s time for the real magic. With creative lighting (lanterns, string lights, or headlamps), we’ll capture the two of you silhouetted beneath constellations. We even offer long-exposure star portraits, which look like you’re wrapped in a galaxy.
Joshua Tree vs. Anza-Borrego: Which Desert is Best for Your Elopement?
Joshua Tree Elopement Highlights:
Iconic rock formations and twisted trees
Easy-to-access yet secluded ceremony spots
Popular options: Cap Rock, Hidden Valley, or private BLM land
Epic golden hour light and boho energy
Anza-Borrego Desert Elopement Highlights:
Wider landscapes and fewer tourists
Unique locations like Font’s Point or The Slot
Incredible stargazing and meteor-viewing potential
More privacy and remote feel
Not sure which desert fits your vision? We can help you plan and scout your dream location based on your vibe and comfort level.
Comfort Meets Magic: Eloping from an Airbnb Basecamp
Want the elopement experience without roughing it? You’ll find tons of incredible Airbnb options in both Joshua Tree and Borrego Springs. These range from cozy desert cabins to luxurious boho bungalows with hot tubs, fire pits, and private stargazing decks.
Imagine:
Getting ready in a stylish home with desert views
Enjoying champagne under the stars on your patio
Waking up as newlyweds with coffee and sunrise light
Some Airbnb hosts even offer add-ons like yoga, private chefs, or styled décor. It’s a perfect way to blend adventure with comfort while still keeping your elopement intimate and relaxed.
What’s Included in Our Desert Elopement Package
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in capturing intentional, emotional, and wildly romantic elopements all across Southern California. Our “Last Minute Love?” Elopement Package can be fully customized for your stargazing ceremony and includes:
✔️ What’s Included:
1.5 Hours of Coverage
Enough time to capture your ceremony, golden hour portraits, stargazing moments, and a few candid shots before or after. We help you maximize every minute.
30+ Edited High-Resolution Images
Delivered in an online gallery you can download, print, and share. No watermark—just timeless, beautifully edited images that include posed, candid, and detail shots.
Location Guidance
We’ll help you choose a spot that reflects your vision—whether it’s desert, beach, forest, or an epic Airbnb. We’re familiar with all the local gems.
Planning Assistance
Includes a phone or Zoom consult to help you plan around lighting, timing, wardrobe, and permits so everything goes smoothly.
Sneak Peek Within 48 Hours
You’ll receive 3–5 edited highlight images within two days so you can share and celebrate right away.
Vendor Referrals for Setup + Décor
Want lights, “Marry Me?” signage, a telescope setup, or styled picnic experience? We can connect you with trusted local vendors to help design the perfect atmosphere—from decorative lighting to curated lounge setups.
Want a custom playlist, desert decor, or a surprise proposal twist? We’ve done it all—and we’re here to help you design an elopement experience that reflects your story.
Final Thoughts
Eloping under the stars in Joshua Tree or Anza-Borrego is about more than just photos—it’s about presence. It’s about being in the moment, feeling the quiet of the desert, and starting your next chapter in a place that feels sacred and untamed.
So whether you’re planning a last-minute elopement or dreaming months in advance, let us help bring your cosmic vision to life.
Ready to plan your desert elopement?
View our elopement packages to see what fits you best, or contact us to schedule a call and go over all the details. We can't wait to help you say "I do" beneath the stars.