Emily and Jesse blended deep family roots with a sense of adventure for their redwood forest elopement. They traveled from Chicago to bring their love story to life beneath the towering giants of Jedediah Smith Redwoods. Their elopement was even more special with its connection to their parents’ stories—Jesse’s parents eloped in Mexico, and Emily’s parents drove until they ran out of gas, tying the knot at the first church they stumbled upon. This legacy of spontaneity and simplicity inspired their dream of a redwood wedding. They sure made it unforgettable (especially for me), ending with a picnic at Whaleshead Beach. These are easily some of my favorite photos I’ve taken in the Redwoods. The entire experience felt like a love note to nature and family traditions.
Getting Ready at Their California Airbnb
Emily’s morning started in the most charming little Airbnb, tucked away in the woods surrounded by gorgeous ferns—a perfect cozy hideaway. Excitement and calm filled the room as Maiah worked her hair magic. Then she slipped into her beautiful wedding dress, which, by the way, was the perfect choice. She had been worried about how she’d look in photos—something no bride should ever have to feel—but we’d spent so much time chatting before the day that she knew she could trust me to make her feel amazing. And let me tell you, she rocked it.
Between the laughs, a few quiet moments, and that spark of anticipation before heading into the redwoods, it was the perfect intro to their intimate ceremony. Watching her light up with confidence was honestly one of my favorite parts of the day.
The Redwood Forest Elopement Ceremony
The ceremony in Jedediah Smith Redwoods felt like something out of a storybook. Emily was utterly in love with the redwoods’ dramatic atmosphere; of course, we captured some stunning portraits in the ferns and towering trunks. But the most touching moment came when they sat together on a rustic forest bench to read letters filled with love and heartfelt wishes from their friends and family. It was impossible not to feel moved as they both teared up. It was a quiet, reflective moment in the middle of such an adventurous day, and it highlighted just how much love surrounded them—even from miles away.
Picnic Elopement Photos on the Beach Near Whaleshead Viewpoint
Emily and Jesse brought a bottle of their favorite wine from a local Illinois winery! It added a personal touch to their seaside picnic at Whaleshead Beach. Jesse made sandwiches followed by a sweet treat: Rice Krispie treats. Golden hour bathed the beach in the most ethereal light as they danced teary-eyed and barefoot in the sand. Elopements like these are full-day adventures filled with laughter, quiet intimacy, and love, love, love! This beachside picnic and dance under the setting sun was the perfect way to celebrate their journey.
A Love Letter From Emily & Jesse’s Redwood Forest Elopement Experience
“Hannah was amazing every step of the planning process, from helping us pick a location to figuring out logistics and timelines. We are from the Midwest and had never visited that side of the country before, so we greatly appreciated her insight and experience. We got our first look photos back SO fast, and I was blown away. They are so dreamy and perfect. As a plus-size bride, I was really amazed at how flattering the angles and action shots were, too. It doesn’t hurt that she made us feel super comfortable, so the photos aren’t awkward or posed. In short, book with Hannah; she is going to take care of you from start to finish; we highly recommend her!!”
See more: Trillium Lake Canoe Elopement
