Forest Weddings: Free, Magical, And Possible?

Dreaming of a wedding in a lush green forest? You’re not alone. Forest weddings are becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples seeking a unique, intimate, and relaxing setting for their special day. And the good news is, you can make this dream a reality for free!

Public forests, such as national parks and state parks, offer couples the opportunity to exchange their vows in a natural setting without the cost of renting a traditional venue. These locations provide stunning backdrops, from towering trees and tranquil ponds to dramatic mountains and crystal-clear lakes.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, permits are usually required for weddings in public forests, and there may be restrictions on decorations and guest numbers. Secondly, the seclusion of some forest locations can make them less accessible, so it's important to plan accordingly. Lastly, the weather can be unpredictable, so always have a backup plan!

With careful planning and a touch of creativity, you can have a magical forest wedding that's both free and unforgettable.

Forest wedding venues in the US

If you're looking for a forest wedding venue in the US, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from national parks to private estates. Here are some ideas to get you started:

National Parks and Forests

National parks and forests can be a great option for a forest wedding, offering stunning natural scenery and a unique experience for you and your guests. Many national parks, such as Yosemite, Rocky Mountain, and Grand Canyon, require a small fee to reserve a permit for your wedding site, which is usually less than $200. Keep in mind that each park has its own rules and restrictions on guest capacity, so be sure to check their websites for more information.

Private Estates and Resorts

If you're looking for a more exclusive forest wedding venue, consider private estates and resorts nestled within the trees. For example, the Chalet View Lodge in Tahoe National Forest offers a ten-acre resort with sprawling lawns, a fishing pond, and a poolside terrace for your wedding day. The Roxbury Barn and Estate in New York is another option, boasting 42 acres of pristine land, including a pine grove, extensive gardens, and a lily pond.

Nature Centers and Preserves

Nature centers and private nature preserves also offer unique forest wedding venues. The Woldumar Nature Center in Lansing, Michigan, is a non-profit environmental center with a Moon Log Cabin, Sunrise Pavilion, and Walnut Glen Amphitheatre for your ceremony. The Schlitz Audubon Nature Center in Bayside, Wisconsin, is another option, located on the shores of Lake Michigan with both indoor and outdoor spaces available for your special day.

State Parks

State parks can also provide beautiful forest settings for your wedding day. Cedars of Lebanon State Park in Tennessee offers two event spaces, including the Cedar Forest Lodge and the Assembly Hall, accommodating up to 75 and 250 guests respectively.

No matter which type of forest venue you choose, you're sure to have a magical and memorable wedding day surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Forest wedding venues in California

There are many forest wedding venues in California, ranging from national parks to private estates. Here is a list of some of the most notable ones:

Redwood National and State Parks, Northern California

Redwood National Park is one of the most famous forest wedding venues. Located near the coastline in Northern California, it offers lush greenery, rustic charm, and towering trees. Couples can also enjoy the nearby beach on their special day.

Sequoia National Park, California

Sequoia National Park is home to the largest trees in the world and offers a secluded spot for an intimate wedding among the giant sequoias. The park spans over one million acres and provides a breathtaking backdrop of dramatic peaks and hiking trails.

Big Sur, California

Big Sur is known for its amazing forests and versatile venues, ranging from luxurious resorts to intimate cabins. It is a unique location as it offers the ocean adjacent to the forest, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park offers a variety of options for weddings, from intimate ceremonies within the park to larger-scale venues just outside. The park boasts awe-inspiring nature, including majestic mountains, waterfalls, and meadows.

Chalet View Lodge, Tahoe National Forest, California

Nestled in the Tahoe National Forest, the Chalet View Lodge provides a private wedding oasis with endless opportunities for customization. Couples can hold their ceremony on a sprawling lawn, take portraits by the fishing pond, or host a cocktail hour on the poolside terrace.

Deer Park Villa, San Francisco, California

Deer Park Villa is a popular forest wedding venue located near the coast of San Francisco. It is known for its enchanting atmosphere, with string lights and giant redwoods. The ceremony site, nestled between two large redwood trees, is especially sought-after.

The 1909, Topanga Canyon, Los Angeles, California

The 1909 is a favourite among forest wedding venues in Southern California. It features a blend of rustic elegance with exposed beams and floor-to-ceiling windows. The outdoor wood amphitheatre, surrounded by nature, serves as a beautiful ceremony area.

The Mountain Terrace, Santa Cruz Mountains, California

The Mountain Terrace is a stunning forest wedding venue offering views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It can accommodate up to 300 guests and features a rustic wooden deck for ceremonies and a charming redwood grove for receptions.

Stone Creek Village at Kennolyn, Santa Cruz Mountains, California

Stone Creek Village is an idyllic retreat perched atop the Santa Cruz Mountains. The grounds include a Spanish-style estate, a miniature village, and acres of majestic redwoods. It offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, such as a Town Square and a fire pit.

These venues showcase the natural beauty of California and provide a magical setting for a wedding celebration. Each venue has its own unique features, so be sure to explore the options and find the one that best suits your vision and guest count.

Forest wedding venues in Washington

If you're looking for forest wedding venues in Washington, you're in luck! The Pacific Northwest is known for its enchanting forests, which provide the perfect backdrop for a wedding straight out of a fairy tale. Here are some stunning locations to consider:

TreeHouse Point

TreeHouse Point, located in Washington, is one of the most breathtaking and unique wedding venues in the area. It offers an intimate setting for your special day, with a small cedar-lined building at the edge of a pond that can accommodate your guests. The treehouses overlooking the forest create a magical atmosphere for your wedding celebrations.

Copper Creek Inn

Copper Creek Inn is a mountain cabin situated near Mt. Rainier National Park in Washington. The venue spans 6.5 acres, providing a secluded and peaceful atmosphere for your wedding. It features a woodsy amphitheater that can accommodate all your guests, along with a charming indoor space.

Mt Rainier National Park

If you're looking for a more intimate setting, Mt Rainier National Park offers incredible scenery with spots tucked away in the woods. There are Airbnb A-frame cabins and other venues that can accommodate small groups for an elopement or a small wedding.

Olympic Peninsula

The Olympic Peninsula, known for its towering mountain peaks and vibrant green forests, provides an incredible location for a forest wedding. Lake Crescent Lodge and Lake Quinault NatureBridge are two venues on the peninsula that offer stunning natural backdrops for your special day.

Eastern Washington

For a drier forest setting with a mountain feel, consider venues in Eastern Washington. Tierra Retreat Center and Sleeping Lady Brown Family Homestead are two locations that offer beautiful forests on the eastern side of the Cascades.

Hoh Rainforest

The Hoh Rainforest, located in Olympic National Park, is one of the largest and quietest temperate rainforests in the United States. It provides a serene and natural setting for your wedding, surrounded by lush greenery.

Remember, when choosing a forest wedding venue, it's important to consider the size of your guest list, as some locations are better suited for intimate weddings and elopements. Additionally, keep in mind any permits or regulations that may be required for your chosen venue.

Forest wedding packages

Brianna, an elopement photographer based in California, offers forest wedding packages for couples looking to tie the knot in a lush green forest. Her packages include:

• 4 hours to 1.5 days of elopement coverage in California, Washington, or Oregon
• Hands-on forest planning experience with unlimited assistance
• Personalized forest elopement location suggestions
• Vendor recommendations
• Customized elopement timeline
• Optional complimentary officiant services
• Online gallery with full-resolution images and printing rights
• 24-48 hour sneak peeks
• Travel fees included for California, Oregon, and Washington

Brianna specializes in adventure elopements and has experience shooting in forests in California, Oregon, and Washington. She also offers destination elopement packages.

Forest Edge Gembrook Wedding Packages

Forest Edge Gembrook, located in the Dandenong Ranges, offers wedding packages with breathtaking ceremony views. Their 5-hour reception package includes:

• 5-hour beverage package with local wines, beers, and non-alcoholic drinks
• Flexible catering options to suit your guests' tastes
• Dedicated function coordinator to ensure a seamless reception
• Exclusive use of their bridal retreat for relaxation
• Two onsite ceremony options: the Terraced Garden with views of Warburton and Yarra Ranges, or an indoor French-Inspired Room with exposed oak beams and a stone-clad fireplace
• Creative culinary experience with fresh and locally sourced produce
• Flexible reception options to minimize costs without sacrificing quality
• Main dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows seating up to 120 guests or accommodating 150 standing guests
• French-Inspired Room seating up to 50 guests for a more intimate celebration

Forest Elopement Packages by Adventure-Wedding

Adventure-Wedding is the first international booking platform for adventurous couples seeking forest elopement packages. They offer individually customizable packages and work with a big pool of experts to tailor your dream forest elopement. Their packages include a variety of destinations and activities such as:

• Vietnam Destination Wedding Package: Sightseeing, art and culture discovery, and walking in Hanoi, Soc Son
• Get Married in France: Picnic and sightseeing in the Alps, Crest-Voland, France
• Payson Arizona Elopement Package: Picnic, sightseeing, and stargazing near Payson
• Redwood National Park Elopement: Hiking, picnic, sightseeing, and stargazing in Crescent City, California
• Puerto Rico Elopement Package: Climbing, hiking, and sightseeing at a waterfall in Caguas, Puerto Rico
• Bohemia Wedding in the Black Forest: Walking and picnic in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

These are just a few examples of forest wedding packages available. Couples can also consider national parks, public lands, vacation rentals, or backyard weddings for a more affordable and intimate celebration.

Forest wedding dresses

When it comes to choosing a wedding dress for your forest nuptials, there are endless possibilities. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you find the perfect forest wedding dress.

Fabric Choices

When selecting a wedding dress for a forest setting, it's essential to consider the fabric. Opting for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as chiffon, tulle, and organza is advisable. These fabrics will not only keep you comfortable during your outdoor ceremony but will also create a whimsical and graceful silhouette as you walk down the aisle.

Nature-Inspired Details

To truly embrace the forest theme, look for dresses with nature-inspired details. For instance, dresses with floral appliqué, leaf motifs, or lace embroidery can beautifully complement your forest surroundings. Some designers known for their nature-inspired details include Madi Lane, Made with Love, and Alena Leena.

Colour Palette

While traditional white and ivory wedding dresses are timeless, a forest wedding is an excellent opportunity to explore less conventional colours. Consider earthy tones such as blush, champagne, or nude to blend seamlessly with the natural backdrop. Alternatively, a subtle hint of colour, like this Wtoo wedding dress in moscato, can add a unique touch to your forest nuptials.

Illusion Details

Adding a touch of illusion to your wedding dress can enhance the enchantment of your forest wedding. Illusion necklines and backs, accented with lace or motifs, create a whimsical and romantic effect. An example is the Anais Anette wedding dress, which features an illusion back and side slit adorned with floral vine-like embroidery.

Accessories

Don't forget to complete your forest wedding ensemble with nature-inspired accessories. Crystal hair vines, botanical-themed earrings, bracelets, and even fresh flowers woven into your hairstyle can all add to the whimsical charm of your forest wedding attire.

Forest Fairy Vibes

If you're looking for a more whimsical and fairy-like dress, consider a style with flowy skirts, bohemian details, and unique touches. Etsy offers a wide range of forest fairy wedding dresses, including green lace gowns, floral A-line dresses, and unique white floral gowns.

Popular Brands and Designers

When searching for your dream forest wedding dress, here are some popular brands and designers to explore:

• Lillian West: Known for whimsical and romantic dresses with elegant details and simple silhouettes.
• BHLDN: A popular online bridal shop with a wide variety of styles, colours, and fabrics perfect for a forest setting.
• Rue De Seine: Offers unique and modern bohemian dresses that are sure to make a statement.
• Free People: While not exclusively a bridal shop, Free People occasionally carries hidden gem wedding dresses ideal for a forest setting.
• Etsy: A treasure trove of one-of-a-kind dresses designed by independent creators, perfect for those seeking something unique.
• Dreamers & Lovers: A bridal shop near Long Beach, California, specialising in vintage-inspired wedding dresses with simple silhouettes.
• Daci Gowns: A rising bridal shop in Boise, Idaho, known for creating one-of-a-kind custom dresses.
• ASOS: Offers a range of budget-friendly wedding dresses, including styles perfect for a forest setting.
• Reclamation: A go-to destination for bohemian and whimsical bridal fashion, with unique and jaw-dropping designs.

Frequently asked questions