Why you should elope to Santa Cruz’s hidden gem, the Henry Cowell Redwoods
The old growth Redwood forests have long held a mystical allure. Attracting people to their tranquil domains for thousands of years. This natural draw has also made couples from all over the world decide to exchange their vows amidst these towering giants. The grand red trunks, sea of ferns, and babbling brooks make for an enchanting backdrop that is hard to beat for an intimate elopement. Every time I wander through these woods I am in awe of the sheer scale of the redwoods. It is truly a unique wedding experience. I really believe the peacefulness of these ancient forests allows couples to connect with nature on a deeper level, creating a truly meaningful and spiritual experience. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, couples can let go of the pressures and distractions of everyday life and focus on the love they share.
Robert and Ali’s Redwood Wedding
And that’s precisely what happened here. Robert and Ali chose to elope to the Henry Cowell Redwoods located just outside of the lovely city of Santa Cruz. While I’ve done more Redwood weddings further north, the forests around Santa Cruz are just as incredible. And being close to San Francisco and Monterey make traveling to these destinations a piece of cake. But you’ll want to do like Robert and Ali did and have your wedding ceremony early in the morning to avoid the crowds. That easy access isn’t just for you. A quick walk down the winding forests paths of the state park wit the family led us to the ceremony site nestled in a grove of redwoods. This lush backdrop got to bear witness to many laughs, tears of joy, and these two lovebirds saying I do. From there we continued our adventure through the parks forests and found an array of gorgeous backdrops to create memories with. From the glistening waters of the river to the hollows of old trees, we enjoyed the forests sites and sounds thoroughly.
Redwood elopement photography should go beyond simply capturing beautiful images; it should be about telling a story. Every couple has a unique love story, and it is the photographer's role to capture the essence of that story through their images. From the anticipation and excitement leading up to the elopement to the quiet moments of reflection afterwards, every moment is an opportunity to tell a compelling and meaningful narrative.
Storytelling in an elopement involves capturing the emotions, the details, and the connections between the couple and the natural environment. It's about creating a visual narrative that evokes a sense of wonder and transports the viewer into the world of the redwoods.