Hannah + Tim
California is known for some pretty epic elopement spots, and eloping in California can be an incredible option for your big day. The Golden State has something for everyone when it comes to beautiful locations for an adventure elopement!
If you have your heart set on a desert elopement, eloping in Joshua Tree National Park could be an amazing option here in California.
Maybe eloping in Yosemite National Park, or even a Big Sur elopement is more your vibe? Just be sure to thoroughly research any permits you may need, with the help of your elopement photographer, of course! Our article How to Elope in a National Park is a great place to begin.
This California forest elopement takes place in the redwoods of Northern California, in Redwoods National Park, which is where Hannah + Tim feel most connected to.
When choosing an elopement location, it is so important that you pick a place that really speaks to you + your partner on a deep level. This could be somewhere you have never been before, and think is gorgeous, or somewhere that has played a big role in your relationship! As far as the California Redwoods are concerned, Hannah + Tim enjoy spending time amongst the trees and trails of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. It made sense for them to get married underneath the towering trees of the world’s largest old-growth redwood forest.
I met Hannah + Tim at their quaint Airbnb in Ferndale, California. Tim was anxiously awaiting Hannah getting ready as he worked on a puzzle in the guesthouse, while Hannah had her makeup done by the talented Meaghan of Black Fern Beauty Company. Once the bride and groom were both ready, they shared an emotional first look inside a gorgeous room adorned with plants and trinkets.
Hannah + Tim packed up a picnic and before long, we set off to Humboldt Redwoods State Park. California's Redwoods National Park and State Parks contain almost 132,000 acres of diverse flora and fauna in Northern California. Hannah + Tim scouted out a gorgeous spot underneath the giants for their elopement ceremony, as a park ranger looked on.
After their forest elopement ceremony at the base of a redwood tree, Hannah + Tim set up their picnic. Hannah + Tim wanted to include their families and loved ones in a way where they felt their support for their new marriage, even though they weren’t able to be there in person. They requested that their family and friends write letters and send videos that they could read and watch in the forest on their elopement day. Being able to have your loved ones involved in your elopement day can be really meaningful for many couples!
Charcuterie board polished off, cake cut, and tears of gratitude shed over letters of well-wishes, we caravanned over to the coast. Northern California is much like the Pacific Northwest, with miles of moody coastline. Hannah + Tim finished up their forest elopement day by sharing some love with the grey clouds and stormy seas.
Curious about what it takes to plan a California Redwoods elopement, or even just to get started learning about how to elope in California? Check out our article on How to Elope in California if you’re wanting your very own elopement in the desert, on the beach, or even underneath the towering California redwoods.
Facts About Eloping in the California Redwoods
1. Legal Requirements
You need a California marriage license, which can be obtained from any county in the state.
An officiant and at least one witness are required for the ceremony.
No waiting period—same-day license and elopement are possible.
2. The Best Wedding Locations in the Redwoods
Popular spots include Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods, and Muir Woods [closer to San Francisco!].
Some areas require permits for ceremonies or photography, as California's Redwoods National and State Parks have ecologically sensitive areas.
3. Best Time to Elope in the Redwoods
Spring and fall offer the best mix of mild weather and fewer crowds!
Morning ceremonies often have beautiful misty light and more privacy - your elopement photographer can offer guidance on this!
