{"id":176,"date":"2024-02-20T22:32:10","date_gmt":"2024-02-20T22:32:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/michellehallphoto.com\/?p=176"},"modified":"2024-02-20T22:32:10","modified_gmt":"2024-02-20T22:32:10","slug":"california-forest-wedding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/michellehallphoto.com\/?p=176","title":{"rendered":"5 California Forest Wedding Locations for Intimate Wedding Days"},"content":{"rendered":"

California is known for being home to some of the world\u2019s most spectacular and ancient forests. While visiting the Redwoods and Sequoias can be a rejuvenating and restorative experience, it can also be the perfect way to start the next chapter of your love story with your partner. If you\u2019re searching for a place to marry your best friend that feels majestic and organic, I highly suggest you consider a <\/span>California forest wedding<\/i><\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Not sure where to start? Here are some of my favorite spots for an intimate – yet entertaining – California forest wedding ceremony.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

5 California Forest Wedding Locations for Dreamy, Enchanting Ceremonies<\/b><\/h2>\n

Sequoia<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n

Firstly, Sequoia National Park has some of the earth\u2019s oldest living trees. While you can hold your ceremony in numerous spaces throughout the park (with a special permit), you can host a reception at Wuksachi Lodge. The Lodge is a cozy stone and cedar inn surrounded by spectacular views of sequoia trees and Sierra mountain peaks. Whether you are eloping or celebrating with up to 80 guests, Sequoia National Park is an excellent option for a forest wedding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Yosemite California Forest Wedding<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n

Yosemite National Park<\/a> has various incredible options for a picturesque California forest wedding ceremony. Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls are all breathtaking sites perfect for an intimate vow exchange. When it\u2019s time to celebrate, consider one of Yosemite\u2019s wedding venues, including the Wawona Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, and Curry Village. Combine the beauty of Yosemite\u2019s forests and waterfalls with the luxury of their nearby event spaces.<\/span><\/p>\n

Calaveras Big Trees State Park<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n

Calaveras Big Trees State Park is divided into two areas: The North Grove and the South Grove. While wandering through the sequoia trees, you can say \u201cI do\u201d in front of the Big Stump, one of the park\u2019s most famous landmarks. The Standing Sentinel Tree is another popular ceremony space featuring one of the park\u2019s largest Sequoias. Following your vow exchange, gather with your guests (up to 100) at Jack Knight Hall, with open-beam ceilings and a massive stone fireplace.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Santa Cruz County<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n

Santa Cruz County isn\u2019t just known for its beaches; there are also several groves of Redwood trees that are perfect for a California forest wedding. Consider venues like Roaring Camp Railroads, nestled into the mountains and in a gorgeous valley of Redwoods. Roaring Camp Railroads can accommodate over 300 people and has an elegant yet rustic interior and plenty of romantic lighting. Alternatively, Kennolyn serves as another venue option surrounded by Redwoods and overlooking Monterey Bay, with elegant Hacienda vibes and 30 rentable cabins.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Mendocino<\/b><\/h3>\n

Lastly, people know the Mendocino coast for its scenic views and beautiful beaches – and, of course, its stunning forests. If you\u2019re looking for a wooded getaway in this coastal area, check out a venue like Redwoods River Resort in the heart of the Redwoods. Are you looking for something a little more rustic? Mendocino has some fabulous state parks ideal for an intimate ceremony, like Navarro River Redwoods State Park and Montgomery Woods State Reserve.<\/span><\/p>\n

California Forest Wedding<\/b><\/h2>\n

In conclusion, a <\/span>California forest wedding<\/i><\/b> is full of magic, rustic romance, and natural beauty. If a forest wedding is calling your name, check out some of these spectacular venue spaces.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll definitely want a photographer with experience capturing forest weddings, and I\u2019m proud to say I do! Check out some of my work (here) and reach out if you think we\u2019d be the perfect match (and I have a hunch we will be!)<\/span><\/p>\n