Stunning Templeman Grove Elopement in the Redwoods

If you’ve never visited Redwood National Park in the winter, you’re missing out. Morning dew, lush greens, quiet trails, and foggy beaches await. In the winter, the Redwoods become a different kind of magic, and in Templeman Grove, it’s like walking into a fairytale.

Kristina and Jake reached out to me in January hoping I would have Leap Day, February 29th, available. Luckily, I did. These two have always been a private and nontraditional couple, so it made sense they were interested in an off-season elopement on Leap Day. After going through a few different location options, we decided on Templeman Grove which is one of the Redwoods pre-approved ceremony locations (and not to mention one of my personal favorites).

Templeman Grove is the perfect place for an elopement, especially if you’re bringing guests along. The grove can accommodate up to 20 people and requires no hiking to reach. If you’re not familiar with the park, you’ve probably never even heard of this area. It’s a large grove of Redwoods backed right up against the Smith River. Blink and you’ll miss the turn in. I’m local to the area so I’ve visited this spot hundreds of times and every time I’ve gone, I’ve been the only one there. This is why I recommend it to almost all my couples. It’s truly one of the least traveled places in the Redwoods.

After these two chose their location, we got their permit and prepared for the big day. These two flew in all the way from Minnesota. They had never even been to California, so man was it a treat to show them around. I met up with Kristina and Jake at their gorgeous Airbnb in the woods, equipped with an amazing hot tub overlooking the river. When I arrived, the rain was really coming down. However, that didn’t stop us from having an incredible experience.

Kristina and Jake got ready separately in the Airbnb. While Kristina was getting dressed, I took Jake outside to set him up for the first look in the rain overlooking the river. When I brought Kristina out, I knew immediately that this would be an emotional experience for them both. Jake saw Kristina and immediately cried happy tears.

After their first look, we then headed over to Templeman Grove where these two exchanged their heartfelt (and hilarious) vows before sharing a first dance under the trees. We then took a few portraits in the grove before heading out to the river for even more. Luckily, it started to clear up and the rain was gone for the rest of the day, though I have to admit, I’m a sucker for some cute umbrella pictures!

To end the day, we drove over to one of my favorite secret spots along the coast for some golden hour portraits. When we arrived, we couldn’t help but laugh. Usually, this location is windy, but on this day, it was so windy we couldn’t help but laugh! These two braved the cold and ended up getting some incredible photos. I couldn’t get over Kristina’s dress blowing in the wind!

Whether you’ve been exploring the idea of eloping in Templeman Grove or are set on the location, I’m glad you’re here! Take a peek below at Kristina and Jake’s incredible Templeman Grove elopement to get inspiration for your very own and see just why eloping here in the winter might be the best decision you’ll ever make.

Pro tip: Check out my ultimate Redwoods elopement guide for all the information about how to elope in the Redwoods. You can also check out my guide about the Humboldt Redwoods here too!

Templeman Grove Elopement Packages

If you’re thinking of eloping in Templeman Grove (or the Redwoods in general), you’re in the right place! My name is Brianna and I’m a local Northern California elopement photographer. While you’re here, take a peek at what’s included in my elopement packages below, or be sure to check out my official elopement packages page.

• 4 hours – 1.5 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
• 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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