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Ethereal Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement

Imagine walking through a mystical forest, surrounded by towering redwoods and delicate ferns bigger than people. You can feel the ethereal beauty of the surroundings, and as you continue, you stumble upon a couple exchanging vows in a breathtaking elopement ceremony. This fairytale-like setting is a reality at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, where love truly blossoms in the midst of nature's wonder. In this article, we will follow Keary, Rustin, and their pug Mister Meatloaf on their journey towards forever as they exchange heartfelt vows in a forest cathedral. Through challenges and triumphs, they held onto each other, finding solace in the embrace of the majestic redwoods. Join us as we delve into their love story, reliving the moments that made their wedding day serene and unforgettable. From the special place where it all began to the heartfelt vows under the redwoods on Cal Barrel Road, we'll explore how Rustin and Keary's journey towards forever was made all the more magical by the tranquil beauty of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.


In Loving Memory

A few weeks after their elopement, Keary and Rustin’s beloved Mister Meatloaf passed away. Losing a pet can be one of the most heart-wrenching experiences a person can go through. For Keary and Rustin, the sudden loss of their pug, Mister Meatloaf, left them grief-stricken, and broke our hearts. We feel so honored that we were able to meet him and experience why Keary and Rustin love him so much. He truly was a special pug. Our sincere wish for this incredible couple is that these photos will bring them much deserved joy in his memory. Nobody should have to go through what they have, but we’re continually moved by their resilience and love.


Love in the Mist: An Ethereal Elopement at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility. For Keary and Rustin, this meant choosing Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park for their elopement. As city dwellers, Keary and Rustin are used to the fast-paced lifestyle that accompanies urban living. However, as they approached their wedding day, they realized that they wanted a change of scenery for their special day. They craved a tranquil, natural environment that would allow them to escape the chaos of everyday life.

This led them to choose Redwood National and State Parks, a place where majestic trees towered over them and the sounds of nature replaced the noise of the city. Years before, Rustin had brought Keary here when she was facing one of the greatest challenges of her life. This place brought her peace and comfort. So bringing it full circle, their elopement also served as a celebration of Keary's life after overcoming a life-threatening illness. The power of nature in healing cannot be overstated, this couple found solace among the towering trees while discovering the symbolism of nature in Keary's journey. The towering trees represented strength and resilience, while the gentle streams symbolized the ebb and flow of life.


Unconventional Whimsy: Keary’s Bridal Look for her Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement

Brides are no longer sticking to the conventional and the predictable for their special day. They are willing to break away from traditional styles and embrace something more unique and whimsical.

For her ethereal look, Keary chose a Loeffler Randall smocked dress with puff sleeves. This dress is a true reflection of the unconventional and whimsical bridal style Keary's wanted to represent. The dress is tea-length and made from a delicate cream-colored organza material. She also wore a statement gold and pearl headband crown. Adding the perfect touch of elegance and glamour without overpowering the beauty of the dress, it was the perfect finishing touch to her look.

Keary and Mister’s matching accessories link | Mister's shirt link | Rustin’s look link

Matching Wedding Accessories for Keary and her Pug

Pets have always been an important part of people's lives, and it's no surprise that they're now being included in special occasions like weddings. That's where Keary and Rustin's beloved Mister Meatloaf comes in. Who is Mister Meatloaf, you ask? Only the cutest pug in a dress shirt you will ever lay eyes on.

There's no denying that Mister Meatloaf was the star of the show at Keary and Rustin's wedding. From the moment we met this trio, it was clear he was going to be the center of attention. With every wag of his tail and puppy dog eyes, Mister Meatloaf had everyone under his spell.

But it wasn't just his adorable appearance that stole the show. It was the bond between him and Keary and Rustin that shone through. As they did a “first look” at Ashland Spring Hotel, Mister Meatloaf was right by their side, wagging his tail in approval. It was a heartwarming reminder that pets truly are a part of the family and deserve to be included in life's special moments.

Mister Meatloaf's presence at Keary and Rustin's wedding was more than just a cute addition to the guest list. It reflected the love and connection between him and his owners. And that bond is truly something special.

Escape the Traditional Wedding and Elope in Magical Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

As Keary and Rustin ventured into Redwood National and State Parks, they left behind the noise and distractions of city life. They fell into step with the quiet rhythms of nature—the rustling of leaves, the gentle trickling of streams, the bird songs. Surrounded by the majesty of the towering redwoods, they felt their spirits lift and their worries fade away. It was as if the forest was embracing them in a warm, healing hug.

The restorative power of nature has been well-documented, and for Keary, it was a vital element in her journey. Redwood National Park spoke to Keary in a language that only nature could understand. As she walked amongst the towering trees, she couldn't help but see parallels between her own journey and that of the forest. Life, like the forest, is full of ups and downs, twists and turns. But it is also marked by a resilience, a strength that allows us to endure and grow.

For Keary, her relationship with Rustin was an embodiment of the forest's spirit. Like the trees that towered above them, their love had grown and evolved over time. It was a reflection of the beauty and majesty of nature, and of the transformative power of love. As they exchanged their vows beneath the canopy, they were reminded of the strength that comes from weathering life's challenges, and the beauty that emerges from the ebb and flow of our experiences.

And so, as they drove through the park and took inspiration from the natural world around them, they knew that their love, like the forest, would continue to grow and renew itself with the passing of time.

Keary and Rustin’s steadfastness in the face of challenges only served to make their elopement day all the more special. As they looked out into the vast expanse of nature that surrounded them, it was clear that they were ready to take on the world together.

Cal Barrel Road is the Perfect Location for a Dog-Friendly Elopement in Redwood National Park

Pets are not permitted on trails in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. However, they are permitted on roadways. So Cal Barrel Road in Redwood National Park is an incredible option. Since it’s closed to public traffic, and still surrounded by beautiful nature, it feels like just like a trail. As you arrive, you'll see ample parking available making it easy to walk a short distance to find the perfect spot to exchange vows. You can take your time and explore the scenic beauty of the road while walking your dog, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Cal Barrel Road will lead you through the gorgeous redwoods that tower above you, creating a natural cathedral-like atmosphere. You'll also have access to an abundance of scenic backgrounds for those memorable photo opportunities. This hidden gem ensures you have everything you need to create that dream elopement.

If you're planning a quiet elopement with just you, your partner, and your furry friend, then you'll be glad to know that the park is relatively quiet during weekdays. You can enjoy a leisurely walk without encountering too many fellow hikers, and soak in the tranquility of the forest. It's the perfect way to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature and each other.

Vows Beneath the Redwoods on Cal Barrel Road

As they stood before each other beneath the towering redwoods, Keary and Rustin exchanged heartfelt vows that would bind them together for eternity. Their promises to support each other through thick and thin, to always communicate openly and honestly, and to find joy in even the most challenging of moments, were a testament to the strength of their love.

With tears in their eyes and smiles on their faces, they exchanged rings and sealed their commitment with a kiss, surrounded by the natural beauty of their surroundings. It was a moment of pure serenity and bliss, and one that they would hold close to their hearts forever.

As they stepped away from the redwood altar and into their new lives as husband and wife, the sense of peace and tranquility that they had found in each other was palpable. It was clear that they were ready to embark on the next chapter of their journey together, confident in the knowledge that they could weather any storm as long as they had each other by their side.

Their union was proof that even in the face of adversity, love could conquer all.

Rustin and Keary's elopement at Cal Barrel Road was a journey towards forever that left a lasting impression on us. Amidst the towering Redwoods and with their beloved Mister Meatloaf by their side, they overcame challenges and exchanged heartfelt vows, cementing their commitment to each other.

Gold Bluffs Beach at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is the Perfect Location for a Post-Elopement Celebration

There's something undeniably magical about exchanging vows in the midst of towering giants and larger-than-life foliage. But as redwood forests are dark, and especially darker on overcast days, it’s important to get out from beneath the canopy and follow the light as the sun gets lower. Enter Gold Bluffs Beach at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park—the perfect post-ceremony destination. The rugged coastline is a photographer's dream, with dune outcroppings and crashing waves providing a dramatic backdrop for photos.

The wide expanse of sand and sea will make you feel like you have the entire beach to yourselves, allowing you to bask in the romance of your special day without any distractions. The sound of the Pacific waves make it easy to get lost in the moment, and if it’s a clear day, the stunning sunset only adds to the magic.

As the cool mist rolls in and the daylight begins to dim, you'll feel as if you've been transported to another world. The soft, diffused light creates a dream-like quality that will make your wedding photos absolutely breathtaking.

Most of us associate celebrations with blue skies, warm weather, and bright sunshine. But what if we told you that the most memorable celebrations often happen on overcast days? Imagine standing with your soulmate on a windswept beach, surrounded by the sound of crashing waves and the soft light of a cloudy sky. This was the case for Keary and Rustin, who discovered the magic of celebrating with a champagne toast on a gloomy day.

The soft light of an overcast sky can create a magical atmosphere that's hard to replicate on a sunny day. The muted colors of the Gold Bluffs Beach landscape, the gentle breeze, and the quiet stillness can all contribute to a sense of intimacy and closeness that's hard to find elsewhere. This is why overcast days are often considered the perfect backdrop for a romantic moment.

Ultimately, the best celebrations are the ones that prioritize love and connection over perfect weather. Keary and Rustin's magical elopement day serves as a testament to this. When the sky is overcast, love shines brighter and imperfections create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments.

 Redwood National Park Elopement Videography

For us, telling a love story through photo and video is about more than just capturing the moment. It's about creating something that the couple can look back on years from now and feel like they're right back in that moment. It's about telling their story in a way that feels authentic and genuine. And it's about creating something that they can share with their loved ones, so that they can see and feel the love that they have for each other.

Telling love stories through video, as well as photo, is one of the ways that we can take storytelling to the next level. There's something special about capturing moments in motion—the way a couple looks at each other, the way they laugh, the way their hands intertwine. We can freeze those moments in time with a photo, but with video, we can add movement and sound. We can capture the way their laughter fills the room, the way their voices change when they talk about each other, and the way their faces light up when they see each other.

To truly capture the essence of a couple's wedding day, a film must be more than just a series of shots strung together. It must tell a story, one that evokes the emotions of the day and transports the viewer into those special moments. We believe this Redwood National Park elopement film, created by our team members Matt and Kayla, does just that, immersing the viewer in Keary and Rustin's love story and showing it unfold in the most breathtaking of natural backdrops.

For our team, telling a love story through photo and video is about more than just capturing the moment. It's about creating something that the couple can look back on years from now and feel like they're right back in that moment. It's about telling their story in a way that feels authentic and genuine. And it's about creating something that they can share with their loved ones, so that they can see and feel the love that they have for each other.

At the end of the day, our goal is always the same—to capture authentic moments that tell a story. Whether it's through images or video, we believe that capturing those moments is important, and we're honored to be a part of it.

Keary and Rustin's elopement in the redwoods is a stunning portrayal of the beauty and intimacy that can be captured on film. Thanks to our videographers, Matt and Kayla, we can experience the raw emotions and intimate moments that make this elopement so special.


Plan Your Own Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement

What’s the best time of year for a Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement?

In Redwood National and State Parks, the summers are cool, dry, and mostly clear and the winters are long, cold, wet, and mostly cloudy. Redwood National and State Parks are ideal to visit anytime of year due to its unique, temperate climate. However, Spring is the best time overall for its beauty, especially from mid-March through Early June. The woods are at their most lush and green.

The winter months: January-March and November-December are the coldest with average highs in the 50s and average lows in the 30s. These are the wettest months and also have the highest probability for an overcast day. Daylight hours in Nov-Feb are minimal, so the photography window is narrower. The pros are the parks will be very quiet with absence of other visitors. Plus, the weather will be more ideal for couples looking for a dramatic and moody day. And travel/accommodations will be the most economical.

The summer months of June-September are the warmest, driest and have the highest chance for a clear day. Average temperatures are highs in the 60s and lows in the 50s. Sometimes July and August can reach highs of 80s F. The pros are chance for sunshine and sunsets, and more daylight hours. The cons are that there will be more visitors and travel/accommodations will be more expensive.

The shoulder seasons of April, May and October provide the best of both. With highs in the 50s and lows in the 40s, the temperature is pleasant enough. There is a 50% chance for a clear day or an overcast day, but the rain probability is still on the lower end. Tourism is also low during this time.

What’s the best time of day for a Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement?

It all depends on the time of year. However, ideally late morning or afternoon are the best times of day for a forest ceremony or portraits. Since the redwood forests are so dark, you need to wait until the sun is high enough in the sky to brighten them a bit. On sunny days, morning ceremonies can often provide gorgeous rays of directional light through mist. On moody days, it’s best to wait until the afternoon for a ceremony. For portraits on the coastline or beaches, 1-2 hours before sunset time is the best. If you’re lucky, you may even get a dramatic coastal sunset.

Do you need a permit for a Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement?

Yes. Permits are required for ceremonies and vow exchanges in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, as well as all the surrounding National Park area. You can access permit information here link. Please keep in mind that permits are non-exclusive. This means that you’re not granted full, private access to any location and other visitors must still be able to have access to your permit location.

We can’t emphasis this enough—if you’re inviting guests/family, please tell them the above. Couples are usually knowledgable of this rule, but we’ve witnessed many times, good-intentioned guests, tell people to move, leave, and disrupt other visitors with loud music because they’re uneducated to the non-exclusive use agreement.

Visitors are generally kind and considerate—if they see a wedding, they’ll likely be respectful.

What’s the closest airport to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park?

Our recommended Airport for the most options and its closer proximity: Medford, OR (MFR) is about a 3-hour drive to Prairie Creek Redwoods.

Eureka/Arcata, CA (ACV) airport is 1-hour drive south of Prairie Creek Redwoods.

Redding, CA airport (RDD) is about 4-hours east of Prairie Creek Redwoods.

San Francisco (SFO) and Portland, Oregon (PDX) are the closest major airports, however both are a 6-8 hour drive from the respective ends of the parks. If you’re looking for a coastal roadtrip during your elopement, then you could fly into one and out of the other.

Where should you stay for a Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement?

Prairie Creek State Park, as well as all of Redwood National and State Parks is very remote and lodging options are very limited.

There is a Holiday Inn located in Klamath, California, which is the closest town to Prairie Creek State Park. If you like to camp, there are several campgrounds available in the area, including this one in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

There are some cute and cozy cottage options available in Orick and Trinidad on Airbnb:

This magical treehouse

This gorgeous and stylish home that sleeps 6

This studio with up-close and personal ocean views

This cute little farm cottage

This woodsy bungalow

Check-out all current listing here link

Although it’s a bit of a drive from Prairie Creek State Park, our favorite place to stay is Brookings, Oregon. There are multiple nice hotel, as well as Airbnb, options available.


Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement Photographers and Videographers

An elopement day is one of the most intimate and meaningful moments in a couple’s lives. It's a day that deserves to be captured in a way that tells each unique story. Our team specializes in a personal and intentional approach to photography and videography, where we focus on capturing every little detail from the weather to a feeling, to get to the heart of each couple’s story.

We believe that every couple has a unique story to tell, and we aim to capture it with every little detail. We understand that an elopement day is not just about the big moments, but also about the small ones that make the day special. That's why we create a personalized approach to photography and videography that focuses on a couple’s story.

We take the time to get to know you and your vision for your elopement day, so we can create stunning visuals that reflect your personality and style. Whether it's the way you look at each other or the details on your dress, we make sure to capture everything that makes your day special.

Contact us today to start planning your Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement, we can’t wait to hear from you!


This elopement has also been published on Brides & Weddings Magazine