If you’re a couple dreaming of eloping and becoming legally married in California the same day, you’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing to skip the stress of traditional weddings and embrace an intimate, spontaneous, and meaningful elopement experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, need to get married quickly for legal reasons, or simply want to make your commitment official without a big ceremony, California offers one of the most flexible and accessible legal marriage options in the country.
This blog post will walk you through the benefits of eloping in California, how same-day marriage services work, and the legal steps you need to take to make your elopement official.
Why Couples Choose to Elope in California
California is one of the most popular destinations for elopements due to its natural beauty, relaxed legal requirements, and the availability of same-day marriage services. Here are some of the most common reasons couples decide to elope in California:
- Simplicity and Privacy: Eloping allows you to focus solely on your love and commitment without the stress of a large event.
- Legal Deadlines: Some couples need to get married quickly for immigration, housing, or insurance reasons.
- Location Variety: From beaches to mountains to city halls, California offers diverse backdrops for any style of elopement.
- 24/7 Services: Authorized providers like Get Married Today can issue marriage licenses and officiate weddings any day, even on weekends and holidays.
What Is a Same-Day Elopement in California?
A same-day elopement means you get your marriage license and have a legally binding ceremony on the same day, without needing to visit the courthouse. In California, there’s no waiting period between receiving your license and getting married. This makes it possible for couples to elope spontaneously or with very little planning.
With a trusted provider like Get Married Today, everything is handled for you:
- You receive a valid California marriage license
- A licensed officiant performs the ceremony
- The officiant signs and files the marriage license
- You receive proof of marriage and can order certified copies
All of this can happen at your location of choice: your home, hotel, a beach, park, or even a scenic overlook.
Legal Requirements for Eloping in California
To get legally married in California, you need to:
- Be at least 18 years old (or have court approval if under 18)
- Provide valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Not be currently married to someone else
- Know your full legal names and birthplaces
- Pay the marriage license fee (typically \$85-\$105 depending on county)
If you’re using a confidential marriage license (ideal for privacy), both parties must be living together at the time of the wedding and the ceremony must be performed in the county where the license was issued.
Benefits of Using a Same-Day Marriage Provider Like Get Married Today
Many couples assume they have to go to a courthouse to get legally married, but that’s not the case in California. Here’s why using a licensed provider like Get Married Today can save you time and stress:
- We Issue the Marriage License: No need to wait in line at the county clerk’s office.
- We Perform the Ceremony: A licensed officiant will conduct a simple or customized ceremony on the spot.
- We File the Paperwork: We handle all legal filing with the county.
- We Come to You: Whether you’re at a beach, home, or hotel, we travel to your location.
- We’re Available 24/7: Get married on weekends, holidays, or evenings.
Popular Locations to Elope in California
Your elopement location is entirely up to you, but here are some favorite spots among couples:
- Laguna Beach (romantic coastal views)
- Big Bear Lake (mountain vibes and cozy cabins)
- Griffith Park, Los Angeles (city views and rustic charm)
- Santa Monica Pier (sunset ocean ceremonies)
- Your own backyard or living room (intimate, personal settings)
Remember, Get Married Today can come to any location that’s meaningful to you.
What Happens After the Ceremony?
After you’re legally married, here’s what comes next:
- Proof of Marriage: You receive a proof of marriage document for immediate use
- Certified Copies: You can request certified marriage certificates (needed for name change, immigration, etc.)
- Apostille Certification: If you’re sending the marriage certificate abroad, we can help get it apostilled for international use
- Name Change Help: We provide information and guidance on changing your last name
When Is the Best Time to Elope?
There is no wrong time to elope, but here are some ideal moments:
- Before a deployment (for military couples)
- Prior to moving in together or buying a home
- Before filing taxes jointly
- When applying for immigration or residency benefits
- Around your anniversary, birthday, or a meaningful date
How to Book Your Elopement with Get Married Today
Booking your same-day elopement is easy:
- Visit GetMarried.Today
- Click “Book Now” and choose your date and time
- Provide your information and upload your ID
- Confirm your location and make payment
- Meet us at your location to get married and receive your paperwork
It really is that simple.
FAQs About Same-Day Elopement in California
Do I have to be a California resident to get married there?
No, anyone can get married in California. Residency is not required.
Can we get married on a holiday or weekend?
Yes! Get Married Today offers same-day services 365 days a year.
Do we need witnesses?
A public license requires one witness. A confidential license does not.
How long does it take?
The entire process, including license and ceremony, can take under 1 hour.
Is this a legal marriage?
Yes, your marriage is legally recognized in California, the U.S., and abroad (with apostille).
Final Thoughts
Eloping in California can be one of the most romantic and stress-free decisions you ever make. It’s quick, legal, and entirely about the two of you. Whether you’re driven by love, logistics, or both, Get Married Today makes it easy to tie the knot and start your next chapter.
Skip the courthouse. Skip the stress. Say “I do” your way — today.
Book your same-day elopement now at https://getmarried.today/.