The redwoods of California are ethereal. The ancient energy of these giant trees hits you hard the first time you see them. After traveling up the coast from Humboldt to Arcata to Crescent City through the various state parks that make up Redwoods National Park a few years back, I realized that feeling never goes away. Redwoods is an amazing place to explore and a lesson in preserving nature for years to come.

For a bit of history: Coastal redwood trees were threatened by the logging industry of Northern California. In response, the state and federal governments came together to create Redwoods National Park, a series of state parks and public lands that encases a large amount of coastline in Northern California. Their actions protected the trees, giving us such beautiful places as Humboldt Redwoods State Park where our couple, Alaina & Billy, were married.

Saying “I Do” Among the California Redwoods

The two traveled from the Midwest to say their “I dos” in the redwood forest of California. We met Alaina & Billy in Arcata at the beautiful boutique hotel, The Front Porch Inn. This is a really choice spot. Not only are the rooms cute and cozy, but the grounds themselves have a lot to offer, as you’ll see.

After getting ready together and sharing a first look on the patio, Alaina & Billy took portraits together in front of the lush fern walls hiding the hotel’s sauna and hot tubs. This was a stellar spot to take wedding photos because there are so many different angles and spots. Funnily enough, my husband Isiah and I would be staying there just a few days later to celebrate our own anniversary.

After snapping some wedding pics, the four of us headed straight for the state park to start Alaina & Billy’s ceremony.

Now, Isiah and I had scouted the site a day before the wedding. Among all the moss, trees, logs, and leaves, we found a spot that would be perfect. But once Isiah opened up the elopement ceremony for our couple, the sunlight showed down through the redwood trees. It was like the sun itself had decided to join the festivities.

After the ceremony, we decided to walk around the area. Isiah and I listened with rapt attention as Alaina & Billy shared what they knew about mushrooms and fungi. There’s so much life in the forest to appreciate!

As part of their wedding day activities, we popped a bottle of champagne and made toasts of goodwill and cheer. Another thing we added to the day was breaking open some geodes Alaina & Billy had brought. A whack of the hammer and could see the sparkles inside. Pro tip—never leave trash behind in a park. You better bet we sat there and made sure we picked up every piece of rock that got out of the towel. Remember—leave no trace!

We wrapped up the day by exploring the park, Alaina ditching her heels for bare feet (very brave) and Billy playing his guitar to his now wife. A perfect wrap to an already splendid day.

How to Elope in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

A wedding day is only perfect when it reflects your values, which is why Alaina & Billy’s was ideal for them. The wonder and ancient majesty of California’s redwood forests appeals to lots of couples. But do you know what it takes to make this green area your wedding venue? Here’s what you need to know:

Choose a general date for your wedding.
Contact the Humblot county clerk to get your marriage license. Make an appointment to come get your certificate. If you’re in California, this can be done at any office.
Book your elopement wedding photographer to help you plan and capture the day.
To get legally married in the park, you’ll need to reach out to the permit office and obtain a special use permit. This is inexpensive, helps fund the park, and ensures that your wedding is OK’d by the park.
Book lodging so you have a place to stay.
Add vendors to your wedding, such as an officiant, florals, decor, food, and more. Pro tip—Humboldt is an hour’s drive from the nearest city of Arcata. Keep that in mind while planning the day.
Get married!