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.
Family Photography for Milestones: Capturing Life’s Biggest Moments Across Southern California
Celebrate life’s most meaningful moments with a family milestone photography session in Southern California. From first birthdays and graduations to anniversaries, reunions, and retirement parties, milestone sessions capture the love, legacy, and laughter that define your family’s story. At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in natural light, lifestyle-based family photography across Temecula, Riverside, San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County, and Palm Springs. Whether you’re popping champagne at a vineyard in Temecula or gathering three generations for a beach shoot in San Diego, we help you turn fleeting milestones into timeless memories. Discover the best locations, expert tips, outfit ideas, and how to plan a stress-free session that’s as fun as it is meaningful. Let us help you document the moments that matter most.
Photo Credit: Joy Memon Instagram @ __jooyyyy
When it comes to celebrating life’s most meaningful moments, nothing preserves those memories better than professional family photography. From birthdays to anniversaries, graduations to reunions, milestone sessions are a powerful way to capture the love, connection, and growth of your family over time.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in natural light, milestone-based family photography across Temecula, Riverside County, San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and the Inland Empire. Whether you're marking your child's first birthday or your grandparents' 50th anniversary, here’s how to make your next family milestone session meaningful—and unforgettable.
What Are Family Milestone Sessions?
Milestone sessions are designed to document life’s special occasions. These moments tell your family’s story and deserve to be celebrated through timeless photography. Common milestone events include:
First Birthdays or Cake Smashes
Baby’s First Year Progressions (3, 6, 9, 12 months)
Sweet 16 or Quinceañeras
Graduations (Preschool, Middle School, High School, College)
Anniversaries (5, 10, 25, 50 years)
Retirement Celebrations
Family Reunions
Major Holidays (Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas, etc.)
Each session is a chance to freeze time and celebrate the people and milestones that matter most.
Best Locations for Milestone Family Photography
We offer milestone sessions throughout Southern California, and each location brings a unique vibe to your photos:
Temecula Wine Country
Perfect for anniversaries, multigenerational portraits, and family gatherings. Vineyards like Europa Village, Ponte Winery, and South Coast Winery offer scenic views and peaceful backdrops.
Old Town Temecula
Ideal for graduation and birthday shoots. Use the rustic storefronts, murals, and wooden bridges to create a warm, timeless feel.
San Diego Beaches
Capture the joy of retirement, milestone birthdays, or large family reunions with beach portraits at La Jolla Cove, Del Mar, or Coronado Beach.
Downtown Riverside & Fairmount Park
Great for urban-style anniversary or graduation sessions with greenery and architectural flair.
Palm Springs & Joshua Tree (seasonal)
Best for milestone birthdays or creative family shoots in a bold desert setting.
Orange County Parks & Trails
Spots like Laguna Niguel Regional Park or Irvine’s Quail Hill are great for relaxed, nature-inspired family portraits.
When to Book Your Milestone Family Session
Timing your session is key to getting the best lighting and mood:
Golden hour (sunrise or sunset) is ideal for soft, flattering light
For little ones, schedule mid-morning when they’re happiest
Book holiday or seasonal sessions at least 2 months in advance
What to Wear for a Family Milestone Photoshoot
Coordinating outfits—but not matching—is key. Here are our go-to tips:
Stick to a complementary color palette (e.g., earth tones, neutrals, pastels)
Avoid logos and neon colors
Add texture with accessories like denim jackets, sweaters, or scarves
Dress appropriately for the season and location (e.g., barefoot at the beach, cozy layers for vineyards)
Tips to Make the Session Stress-Free
Choose the Right Location
Pick a meaningful place or one that fits your family’s vibe. We can help scout the perfect location if you're unsure.Bring Snacks and Water
Especially for young kids or grandparents—keeping everyone comfortable is key.Add Personal Touches
Bring a prop like a framed photo, birthday balloons, or a favorite toy to help mark the occasion.Think About Activities
Candid moments often come from action—walking, dancing, hugging, or even a family toast with sparkling cider or wine.Celebrate the Moment
Make the shoot part of your celebration. Grab lunch at a winery, plan a picnic, or end with dessert nearby.
Capture the Love, Celebrate the Journey
Family photography isn’t just about portraits—it’s about storytelling. Whether you're welcoming a new baby, watching your teen graduate, or honoring a marriage that has stood the test of time, every milestone deserves to be remembered.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we create custom family milestone sessions that reflect your family’s energy, style, and love. We travel across Temecula, San Diego, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and the surrounding Southern California areas.
Book your session today and let us turn your family milestone into a visual legacy.
👉 Explore our Family Photography Packages or contact us to plan your custom session.