You don’t have to elope to have the wedding in the redwoods that you’ve always wanted
Redwood Weddings, Reimagined: A Guide for the Style-Minded Couple Who Doesn’t Want to Elope (But Also Definitely Doesn’t Want a Ballroom)
You love the redwoods. The stillness. But eloping doesn’t feel like the whole story. You want intimacy without isolation, style without spectacle. A gathering that foregrounds immersive landscapes but incorporates all of the elements that feel true to your wedding day.
This guide is for you.
We’re skipping the formula and stepping into something that fits. Not because it’s trendy. Because it’s true.
1. The Almost Elopement: Ceremony in the Forest, Dinner By the Ocean
Who it’s for: You want the redwoods, your vows, and your nearest humans close enough to squeeze. But you don’t need a full wedding weekend.
The vibe: Intentional ceremony, slow dinner. This format allows for depth, not distraction. Exchange vows with just your partner or a curated handful of loved ones. Then return to a tucked-away inn or remodeled cabin for a multi course dinner, artful florals, live music, maybe dancing barefoot on a deck.
Pro tip: Host your guests and your dinner party at the same location.
2. Redwood Ceremony + Reception Elsewhere
Who it’s for: You want a grounding ceremony in nature but still want to host one helluva party after the fact.
The vibe: Ceremony among the trees, then move to a venue that elevates the experience. I’ve photographed couples who kept their redwood vows private, then gathered friends for a lodge reception with careful details and incredible food.
Pro tip: Split the day (or weekend) into two parts. Build the day around your adventures in the forest.
3. Portrait Sessions with Meaning (Pre-Wedding, Post-Vow, or Vow Renewal)
Who it’s for: Maybe you said your vows in the courthouse at home or maybe you’re planning a larger wedding later on, but the idea of being present together in the redwoods still calls to you.
The vibe: Laid-back. These sessions are about marking time. Read letters, walk barefoot, bring your pup, wear your wedding outfits or your favorite vintage find.
Pro tip: This session can be booked before your wedding as a means to ground yourselves or weeks or even years after your celebration. It’s a wonderful way to include meaningful locations that might not be accessible day-of.
4. The Multi-Day Micro Wedding
Who it’s for: You want a slow wedding. One that unfolds gently, where everyone unwinds, where you feel connected to the experience and to each other.
The vibe: Think of it as a weekend retreat with your inner circle. Day one might include a welcome harbor cruise and a bonfire on the beach. Day two: the ceremony and a small dinner party. Day three: brunch and a forest walk.
Pro tip: This is luxury by way of intention. Prioritize location, a small guest list, and a photographer (hi, it’s me) who reads the room like no other. Your timeline will protect your presence.
5. Host a Wedding That Feels Like an Elopement – Even If It’s Not
Who it’s for: You’re not eloping, but you want your wedding to feel grounded, personal, and emotionally resonant.
The vibe: A larger guest count, but with boundaries that protect your values. Have your first look in a redwood grove, create a guest experience that flows, and put an emphasis on photography that never pulls you out of the moment. Think less performance, more presence. Less Pinterest, more personal mythology.
Pro tip: Let your wedding reflect your relationship, not a borrowed storyline. Your ceremony doesn’t need a script. Your photos don’t need a shot list. Prioritize time well spent.
Redwood Weddings Are A Frame for your story
A wedding in the redwoods isn’t about what’s expected. It’s about stepping into something timeless. Where memory lives. Where presence becomes legacy.
I photograph weddings that aren’t really about the photos. They’re about the people and the feeling of being celebrated performance free.
If you’re planning a celebration that doesn’t fit a mold, but fits into a vast frame of forest – I’d love to hear your story.