Marigolds in the Redwoods

Sarah and Steve’s private redwood forest wedding celebrated all of the things that the former Bay area couple love most about the area, from the coast to the forest. The celebration began with brunch on the beach and included a golden hour ceremony at Mitchell Grove, an apple orchard nestled in the redwoods.

Mitchell Grove is one of those rare places that exists in convenient proximity to guest hotels but maintains a sense of escape. Tucked between the redwoods just inland from the coast, the natural beauty does the heavy lifting. Towering trees, rolling orchards, and a sense of calm that settles in the moment you arrive. What makes it truly special, though, is the balance it strikes between forest and field. Do not be surprised if a family of ducks waddles across your path on the way to grab a cocktail.

The orchard itself has fairytale charm. Rows of gnarled apple trees offer a whimsical contrast to the surrounding redwoods, especially in late summer and early fall. For Sarah and Steve, it was the ideal mix of rugged and romantic – an anchor point in a landscape that they’d fallen in love with a decade ago.

To make the most of the setting, the couple arranged a guided whiskey tasting through the redwoods prior to the ceremony. Guests followed a winding trail through the forest, stopping at stations tucked between trees where their favorite bottles were paired with relationship lore. It was a beautiful and personal way to welcome loved ones into the landscape and set the tone for the celebration.