Redwood Venues in the Bay Area and Santa Cruz
November 8, 2024
If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by towering redwoods, soft sunlight filtering through the trees, and the peaceful sounds of nature, you’re in the right place. The Bay Area is home to some of the most breathtaking redwood wedding venues, offering everything from intimate, rustic retreats to elegant outdoor settings. Whether you’re planning a big celebration or a cozy elopement, these venues give you the chance to exchange vows in one of California’s most iconic natural landscapes. Here’s a guide to some of the best redwood venues in the Bay Area, each with its own unique style, perks, and details to help you find the perfect spot to say “I do.”
Table of Contents
- Waterfall Lodge and Retreat, Ben Lomond
- Deer Park Villa, Fairfax
- Saratoga Springs, Saratoga
- Green Mountain Retreat, Los Gatos
- Tips for Choosing your Venue
- Big Sur Weddings Packages
Waterfall Lodge and Retreat, Ben Lomond
Waterfall Lodge in Ben Lomond is a beautiful spot for a redwood forest wedding. With its natural, rustic charm and the peaceful sound of a nearby waterfall, it’s a great choice for couples wanting a secluded, nature-focused celebration. The venue offers flexibility with indoor and outdoor spaces, all surrounded by towering redwoods that give it a quiet, magical feel.
Key Info:
Location: About a 90-minute drive from San Francisco, and a 45-minute drive from San Jose
Price Range: $8,000 – $15,000, depending on season and day
Guest Capacity: The recommended capacity at Waterfall Lodge is 125 guests, with a maximum capacity of 150 guests
Best Time of Year: Spring through early fall (March to October)
Perks: On-site guest accommodations, private waterfall, and exclusive access to redwood forest areas
Deer Park Villa, Fairfax
Deer Park Villa in Fairfax is a charming redwood wedding venue with a cozy, laid-back vibe. Known for its outdoor ceremony area surrounded by majestic redwoods, it’s a great spot for couples wanting a relaxed celebration with a mix of elegance and nature. The venue’s string lights and garden patios add a warm touch, making it a perfect fit for evening receptions.
Key Info:
Location: Just north of San Francisco in Fairfax, making it an easy option for Bay Area or traveling couples
Price Range: $8,000 – $20,000 depending on season, guest count, and day of the week.
Guest Capacity: Up to 325 guests outdoors and up to 300 indoors
Best Time of Year: Spring to fall (April through October) for the best outdoor experience.
Perks: String-lit redwood grove, flexible event spaces, and an on-site bar
Saratoga Springs, Saratoga
Saratoga Springs is a redwood wedding venue located in the hills of Saratoga, offering a mix of natural beauty and casual charm. With several outdoor ceremony and reception spots surrounded by redwoods, creeks, and lush greenery, it’s ideal for couples wanting a forest setting that feels secluded yet close to the Bay Area. Saratoga Springs has a relaxed vibe, with picnic-style seating options and flexible spaces that work for both small and large weddings.
Key Info:
Location: A short drive from San Jose, making it easily accessible for Bay Area couples
Price Range: Around $6,000 – $15,000, varying by day of the week and season
Guest Capacity: Can accommodate up to 300 guests
Best Time of Year: Late spring to early fall (April through October) for the best weather
Perks: Multiple ceremony and reception sites, outdoor picnic tables, and on-site parking
Green Mountain Retreat
Green Mountain Retreat in Los Gatos offers a serene, forested setting for couples looking for a redwood wedding venue with a private, intimate feel. With towering redwoods, a rustic lodge, and peaceful outdoor areas, this spot is perfect for a cozy, nature-centered celebration. The venue’s mix of indoor and outdoor spaces lets couples create a relaxed, personal event with plenty of charm.
Key Info:
Location: Located in Los Gatos, offering easy access for Bay Area couples.
Price Range: Typically between $7,000 – $14,000, depending on day and season.
Guest Capacity: Up to 150 guests for a more intimate gathering.
Best Time of Year: Late spring through fall (April to October) for optimal weather and scenery.
Perks: Private redwood forest setting, rustic lodge, and flexible indoor/outdoor areas.
Tips for choosing your Redwoods Wedding Venue:
1. Consider Your Guest List Size: The California redwoods offer a range of venues from intimate settings to larger spaces. Ensure the venue you choose can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
2. Think About Accessibility: Check the venue’s accessibility for all your guests. A rugged terrain or lots of stairs might be challenging for some, so make sure your venue is accessible or has accommodations for guests with mobility issues.
3. Check for Weather Conditions: Depending on the time of year, the weather can be unpredictable. Choose a venue that offers flexibility when it comes to road closures or storms. Make sure you like the rain plan!
4. Evaluate the Venue’s Amenities: Look for venues that offer essential amenities such as catering services, parking, and restroom facilities. Some venues also provide on-site accommodations, which can be a huge plus when you have lots of guests traveling to celebrate with you.
5. Think About the View and Photography Opportunities: Choose a venue that provides the backdrops you want for your photos and takes advantage of the natural scenery. Consider the getting ready space, the ceremony space, and the reception space. Each part of the venue will be the background of all of your special moments unfolding, so make sure you like your whole venue.
6. Understand the Venue’s Restrictions: Some venues may have specific rules about noise levels, event timings, or the types of decorations you can use. Make sure you’re aware of any restrictions before booking.
7. Plan for Logistics: Consider how your guests will get to and from the venue, especially if it’s in a remote location or a venue with limited parking. Check for nearby accommodations and transportation options.
8. Visit the Venue in Person: If possible, visit the venue before making a decision. This will give you a better sense of the space, the layout, and how it aligns with your vision for the wedding.
9. Consult with Your Photographer: Talk to your photographer about the venue’s lighting and layout to ensure it fits with your vision and provides good opportunities for capturing your special moments.
California Redwoods Wedding Packages
As your local guides and photo + video team, we’re here to ensure that the memories of your wedding day are beautifully preserved. Together, we’ll craft a day that reflects your love and sets the tone for the wonderful chapters to come.
If you’re ready to plan your Redwoods wedding, reach out, and let’s start this beautiful adventure together!
Here’s what we offer:
- Full day wedding day coverage
- Digital + 35mm photographs
- Digital, Super 8, + Camcorder video
- Pre-wedding consultations
