Forget something important and the whole session slows down. Marriage license, rings, vows—these aren’t extras. They’re non-negotiable. Bring a printed schedule, keep your phone on silent, and stash everything in one bag. Show up ready, and you’ll spend less time searching and more time enjoying your day. Here’s what belongs in every couple’s kit for a Central Coast elopement:

• Marriage license and any required permits
• Printed timeline or schedule
• Rings and a secure ring box
• Vows or personal notes
• Phone (set to silent) for emergencies
• Small tote or bag to keep it all together

Keep these items close. No one wants to dig through a car trunk or call a friend for a forgotten document. When everything’s organized, your photographer can move quickly, and you won’t lose time or energy chasing down details.

Outfits That Work for You

What you wear defines how your elopement photos turn out. The right outfit feels natural on you and matches what the Central Coast actually looks like. Paso Robles vineyards, oak trees, hills—they all bring color and texture to the frame. Clothes that move and layer handle the light changes and location shifts. Pack these:

• Wedding attire: dress, suit, jumpsuit, or whatever fits your style
• Comfortable shoes for walking between locations
• Jewelry and watches
• Veil, hairpiece, or floral crown
• Jacket, shawl, or wrap for cooler weather
• Backup outfit for spills or weather surprises

Textures and layers do the work. Lace against grapevines. Linen under an oak. Not sure what photographs well? Your photographer has shot this light a hundred times and knows what works. Want to see what other couples chose? Browse the photo gallery and check out what worked in these exact spots.

Stay Comfortable and Camera-Ready

Outdoor shoots bring wind, sun, and the occasional stray hair. A small comfort kit keeps you looking and feeling your best. Quick fixes mean you spend less time worrying and more time in the moment. Here’s what works:

• Blotting papers or powder for shine
• Mini hairspray or hairbrush
• Lip balm and lipstick for touch-ups
• Travel-size deodorant
• Band-aids for blisters
• Safety pins and fashion tape
• Small mirror

Keep these items in your bag. When hair shifts or makeup fades, you can handle it in seconds. Your photographer will pause for quick touch-ups so every shot looks natural. For more on feeling at ease in front of the camera, see how to get comfortable for the camera.

Weather Always Changes

Central Coast weather never stays the same. Sun, wind, and cool evenings can all show up in a single session. Couples who plan for the elements keep spirits high and photos on track. Pack a clear umbrella for surprise sprinkles. Bring sunscreen for bright afternoons. Toss in a cozy layer for those cool Paso Robles evenings. Shooting at sunrise or sunset? A blanket between shots keeps you comfortable. For more on how weather shapes your session, see why overcast days create perfect light for wedding photos.

Props That Matter

Props aren't decoration. They're your story in physical form. A family ring, a book you both love, a bottle from a local vineyard—these things mean something. They give your photographer material to work with that's actually about you. You don't need to overthink this. A handwritten vow, an old camera, a basket for a picnic setup—all of it works. Want more ideas? Check out hidden spots locals love for engagement photos in Paso Robles wine country and see how props fit naturally into the scene.

Keep Energy Up

Long shoots kill energy. You start strong, then you're dragging by the end. Water and snacks fix this. Pack bottles, grab easy food, throw in something good for after you're done. Posing while hungry or thirsty? That's a bad plan. A little prep here means you'll look and feel right from start to finish. If you're thinking about timing and how to structure your day, read up on best time of day for your wedding photos to plan smarter.

What Couples Forget

Even the most organized couples miss a few things. Here’s what often gets left behind:

• Printed vows: phones die, paper lasts
• Comfortable shoes: heels look great, but walking hurts
• Weather gear: sunburn and shivers show up in photos
• Snacks: energy drops fast without food
• Props: small details make big memories

Double-check your bag before leaving. A quick review saves time and stress later.

Work with Your Photographer

A photographer who actually knows Paso Robles isn't just showing up with gear. They've studied the light here. They know which spots work and which ones waste time. Give them your schedule, your non-negotiables, and anything that matters to you. Listen when they tell you what to wear, where to go, and when to shoot. Real photos come from real moments. Stiff poses don't work. When you show up ready and relaxed, your photographer can do what they do best—capture what counts.

Book Your Elopement Photographer in Paso Robles Now

Want Paso Robles elopement photos that actually matter? Call Slo Glow Photo at 805-712-3802 or contact us to work with a central coast elopement photographer who gets it—someone who knows how to catch the details, the smiles, and the moments you'll want to remember.