Kaeli and Jackson are the kind of people who, instead of dreaming about a grand ballroom, envision a quiet, mossy path beneath towering redwoods. For them, a big wedding just didn’t feel right—they would much rather put that kind of time, energy, and money into something that truly speaks to who they are.

They wanted a day that was about them, about celebrating their love in a way that felt honest and personal. So, they picked the redwoods for their elopement, opting for an experience that’s intimate, simple, and wrapped up in nature—and ended the evening with more portraits at Secret Beach in Oregon. Sure, they love their families, but anyone with a big family knows how those “suggestions” can spiral! It was all about finding the balance between something unique and something true, and, honestly, the peaceful beauty of the Jedediah Smith Redwoods couldn’t have been more perfect for their vibe!

Getting Ready at the Airbnb

Kaeli and Jackson started their day in the cozy Airbnb, where Jackson laced up his shoes, and Kaeli gathered her wildflower bouquet, ready for their big moment. They met for a first look at the garden, surrounded by greenery and colorful blooms. Jackson’s face lit up as he saw Kaeli, and they shared a quiet, joyful moment before heading off to the redwoods to exchange vows. It was the perfect, peaceful start to their adventure.

Their Redwoods Forest Elopement Ceremony

Kaeli and Jackson traveled from Tennessee to exchange their vows beneath the towering redwoods of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. These two met in college during a Fairy Tale class (yes, that’s a real thing!), which feels like the perfect prelude to their storybook elopement. They’re both easygoing and love traveling, so an intimate ceremony tucked away in the woods at Stout Grove was spot-on for them. They sat on a bench below the ancient trees, jotting down their vows on the backs of postcards—so sweet. It was the perfect June day, with just the right amount of sunshine filtering through the redwoods, casting that ethereal glow you only get on sunny forest days. The whole setting made you take a step back and breathe in amazement.

Wrapping up at Meyers Creek Beach & Secret Beach

After the redwoods ceremony, we headed to Meyers Creek Viewpoint and wrapped up the day with sunset photos at Secret Beach. The coast was wild and windy, and Kaeli almost lost her veil several times—but it made for some fun shots! These two were such a joy to photograph; they were so laid-back and playful, and we couldn’t stop laughing the entire time. Capturing their adventurous spirits in these incredible locations felt like a dream. If you’re an outdoorsy couple considering an elopement in the redwoods, don’t hesitate—this type of day is SO special. (P.S. Check out this Mount Storm King hiking elopement for more inspiration!)

HMUA | Gingerly Beauty

Secret Beach & Redwoods Elopement Photographer | Wandering Peaks

“I only have the best things to say about our experience. Hannah did our wedding elopement pictures, and the process was fantastic. We couldn’t be more pleased. Leading up to the day, she helped us organize the paperwork, choose places to do our pictures, and create a schedule. On our wedding day, we were able to relax, be ourselves, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while she took pictures. She made us feel comfortable but still helped coach us when she needed a different pose, better angle, etc. Some of our best pictures came from a location we didn’t even choose and that she took us to on a whim in lieu of staying at a different beach.

If Hannah has suggestions for you about location or ANYTHING just ROLL WITH IT trust me, she knows what she’s talking about! She is professional, kind, dedicated, and TALENTED. We are so grateful to Hannah for capturing the most important day of our lives in such vivid detail. I have no regrets about our elopement.

If you’re reading reviews to decide on a photographer for your wedding or other event, stop here. You have found the best option. We looked at other photographers for the Pacific Northwest, and Hannah had everyone else beat by a mile. There was no stress on our wedding day. We had FUN. And we had fun in part because of Hannah. Her pictures are INCREDIBLE. And she is a delight to work with. I am recommending her to all of my friends who are interested in eloping.”