Stunning Organ Donor’s Grove Elopement

Organ Donor’s Grove is easily one of the most overlooked ceremony spots in Redwood National Park (psst… I have a guide all about how to elope in Redwood National Park), and honestly, I get it. There aren’t many photos online, and the parking area on Google Maps doesn’t exactly scream “dream elopement.” But hear me out, as this spot might just be the hidden gem you’re looking for.

When Alex and Rachel first reached out (from Michigan, no less!), they had this beautiful vision of getting married in the Redwoods but weren’t sure exactly where to go. With a larger group, their options were a bit limited since Redwood National Park only has a handful of pre-approved ceremony sites that allow up to 20 guests. So as a redwoods elopement photographer, I walked them through some of my favorite spots, Organ Donor’s Grove included.

From the road, it’s easy to miss. The sign is subtle, and at first glance, it doesn’t look like much. But that’s actually what makes it so special. It feels tucked away. The parking lot is spacious, and there’s a short, easy trail from the lot to the grove, which means even grandparents can make the walk with ease. And once you’re there, it truly feels like you have your own little corner of the park all to yourself.

The grove itself is incredibly quiet. In the winter, a small stream winds through the trees, and the space is full of lush ferns and wide open areas, perfect for elopements with a larger guest count, which isn’t always easy to find in the park. And don’t overlook this spot for portraits either. While popular groves like Stout Grove are definitely worth a visit (we stopped there too), Organ Donor’s Grove is a fantastic choice if privacy is important. You’re almost guaranteed to have the place to yourself.

If you’re still on the fence, just wait until you see Rachel and Alex’s elopement, which began at Organ Donor’s Grove. Their closest friends and family flew out fro Michigan just to be there. After a heartfelt ceremony, we took a few portraits in the grove before heading over to Stout Grove, where we got lucky with some beautiful light rays right at the end.

We finished the day at a beach just off the side of the road. The tide pools were full of marine life—starfish, mussels, and sea anemones lined the rocks. I’ve never seen so much in one place. And I can’t forget the baby elk we saw on the drive or the incredible light that stayed with us all day. It’s safe to say this elopement is one I’ll never forget.

I could go on about how special this day was (and how special Organ Donor’s Grove is for a ceremony), but I’ll let the photos speak for themselves.

• Photography: Me!
• Hair and Makeup: Pacific Brides
• Officiant: Weddings in the Wild
• Florals: Enchanted Florist

Organ Donor’s Grove Elopement Packages

I’m Brianna, a Northern California based elopement photographer who specializes in elopements around Redwood National Park. If the black sand beaches and fern-lined forest trails are calling your name, I’m here to help make it happen.

Ready to start planning your elopement? You can view my elopement packages page for the Redwoods.

• 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in California
• A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
  • Personalized elopement location recommendations
  • Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
  • Assistance and information to help you with permits, licenses, etc.
  • 90+ page elopement planning guide filled with tips and tricks
  • Customized elopement timelines
  • Optional complimentary officiant services
• Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
• Complimentary album design
• 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
• Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
• Starting at $6,500

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