August 28, 2023
California Redwoods and Oregon Coast Elopement | M + B
M & B’s California Redwoods and Oregon Coast Elopement Day
When it comes to helping my clients find the perfect location for their elopement, sometimes one location doesn’t t have everything they want. This is exactly what happened with M & B.
When I asked M & B what they wanted their elopement to feel like, they said “Alive!” So of course the first place that came to mind was the Redwoods! What better place to feel that way than surrounded by the largest trees on the planet? But, M & B also wanted to see the beach so we had to find a way to have the best of both worlds. None of the regular beaches in Redwood NPSP stood out so we had to think bigger. So we decided to split their elopement day into two parts. I mean what’s better than doing a California Redwoods and an Oregon Coast elopement? By spending half of their day in each location, they got to enjoy the Iconic PNW coastlines and the ancient Redwoods trees.
First Look at Harris Beach on the Oregon Coast
So since we decided we wanted to do two locations for M & B’s elopement day, we had to get an early start. We started the day at 5:45 at Harris Beach for M & B’s first look. It was super foggy and overcast since it was early in the morning but that created a much more moody and romantic vibe which I loved. They were so excited to see each other and after that, I just knew it was going to be the best day!
Harris Beach is located on the southern coast of Oregon and is a popular recreational area known for its stunning beaches, tidepools, and sea stacks. So since it happened to be low tide at the time we were there, we of course had to do some tidepooling. After that, M & B’s families who were in attendance said their goodbyes and we started their all-day elopement adventure.
Brookings, Oregon Hike
After their First look, we headed to Secret Beach where we had breakfast and slowed time down with a first dance. We wandered around Secret Beach where I captured some intimate moments of them walking on the beach and really taking this day in!
Secret Beach in Brookings, Oregon, is a beautiful and secluded beach located along the southern coast of the state. It is part of the larger Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a stunning stretch of coastline known for its rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and pristine beaches. The name “Secret Beach” comes from its hidden and less-visited nature, making it a serene and tranquil destination perfect for an intimate elopement day. The beach is not as well-known as some of the other popular spots in the area, which adds to its allure for those seeking a quieter and more private moment for some elopement photos.
Ceremony at Organ Donors Grove
Once we finished there we headed to the Jedediah Smith Redwoods for their ceremony. We chose to have their elopement ceremony at one of the pre-approved ceremony locations, Organ Donors Grove. One of the best things about the Organ Donors Grove is that it’s a smaller and less known grove so they had complete privacy for their vows.
Organ Donors Grove Permit Application
Although this is a pre-approved ceremony location, you will still need to apply for a permit. Click here for more information on that process or visit my Redwood Elopement Guide blog.
Hike at Grove of Titans
After finishing vows we headed to Grove of Titans which was very busy due to it being summer, a weekend, and one of the most popular hikes in the park. The Grove of Titans is a renowned and awe-inspiring collection of ancient redwood trees located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. The grove gained fame for housing some of the world’s largest and tallest trees, including coastal redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), which are among the tallest tree species on Earth.
We passed so many people, each remarking on how incredible M & B was to get married in such a unique way, some even grabbing photos to show their engaged children as inspiration. We finished the hike said goodbye, and went our separate ways!
More California Redwoods and Oregon Coast Elopement Inspiration
How to Plan an Epic Redwoods Elopement
As a California elopement photographer, Redwood National Park is definitely one of my favorite locations for elopements. From the lush green forest to some of the most beautiful coastlines, Redwoods National Park is perfect if you and your partner are lovers of nature and adventure! With Coastal Redwoods being the tallest plants in the world, you truly need to be there experiencing them in person to comprehend their size. From being surrounded by the beautiful scenery to breathing in the fresh air, I promise you will not regret planning a Redwoods elopement!
Nikki & Jake’s California Redwood Forest Elopement
This magical Redwood forest elopement with Nikki and Jake was so special and beautiful. These two ditched the traditional way of doing things and completely made it their own which I loved so much. As a Northern California elopement and wedding photographer, I see way too many couples adjust and change certain things about their wedding to appease others. But, I’m here to tell you that no one else’s opinions matter and you two should do things EXACTLY how you want to! In this blog, I tell you all about Nikki and Jake’s adventurous hiking elopement in Redwoods National Park.
The Ultimate Northern California Elopement Guide
As a lover of anything and everything outdoors, Northern California is one of my absolute favorite places. I am a California elopement photographer and there’s nothing more exciting than a couple inquiring about a Northern California Elopement! So I wanted to share everything you need to know if you are considering eloping in Northern California. From the best locations to the best places to stay, this Northern California Elopement guide will cover it all!
Meet Your Redwoods Elopement Photographer
As a Redwood National Park Elopement Photographer, I have tons of knowledge when it comes to planning an epic elopement. As someone who is super passionate about my job, I don’t want to just be your photographer. I want to help you with the planning process, finding locations, places to stay, vendors, and most of all help you figure out solutions when things derail. It’s your wedding day and the last thing you should be doing is stressing out. I want to ensure that my couples have the best day possible and that means being a shoulder for them to lean on when problems arise!
Hey, I’m Gabbi!
I’m an elopement photographer based in Northern California. I’m a lover of the outdoors and spend most of my time with my husband and our 4 dogs camping, rock climbing, hiking, and enjoying nature!
Elopements hold a special place in my heart. They throw out the rule book on tradition and allow you the complete freedom to do what you really want to do on the biggest day of your lives!
Whatever your elopement day looks like, I can’t wait to help create the most intentional and authentic day that is perfectly and uniquely you.
I’m here to help you through the entire process of planning your elopement from start to finish. I’ll help you with everything from choosing a perfect location to creating your Day Of schedule to officiating and of course, photography!
