Tie the Knot Beside the Bay: Intimate San Diego Weddings at Mission Bay Resort That Feel Like Forever
Looking for an intimate wedding venue in San Diego that delivers both luxury and laid-back coastal charm? Mission Bay Resort offers one of the most versatile and romantic settings for couples dreaming of a waterfront ceremony without the stress of planning a huge production. Whether you're planning a beachfront elopement, a cozy garden micro wedding, or a small reception under the stars, Mission Bay Resort has curated packages tailored for modern couples seeking meaningful moments. As of August 2025, their wedding offerings include elopement brunches, private beach ceremonies, garden vow exchanges, and all-inclusive wedding packages for up to 50 guests. Located just minutes from downtown San Diego, Mission Bay Resort makes destination-style weddings local and effortless. This blog covers current 2025 pricing, what each package includes, and how to plan your wedding step-by-step. If you're searching for a San Diego wedding venue that feels intimate, scenic, and guest-friendly—with onsite lodging, spa access, and ocean views—this guide will help you decide if Mission Bay Resort is your perfect match.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like a true escape—where the vibe is elegant but relaxed, the backdrop is the Pacific, and every moment feels like you—Mission Bay Resort in San Diego might be your perfect match.
Located right on the water, this resort offers more than just stunning views. It specializes in intimate weddings in San Diego that blend thoughtful planning with effortless beauty. Whether you're envisioning a small beach ceremony, a garden vows exchange under palm trees, or a cozy brunch elopement with your closest family, Mission Bay Resort provides a luxurious yet laid-back setting with packages that actually make sense.
For couples searching “Mission Bay San Diego wedding packages,” “beach wedding with reception,” or “intimate San Diego wedding venue,” this guide will walk you through current options, pricing, and how to pull it all off—without the stress.
Let’s get you married… beautifully.
Image Courtesy of Photos by Lanty
Planning an intimate wedding at Mission Bay Resort in San Diego? This blog covers 2025 packages, photo-worthy ceremony spots, and tips for capturing every beautiful moment—from the sand to the sunset. If you’re looking for photographers who specialize in intimate weddings and storytelling imagery, we’d love to be part of your day. Book us now.
Whether it’s a courthouse wedding or a quiet elopement, your love story deserves to be remembered beautifully.
Explore our Elopement & Wedding Packages
Current Wedding Packages & Pricing
(Pulled directly from the Mission Bay Resort website and verified sources as of August 2025)
Brunch Elopement & Small Wedding Adventure
Perfect for couples looking for a low-key but special ceremony with up to 30 guests.
Starting at $84 per person, this package includes:
Up to 30 white padded ceremony chairs
Non-denominational officiant
Wireless sound system for vows and music
Custom rose floral arrangement for the couple
Priority brunch reservation at the on-site restaurant
Discounted resort room blocks for guests
This is ideal for micro weddings and weekday elopements where simplicity and style matter.
Beach Ceremony Package
For those dreaming of a barefoot ceremony on the sand, the resort offers a private beach location for your vows.
Estimated around $3,000, this package includes:
Beachside ceremony space with panoramic Mission Bay views
Full permit handling included
White ceremony chairs for your guests
Setup and breakdown included
Perfect sunset timing assistance from their staff
Garden-by-the-Bay Ceremony
A peaceful, scenic option steps from the water and surrounded by greenery.
Starting around $3,800, this garden ceremony package includes:
Lush ficus-tree lined ceremony space with built-in stone aisle
Seating and setup for up to 100 guests
Optional upgrades for floral, arch, or acoustic musician
Ideal for couples who want nature with privacy
Reception Packages
Designed for both small gatherings and larger parties, the reception packages vary based on guest count and service style.
Average cost: $168 per guest, with these inclusions:
Cocktail hour with passed hors d’oeuvres
Three-course plated or buffet dinner
Full bar package (wine, beer, signature cocktails)
Champagne toast and wedding cake
Tables, linens, chairs, glassware, and silverware
Coordination from the resort’s in-house team
Options available for Bayside Terrace, ballrooms, or semi-outdoor pavilions depending on your vibe.
All-Inclusive Wedding Package (50 Guests)
Want everything done for you? Their bundled package runs around $13,576 (~$272/person) and typically includes:
Ceremony setup and officiant
Full reception catering and bar service
Wedding cake
DJ or live music coordination
Tables, chairs, linens, and décor
On-site wedding planner
Overnight suite for the couple
Discounted room blocks for guests
Great for destination-style weddings or couples who want zero guesswork.
Discounts & Perks
Available across most packages:
Friday/Sunday weddings – 10% off
Saturday weddings – 5% off
Free parking included
Access to amenities: spa, pool, beach, fire pits, paddle boarding, and more
Dogs are allowed in ceremony spaces (yes, even fur babies are welcome!)
How to Plan Your Mission Bay Wedding (Step-by-Step)
Contact the Resort Directly
Call or email their event team to check date availability and ask about the latest discounts and specials.Choose Your Ceremony Spot
Decide between the beach, garden, or terrace based on your guest count, vibe, and time of day.Pick Your Package Tier
Elopement? Reception only? All-inclusive? They’ll walk you through what works best and provide a sample quote.Secure Accommodations
Book your own suite and room blocks early—guests love turning this into a vacation.Work with Their Planning Team
The resort provides in-house coordinators and a list of trusted vendors for florals, photography, DJs, and more. You can bring in your own vendors, too.Add the Magic
Want custom cocktails? Fire pit lounge time? Spa sessions with your girls? They can make it happen.
Why This is a Dream Venue for Intimate San Diego Weddings
You get beach vibes without needing a massive budget
It’s incredibly photo-friendly at any hour—especially golden hour on the bay
You and your guests can stay on-site and celebrate without leaving the property
The planning team genuinely cares and helps pull off magic, even with last-minute changes
It’s close to downtown San Diego, the airport, and nearby attractions for out-of-towners
Let’s Make It Real — Book Your Photographer Today
Mission Bay Resort sets the perfect stage. We’re here to capture it all.
Whether you're planning a sunrise ceremony on the sand, an afternoon garden party with your closest friends, or a sunset reception by the water, we specialize in intimate weddings and elopements across San Diego.
We know the lighting. We know the timing. We’ve shot here before. Let’s make your day unforgettable.
📅 Book your wedding photographer today at LastMinutePhotoshoot.com or message us to lock in your date.
Let’s bring your Mission Bay wedding vision to life—on your terms, with all the beauty.
Start Your Journey With Us Here
Booking a Courthouse Wedding in California: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Planning a civil courthouse wedding in California might seem like a straightforward process, but we’ve seen many couples unintentionally run into issues that delay or complicate their big day. From forgetting to schedule both the marriage license and ceremony appointment to arriving without the proper documents, these small missteps can turn a smooth elopement into a stressful scramble. Whether you're tying the knot at the Santa Ana Courthouse, Riverside Historic Courthouse, or another Southern California location, it’s crucial to understand how county-specific procedures work.
This blog breaks down 7 of the most common courthouse wedding mistakes couples make — and offers simple, actionable tips to avoid them. If you're planning a civil ceremony in California and want it to go off without a hitch, this guide is for you. From timing your license to understanding guest limits and booking your photographer early, we’ve got you covered. Let your courthouse wedding be a joyful start — not a logistical headache.
Planning a civil courthouse wedding in California might seem simple — and it can be — but there are a few common pitfalls that couples often face when trying to book and prepare for their big day. Whether you're eloping for privacy, skipping the stress of a big wedding, or simply planning a budget-friendly ceremony, getting married at a courthouse still requires some forethought. Every county in California has its own rules, requirements, and appointment systems — and missing even one small detail can lead to delays, missed time slots, or worse — rescheduling your ceremony altogether.
We’ve helped couples plan and capture their courthouse weddings across Southern California, and along the way, we’ve noticed a pattern — certain mistakes tend to pop up again and again, especially when booking through county systems that aren’t always intuitive. Whether you're getting married in Santa Ana, San Diego, Riverside, or anywhere in between, a little preparation goes a long way. That’s why we created this guide: to help you avoid the most common missteps we’ve seen and ensure your civil ceremony is smooth, stress-free, and beautifully memorable from start to finish.
If you’re planning a courthouse elopement or civil ceremony in California — keep reading. Here’s how to avoid the headaches and start your forever with ease.
Just married at the iconic OC Courthouse in Santa Ana. This beautiful couple booked our Last Minute Love Elopement package — perfect for couples who want timeless photos without all the fuss.
Planning something simple but meaningful? We’ll capture it all.
👉 Book your courthouse wedding today: lastminutephotoshoot.com
From last-minute appointment changes to lighting and location mix-ups—we’ve seen it all. If you're planning a California courthouse wedding, we’re happy to help you sidestep common mistakes and make the day feel smooth, simple, and meaningful.
👉 Book Your Courthouse Session
Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Courthouse Wedding in California
1. Not Checking for Appointment Availability Early
Most California courthouses require appointments for both your marriage license and your ceremony — and many book out weeks (even months) in advance, especially in high-demand counties like Orange, LA, and San Diego.
✅ Tip: As soon as you’ve chosen a date range, check the county clerk’s website for appointment times. Some open up availability daily or weekly.
2. Forgetting That Some Courthouses Don’t Offer Ceremonies
Not all courthouses in California perform wedding ceremonies — some issue marriage licenses only.
✅ Tip: Double-check that your chosen location offers civil ceremonies, or plan to bring a private officiant if they don’t.
3. Not Bringing the Right Documents (or Forgetting IDs!)
You’d be surprised how many couples show up without the necessary paperwork. Valid government-issued IDs are required for both parties, and you’ll need your license appointment confirmation, payment, and (in some cases) completed forms printed ahead of time.
✅ Tip: Print two copies of everything. Bring cash or card depending on your county’s accepted payment methods.
4. Assuming You Can Walk In
Gone are the days when most courthouses accepted walk-ins. Post-pandemic, most counties have shifted to appointment-only systems.
✅ Tip: Always schedule your appointment in advance — and show up early. If you’re even 5–10 minutes late, you might lose your slot.
5. Misunderstanding Guest Rules
Every courthouse has its own rules about how many guests are allowed in the ceremony room. Some allow up to 10 people, others allow 2.
✅ Tip: Read the fine print when booking, and be clear with friends and family before they make plans to attend.
6. Not Timing Your License and Ceremony Correctly
In California, marriage licenses are valid for 90 days, but you need to make sure your ceremony date falls within that timeframe.
✅ Tip: Schedule your license and ceremony on the same day (if possible) or within a close window to avoid conflicts.
7. Not Booking a Photographer Early Enough
Courthouse ceremonies are quick — usually under 10 minutes — and your photographer needs to arrive early, go through security, and prep ahead of time. If you wait until the last second to book, you may end up with no professional photos of the moment.
✅ Tip: Once you confirm your ceremony date and time, secure your photographer. And make sure they’re familiar with the specific courthouse layout and lighting (we are 😉).
Bonus Tip: Scope Out the Courthouse Ahead of Time
Every courthouse has its quirks — some have beautiful architecture, fountains, or staircases perfect for portraits, while others are...less photo-friendly.
✅ Tip: Drive by a few days before your ceremony, or ask your photographer if they’ve worked at that location and have favorite spots for photos.
Final Thoughts
Courthouse weddings can be just as meaningful (and emotional) as traditional weddings — but only if you set yourself up for success. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you walk into your ceremony confident, prepared, and ready to say yes without any last-minute stress.
Ready to Book a Photographer Who Gets It?
We’ve captured courthouse weddings all across Southern California — from Santa Ana’s historic building to the laid-back vibe of Riverside County. If you're planning a civil ceremony and want timeless photos without the fuss, we’d love to help. Whether you’re booking last-minute or planning months ahead, we’ll help you document it beautifully.
👉 Book your courthouse wedding photos with us here:
https://lastminutephotoshoot.com/photography-packages/p/last-minute-love-elopement-package
Let’s make your civil ceremony unforgettable.
Start Your Journey With Us Here
Why Tuesday Might Be the Most Romantic Day to Get Married in Southern California
There’s a quiet kind of magic in choosing an unexpected day to say “I do”—and Tuesday just might be the most romantic day of the week to get married. This blog dives into why weekday weddings, especially courthouse elopements in Southern California, are gaining momentum with couples looking for intimacy, simplicity, and intention. From wide-open staircases at the historic Santa Ana Courthouse to peaceful strolls after your vows in downtown San Diego or a spontaneous mini-moon in Palm Springs, a Tuesday elopement gives you space to breathe and be fully present. It’s more than a smart choice for parking or price—though those perks don’t hurt. It’s about reclaiming the moment, skipping the chaos, and starting your story your way. If you're ready to sidestep the crowds and stress of weekend weddings, here's why Tuesday might just be the most unforgettable day to begin forever.
Imagine walking into a sunlit courthouse where you’re not just another name on the list. No lines, no noise—just you, your partner, and the beginning of everything. The air feels still, like time is pausing to let you soak in the moment. That’s the magic of a Tuesday wedding.
If you’re planning a courthouse wedding or elopement in Southern California, there’s one decision that could quietly shape your entire experience: what day of the week you get married. While Fridays and weekends get most of the attention, more couples are discovering the magic of Tuesday weddings—and it’s not just about availability.
Whether you’re exchanging vows at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, the San Diego County Administration Center, or the Larson Justice Center in Palm Springs, weekday weddings—especially on a Tuesday—offer a peaceful, stress-free alternative to the busy courthouse scene you’ll find later in the week. And beyond logistics, there’s a quiet romance to marrying on a Tuesday. It’s unexpected. It’s intentional. It’s the kind of decision that says, "This moment is just for us."
Last Friday, we were shooting at the Santa Ana courthouse and by 11 a.m., it was completely packed. The iconic staircases were swarming with couples and families, and getting clean, quiet shots became almost impossible. It was a clear reminder that if you're planning a courthouse elopement, Tuesday is the day to beat the crowds and keep your ceremony stress-free. Here’s why:
Just married at the historic Santa Ana Courthouse in the heart of Orange County—timeless, intimate, and unforgettable. Ready to plan your courthouse wedding? Let’s make it beautiful. Book your session today.
Midweek weddings in Southern California come with quieter beaches, better light, and a slower, more romantic pace. Whether you're eloping, heading to the courthouse, or planning something intimate—we’re here for it.
👉 Start Planning Your Tuesday “I Do”
1. Tuesday Courthouse Weddings Are Quieter and More Intimate
Courthouses in Orange County, San Diego, and Palm Springs see the most foot traffic on Fridays and at the end of each month. Tuesdays, on the other hand, often feel like a well-kept secret. That means shorter wait times, more privacy during your ceremony, and better photo opportunities without having to dodge other couples and their families.
2. Better Lighting and Photo Opportunities
With fewer people using the same spaces, you’ll have more flexibility to explore angles, take your time on the staircases, or shoot near your ceremony room without being rushed. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially at busy locations like the San Diego County Administration Center.
3. Midweek Elopements Are Budget-Friendly
Tuesday weddings are typically more affordable—not just at the courthouse, but for your mini-moon too. Hotels and Airbnbs in Palm Springs, Julian, or Laguna Beach often offer better availability and lower prices midweek. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your memories.
4. Easier Parking and Smoother Travel
Parking in places like Santa Ana and downtown San Diego can be a nightmare on Fridays. On Tuesday mornings, you’ll often find parking closer to the entrance and less traffic on the road. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference on your wedding day.
5. You’re More Present With Each Other
Fewer distractions and a slower pace mean more time for connection. There’s no pressure to rush through photos or squeeze into a packed schedule. The whole day feels like it belongs to you—and that’s romantic in itself.
6. The Element of Surprise
A Tuesday wedding catches people off guard—in the best way. It makes your love story stand out. It’s a twist no one saw coming, and that’s what makes it so uniquely yours.
7. Vendors Are More Available and Flexible
Photographers, florists, and officiants tend to be more available and relaxed on weekdays. You get more of their attention, creativity, and care—which can elevate the entire experience.
8. Courthouse Logistics Are Simpler
From witness sign-ins to ceremony coordination, the entire process is smoother when the courthouse isn’t overwhelmed. That means less waiting and a better overall experience.
9. More Room to Celebrate
A post-ceremony lunch downtown, drinks by the beach, or even a spontaneous midweek getaway—Tuesdays give you the space to do it all without the weekend chaos. More availability, more flexibility, and fewer crowds.
10. You Set the Tone for Your Marriage
Choosing a weekday wedding says, "We’re doing this our way." It sets the tone for a relationship built on intention, meaning, and shared priorities—not expectations.
🧡 Make Tuesday Yours
There’s something poetic about choosing a random Tuesday to become the day you’ll celebrate forever. No big stage. No pressure. Just you, your person, and the commitment you’re making to each other.
If you're looking for a way to make your courthouse wedding feel a little more intentional—and a lot more you—a Tuesday elopement might be your perfect answer.
📍 Let’s capture your weekday wedding in its purest, quietest form. Whether it’s the staircases of Santa Ana, the coastal breeze in San Diego, or a desert kiss in Palm Springs—we’ll help make Tuesday feel like the best decision you’ve ever made.
👉 Book your courthouse elopement photography with us today — and let Tuesday be the most unforgettable surprise in your wedding journey. Because sometimes, doing it differently makes it even more meaningful.
Start Your Journey With Us Here
What We Wish Couples Knew Before Their Courthouse Wedding in Orange County or San Diego – 18 Tips That Matter
Courthouse weddings in Orange County and San Diego offer some of the most meaningful and low-pressure ways to say “I do.” But even with their simplicity, these civil ceremonies can catch couples off guard without the right planning. From navigating guest limits and knowing where to park, to choosing the best time slot and capturing key moments—there’s more to think about than most expect. In this blog, we’re sharing 18 real-world tips to help you prepare for your courthouse wedding day, whether you're tying the knot at the Santa Ana Courthouse or saying your vows in downtown San Diego. We cover timing, lighting, location coordination, emotional moments, and how to stay grounded even when the unexpected happens. If you're planning a quiet, intentional ceremony, these insights will help you feel confident walking in—and leave with photos and memories that reflect the beauty of your day.
Courthouse weddings are beautiful—simple, meaningful, and refreshingly low-pressure. But after documenting dozens of civil ceremonies across Orange County and San Diego, we’ve learned that even the most laid-back love stories deserve a little planning. And we’ve also seen the mistakes, surprises, and "we didn’t think of that" moments that can throw couples off on what should be one of the best days of their lives.
This blog isn’t about scaring you. It’s about preparing you. Whether you’re eloping, getting legally married before a big destination wedding, or just want to keep things intimate and simple, there are a few things we genuinely wish every couple knew before stepping into that historic courthouse.
Some of these tips might save you time, some might save you stress—and a few might even save your photos.
A quiet signature that changes everything. This moment inside the courthouse is more than paperwork—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. If you're planning a civil ceremony, don’t miss the chance to preserve these fleeting, powerful moments.
📸 Book your courthouse session today → www.lastminutephotoshoot.com
Serving San Diego, Orange County & beyond.
From Santa Ana to San Diego, courthouse weddings are filled with intimacy, emotion, and timeless charm. We’ll help you capture every meaningful detail—from signing the certificate to your first kiss as a married couple. Simple doesn’t mean forgettable.
👉 Book Your Courthouse Session
1. Book the Earliest Time Slot Available
Crowds build fast. The light shifts. The vibe changes. A quiet 8:30am appointment can feel like magic. By 11am, it’s chaos—especially at high-traffic courthouses like Santa Ana or Chula Vista.
2. Arrive Early (Like… Really Early)
Don’t arrive on time. Arrive before time. There’s security, parking, ID checks, and that one pen that doesn’t work. Build in a buffer so you can breathe.
3. The Staircase Photos? You Have a 30-Minute Window
If you're dreaming of those iconic indoor shots on the courthouse staircase or balcony—do them right after your ceremony, or even before, if you check in early. By late morning, those spaces are packed.
4. Your Ceremony Might Be Over in 2 Minutes (Literally)
Civil ceremonies are short. Some officiants get right to it. If you want to personalize your vows, ask in advance if you're allowed to read them. Otherwise, it’s blink-and-it’s-over.
5. Bring Only Who Matters—And Make Sure They Know What to Expect
You’re only allowed two witnesses to watch you sign your marriage certificate. One of those can be a close friend or family member—and the other often ends up being your photographer. Keep that in mind as you plan who will be present for this special moment. As a photographer, don’t miss the opportunity to capture the details: the signing of the certificate, the exchange of rings, or that moment the bride or groom quietly tears up. Most courthouses have guest limits. Some don’t allow photos during the license signing. Prepare your people. The less chaos, the more space for emotion.
6. Watch That Parking Meter
In Santa Ana, you’ll get 2 hours max on the meter. But with delays, lines, and photos, you’ll likely go over. We’ve had to run back mid-shoot to feed the meter. Not ideal.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Dress Up
Just because it’s “simple” doesn’t mean it can’t be stunning. We’ve had brides in tailored jumpsuits, grooms in velvet blazers, and couples who matched their dog’s bowtie to their bouquet. Make it yours.
8. Have a Game Plan for Afterwards
Even if it’s just a lunch reservation, a beach walk, or a post-ceremony toast—celebrate somehow. You’re married. That deserves a moment.
9. Photos Make the Moment Last
It goes fast—faster than you expect. The license signing, the walk down the hallway, the tiny chapel… it’s over before it begins. But photos let you feel it again. If you’re hiring a photographer, trust them to guide the timeline and keep it light but intentional.
10. It’s Your Day. You Get to Decide How It Feels.
Civil doesn’t mean boring. Quiet doesn’t mean less important. Your courthouse wedding is the beginning of your story. Make it feel like you.
11. Share Your GPS Coordinates—Seriously
Sharing your exact location via GPS is a game-changer on the day of your civil ceremony. Whether you're parking, waiting in line, or already inside the building, having real-time location sharing between you, your partner, and your photographer removes the stress of texting "Where are you?" while trying to enjoy the moment.
Drop a pin at the entrance you'll be using, not just the building. Some courthouses (like Santa Ana) have multiple entrances and security lines—this makes a big difference.
12. If You’re Scheduled at 9AM—Be There at 8:45, No Excuses
Courthouses run on their time, not yours. If you’re scheduled for 9:00 AM, show up early and check in the moment you arrive. We’ve seen couples show up just five minutes late and lose their spot—with no warning, no flexibility, and no way to get back on the schedule. Some courthouses will push you back without notice, and you could be waiting hours.
13. Test Your Flash and Know Your Settings Before It Matters
Courthouses are notoriously tricky for lighting. Low ceilings, mixed light sources, and zero time to adjust mid-ceremony. If you’re a photographer, test your flash inside the building as early as possible. Grab a few test shots near the ceremony room, staircase, and window areas to lock in your settings ahead of time.
Even if you’re shooting with natural light, knowing your ISO baseline before you walk into the chapel makes all the difference in your final gallery.
14. Visualize the Worst So You Can Handle It With Grace
Before every civil wedding we photograph, we take 60 seconds to mentally run through the "what ifs":
What if security takes 20 minutes?
What if the staircase is full of people?
What if it rains?
What if someone forgets their ID?
What if we run out of time inside?
When you plan for the worst, you stay grounded in the best parts of the day: the love, the vows, and the story you came here to tell.
15. Fuel Yourself First
As a photographer, don’t forget the basics: eat something before the day starts. Whether it’s a real breakfast or just a protein bar and coffee, fuel and hydrate so you don’t burn out halfway through. Bring water, snacks, and backup caffeine—you’ll thank yourself later.
16. Bring Wet Wipes for Emergency Touch-Ups
Accidents happen. Lipstick smudges, suit lint, stray makeup lines—you name it. Keeping a pack of wet wipes or a mini emergency kit in your bag can save the day for the bride, groom, or anyone stepping in front of your lens. And while you’re at it, bring tissues too—someone always tears up during the vows or certificate signing, and you’ll be ready when they do. Accidents happen. Lipstick smudges, suit lint, stray makeup lines—you name it. Keeping a pack of wet wipes or a mini emergency kit in your bag can save the day for the bride, groom, or anyone stepping in front of your lens.
17. Communication Is Everything
This one’s for the photographers out there: communication is key to managing the flow of the day. The couple already has a million things on their mind—so take ownership of the timeline. Know the layout of the courthouse, the order of events, and how much time to allocate for each moment. Check in regularly. Use any downtime wisely by scouting spaces or grabbing shots inside or outside before crowds fill in. The more clearly you communicate, the smoother the day will feel for everyone.
18. Have a Pinterest Story Board Ready
This tip is small but powerful. Having a Pinterest board of poses and inspiration helps immensely if you hit a moment of uncertainty during the shoot. Whether you're indoors with tricky light or outdoors between locations, a quick scroll through pre-saved ideas can keep things flowing smoothly and creatively.
❤️ Let’s Make Your Courthouse Wedding Unforgettable
You’ve got one shot to make this moment feel timeless—don’t leave it to chance. Whether you’re planning ahead or figuring it out last minute, we’re here to help you slow down, enjoy it, and walk away with photos that actually mean something.
📍 Book your courthouse session now
📍 Serving San Diego, Orange County, and all of SoCal
Start Your Journey With Us Here
Top 10 Reasons Couples Choose the Old Orange County Courthouse for Their Elopement
If you're considering a courthouse wedding in Southern California, the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana is one of the most iconic and romantic venues for civil marriages and elopements. With its historic sandstone architecture, sweeping staircases, and intimate indoor chapel, this timeless location offers everything couples need for a meaningful and stress-free “I do.” More than just a government building, it’s a destination for couples who want simplicity without sacrificing beauty. In this guide, we break down the top 10 reasons why couples choose this historic courthouse for their wedding day—covering everything from the architecture and photo opportunities to location, ease of booking, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you’re planning a last-minute elopement or a quiet weekday ceremony, this Santa Ana courthouse delivers charm, convenience, and unforgettable photos. Read on to see if it’s the perfect backdrop for your love story.
If you're dreaming of an intimate, stress-free wedding with timeless character, the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana is one of the most beloved spots for elopements and civil ceremonies in Southern California. With its vintage sandstone architecture, grand staircase, and rich history dating back to 1901, this iconic building offers more than just a place to sign your marriage license—it’s a meaningful setting to celebrate love without the chaos of a traditional wedding.
More and more couples are choosing courthouse weddings over big celebrations, and this historical courthouse in the heart of Orange County continues to be a top choice for good reason. Whether you're planning a spontaneous elopement, a weekday civil ceremony, or simply want a beautiful and affordable place to say “I do,” this location combines old-world charm with real-world convenience.
In this guide, we’re sharing the top 10 reasons why couples choose the Old Orange County Courthouse for their elopement, plus a few of our own pro photographer tips for getting the most out of your experience. So if you’re ready to skip the stress and focus on what matters most—your love story—keep reading.
Before the vows, before the crowd—this is the calm elegance of the Old Orange County Courthouse. Thinking of eloping in Orange County? Capture your love in one of the most timeless spaces in SoCal.
📍 Santa Ana, CA
📸 Book your courthouse elopement with us: www.lastminutephotoshoot.com
This historic courthouse in Santa Ana is full of timeless charm—perfect for intimate elopements and meaningful “I Do” moments. We'll help you capture the day with elegance, ease, and natural light before the crowds roll in.
👉 Book Your Courthouse Session
1. Timeless Architecture That Feels Like a Movie Set
The red sandstone façade, tall arched windows, wooden staircases, and historic courtroom interiors make this courthouse one of the most cinematic elopement backdrops in all of California. You’re not just signing papers here—you’re stepping into a storybook setting.
2. Perfect for Last-Minute Elopements
Need to get married quickly? The courthouse offers weekday appointments, making it ideal for spontaneous decisions or couples who want to skip months of wedding planning. Elopements at the Old OC Courthouse are easy to book and deeply personal.
3. Ideal for Intimate Ceremonies
Civil weddings are typically small, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be beautiful. This courthouse offers a charming indoor chapel where couples can exchange vows in a warm, private setting with a licensed officiant on-site.
4. Budget-Friendly Without Feeling Basic
Forget paying thousands for a venue. Eloping at the courthouse costs a fraction of a traditional wedding, and with the right photographer, your day will look like a million bucks. It’s elegance and efficiency.
5. Surprisingly Photogenic Indoors and Out
From the front steps lined with palm trees to the natural light streaming through second-story windows, the courthouse delivers countless photo opportunities. Morning light is especially magical—perfect for soft, glowing portraits.
6. Central Location in the Heart of Santa Ana
Located at 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701, the courthouse is accessible from anywhere in Orange County or LA. Grab post-ceremony brunch, coffee, or celebratory champagne just blocks away in the historic district.
7. No-Frills, No-Fuss Booking Process
You can apply for a marriage license and schedule your ceremony through the OC Clerk-Recorder website. Everything is streamlined, and staff are friendly and professional.
8. Rich in History and Character
Built in 1901, the courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Getting married here isn’t just symbolic—it’s becoming part of a space that has seen generations of love stories unfold.
9. Flexible for Custom Touches
Just because it’s a courthouse doesn’t mean it has to be generic. Couples often bring florals, vow books, and even champagne glasses for a post-ceremony toast. A little prep goes a long way in making the day feel yours.
10. Incredible Photos Without Needing a Traditional Venue
You don’t need a ballroom or vineyard to get stunning wedding photos. We’ve shot elopements here that rival full-scale weddings, thanks to the building’s natural texture, warm tones, and classic design. You walk away with editorial-style photos that feel personal and authentic.
Bonus Tips From Your Photographers 📸
Book the earliest time slot to avoid crowds and get better light inside.
Plan for at least 90 minutes to allow for ceremony, portraits, and parking logistics.
Metered parking only allows 2 hours, so set an alarm or download the mobile pay app in advance.
Bring printed paperwork, IDs, and a bouquet if you want an extra pop in your portraits.
❤️ Thinking of Eloping at the Old Orange County Courthouse?
We’ve photographed courthouse weddings and elopements across Southern California, and the Old Orange County Courthouse is one of our favorites. If you’re planning to say "I do" in this iconic space, let us help you document every moment—from signing your license to that first kiss under the courthouse arches.
📍 Now booking weekday and last-minute elopement sessions in Santa Ana and surrounding Orange County cities.
👉 Visit www.lastminutephotoshoot.com to inquire or view more of our courthouse wedding galleries.
Let’s make your civil wedding feel like magic. ✨