San Diego Courthouse Elopement with Classic Car | Drew & Josie
A Classic Car, Courthouse Switch-Up, and the Best Kind of Spontaneity
Looking for inspiration for a laid-back yet unforgettable California elopement? Drew & Josie’s San Diego courthouse elopement is the perfect blueprint. From ditching busy LA courthouse lines to renting a vintage car for post-ceremony portraits, this day had all the right vibes.
Why They Eloped in San Diego (Not LA)
Drew and Josie live in Los Angeles, but LA courthouses can be booked up for weeks—sometimes months—with couples trying to elope. Instead of waiting around, they took matters into their own hands and planned a quick escape to San Diego.
Pro Tip: If you're planning a courthouse elopement and your local city is booked or hard to schedule, don’t be afraid to look at nearby towns or counties. Turning it into a mini adventure can make the day feel even more special. Pick a spot with easy availability, bring your person, and make a day out of it.
The Courthouse, The Car, and The City
After making it official, we hit the streets in style. I shot a mix of digital and film throughout the day to capture the full vibe—from the texture of the city to the quiet, in-between moments. Drew and Josie rented a vintage car for a few hours, and it added a perfect layer of character to their elopement. With the help of Google Maps scouting (thank you, technology), I found a few local spots around San Diego where we could stop for photos—quiet corners, bold colors, open light.
We bounced from the courthouse to those hidden gems, laughing in the car and soaking up that "just married" energy. Huge shoutout to @sdvintagerides for the amazing ride and helping make this part of the day feel unforgettable. Not only did the car add a killer visual element, but they also grabbed some behind-the-scenes footage that made the experience even more fun. The day wrapped up with a walk on the beach, some light shenanigans, and cake in their hotel room—low-key and perfect.
Pro Tip: Renting a classic car, even for just a couple hours, can turn your photo session into something cinematic. It doesn't have to be all-day—just enough to cruise, capture some fun shots, and create space for real moments.
A Laid-Back Day That Still Felt Big
There was something grounding about the way Drew and Josie moved through their day. No pressure to perform, no big audience to entertain. And yet, it still felt huge—because it was.
If you're considering eloping, this is your reminder that small doesn't mean less meaningful. In fact, it can open the door for more intention, more adventure, and more room for what matters.
Elopement Planning Tips from the Day
Check availability in nearby counties. Courthouse calendars vary a lot. Look beyond your city if you want to move quickly.
Add one detail that makes the day feel like you. For Drew and Josie, it was the car. For you, maybe it’s a stop at your favorite taco spot or a sunset cliff hike.
Make time for the in-between. Elopements aren’t just about the ceremony—they’re about the story. Build space for spontaneity.
Don't overthink it. You don't need a production team to have an unforgettable elopement. You just need intention, trust, and someone to document it honestly.
Kind Words from the Couple
"Jeffrey shot our elopement photos in San Diego and I couldn't recommend him more! Not only did the photos come out absolutely beautiful, but he also makes the whole experience very seamless and easy for us. He has a keen eye for photography and knows how to get the best shot, while making you feel comfortable and heard."
The Takeaway
Drew & Josie’s San Diego elopement reminded me why I love shooting these kinds of days. Less structure, more story. If you're planning to elope in Southern California and want your day to feel like you from start to finish, this is your sign to think outside the box, skip the lines, and maybe rent the cool car.
Scroll on for some of my favorite San Diego courthouse elopement photos ↓
