Henry Cowell State Park Wedding

Even before the pandemic began, Shawday and Charlie had planned for an intimate elopement day with just their mothers present to witness. Luckily they were able to pull it off, despite the threats of park closures, permit cancellations and wildfires in the area.

My absolute favorite part of Shawday and Charlie’s wedding day was their first look. I brought Charlie to a private area of the park near their ceremony area to wait for Shawday to meet us there. Shawday walked up behind Charlie and said he could turn around. When he did, he broke down into tears at the sight of his sweet, gorgeous fiancé. I stepped back for a long time and photographed them quietly as they exchanged their vows privately. I don’t think I’ve seen such an emotional first look before this!

After Shawday and Charlie exchanged vows, their mothers and close friend caught up with us for the official ceremony under the redwoods. Bright fall sunlight beamed down through the trees behind the ceremony and created a breathtaking effect. The smell of the woods heightened the beauty of the ceremony. Finally, Shawday and Charlie were married!

Afterward, we all drove to the coast to celebrate. The couple took their first dance on the bluffs overlooking the ocean while we all watched. Champagne was popped while everyone soaked in the incredible views of the coastline.

I highly recommend Henry Cowell State Park for your intimate wedding or elopement! It’s one of the few places in proximity to the SF and Monterey Bay Areas where you can get married near giant old growth redwoods. We treasure this park even more after the wildfires of 2020 burned through the nearby forests!

Are you dreaming of a redwood forest elopement or tiny wedding in California? I would love to help you navigate the process and document your day! Get in touch for more information.

Ceremony: Henry Cowell State Park

Flowers: Wild Iris Floral