San Francisco Elopement Guide
With its iconic cable cars ascending steep inclines, exquisite architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, San Francisco stands among the world's most coveted elopement destinations.
Whether San Francisco is your hometown or a long-awaited dream destination, it offers a plethora of romantic elopement possibilities to suit every fancy. Exchange vows in the elegant City Hall, hold an intimate ceremony (also known as a micro-wedding) in one of the city's picturesque parks, or pledge your love on a sandy beach with the Golden Gate Bridge as a stunning backdrop. After the formalities, the celebration continues with a delightful brunch, carefree dancing on the shore, or a cozy candlelit dinner. This guide is your trusty companion to help you navigate every detail of your unforgettable day. Let the planning begin!
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IMAGINING YOUR SPECIAL DAY
The initial step is to determine the concept of your celebration. Every couple has a distinct vision, so don't hesitate to think creatively and craft a unique experience. If you need inspiration, consider these ideas:
1. A brief yet elegant courthouse wedding: Begin with preparations in a hotel room, followed by a sophisticated civil ceremony and a photo session at the venue. Continue the festivities at a nearby restaurant, bar, or café.
2. An unforgettable weekend-long adventure: Invite your family and friends for two days of excitement, including a grand ceremony, family dinner, and sightseeing the following day.
3. A romantic beachside affair: Savor breakfast in your coastal suite before hosting an intimate beach ceremony for a select few guests. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the ocean and dance the night away with your loved ones.
4. A woodland escapade: Exchange vows amidst the towering trees for stunning wedding photos, just a short distance from the city center. Forego the traditional restaurant dining and opt for an effortlessly romantic picnic on a cozy blanket.
Allow your imagination to run free and design a celebration that truly reflects your love story.
WHAT WE OFFER (ELOPEMENT PACKAGES)
Similar to our City Hall offerings, we provide four distinct elopement and micro-wedding packages tailored to suit your needs. These packages can be customized for weddings across the Bay Area, Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, Big Sur, Marin County, and other parts of California, with reasonable travel fees included. Prices for our simple Ceremony coverage start at $995, while average costs range from $2,000 to $4,500, depending on the duration of coverage.
For a seamless, all-inclusive experience, we can quickly and efficiently arrange an officiant, florist, and makeup artist to complete your special day. Thanks to our strong relationships with trusted vendors, these arrangements can be made within an hour. Let us take care of the details while you focus on celebrating your love.
YOUR ELOPEMENT PLANNING CHECKLIST
Eloping is perfect for those seeking a more intimate experience, free from the endless planning checklist associated with traditional weddings. Simplify your to-do list with these 12 straightforward steps, designed to make planning your special day a breeze!
1. Choose a date: Opt for a weekday to minimize crowds.
2. Select a venue: Prioritize availability and allocate saved ceremony expenses to indulge in food, drinks, and luxurious accommodations.
3. Obtain a marriage license and necessary permits: Avoid last-minute stress by completing paperwork early.
4. Secure vendors: Focus on essentials like the celebrant, photographer, florist, and hair & makeup services.
5. Make dining reservations: Choose a restaurant, café, or bar near your ceremony location and accommodations to minimize travel time.
6. Arrange lodging: Treat yourselves to a luxury hotel or a cozy Airbnb to create lasting memories.
7. Purchase wedding attire: Opt for photo-friendly outfits that suit your chosen venue.
8. Write heartfelt vows: Personalize them and print them in a beautiful keepsake booklet.
9. Create a wedding photography checklist: Collaborate with your photographer to ensure every moment is captured.
10. Craft a wedding playlist: Select a special first dance song that will evoke memories of your big day.
11. Buy wedding rings: Designate a person to bring your rings to the ceremony.
12. Confirm florist details: Arrange for your wedding bouquet to be delivered to your location.
By following these steps, you'll be able to effortlessly plan your elopement while still enjoying the anticipation and excitement leading up to your big day.
FAVORITE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
San Francisco holds a special place among the world's cities, thanks to its close proximity to the sea, mountains, forests, and a vibrant city center characterized by steep streets, iconic architecture, and lush parks. Whether you desire a quick daytime ceremony, a party at a private home, a picnic in the park, or an intimate gathering at a charming restaurant, café, or hotel, San Francisco has you covered. A short drive from the city center unveils breathtaking beaches, gardens, forests, and mountain locations perfect for outdoor ceremonies or even entire weekend celebrations.
When planning a wedding this year, consider venues with stunning outdoor spaces, as restrictions on indoor areas may persist due to the ongoing coronavirus situation.
Public Venues
Public buildings, parks, and beaches in and around San Francisco provide idyllic settings for intimate ceremonies. By choosing one of these locations, you can either host a budget-friendly wedding or splurge on exceptional photography, extravagant wedding attire, or other luxurious elements to create a truly memorable experience.
Small Wedding Venues Near Me In San Francisco Bay Area
Other Elopement Venues
San Francisco City Hall
(Currently Closed - contact us to get notified when it reopens or submit the form below)
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San Francisco City Hall is the best venue for elegant elopements on a budget. After a 5-minute civil ceremony, you can do a photoshoot in the building which is filled with photogenic locations and then celebrate over a nice meal at a nearby restaurant.
Public ceremony: $115
Private ceremony: from $1,004
Reception: from $10,000
Seating: 1-435
Catering: preferred list
Alcohol: preferred list
Does it have an outdoor area? No.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes! You can host a private ceremony of up to 60 people seated at the Mayor’s Balcony or one of the 4th-floor galleries.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking: Underground Garage
Palace of Fine Arts
Partially open for small ceremonies.
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This building is a fine example of Beaux-Arts architecture and one of the most-wanted venues in the city. You can make gorgeous photos outside and host an intimate ceremony or a grand wedding.
Ceremony:
Reception:
Seating:
Catering: preferred list
Alcohol: preferred list
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes!
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes!
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Legion of Honor
Closed
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A unique venue for art lovers offers five indoor and outdoor function spaces. It is perfect for elopements because you can personalize the venues and make them feel intimate.
Ceremony:
Reception:
Seating:
Catering: preferred list
Alcohol: preferred list
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes!
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes!
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking: Yes
Gardens
There are plenty of parks and gardens where you can host an intimate ceremony. Naturally, the GG Park comes to mind. The Botanical Gardens alone have 4 different ceremony locations and three types of event packages. I believe that the 2-hour package is the most suitable for elopements. If you find the Botanical Gardens overwhelming, there are other options within the iconic park. Perhaps, you like the classic columns of Portals of the Past or the charming Shakespeare Garden calls your name.
Golden Gate Park
With its picture-perfect lakes, meadows, and groves, it is perfect for outdoor ceremonies, picnics and photoshoots. It is possible to host both ceremonies and receptions at some areas of the park including Queen Wilhelmina Garden, Fuchsia Dell, and Rose Garden.
San Francisco Botanical Garden
Moon View Garden - 360 Panorama
Beautifully manicured gardens here are ideal for casual ceremonies, cocktail parties, and picnics. You can rent one of them for 2, 4, or 10 hours, and available services include set-up and clean-up, tenting, catering, and more.
Fey Park
Fey Park is a great choice for a small outdoor reception because it features three levels with pretty gazebos and it is possible to hire staff for your event. The top park can seat up to 30 people.
Lafayette Park
Another excellent elopement venue. Located in the historic San Francisco neighborhood, Lafayette Park offers stunning views of the city.
Shakespeare Garden
This garden is a little gem hidden inside the GG Park. This secluded garden can fit 100 guests easily. Besides being a very private spot that will keep the tourists away, it is also windproof.
Beaches
Golden Gate National Recreational Area
You can wed at one of the beaches at the Recreational Area if you apply for a special event permit. After an intimate barefoot ceremony, you can enjoy a picnic on the beach or head off to one of the nearby coastal reception venues.
Point Reyes
To tie the knot at Point Reyes, you also need to obtain a permit and pay an administrative fee of $50. There are more than 10 beautiful beaches where weddings are allowed if you stick to rules and regulations and keep this pristine coastline clean & tidy.
Natural Parks
Muir Woods National Monument
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Of course, your outdoor wedding can easily take place outside of San Francisco and the venue I highly recommend is Muir Woods. No doubt you have heard of this iconic National Monument, but you may not have realized that you can host a wedding at both Muir Woods and the nearby Muir Beach. Both sites are available from March through October and both allow only a limited number of visitors. The views at both locations are absolutely spectacular and I have taken some amazing pictures at both locations. Muir Woods and Muir Beach are great for nature-loving couples! Take a look at our Muir Woods weddings.
At Muir Woods, you won’t be seeing a lot of visitors around, which makes it a very private outdoor venue. Each of the individual parks requires a permit and has its own elopement guidelines you must respect.
Old Mill Park
Old Mill Park is a preferred choice for intimate weddings because of its cool features. You can wed at the Redwood Grove or the amphitheater and then host a barbecue at the designated picnic area.
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
If you want to escape the city center to find an incredibly photogenic ceremony location, then you can get hitched among the historic redwood trees of Redwood Regional Park. Each picnic site can accommodate up to 150 people, but you can find a solitary place for an intimate event.
Private Venues
From little chapels to quirky cafes and tucked away private dining venues, San Francisco has many locations that are ideal for smaller sized weddings and elopements that offer private dining room setups. You can even rent a private house for your wedding or celebrate at a boutique hotel where you’ll have accommodation and venue under one roof. We are talking about small, intimate spaces, larger venues with small private areas that can be rented separately, or places where you can simply get a secluded table for two and enjoy a romantic lunch or dinner.
Cliff House
Built in the 19th century, this historic venue is made for grand celebrations and fantastic wedding photography. Its key advantage is the superb clifftop location and a terrace overlooking the ocean.
Seating: up to 120
Ceremony: $1,000
Reception: $52-$75 per person
Catering: in-house
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! The venue features a private balcony and an outdoor café.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes! Function room overlooking the ocean is ideal for intimate ceremonies and receptions.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking: Street
The Mint San Francisco
A mix of classic elegance and industrial chic, Mint is the perfect place for upscale events. You can rent it out for an intimate ceremony though, and the price depends on the time of the day, day of the week, season, and number of guests.
Seating: up to 300
Ceremony: packages start at $16,000
Reception: packages start at $16,000
Catering: BYO, preferred list
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! Mint features an iconic courtyard enclosed by the building.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes, the venue can accommodate both large and small groups.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking: Street & Valet
Haas-Lilenthal House
A private mansion and a landmark building can be rented out for intimate gatherings. It is ideal for couples who love to be surrounded by period furnishings and antique pieces.
Seating: up to 100
Ceremony: packages start at $2,000
Reception: packages start at $3,060
Catering: Preferred list, BYO
Alcohol: BYO
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! Haas-Lilenthal House has a ceremony garden.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes! The venue is ideal for small groups.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No. But you can use the bridal dressing area.
Parking:
Cavallo Point Lodge
Located 30 minutes from San Francisco, this idyllic place is great for weekend escapes and intimate celebrations. Couples get a complimentary night at a luxury suite and 60-minute spa treatments.
Seating: up to 20 guests (smaller room)
Ceremony: Lawn
Reception: $200 per person +
Catering: in-house
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! The hotel features a private outdoor area.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes. There is a beautiful venue for smaller weddings and elopements + a guest room for the couple.
Is there accommodation for the couple? Yes! You’ll get a room for free if you book a wedding for 20-40 people.
Parking: Yes
Slide Ranch
Located on the coast, 30 minutes from SF, the Slide Ranch is the venue of choice for anyone who loves ocean views, unspoiled nature, and glamping. The farm-to-table concept and a variety of outdoor ceremony and reception locations add to the value.
Seating: See site
Ceremony: See site
Reception: See site
Catering: See site
Alcohol: See site
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! There is a garden under cypress trees, a clifftop ceremony area, a yurt with a wooden floor, a burning stove and canvas roof, and sweeping lawns.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes. You can tailor it to your needs.
Is there accommodation for the couple? Yes! There is a campsite at the property.
Parking:
Pelican Inn
You’ll love this venue if you are into the English countryside and 16th-century architecture. This cottage is very close to Muir Beach and has a pretty garden as well as a cozy parlor room – perfect for intimate gatherings.
Seating: up to 100 people
Ceremony:
Reception:
Catering: in-house
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! The English-style garden is suitable for both ceremonies and receptions.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes. You can rent one of the smaller event spaces.
Is there accommodation for the couple? Yes! There are hotel rooms available.
Parking:
Conservatory of Flowers
You can host your elopement or an intimate wedding here if you want amazing wedding photos with lush plants everywhere around you. The adjoining lawn is the location of choice for ceremonies, while your reception can be held at one of many gorgeous indoor or outdoor spaces.
Seating: up to 200
Ceremony: packages start at $3,500
Reception: packages start at $3,500
Catering: preferred list
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! The Palm terrace and lawns are ideal for alfresco events.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes, the venue is versatile and can cater for large and small gatherings.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking:
Stable Café
Offering private dining areas and delicious menus, Stable Café has the historic charm and typical San Francisco vibes. It is a great place where you can just grab lunch, have an intimate dinner, or party with a small group of friends.
Seating:
Ceremony:
Reception:
Catering: in-house
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! The venue features a rustic garden.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes! Both indoor and outdoor spaces can be used for small marriage ceremonies and receptions.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking:
Hotel Vitale
With a lovely alfresco space, this boutique hotel feels intimate and offers a prime location in Embarcadero. It's coolest perk? Views of the iconic Ferry Building and Bay Bridge.
Seating: the capacity is up to 300 people, but the venue offers elopement packages for up to 12 guests.
Ceremony: $1,000 +
Reception: $185 per person +
Catering: in-house
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! The hotel features a large private balcony.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes. There is a beautiful venue for small weddings and elopements + a guest room for the couple.
Is there accommodation for the couple? Yes!
Parking:
Film Centre
Located in Presidio, Film Centre has unique views of the GGB and a myriad of event spaces. It is a “casually stylish” yet sophisticated venue with plenty of natural light inside and a beautiful garden that surrounds the building.
Seating: up to 180 people
Ceremony: $7,000 +
Reception: $185 per person +
Catering: preferred list
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! The venue features a Spanish-tile verandah and a lawn.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes. There is a choice of function spaces suitable for small weddings and elopements.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking:
Foreign Cinema
A perfect venue for foodies and movie lovers! It is a lovely place to elope and celebrate over a wonderful meal. Couples planning intimate weddings will get complimentary welcome cocktails, a signature-layer cake, votive candles, sommelier assistance and a personalized chef-autographed cookbook.
Seating: up to 170 people
Ceremony: $2,750 +
Reception: $64-$255 per person
Catering: in-house
Alcohol: in-house
Does it have an outdoor area? Yes! An outdoor patio has been recently opened.
Is it suitable for intimate events? Yes. The venue has a special offer for small events of 20-40 guests.
Is there accommodation for the couple? No.
Parking: