Redwoods Elopement

The Ultimate Redwoods Elopement Packing Checklist 🌲✨

Redwoods Elopement

Planning a Redwoods elopement is an adventure like no other. Imagine exchanging vows beneath towering coastal redwoods, with sunlight streaming through the canopy and the sound of nature all around you. Whether you’re eloping in Redwood National Park, exploring the trails in Humboldt County, or saying “I do” near Crescent City, packing the right essentials will make your day stress-free, safe, and magical.

Here’s your go-to Redwoods elopement packing checklist—practical, fun, and full of everything you’ll want to make the most of your elopement in the redwoods.


Wedding Day Essentials

  • Wedding Attire â€“ Your dress, suit, or outfit of choice (plus garment bag + hangers to keep them looking fresh while traveling to the redwoods).
  • Veil & Accessories â€“ Jewelry, tie, hair pieces, or any personal touches that complete your elopement look.
  • Vows & Rings â€“ Keep them together in a safe spot—this one is easy to forget before heading into Redwood National and State Parks!
  • Bouquet or Floral Pieces â€“ A lush bouquet, boutonniere, or flower crown looks especially magical in a Redwoods elopement setting.

Footwear & Clothing

  • Waterproof Hiking Boots â€“ A must-have for exploring damp trails and uneven paths in the redwoods.
  • Backup Shoes â€“ A second pair (like stylish flats or loafers) for photos if you’d like to switch it up.
  • Layers â€“ The Redwoods can be chilly, misty, or sunny depending on the season, so pack a warm jacket or wrap.
  • Extra Socks â€“ Perfect for keeping your feet dry and comfortable during your Redwoods elopement adventure.
Fern Canyon Elopement

Safety & Comfort Must-Haves

  • Mini First Aid Kit â€“ Essential for treating small scrapes or blisters on hiking trails.
  • Bug Spray & Sunscreen â€“ Protect yourself while exploring Redwood National Park or nearby coastal trails.
  • Tissues & Safety Pins â€“ For happy tears, small fixes, or wardrobe malfunctions.
  • Hydration Packets â€“ Electrolytes keep your energy up during longer hikes or full-day elopements in the forest.
  • Snacks â€“ Trail mix, protein bars, or fruit for quick fuel between vows and photos.
  • Water Bottle â€“ Staying hydrated is key when eloping outdoors.
Redwoods Elopement

Fun Elopement Extras

  • Elopement Signs â€“ Cute “Just Eloped” or personalized signs to hang on backpacks or use in photos.
  • Blanket or Rug â€“ Cozy up during portraits, enjoy a picnic, or stargaze under the redwoods.
  • Champagne or Sparkling Water â€“ Celebrate your Redwoods elopement with a toast in the forest.
  • Tripod â€“ For selfies, video clips, or capturing moments when it’s just the two of you.
  • Mini Makeup Kit â€“ Handy for touch-ups after hiking or before your ceremony.
Redwoods Elopement

Ceremony & Adventure Gear

  • Backpack â€“ Keep everything organized and easy to carry while exploring Redwood National and State Parks.
  • Headlamp or Lantern â€“ Perfect for sunrise or sunset elopements when the forest is dim.
  • Umbrella or Rain Jacket â€“ Northern California weather can be unpredictable; a clear umbrella looks stunning in photos.
  • Permits â€“ Many Redwood National Park elopement spots require a ceremony permit—don’t forget to pack a printed copy.
  • Personal Touches â€“ Letters, Polaroids, or keepsakes to make your ceremony uniquely yours.

Photographer’s Pro Tip 📸

As an experienced Redwoods elopement photographer, my advice is to pack light but intentionally. Everything you bring should either add comfort, safety, or joy to your elopement day. The redwoods are breathtaking on their own—you just need the right essentials to enjoy them fully.


Final Thoughts

Your Redwoods elopement deserves to be stress-free, magical, and full of adventure. With this packing checklist, you’ll feel prepared for anything—whether you’re hiking through Redwood National Park, exploring hidden corners of Humboldt County, or cozying up beneath the towering trees after your ceremony in Crescent City.

✨ Pro tip: Save this checklist and check things off as you pack—you’ll thank yourself later!

Ready to start planning your own Redwoods elopement? I’d love to help you bring your dream day to life—whether that’s hiking through Redwood National Park, exchanging vows in Humboldt County, or celebrating with an intimate ceremony in Crescent City. Let’s capture every magical moment together. [Get in touch here →]

here are some helpful resources to inspire you

jay & bansuri

"Sheryl is the absolute best! She has great upbeat energy yet makes you feel calm and confident during the photoshoot. She is the perfect combo of hype and grace. We were both so nervous to be in front of the camera, but Sheryl provided great suggestions for poses and movement. Eventually, we became so comfortable that she captured some of the most candid moments that didn’t feel forced. We both were so happy with how natural and candid the pictures turned out. Sheryl captured such beautiful memories that we are going to cherish for a lifetime. Her pictures stand out because it feels so organic and her editing is timeless. We are so grateful for Sheryl and her photography skills!"

annika & Michael

"I could try to describe how wonderful Sheryl is as a photographer both artistically as well as personally, but I don’t think I command enough mastery of the English language to do her and the magic she creates with her camera justice. Sheryl is an artist and a savant at that. She is to the digital photograph what Saragent is to the canvas, in addition to being a genuinely pleasant, incredibly kind, and unbelievably thoughtful person to work with."

JENN & KAI

"I could not recommend Sheryl enough!! Me and my husband were so nervous to have our photos done because of how awkward we can be, but Sheryl made us feel so comfortable and gave us prompts that were so fun! She has the best energy & her excitement and passion for photography is so amazing to work with. We are so grateful we had the opportunity to meet and work with her, and can’t wait to reach out to her for future photos! If you are looking for a sign to book her, this is it!!"