Orange County Courthouse Wedding Photographer
Courthouse wedding photography for couples who want to keep it simple
The Beauty of the Uncomplicated
There is a quiet power in a ceremony that is shared only by those who know you best. If the thought of a massive traditional wedding feels more like a performance than a celebration, you’re in the right place. You want a wedding that feels chic yet uncomplicated—a day that prioritizes real chemistry over stiff poses and genuine connection over a guest list of acquaintances. By moving away from the 'big wedding' mold, you’re making room for a day that is as full of love as it is effortless, allowing every moment to feel iconic and entirely yours.
Meet your advocate & photographer
That is where I come in. I see myself as an advocate for your day, making sure the 'plan' never gets in the way of the actual magic. I help you navigate the flow of your day from a photographer’s perspective, ensuring that the schedule serves your peace of mind rather than the other way around. My job is to handle the documentation so you can stay fully tucked into the moments that matter.
Hi, I’m Devan. I’ve called Orange County home for six years and have been photographing courthouse weddings and elopements since 2020. I’ve guided countless couples through their wedding days, helping everything feel easy, calm, and thoughtfully planned from start to finish. I’m fueled by a love for travel, a daily matcha, and a genuine joy for organizing the details so you do not have to. When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll usually find me outdoors or spending time with my cat of 12 years. No matter how short or simple your wedding day may be, I believe it deserves to feel intentional, relaxed, and beautifully curated.
If I had to guess, you’re currently feeling a mix of relief and a tiny bit of guilt
Maybe it’s the pressure of expectations or the fear of letting people down, but here’s how I see it: choosing intimacy over an audience isn't 'taking the easy way out.' It’s taking the intentional way out. It’s choosing a day that actually sounds like you.
You value the "after" as much as the "I do." You’d rather spend the evening at your favorite local bistro or a cozy backyard dinner than navigating a seated reception for 200 people.
You want to actually remember your ceremony. You don't want to be so overwhelmed by the production that the actual exchange of vows becomes a blur.
You're a bit of a sentimental minimalist. You believe that the most important part of the day is the person standing next to you, and everything else is just extra noise.
You want to feel like a guest at your own wedding. You’re looking for a day where the biggest "task" on your list is simply being present with one another.
You appreciate the "old-school" romanticism of a city hall wedding. There is something timeless and iconic about a courthouse elopement that a grand ballroom just can't replicate.
Because you've chosen to prioritize what matters, you shouldn't have to stress over the 'how.' That’s where my years of navigating the Laguna Hills Civic Center come in.
“Devan is the photographer you WANT without a DOUBT!! she’s so easy to work with, joyful, communicative and makes you feel comfortable to interact with her during your photoshoot.
I had the privilege to have her photograph our engagement and wedding photos. We have loved (and will continue to love) looking at the photos again and again— they're just PERFECT! 🫶🏼😍”
The Laguna Hills Civic Center Experience
Getting married at the Laguna Hills Civic Center is about trading the noise of a traditional wedding for a day that feels modern, effortless, and entirely yours. Unlike the hustle of other branches, the experience here is designed for couples who want simplicity without sacrificing style.
A Streamlined 'I Do': I have navigated the Laguna Hills Civic Center process countless times and will guide you through the flow—from the check-in at Suite 160 to the moment you exchange rings.
Modern Backdrops: Whether we are utilizing the clean, architectural lines of the building or the manicured lawns and water features, I know exactly where the light hits best to capture your love.
Your Personal Advocate: Especially in a courthouse setting, things can feel fast-paced. I’m there to slow it down, acting as your advocate to ensure the logistics of the appointment never overshadow the actual magic of your ceremony.
Intimate & Authentic: Because you’ve chosen a smaller guest count, we have the freedom to focus on the raw, unfiltered connection.
Witness Requirement: I am always honored to officially sign as your witness if you’re choosing a truly private ‘just us’ experience.
View recent ceremonies I photographed at the Laguna Hills Civic Center
“Having Devan take our wedding photos on the beach was the BEST decision. The entire process from planning to the day-of was so smooth and easy. She clearly has a lot of knowledge and experience in the area and had the best recommendations for locations. And as two people who are not great in front of a camera, she made us feel so comfortable and the results are incredible!! Would recommend 100%!!”
Orange County Wedding Guides
Some Logistics
Location: South County Branch Office at the Laguna Hills Civic Center, 24031 El Toro Road, Suites 150 & 160, Laguna Hills, CA 92653.
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m
Special Saturdays: The office typically opens one Saturday per month for marriage services. These days are very busy with other ceremonies!
Guest Limit: You can bring up to 20 guests to witness your ceremony
Parking: Ample, free parking is available in the lot right at the Civic Center
Public License: Requires at least one witness over the age of 18 to be present and sign the license. Confidential license does not require witnesses
Public Marriage License: $61.
Confidential Marriage License: $66 (requires the couple to be living together)
Civil Ceremony Fee: $28, officiated by county staff
Certified Copy of Certificate: $19 per copy (highly recommended to order at least two for legal name changes)
Photography Pricing
Elopements and micro weddings are my favorite to capture with their inherent intimacy. This starter package is perfect for a courthouse session to include photos of the ceremony process, photos of you two, and photos with any guests that may be present. I am also happy (and honored) to be your witness in the case that you opt to not have guests!
For weddings at the Laguna Hills Civic Center:
115+ professionally processed images in an online gallery
Sneak peek of 25+ edited images within 48 hours and final gallery within 4-5 weeks
20% deposit with remainder due 1 week prior to your appointment
Additional photography coverage available for receptions or the after party. Each hour is $250 with 50+ more edited images!
$850
Shall we start planning a day that feels like you?
Let’s make your day everything you dreamed of!
Submit Your Date: Fill out the quick inquiry form.
The Game Plan: We’ll chat through your vision and the logistics (license, timing, and my tips for your courthouse wedding day!)
The Big Day: Step into your day with total peace of mind. While you focus on each other, I’ll be there to guide you and capture the quiet, iconic moments of your new chapter!
Words that come to mind when clients see my work:
History on the Laguna Hills Civic Center
The Laguna Hills Civic Center is the heart of city government in Laguna Hills, California. The building was repurposed into City Hall in 2004, transforming an existing office space into a civic hub rather than constructing a new facility. Today, it houses city offices and features public art that reflects early California history, including the area’s Native American roots and rancho-era past.