Redwoods Wedding Tips from a Redwoods Wedding Photographer
If you're dreaming of a wedding surrounded by towering redwoods, dappled golden light, and the magic of a forest straight out of a gd FAIRYTALE, “Waterfall Lodge and Retreat” is a stunning venue you should consider. As a redwoods wedding photographer, I’ve seen a lot of incredible venues—but this one feels like stepping into a secret world where time slows down and you can breathe a little easier.
Wedding Photo by Datura Photo
Wedding Photo by Datura Photo
Wedding Photo by Datura Photo
Nestled in Ben Lomond, California, Waterfall Lodge is tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s a place where sunlight filters through ancient trees, guests sip cocktails under string lights, and vows are exchanged with the scent of pine and earth in the air. The ceremony site is wrapped in redwoods that feel like natural cathedral walls. They feel grand, intimate, and effortlessly cinematic. I absolutely LOVE photographing weddings in the Redwoods. There is something so romantic and carefree about Redwoods weddings.
Wedding Photo by Datura Photo
Wedding Photo by Datura Photo
I recently photographed a wedding here that stole my heart. The couple chose soft pastels for the wedding party, which popped against the earthy tones of the forest. They leaned into the natural beauty of the space with minimal decor, letting the redwoods take center stage. And the vibe? Emotional, whimsical, and just the right mix of elegant and laid-back. But if I had to pick one word, it would be: ethereal. And they pulled it off SO WELL.
Wedding Photo by Datura Photo
As a redwoods wedding photographer, one of my favorite things about Waterfall Lodge is how versatile it is for capturing different moods. Whether you're going for ethereal and romantic, moody and editorial, or bright and joyful, the forest here gives you the dreamiest backdrop. The Redwoods for your venue feel ancient and alive, and it adds depth and story to every frame.
Wedding photo by Datura Photo
What Makes Waterfall Lodge and Retreat Stand Out:
The Ceremony Site: They call this area the “Redwoods Cathedral”, which is an outdoor manicured area surrounded by Redwoods. You can make your decor simple or extravagant, as the Redwoods forest adds so much already.
The “Redwoods Cathedral” spot at Waterfall Lodge and Retreat
The Reception and/or Dining Area:
Open-air with twinkle lights, wooden tables, and plenty of room to dance under the stars.
The Reception Lodge:
Indoor space with accent lighting, a cozy barn feel, and space for dancing.
On-Site Lodging: Perfect for making your wedding a weekend retreat with your favorite people.
The Light: From golden hour glow to soft overcast skies, the light here is a dream for natural, emotional photography.
Redwoods Wedding Photography by Datura Photo
If you're planning a wedding among the redwoods and want a photographer who knows how to work with the light, textures, and tones of the forest, I’d love to be there to capture it for you! Every couple deserves a visual story that feels personal and cinematic—and there’s nothing more cinematic than a wedding deep in the woods.
Want to see what a full gallery looks like at Waterfall Lodge and Retreat? Contact me here and I’d love to send some!
You’re gonna have the prettiest wedding photos in the Redwoods, babes.
-Jules, redwoods wedding photographer
Datura Photo