Relaxed Santa Barbara Elopement

There’s something about Santa Barbara. Between the sun, sea breezes, and beautiful architecture, it was a perfect place for Tani and Cameron to get married. This relaxed Santa Barbara elopement featured three wedding dresses, one for each location. I documented Tani and Cameron exploring Santa Barbara and enjoying their sunny elopement day to its fullest.

A Relaxed Santa Barbara Elopement

I’ve been lucky enough to know Tani and Cameron for a while now. They were the very first couple I photographed after moving to Oregon. I photographed their engagement session on the coast while they were on their way to Alaska. We had an absolute blast! It left us even more excited about their wedding.

Originally, Tani and Cameron planned an intimate wedding in Alaska in 2023, but circumstances made them want to get married sooner. We planned their Santa Barbara elopement in just three weeks! These photos are a beautiful reflection of how playful and loving Tani and Cameron are when they’re together. They let themselves get so wrapped up in each other that they laughed and kissed all through their elopement day. 

We started the elopement experience the night before. I like doing this to help couples ease into photos. If you’re already comfortable with me on elopement day, you don’t have to spend that precious time getting used to having me around. Tani and Cameron welcomed me to their AirBnB. They snuggled on the couch and took a short walk around the neighborhood. We ended the evening with decadent ice cream sundaes.

Candid Photos in Downtown Santa Barbara

On the morning of their Santa Barbara elopement, we started the morning in the botanical gardens. Tani and Cameron exchanged private vows in the shade of sprawling trees. It was so nice to ease into the day with this intimate experience. They explored the winding paths while I photographed candids. Tani and Cameron so clearly love each other and always want to ensure that their partner is having a great time. It makes them easy to photograph! 

Next we headed to the beautiful Santa Barbara Courthouse for their ceremony. A small group of family and friends joined them for a shady ceremony on the lawn. Some loved ones even attended via FaceTime. The courthouse has such cool architecture that we took some time walking around the grounds for portraits.

Tani and Cameron wanted the rest of the afternoon to feel fun and easy. We explored downtown Santa Barbara. Everywhere we went, cool architecture gave us opportunities for unique portraits. Someone brought a bubble machine to give the newlyweds a mini exit moment. They laughed and danced through the bubbles. Consider this my petition to have bubble machines at every elopement, thanks!

The night ended back at Tani and Cameron’s AirBnB. They sipped sparkling cider and watched the sun go down on the porch swing. Afterward, they climbed into bed with their cake and enjoyed a delicious end to the day.

Are you interested in having me photograph your elopement? I’d be stoked to help you plan a custom elopement day that’s perfect for you. Reach out to me!

Thank you to the vendors who helped make Tani and Cameron’s Santa Barbara elopement possible:

Venues || Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and Santa Barbara Courthouse

Dress || Renaissance Fine Consignment

Macaroons || Macarons by Mum

Cupcakes || Heavenly Cakes & More