How to Plan a Dreamy Micro-Wedding at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego, CA

Bella & Athenie’s micro wedding at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego was one for the books! One of my favorite wedding moments of 2024 was Ath jumping for joy during their wedding ceremony. I knew from the first email Bella sent me that we would all be friends, but this moment solidified it for me. These two have become good friends of ours, and I think loving our partners so much has something to do with that. My kind of people are the ones who love big, love hard, and aren’t afraid to show it to the world!

Bella & Athenie chose to have their intimate wedding ceremony at Osprey Point at Sunset Cliffs. This spot has a stunning ocean background and is nestled on the edge of the cliffs. They had about 15 of their closest friends in attendance as they said their vows to each other. Post-ceremony, we headed to Secret Sister in South Park to continue the festivities. There, more of their close friends joined to eat and drink into the night.

If you’ve been dreaming of a San Diego micro-wedding with breathtaking ocean views, Sunset Cliffs might just be your perfect venue. Known for its dramatic coastal scenery and golden-hour magic, Sunset Cliffs offers the ideal backdrop for an intimate celebration of love. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your micro-wedding at Sunset Cliffs and make it unforgettable.

Why Choose a Micro-Wedding at Sunset Cliffs?

Micro-weddings are all about focusing on what matters most: your love story, the people closest to you, and creating moments you’ll cherish forever. With its rugged cliffs, endless ocean vistas, and stunning sunsets, Sunset Cliffs provides a romantic, natural setting that feels intimate yet awe-inspiring.

Whether you envision exchanging vows with the sound of waves crashing below or sharing your first kiss bathed in soft, golden light, a micro-wedding at Sunset Cliffs offers unparalleled opportunities for meaningful and gorgeous moments.

Securing Your Spot: The Permit Process

One crucial detail for hosting your micro-wedding at Sunset Cliffs is obtaining a permit. The area is part of San Diego’s park system, which requires permits for events to ensure preservation and manage crowds. Don’t let the paperwork intimidate you—it’s a small step for a big payoff.

Start by contacting the City of San Diego’s Parks and Recreation Department to inquire about availability and permit requirements. They’ll guide you through the process, including fees and any restrictions. Planning ahead is key, as permits can be limited during peak seasons.

Why You Should Hire Me as Your Photographer

Your micro-wedding deserves to be documented in a way that feels true to you. As a San Diego-based wedding photographer, I’ve worked extensively at Sunset Cliffs and know all the best spots to capture those swoon-worthy shots. Whether it’s the perfect angle for that epic ocean backdrop or knowing how to work with the light as the sun dips below the horizon, I’ve got you covered.

More importantly, I’m here to make the day feel effortless and fun. My goal is to capture images that feel like you—authentic, timeless, and full of the energy that makes your love unique. Let me take care of preserving the memories so you can fully enjoy every moment.

Post-Ceremony Celebrations: Reception Ideas

After you say “I do” at Sunset Cliffs, the party’s just getting started! One of the best things about a San Diego micro-wedding is the variety of nearby options for a cozy, stylish reception.

Consider Secret Sister in South Park for an intimate dinner with your closest friends and family. Known for its eclectic decor and delicious seasonal menu, it’s the perfect spot to toast your new chapter. Other great options include Liberty Station for a mix of casual and upscale dining or a private Airbnb where you can celebrate late into the night.

Tips for an Unforgettable Day

  1. Time it Right: Sunset Cliffs is at its most magical during golden hour. Plan your ceremony to start about an hour before sunset for the best light.
  2. Accentuate the View: Enhance the natural beauty of Sunset Cliffs by renting elegant chairs for your guests and booking a talented florist to design arrangements that complement the stunning coastal landscape.
  3. Keep it Intimate: Stick to a small guest list to truly embrace the micro-wedding vibe and avoid crowding this serene space.

Let’s Make It Happen

Planning a San Diego micro-wedding at Sunset Cliffs combines natural beauty, intimate vibes, and endless opportunities for stunning photos. Ready to start your journey? Let’s chat about how I can help you create and capture a day that feels like magic from start to finish.

 

Here are some other micro weddings in San Diego I have photographed:

Chic & Modern Micro Wedding in La Jolla, San Diego

San Diego Micro Wedding in Solana Beach, CA

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