What do you need to elope in California?
You’ll need to bring $100, one form of government-issued identification per person, and proof of any prior legal separations to any county clerk’s office in the state. You may also need to bring copies of your birth certificates. This varies by county, so do your research.
Do you need a witness to get married in California?
In the State of California, you are required to have one witness present during the ceremony. Note that there is no age requirement in California for witnesses, but any witnesses you choose will need to be old enough to sign their names on the official marriage license.
How long does it take to get married in California?
In California, there is no blood test or waiting period required, so your visit to the county clerk’s office shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. As soon as you’ve completed the application process, the clerk will give you your license immediately and you are ready to elope. California marriage licenses are only valid for 90 days, so make sure you get your marriage license within the 90 days leading up to your elopement date.
Do you need a permit to get married on the beach in California?
All beaches within the State of California require a permit for wedding ceremonies, no matter how small. These permits typically cost no more than $150, but they won’t limit access to any public areas, so keep in mind that you might not be completely alone when saying your vows.
What is the best month to get married in California?
California’s weather is exceptional. Even with the varied climates of the northern and southern parts of the state, the weather in California is typically sunny and temperate throughout. Keep in mind that the summer months still get hot here, so spring and fall may be better options for heat-sensitive couples. It is also worth noting that the state can experience some clouds in May and June, but these two months are popular with engaged couples who welcome the slightly cooler weather for their outdoor elopements and are happy to avoid the dreaded midday sun that can cause squinted eyes and an unpleasant glare in photographs. Of course, deciding which month will be best for your California elopement also depends on the vibe you’re after. Each season offers something different, especially in northern California.
If you want to keep costs low, May, June, and July should be avoided, as they are the state’s busiest months for tourism, and prices for things like accommodations and transportation are at their highest. For elopers on a budget, your best bet is a November elopement when visitors are more sparse and prices are subsequently lower.
