Jessica and Donny’s Glen Oaks Big Sur elopement was absolute magic! This couple was just amazing, and all they wanted was to be in nature surrounded by the beauty of Big Sur. From the lighting, cliffs, to the sounds of the waves crashing, everything about this day was perfection.
Jessica and Donny love to surf and have never been to California before, and I just LOVE that they chose this location and completely immersed themselves into the landscape. Keep reading, because I think you just might love this Big Sur elopement just as much as I do.
The Details & Getting Ready Together at Glen Oaks in Big Sur
Jessica and Donny spent their slow morning getting ready together at Glen Oaks, a favorite place for a Big Sur elopement. They weren’t in a rush. No stress, no timelines—just the two of them soaking in every moment side by side. Jessica wore the cutest bridal set before changing into a flowy tulle gown with floral detailing, and slipped on white sneakers for our adventure later. Donny kept it timeless with a navy suit that fit the redwood setting perfectly.
If you’re planning a Glen Oaks Big Sur elopement, this spot truly has it all. The cabins are tucked into the trees, giving you that calm and privacy that’s hard to find. It’s peaceful, cozy, and surrounded by nature in every direction. The lighting? Insane. The forest? Unreal. It’s the kind of place that lets your day breathe and unfold naturally.
Once they were ready, we wandered the property and explored everything the area had to offer. From the wooden bridges to the mossy trails, every corner was filled with character. It was relaxed and intentional.
Sunset Vows & Miles of Coastal Views
After their slow morning in the redwoods, Jessica and Donny made their way to the coast to exchange vows. The cliffs, the crashing waves, the golden light wrapping around them—it was quiet and raw and full of feeling. Just the two of them, standing above the Pacific, fully present in the moment.
This is why I’ll never stop loving Big Sur. You don’t have to choose between the trees or the ocean. You get both. Forest trails that feel like something out of a fairytale, and coastal cliffs that take your breath away. We wandered through wildflowers, walked barefoot in the sand, and let the wind play with her dress while they explored the coastline together.
As a Big Sur elopement photographer, I’m always chasing places that feel wild and meaningful. Big Sur just gets it. If you’re dreaming up a day that’s rooted in nature and full of heart, I’d love to help you plan it!
An Intimate Glen Oaks Big Sur Elopement Dinner With Pizza & Cake
After the sun dipped behind the cliffs, Jessica and Donny headed back to their cabin at Glen Oaks to slow things down and soak it all in. No big dinner, no guests, no pressure. Just pizza, champagne, and cake. The setup was simple but beautiful with fairy lights, fresh florals, and a heart-shaped cake that said “just married.” It was the perfect extension of the day.
They curled up on the couch in their wedding attire and shared slices of pizza. It was so cozy and romantic and completely them. These are the kinds of moments that stick with you. The ones where you don’t have to follow a strict wedding day timeline.
This is why I love intimate elopements. You get to choose what matters most. You get to eat pizza in your wedding dress, toast with bubbly, and cut your cake with no one watching but each other. And honestly? That’s kind of everything!
Ready to Plan Your Own Intimate Elopement in Big Sur? Count Me In!
Big Sur is one of those magical places that feels like it was made for intimate elopements. The quiet redwoods and the wild energy of the coastline, along with the way the light moves through both? It’s the perfect blend of grounded and free. Whether you’re exchanging vows under the trees or standing on a cliff with the wind in your hair, Big Sur gives you space to breathe and just be in the moment.
If that’s the kind of experience you’re dreaming of, I’m here to help you create it. I’m not the kind of Big Sur elopement photographer who just shows up with a camera. I believe in connection and intention. I take time to get to know you as a couple, understand what matters most, and guide you through this experience with care.
My style blends storytelling with a sense of adventure. It’s raw, romantic, and rooted in feeling. I work with couples who value presence over perfection and want a day that’s as unique as their connection. If that sounds like you, you can learn more about me here, or if you’re already feeling the vibes, you can inquire here. I’d be honored to help bring your dream elopement to life.
Looking for more elopement inspiration? Make sure to check out the blog. While I’m Colorado based, I travel alllll over to capture epic love stories just like this one!
Stefanie Vanessa Photo | Big Sur Elopement Photographer
Vendor Team
Photographer: Stefanie Vanessa Photo | Venue: Glen Oaks Big Sur | Beauty: Malina Hair and MUA | Nails: Nails by Tina Latina | Spray Tan: Glow Vita | Florals: Fancy Pansy Art & Design | Jewelry: Melanie Casey Jewelry | Dress: Willow by Watters via Studio I Do Bridals | Suit: Alton Lane
