A Redwoods to Coast Big Sur Elopement | Lauren & Cam
One of my favorite things about planning California elopements is how much variety couples can experience in a single day.
For Lauren and Cam, that meant starting their wedding day surrounded by towering redwood trees and ending it along the rugged coastline of Big Sur as the sun disappeared into the Pacific Ocean.
Their day perfectly captured what makes a California elopement so special—two completely different landscapes, one unforgettable adventure, and a wedding day intentionally designed around their story.
If you’re dreaming of a Big Sur elopement but also love the idea of exchanging vows beneath the redwoods, Lauren and Cam’s day is proof that you don’t have to choose between the two.
Exchanging Vows Beneath the Redwoods at Henry Cowell State Park
The day began among the towering redwoods of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park near Santa Cruz.
Together, we walked through the peaceful forest to reach their ceremony location tucked among some of the park’s most beautiful trees.
Surrounded by the quiet sounds of nature and the incredible scale of the ancient redwoods, Lauren and Cam exchanged private vows between two towering trees.
There is something incredibly grounding about standing beneath redwoods. The moment feels smaller and bigger at the same time. Small because you’re reminded of how vast nature is, and big because you’re celebrating one of the most important days of your life.
The redwoods created the perfect setting for a ceremony that felt intimate, intentional, and completely focused on the two of them.
Exploring the Forest Together
After their ceremony, we spent time exploring more of the redwood groves together.
One of the advantages of eloping is having the freedom to slow down and actually enjoy your surroundings.
Instead of rushing from one event to the next, Lauren and Cam were able to take their time walking through the forest, soaking in the significance of the day, and simply enjoying being newly married.
The soft light filtering through the trees and the peaceful atmosphere made this portion of the day feel incredibly calm and meaningful.
From the Redwoods to the Big Sur Coast
After spending the morning in the forest, we made our way south toward the dramatic coastline of Big Sur.
One of the reasons I love helping couples plan California elopements is the incredible diversity of landscapes available within just a few hours of one another.
Within a single day, Lauren and Cam experienced two of California’s most iconic environments—the ancient redwoods and the rugged Pacific coastline.
As we arrived in Big Sur, the scenery transformed from towering trees to dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and endless ocean views.
It felt like stepping into an entirely different world.
A Sunset Celebration Along the Coast
As golden hour approached, Lauren and Cam celebrated their marriage overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
One of my favorite details from their day was the way they incorporated a small piece of their story into the celebration.
They shared drinks in gold flutes as a nod to how their relationship began. Similar to the concept of Love Is Blind, they spent weeks getting to know one another and building a connection before ever meeting face-to-face.
It was such a meaningful reminder that every part of an elopement can be personalized to reflect your relationship.
After sharing drinks, they popped champagne and celebrated together while taking in the iconic coastal views surrounding them.
The combination of ocean cliffs, golden light, and genuine joy made for an unforgettable evening.
Ending the Night with Lantern Photos
As the sun disappeared below the horizon and the coastline grew dark, we wrapped up the day with one final adventure.
Lantern photos.
These are always one of my favorite ways to end an elopement day because they create such a unique and magical atmosphere.
Standing together beneath the evening sky with the warm glow of lantern light surrounding them felt like the perfect ending to Lauren and Cam’s wedding day.
It was romantic, adventurous, and completely true to who they are.
Why Combining the Redwoods and Big Sur Creates the Perfect California Elopement
Lauren and Cam’s day is a perfect example of why I often recommend combining multiple locations into a full-day elopement experience.
Rather than choosing between the redwoods and the coast, they were able to experience both.
Their day included:
- A private redwood ceremony
- Time exploring the forest
- A scenic coastal drive
- Sunset portraits in Big Sur
- Champagne celebration
- Personalized details reflecting their story
- Lantern photos after dark
It felt less like a wedding schedule and more like an unforgettable adventure together.
Planning Your Own Big Sur Elopement?
If you’re dreaming of exchanging vows beneath towering redwoods before celebrating along the rugged California coast, a redwoods-to-coast elopement may be the perfect fit.
Whether you envision a ceremony in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the Santa Cruz Mountains, Big Sur, or another iconic California location, I’ll help you create an experience that feels intentional, meaningful, and uniquely yours.
My couples receive personalized planning support, location recommendations, timeline creation, vendor referrals, permit guidance, and photography coverage designed around their priorities and vision.
If you’re looking for a Big Sur elopement photographer who can help guide the entire experience from start to finish, I’d love to help.
Inquire here to begin planning your California elopement adventure.
Big Sur Elopement FAQ
Can you combine the redwoods and Big Sur in one elopement day?
Yes. Many couples choose to start their day in the Santa Cruz Mountains or redwoods before heading to the Big Sur coast for sunset.
How far is Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park from Big Sur?
The drive typically takes approximately 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic and your specific locations.
What is the best time of year for a Big Sur elopement?
Spring and fall typically offer the best combination of weather, greenery, and manageable crowds.
Do you need a permit to elope in Big Sur?
Permit requirements vary depending on the exact location and whether you’re planning a ceremony in a state park, public land, or private venue.
What is the best time of day for a Big Sur elopement?
Sunrise is ideal for avoiding crowds, while sunset offers incredible coastal views and golden light.
Can we include personal details in our elopement day?
Absolutely. Some of the most meaningful elopements include personal traditions, favorite activities, and details that reflect your relationship story.
Final Thoughts on Lauren & Cam’s Big Sur Elopement
Lauren and Cam’s elopement was the perfect reminder that your wedding day doesn’t have to fit into a single location or follow a traditional timeline.
By combining the peaceful beauty of the redwoods with the dramatic coastline of Big Sur, they created a day that felt adventurous, intentional, and completely centered around their relationship.
From exchanging vows beneath ancient redwood trees to celebrating with champagne overlooking the Pacific Ocean, every part of their day reflected what mattered most to them.
Their story is proof that when you prioritize experiences over expectations, your wedding day becomes something truly unforgettable.
About the Author
Sheryl Anne | Big Sur Elopement Photographer & Planner
Sheryl Anne is a destination elopement photographer and planner specializing in immersive, experience-first elopements throughout California, the United States, and Europe.
She helps couples create intentional wedding experiences through personalized planning, location scouting, timeline design, permit guidance, vendor recommendations, and storytelling-focused photography. Her couples receive personalized online planning guides, custom timelines, drone coverage, GIFs, and hands-on support throughout the planning process.
Whether you’re dreaming of a Big Sur elopement, a redwoods elopement, or a multi-location California adventure, Sheryl helps couples create wedding days that feel authentic, meaningful, and unforgettable.
