Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Destination: Big Bear, California

I have to confess, you guys.  I am still daydreaming over the snowy elopement ideas.  AND my handy little stat meter tells me some of you are looking for Big Bear elopement information so this post is for you.

image courtesy Sara Lucero
What's to love: Perfect for the nature lovers - winter, spring, summer, or fall.  Big Bear has so many options to choose from if you want to get married outside: in the forest, in a meadow, by Big Bear Lake... Big Bear has it all.  There are a ton of romantical cabins you can rent for just the two of you.  Many of them are pet friendly, just in case you want to bring Fido as your witness to your elopement.  Some of them even have private outdoor jacuzzi's - so perfect in the winter time!

What you'll need and what you need to know:  
  • There are two types of marriage licenses in the state of California - public and confidental.  
    • For a public license: $88, open to the public, may be used anywhere in the State of California, one witness required (besides person performing ceremony).
    • For a confidential license: $90, not open to the public, photocopies issued to couple only, ceremony must take place in San Bernardino County, no witnesses required, applicants must be living together as husband and wife. Note: Confidential marriage licenses are also offered by certain authorized notaries. For a list of San Bernardino County authorized notaries by location, please click here.  TIP: Some officiants can provide a private license for you.
  • Applicants must be an unmarried man and an unmarried woman and at least 18 years of age with a valid photo ID.
  • If either of you have been divorced or had an annulment within the last year, you will need to bring a certified copy of the Judgment of Annulment or Final Decree of Dissolution before issuing a license.
  • At this time, California does not support same sex marriages.
  • Unusual need: All persons who are members of a religious society or denomination not having clergy for the purpose of solemnizing marriages, must let the clerk know they need a VS 115 form (Family Code, Section 425).
  • You two lovebirds will have to go to the San Bernadino County Clerk's office together. First call 909-387-8334 to schedule an appointment from Monday-Friday 8:00a-3:30p except holidays.
  • When you're there, you'll be directed toward a kiosk to fill out a questionnaire.  TIP: Go here to read the questions and have your answers ready to save time.
Helpful Links:

And one more Big Bear elopement shot, just cause....
image courtesy J and J Creative


    Monday, September 17, 2012

    Wedding Ring Alternative

    image courtesy Offbeatbride.com

    There are many reasons one would choose not to wear a wedding ring - comfort, medical, work, lifestyle, or matters of principle being the majority of them.  You can still show your lifelong commitment to your spouse by sporting a wedding tattoo.  Here are a few options to get the cogs turning in your brain if you are feeling like a traditional wedding band may not be for you.



    LOVING this Owl + Tree tattoo.  Check out the adorable couple behind them here.


    Matching Infinity symbol tattoos.  Saying forever in more ways than one.


    I super love the story behind why this gentleman chose to have E2 tattooed instead of wearing a wedding ring.  He says, "I'm married 32 years, I don't wear a wedding band. I'm Ernie my wife's name is Elaine. Hense E Squared....". CUTE!





    And how cool is this? A diamond tattoo instead of a real diamond? This diamond really is forever.


    Thursday, September 13, 2012

    Destination: Anywhere Snowy!

    It's almost winter - I know, I know, Autumn hasn't even officially begun yet - but I've already got the winter  itch.  No, not the dry, flaky skin winter itch... the sweaters and boots and hot chocolate and gray day itch.  This is not going to be my typical Destination post as this post isn't destination specific.  This post is more to sway those who think they have to either head to the courthouse or wait until spring to elope outdoors.

    image courtesy Carly Mitchell Photography
    How cute are those two? LOVING the faux fur throw detail. Perfect to protect your tushy from catching a chill.

    image courtesy Green Wedding Shoes, Jenny Haas, & Ashley Krogman Designs
    What's that I spy with my little eye?  A bouquet made from pine cones, twigs, and ribbon.  Chic AND cheap.  Snaps all around.

    image courtesy Peter Bang Photography
    What a lucky couple - snow is actually falling for their photographs!

    image courtesy Green Wedding Shoes & Benji Haisch
    Wedding snow boots! Falling snow! Smiley-happy couple! *swoon*

    image courtesy Orange Girl Photographs
    The red in that cape makes a lovely contrast against an almost all white background.


    So go ahead, plan your winter elopement and send me the pics after!

    Thursday, September 6, 2012

    Elopement Announcement Inspiration!

    image courtesy jesslively.com

    If you've been searching the web, as I have, for fun elopement announcements, you've probably found that there are slim pickings.  I saw some fun Save-the-Date ideas that could easily translate into elopement announcements. Take a peek at these and get some inspiration!