California Redwoods + Oregon Coast

Eloping across state lines

You know, I was actually in my 40s before I saw the redwoods in person. And now I stand in their sobering presence several times a year. There's nothing I love more than sharing these life-changing places with other people, and creating images that will stay with them forever.

If you’ve ever wanted to see these giants, and especially if they're on your list of possible US elopement locations, you're my people. This is one of the most magical places in the country. Sometimes I imagine what it would be like if you lived your whole life in this area.. if all you knew were trees as wide as SUVs and as tall as you can see.. and coastline with sandstone formations that tell you stories of the earth's history from billions of years ago. What would you think when you got to.. say.. the suburbs of middle America? haha... *sigh*

So.. here's some helpful information on eloping in this Northern California/Southern Oregon area. Of course, these are just the basics, but I hope to pass on my love for these locations to you and your partner if you decide to elope here with me.

So, let's talk about the permit you need for Jedediah State Park, the reason you should exchange vows on the Oregon side, the most underrated nearby spot to go on your elopement day, what kind of coverage you need for this area, and the best time of day to be in each location.

planning an elopement in the Redwoods

There’s nothing quite like the California Redwoods. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, just south of the Oregon border, is one of the most blow-your-mind forests in the world and there are a couple of trails in the park that I return to over and over again.

Jedediah Smith alone has dozens of incredible photo spots — quiet groves, giant fallen logs, hidden nooks filled with soft green light, and multiple trail options perfect for exploring without seeing many other people. The sheer variety here makes it a dream for elopements, especially if you want a mix of intimate portraits, adventure, and that fairytale "twilight" or "lord of the rings" vibe.

Once you actually see what the morning light does when it comes through the trees here, you'll know why this is the spot where we always start the day.

Permits for the California redwoods

One important thing to know when planning an elopement in the Redwoods is that California requires a permit, not only for wedding ceremonies, but also for professional photography sessions and non-ceremony coverage within the parks.

That means even if you’re simply exploring the Redwoods for portraits, first looks, hiking photos, or the adventure portion of your day on the California side of the border, a permit is still required.

And I hate to say it, but while some permits in other states are pretty simple, the ones in California are not. The process is my least favorite part about elopements here. But I'm not going to say it's not worth it! :)

CA parks have a multi-step permit system involving separate applications, insurance requirements, photography approvals, and coordination with different park offices — and every district handles things a little differently. It can quickly become overwhelming when you’re already trying to plan an intentional, relaxed experience in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

But this is one of the advantages of working with a photographer who regularly helps couples elope here.

I will handle the permits for you. from start to finish.

Unlike most elopement photographers who give you guidance here and then leave you to do it on your own, I will work directly with the California Film Commission and the State Park system to get everything in order for your elopement day. When all is said and done, you'll have exactly what you need for the day and you won't have to do a thing other than pay the permit fee. Easy-peasy, I know. You're welcome. ;)

Don’t Forget the Smith River

Just minutes from Jedediah Smith sits the incredibly clear, forest-framed Smith River. One of the cleanest rivers in the entire country! I love the Smith River.. it's just so surreal. You know that feeling like you could sit somewhere in nature for hours? This is one of those spots.

I have some elopements here this summer and have decided to bring along my backpacking coffee set up so that the couples can enjoy coffee in this spot. In the quiet, alone, before the rest of their day even begins... gah.. yes please! <3

I'm not going to sugar coat it. This is a full-day elopement location.

If you want to spend part of your elopement day in the redwoods, and then elope on the Oregon coast, you need a full day. These two areas are close together but far enough apart that each location needs its own block of time. With about an hour drive between the two, and the slow and intentional vibe that this kind of nature requires, trying to do this in a half day just wont give you the experience you want.

Now, you could do JUST the Redwoods and the Smith River in a half day. Or JUST the southern Oregon coast. But to take advantage of this area the way I just can't help but believe it should be experienced, you're gonna need to do the Redwoods in the morning, and the Oregon coast at sunset.

The best place to start the day is in the Redwoods.  Soft sunrise light filtering through the trees creates some of the most magical portraits you’ll ever have. It's simply not the same any other time of day.

You'll walk right up to the Smith River on your stroll through the forest. This misty tree-lined river is the natural and obvious next spot after exploring the California giants.

Then you want a block in the early evening and at sunset to experience the magnitude of the Samuel H Boardman scenic corridor on the southern Oregon coast.

You get three totally different landscapes in a single elopement day. The most mesmerizing forest in the country, a quiet and truly beautiful river, and the most scenic and dramatic portion of the west coast. Moody mornings and golden evenings. Quiet moments and sweeping views. It’s an adventure that feels too good to be true. (But it's not! Let's talk about it!)

Southern Oregon Coast at Sunset

The Southern Oregon Coast is known for some of the most dramatic and colorful sunsets in the Pacific Northwest. Places like Brookings, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, and the secluded beaches near Gold Beach make incredible backdrops for vows or final portraits.

The way the sun lights up the rocks and the waves creates a cinematic glow you can’t replicate anywhere else.

Planning Your Redwood + Oregon Coast Elopement

This is one of my favorite places to elope. Wandering through the MASSIVE trees. Exchaning vows ceremony on a secluded beach. Exploring turquoise river edges. Watching the billions of stars come out at night. No one regrets a Southern Oregon coast elopement. :)

Want help planning the perfect full-day Redwood + Oregon Coast elopement? It's what I do! From timelines and permits, to packing lists and picnic spots. This place is absolute MAGIC, and I'm here to make sure you don't miss a thing.