Downtown Fresno Elopement

Shelbi and Dylan sharing a quiet moment outside the Fresno County Courthouse after their elopement.

Downtown Fresno Elopement

Elopements hold a kind of quiet beauty. When the guest list is small and the setting is simple, it allows couples to focus on what really matters. That was exactly the case for Shelbi and Dylan’s Downtown Fresno Elopement this June. Their day was thoughtful, laid-back, and deeply rooted in love.

They chose to say “I do” at the Fresno County Courthouse with Shelbi’s parents by their side. After the ceremony, we took a short walk to a nearby park for portraits. With warm light filtering through the trees and no pressure to perform, the afternoon unfolded at a slow and meaningful pace.

Close-up of the wedding florals at the courthouse
Shelbi and Dylan celebrating after their elopement ceremony at the courthouse

A Love Story Rooted in Simplicity for their Downtown Fresno Elopement

Shelbi and Dylan first met on the dating app Upward, and their connection was instant. For their very first date, they spent hours walking and talking at Woodward Park. The next day, they went on a long hike in Yosemite. Their relationship has always been about quality time, fresh air, and deep conversation. That sense of togetherness showed up in every part of their wedding day.

When it came time to propose, Dylan kept it sweet and simple. He just asked while they were sitting together on the couch. No big plans, just a quiet moment between two people who already knew they were building something real.

That same intentional simplicity carried through into their decision to elope. Instead of planning a large, traditional wedding, Shelbi and Dylan chose a small courthouse ceremony followed by a relaxed photo session. It was true to who they are as a couple—easygoing, connected, and grounded.

Couple sharing a quiet moment after their Downtown Fresno elopement.

How They Spend Their Time

Getting to know my couples before the big day is one of my favorite parts of being a photographer. Shelbi and Dylan’s pre-elopement questionnaire was filled with simple joys: they love taking casual drives, going for walks, and spending time at the beach. Nothing extravagant, just shared experiences that bring them closer together.

That gave me such helpful insight going into their elopement. I knew they wouldn’t want stiff, overly posed photos or a rushed timeline. They’re at their best when they’re relaxed, moving naturally, and spending time outdoors, so we let their photo session unfold with that in mind.

Couple sitting close together in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Walking side by side through their Downtown Fresno elopement

My Approach to Elopements

When photographing elopements, I aim to keep things calm and comfortable. Whether it’s a Downtown Fresno courthouse or a mountain overlook, my goal is to capture the real moments—the way you look at each other right before your vows, how your hands find each other during a quiet pause, the soft laughter between shots.

For Shelbi and Dylan, that meant walking slowly through the park after the ceremony, soaking in the sunlight and each other. They were completely in tune, smiling easily and sharing glances that didn’t need words. We paused often, embraced the natural light, and let their dynamic lead the way.

Final kiss photo with downtown Fresno building softly blurred in the background.

Family Matters

While some elopements are just the couple, Shelbi and Dylan invited Shelbi’s parents to be part of the ceremony. Their presence brought an added layer of warmth and support to the day. Watching her parents beam with pride during the vows reminded me that small weddings don’t have to feel small at all.

Including a few close family members can bring such richness to an elopement. It’s a reminder that intimacy and tradition can absolutely coexist.

Shelbi with her mom before the ceremony, both smiling warmly.
Shelbi hugging her mom after the ceremony

How to Elope at Fresno County Courthouse

Planning your own Downtown Fresno Elopement? Here’s a simple guide to help you get started with a courthouse ceremony in Fresno County:

1. Apply for a Marriage License
You’ll need to visit the Fresno County Clerk’s Office to apply for a marriage license. Both partners must be present with valid photo IDs. No appointment is necessary, but it’s best to check the official website for hours and requirements.

2. Choose Your Ceremony Type
You have two options:

  • Civil Ceremony at the Courthouse: You can schedule a ceremony with a Deputy Commissioner of Civil Marriages. This must be booked in advance.
  • Private Officiant: You can bring your own officiant and hold a small ceremony on the courthouse grounds or nearby.

3. Bring Witnesses
You’ll need at least one witness (or two, depending on the license type). If you’re eloping with just the two of you, some photographers (including me) can sign as a witness.

4. Dress Your Way
Whether you’re wearing a traditional gown or something more casual, there’s no strict dress code for courthouse weddings. Wear what makes you feel your best.

5. Plan Photos Afterward
After your ceremony, we can head to a nearby park or urban spot for portraits. Downtown Fresno has some lovely architecture, green spaces, and golden-hour light.

A soft, romantic portrait of the couple beneath shaded park trees at their Downtown Fresno elopement

Kind Words from Shelbi

After their Downtown Fresno Elopement, Shelbi shared this sweet review:

“Ashley was really great to work with! She made everyone feel very comfortable, paid attention to notes of preferences and ideas and was great with direction, hair fixing, and posing. Definitely plan to be a repeat customer!”

That means the world to me. My goal is always to create a relaxed experience where you feel confident, seen, and cared for—from our first conversation to the final gallery.

Detail shot of Shelbi’s bouquet
Couple sharing a quiet moment after their Downtown Fresno Elopement

Shelbi and Dylan, thank you for letting me be part of this special moment in your story. Your elopement was full of heart, authenticity, and love. From the courthouse vows to the our walk through the park, every detail felt intentional and personal. I hope these images always take you back to that feeling.

Close up of bride and groom's ring details for Downtown Fresno elopement

Thinking About a Downtown Fresno Elopement?

If you’re considering eloping in Fresno or planning a courthouse ceremony of your own, I hope Shelbi and Dylan’s story encourages you to lean into what feels right for you. Elopements aren’t about doing less—they’re about choosing what matters most.

I’m here to walk you through every step and help create an experience that feels genuine and stress-free. You can check out more of my elopement blog posts here for inspiration, and when you’re ready to start planning, reach out to me here. I’d love to tell your story.

Elopements

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June 6, 2025

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