Nestled among the towering redwoods of Sequoia Park, Matt and Snow's elopement was nothing short of enchanting. Imagine exchanging vows beneath the ancient canopy, where nature's grandeur serves as both witness and backdrop to a love story as timeless as the trees themselves. This intimate gathering was special not only because it celebrated the union of two souls but also because it brought together family in a way that hadn’t happened in years. With my husband officiating and all three brothers reunited, this magical day was a testament to the beauty of small, meaningful ceremonies. As a destination elopement photographer, capturing these moments felt like preserving a piece of magic, a reminder that love can thrive in the most breathtaking, natural settings.

Enchanting Redwoods Backdrop


The towering redwoods provided an enchanting backdrop for Matt and Snow's special day. These ancient giants stood silently, their presence giving an aura of permanence and stability to the ceremony. Imagine the soft rustle of leaves as a gentle breeze kissed the branches above; it was like nature itself was whispering blessings. The sun filtered through the canopy, casting a warm, golden glow over the proceedings. This natural setting underscored the couple’s vows, each word echoing within the serene atmosphere.


For a destination elopement photographer, it was a dream setting. The redwoods offered endless opportunities for capturing intimate, candid moments. This wasn’t just a wedding; it was a celebration of love amidst nature's embrace. Such settings remind us that small weddings can pack just as much beauty and emotion as larger ones.


A Personal Family Reunion


While the redwoods were undeniably majestic, the real magic of Matt and Snow’s elopement was found in the people who came together to witness it. This wasn’t just a wedding—it was a long-overdue family reunion, pulled together with just a few weeks' notice and a whole lot of love. After over a decade together, Matt and Snow decided to make it official with a spontaneous destination elopement in Eureka, California. And somehow, in just under three weeks, the family packed bags, booked flights, and came together under the trees to celebrate something that had been years in the making.


It was the first time in nearly a decade that all three brothers—including my husband and his twin—had been in the same place at the same time. There was laughter, storytelling, and a kind of closeness that can only come from shared history. Snow ordered her dress online and stitched embroidery onto a pair of ivory Chuck Taylors for her “something blue.” They stayed at the charming Inn at 2nd and C, which made for the sweetest getting-ready moments, while the rest of us camped out at a cozy Airbnb just around the corner from the park (conveniently close to the zoo and skywalk—perfect for family downtime!).


This gathering reminded all of us how beautiful, intimate, and deeply meaningful a small elopement can be. Sometimes the most spontaneous plans create the most unforgettable memories.


Capturing Intimate Moments

As a destination elopement photographer—and family member—it was both a privilege and an emotional experience to photograph this day. Every glance, every squeeze of the hand, every shared smile between brothers was filled with history and love. It wasn’t just about Matt and Snow saying “I do”—it was about documenting a family reconnecting in a quiet, powerful way.


I focused on capturing the unscripted moments: the way Snow beamed while lacing up her embroidered sneakers, the laughter echoing through Sequoia Park as the brothers reconnected, the quiet tears from family during the ceremony. These images are more than wedding photos—they’re heirlooms, holding onto the kind of emotion that can’t be posed.


A Ceremony Close to the Heart


The ceremony itself couldn’t have been more personal. My husband, Corey, got ordained just for the occasion so he could officiate his brother’s wedding—a detail that brought even more heart to the moment. His words were full of warmth and humor, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the grove. With only immediate family present, the energy was calm, intimate, and deeply connected. Every word of their vows carried weight, and every nod and smile from those gathered felt like a quiet affirmation: this was exactly how it was meant to be.


Planning Your Own Elopement


Matt and Snow’s redwood forest elopement is proof that planning a meaningful wedding doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little creativity, a lot of heart, and the right team, you can create a day that reflects your love story perfectly—no matter the timeline.


💡 Tips for Planning a Seamless Elopement:


  • Choose a location that feels like you. Whether it’s a redwood grove, mountaintop, or hidden beach, pick a setting that tells your story.


  • Keep it personal. Embroidered shoes, custom vows, or having a loved one officiate—these details make the day unforgettable.


  • Hire a photographer who gets it. You need someone who can blend into the background, capture the real stuff, and make you feel comfortable every step of the way.


  • Be flexible and present. The magic is in the moments you didn’t plan for.


Thinking of planning a redwood forest elopement like Matt and Snow’s? I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Whether you're dreaming of a spontaneous “let’s do this!” weekend or something a bit more planned out, I specialize in capturing intimate, emotional moments in breathtaking natural settings.

Let’s make something magical.


Contact Me!

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