italian-inspired elopement in southern california

If you're dreaming of an intimate Italian elopement, but don’t want to travel all the way to Italy, you’re in luck! I had the amazing opportunity to create a styled shoot that channeled the romance and charm of an Italian wedding — all within the comfort of Southern California. We even pulled off a gorgeous Italian-inspired look in a Palos Verdes shopping center (don’t tell anyone, it’s our little secret)!

I’m always so inspired by those beautiful, intimate elopements in Italy, but you don’t have to leave California to bring that magic to life. Whether you’re planning a quiet ceremony with just the two of you or a small, intimate celebration, there are so many ways to make your elopement feel like it’s straight out of a Tuscan countryside. So, below, let's dive into how we brought those dreamy Italian vibes to life—and how you can do it too!

3 Tips for Creating an Intimate, Italian-Inspired Elopement in Southern California

1. Choose a Hidden Gem Location

The beauty of Italy’s weddings often lies in the location — it’s all about finding that hidden gem! For our styled shoot, we picked a spot in Palos Verdes, right in the heart of Southern California, that mimicked the charm of Italy’s historic buildings and rustic landscapes. Think sunlit courtyards, gardens with sweeping views, or even quaint shopping centers that have old-world charm.

The best part? You don’t need to hop on a plane to find these spots. Southern California is full of unique places that exude an Italian vibe. Here are a few:

• Greystone Mansion and Park (Beverly Hills): This historic estate has European-inspired gardens and old-world charm, making it the perfect location for an Italian-style wedding or engagement photoshoot. The estate’s timeless elegance and sweeping gardens make you feel like you’ve stepped into a grand villa in Italy.

• The Getty Villa (Malibu): This villa brings a touch of ancient Greece and Rome to Southern California. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and coastal views, it offers a timeless, Mediterranean-inspired setting perfect for a romantic, Italian-style wedding or photoshoot.

• The Ettiene Estate (Pasadena): This venue offers a stunning blend of Mediterranean elegance and Italian charm. With its grand architecture, lush gardens, and romantic ambiance, it’s the perfect Southern California venue for couples seeking a European-inspired setting for their wedding, elopement, or photoshoot.

• Carmel-by-the-Sea: While this town is located in Central California, its cobblestone streets, Italian-style architecture, and old-world charm will transport you straight to Italy. It has the perfect blend of quaint shops, cozy cafes, and scenic coastal views that evoke a Tuscan village vibe.

Look for venues or locations with natural beauty, warm lighting, and maybe even a bit of that Mediterranean feel. Whether it’s a hidden garden or a historic villa, the right location will give your elopement that unforgettable romantic atmosphere.

2. Embrace Thrifted & Vintage Details

One of the best parts about this shoot? The dress. Yep, I found this gorgeous gown at a thrift store for just $10. Talk about a steal, right? It was perfect for creating that timeless Italian wedding look without the hefty price tag. Italian weddings are known for their elegance and classic charm, so don’t be afraid to get creative with vintage or thrifted details.

Look for one-of-a-kind items, like a vintage lace veil, heirloom jewelry, or an antique ring box. The right details can really bring out the romantic, timeless vibe you want for your elopement. Plus, these items often carry so much more meaning — whether they’re passed down or handpicked just for you. You don’t need to spend a fortune to look and feel like you stepped out of a classic Italian love story.

3. Focus on Personal, Romantic Moments

When it comes to an Italian elopement, it’s all about the personal connection between you and your partner. Italy is known for its romance, and the key is to create moments that truly reflect your relationship. Take your time — whether it’s exchanging handwritten vows, sharing a quiet moment before the ceremony, or dancing under the stars, these small, intimate moments will make your elopement feel extra special.

And that’s where I come in! I’ll guide you through every step, giving you gentle prompts to get you laughing, hugging, walking together, and enjoying each other’s company. With a little help, you’ll have so many natural, heartfelt moments captured in the most beautiful way. After all, the goal is to make your elopement feel like you — carefree, romantic, and full of love.

How We Did It: Behind the Scenes of Our Styled Italian Elopement Shoot

As a Palos Verdes photographer and Southern California wedding photographer, I’m always looking for ways to make my shoots feel personal, creative, and unique. For this styled shoot, we created an Italian-inspired elopement that captured the essence of Italy’s rustic elegance, all while staying close to home.

The location? A hidden gem in Palos Verdes (that’s right, a shopping center with Italian vibes)! The quaint, vintage feel of the space had so much charm, and it was the perfect backdrop for the romantic, carefree mood we wanted. The model bride wore a gorgeous gown I scored for just $10 at a thrift store — proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a beautiful, unique look!

Ready to Plan Your Own Italian-Inspired Elopement?

If you're dreaming of an intimate, romantic elopement with an Italian touch, I’d love to help bring that vision to life. Whether you're in Palos Verdes, Southern California, or beyond, let's create some magic together. Reach out, and we can start planning an unforgettable experience with all the charm and romance of Italy — no passport needed.