Intimate Destination Wedding at the Lost Whale INn in Trinidad, California
The moody Humboldt skies were the perfect complement to the gothic vibes Heather and Dan had envisioned for their wedding day. After shooting countless weddings in challenging weather, I’ve learned to base my approach on how the couple is feeling. In this case, I have never seen a couple get so excited by the prospect of pouring rain. Running down the highway in the rain? All Heather. First dance in the rain? Both equally gleeful. I’m here to document moments rather than create them.
Venue & Florals: Lost Whale Inn // Hair: Linden and Company // Makeup: Pure Makeup Studio
Pro Tips for planning Your redwoods destination wedding
Give Your Guests Plenty of Notice
Let your nearest and dearest know of your plans as soon as you’ve got a date locked in. The redwoods are an adventure destination and that includes getting here. Encourage your guests to embrace the experience and make a vacation out of your wedding if they are able.
Create a Wedding Website
Wedding websites are especially helpful for destination weddings in remote locations. A wedding website does more than just provide the details for the wedding day itself, it’s a great way to curate your guest experience. I’m always happy to provide unique recommendations for your guests!
Don’t Rush Any Part of the Day
It’s sort of a default to think about your wedding day being confined to a set number of hours for photography coverage. Don’t think of your day as a photo shoot. It isn’t. Or at least it shouldn’t be. Avoid the stress of a constricted timeline by ensuring there is plenty of breathing room in your schedule. The magic is always happening but you won’t catch it if you’re trying to cram it into hurried bites.
Every wedding has a ton of unseen variables. Timelines, locations and decor can all be dialed in but there will inevitably be factors fully beyond your control. Your wedding day is going to look like your wedding day – no one else’s.
Guest Activities for your Redwoods Destination Wedding
Hike Wedding Rock – a winding trail with epic views of the Pacific Ocean in Sue-Meg State Park.
Madaket Harbor Cruise – from May to October, hop aboard the smallest licensed bar in California while you tour Humboldt Bay