Sutro Bath’s SF Elopement
M & S eloped this weekend with their closest family and friends. I got to meet them at the beautiful Beacon Grand to capture their details and first look before heading to City Hall in San Francisco. S’s dad gifted M a new Rolex for his wedding day and their suite had sweeping views of the city with a balcony!! I absolutely loved the blue walls and city views. We took an Uber to City Hall for a small ceremony, family photos, and portraits before heading to Lands End. Poor Sophia forgot her Blundstones but was such a champ in her heels all over the city and into Lands End. When we got to Sutro Baths, a big crowd of tourists ended up standing by me and cheering after every photo.! It was the sweetest thing so we had to take a picture with them to end the day. M & S are meeting me in Big Sur in a couple of weeks for some more couple portraits and I can’t wait to hear about their beautiful European honeymoon.
Future Brides:
It was my first time shooting at the Beacon Grand Hotel but I had always wanted to visit as it was such a historic building. They recently remodeled their starlight lounge upstairs that opens at 4 pm and OMG they did such a beautiful job. With 365 views of the city, funky interior, and vinyl on repeat, I would have loved to take some shots of M & S in their space but with their opening hours, we didn’t have time. FUTURE COUPLES: Ask if there’s a way to do your getting ready IN the starlight !! it would be absolutely incredible before it opens.
If you are wanting any areas like Lands End please bring flat comfortable shoes! I promise you will enjoy the experience much more than in heels!!
Hotel: Beacon Grand
Ceremony: SF City Hall
Portraits: Lands End
Dress: Reformation
Shoes: Stuart Weitzman
San Francisco City Hall: A Stunning Urban Venue
Why SF City Hall Is Perfect for Elopements
San Francisco City Hall is often considered one of the most beautiful government buildings in the United States, and it’s the ideal setting for couples looking for elegance and romance without a traditional wedding. With its grand staircase, soaring dome, and opulent Beaux-Arts architecture, this building offers a stunning, timeless backdrop for your vows.
Top Reasons to Elope at SF City Hall:
Historic Charm: With its marble floors, intricate ceilings, and gold accents, the entire building feels like a work of art.
Convenient & Affordable: A City Hall elopement is a hassle-free option. You can get married right in the heart of San Francisco without the need for extravagant planning or a large budget.
Multiple Locations for Photos: From the grand Rotunda to the balcony with sweeping views of the city, there are countless photo opportunities to capture the beauty of your day.
How to Plan Your Elopement at SF City Hall
Book Your Marriage License: The first step is securing your marriage license from the San Francisco County Clerk’s office. You don't need to be a California resident, but you do need to bring valid ID.
Schedule Your Appointment: San Francisco City Hall is a popular elopement venue, so it's a good idea to book your ceremony as early as possible. They offer short civil ceremonies performed by a commissioner or a judge. You can even choose to have the ceremony in one of their stunning rooms for a small fee.
Bring Your Witnesses: You’ll need at least one witness to sign your marriage license. Don't worry if you don’t have anyone in mind — City Hall can provide one for you!
Dress the Part: While you can certainly keep things casual, many couples opt for a more formal look. Given the grandeur of City Hall, it’s easy to feel like royalty in this beautiful setting.
Sutro Baths: Nature Meets the Sea for an Iconic Elopement Experience
After your romantic ceremony at SF City Hall, why not head to one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks for some stunning photos? Sutro Baths, located just minutes from Ocean Beach, offers a dramatic and unique setting for an elopement photoshoot.
Why Sutro Baths Is the Ideal Spot for Your Elopement
Sutro Baths is a historic site that offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. Originally built in the late 1800s as a large public bathhouse, the ruins now serve as a reminder of the city’s rich history and offer a striking contrast of old-world charm with the raw beauty of nature. The fog rolling in from the Pacific creates an ethereal, otherworldly vibe that’s perfect for couples seeking a dramatic yet peaceful backdrop for their wedding photos.
Top Reasons to Elope at Sutro Baths:
Stunning Ocean Views: The combination of the crashing waves and golden hour light makes for some of the most breathtaking wedding photos you'll ever have.
Rich History and Architecture: Explore the eerie, historic ruins that stand as silent witnesses to decades of San Francisco's past.
Privacy and Seclusion: While Sutro Baths can get busy during peak times, the expansive area offers plenty of opportunities for quiet, intimate moments away from crowds.
How to Plan Your Elopement at Sutro Baths
Timing is Key: For the best photos, plan your elopement in the late afternoon or early evening when the lighting is soft and the golden hour hits. The views are particularly magical during sunset.
Dress Appropriately for the Weather: The weather at Sutro Baths can be chilly, especially near the water. Layer up in a cozy jacket or shawl if you’re eloping in the cooler months.
Be Prepared to Walk: The ruins and trails around Sutro Baths can involve some walking. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore more than just the main structure.
Hiring a Photographer: To capture the full magic of the place, consider hiring a photographer who is familiar with Sutro Baths. They’ll know the best spots for your photos, from the ruins to the cliffs above.
How to Combine SF City Hall and Sutro Baths for the Perfect Elopement
One of the best things about eloping in San Francisco is that you don’t have to choose between a sophisticated, urban ceremony and a rugged, scenic backdrop. With the close proximity of City Hall to Sutro Baths, you can easily have both!
Here’s a Suggested Itinerary:
Morning: Arrive at San Francisco City Hall for your civil ceremony. Take your time to capture photos inside and around the building.
Afternoon: Head to Sutro Baths for an adventurous and romantic photoshoot. You can enjoy the spectacular views, walk the trails, and explore the ruins.
Evening: Finish the day with a sunset picnic at Ocean Beach or a cozy dinner at one of San Francisco’s romantic eateries.
Final Thoughts on Elope at SF City Hall and Sutro Baths
Eloping in San Francisco offers an incredible combination of city sophistication and natural beauty, and there’s no better way to experience both than by having your ceremony at SF City Hall followed by a photoshoot at Sutro Baths. Whether you’re looking for an elegant, intimate ceremony or a wild adventure in nature, these two spots are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs:
Do I need a permit for an elopement at Sutro Baths?
No permit is required for a photoshoot at Sutro Baths, but you should be respectful of the area and other visitors.How much does it cost to elope at SF City Hall?
A basic ceremony at City Hall is typically very affordable, starting around $100. Additional fees apply for photography sessions and private rooms.What time of year is best for an elopement in San Francisco?
The spring and fall months tend to have the best weather for outdoor shoots, but each season offers something unique.
By choosing both SF City Hall and Sutro Baths for your elopement, you’ll experience the perfect combination of romance, history, and natural beauty — a timeless way to start your life together in one of the world’s most iconic cities.
