The Best Forest Wedding Venues in Northern California
Are you on the hunt for the ideal Redwoods forest wedding venues in Northern California? Dreaming of exchanging vows beneath the lush canopy of century-old redwood trees? Your search ends here! Introducing Ridgefield, our exquisite venue that opened its doors in the winter of 2022, proudly hosting weddings and elopements on our property in the heart of Northern California, specifically in the enchanting Humboldt County.
Welcome to Ridgefield
What sets us apart? An expansive private Redwoods forest that beckons exploration. Continue reading to discover more about our venue, mesmerizing ceremony and reception sites, and the captivating natural forest backdrop.
- BYOB
- BYO Vendors
- Private, gated
- Elopement packages available
GPS/Navigation Address: 2242 Fickle Hill Rd, Arcata, CA 95521
-
Plan Your Dream Northern California Wedding at Ridgefield
We’ve created this helpful map so you can visualize your wedding experience at our woodland wedding venue. Learn some local history, try a new restaurant, visit our secret spots, and make your wedding an unforgettable experience.
Choose Ridgefield Events for a wedding destination that combines natural splendor, exclusive local activities, and organized planning, creating the perfect backdrop for your love story.
Unforgettable Forest Venues at Ridgefield
Garden Terrace
Discover the Allure of Arcata’s Hidden Gem
Step into the heart of Arcata and find yourself captivated by the Garden Terrace at Ridgefield. This enchanting venue, adorned with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and meticulously manicured landscapes, offers the perfect setting for exchanging vows. Not to mention, the views of the Redwood forest. Let the natural beauty of Ridgefield set the stage for an elegant and romantic ceremony.
Redwood Grove – The Most Inspiring Wedding Photos
Immersive Awe-Inspiring Majesty Amidst Majestic Giants
Journey into the awe-inspiring Redwoods venue at Ridgefield. Here, towering trees form a natural cathedral, creating a serene and magical backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Ideal for nature-inspired celebrations, couples can exchange vows surrounded by the timeless ambiance of majestic redwood forests.
Stone Patio at Ridgefield for Cocktail Hour
Rustic Charm Redefined: A Sturdy Foundation with Picturesque Views
cute beer trailer
Experience rustic charm at its finest with the Stone Patio at Ridgefield. Offering a solid foundation and picturesque views, this stone patio overlooks scenic landscapes, providing a timeless and sophisticated setting for your celebration. Natural stone elements add authenticity to your ceremony, creating a seamless blend of classic design and natural beauty.
Lawn and Meadow at Ridgefield
Versatile Vistas: Your Blank Canvas for Creative Celebrations
The Lawn venue at Ridgefield is a versatile outdoor space designed to be a blank canvas for your wedding dreams. Whether envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the expansive lawn provides creative freedom. Let your imagination run wild as you design your event in an open-air setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of Ridgefield.
Tented Area on the Lawn
Outdoor Magic, Indoor Comfort: A Perfect Blend for Every Weather
For those seeking the perfect blend of outdoor magic and indoor comfort, the Tented Area on the Lawn at Ridgefield beckons. While we don’t provide the tent, we’re happy to offer recommendations! Ideal for unpredictable weather or couples yearning for a unique atmosphere beneath a canopy of twinkling lights, this venue provides the comfort of shelter while still embracing the natural surroundings of Ridgefield.
the most gorgeous reception set up
Additional Exclusive Offerings
Indoor Bridal Suite/Ready Rooms
Elegance Inside the Main House
Prepare for your special day in style with our indoor bridal suite/ready rooms inside the main house. Enjoy the comfort and sophistication of our carefully curated spaces designed to enhance the pre-wedding experience.
Cottage for the Wedding Couple
600 Square Feet of Secluded Luxury
Extend the magic beyond the ceremony with our separate cottage, offering 600 square feet of space exclusively for the wedding couple. Revel in privacy and luxury as you unwind in this charming haven, making your wedding experience at Ridgefield truly unforgettable.
Unveil the extraordinary at Ridgefield, where each venue and offering tells a story of love and nature in perfect harmony.
ceremony arbor
FAQs for Your Forest Wedding Ceremony
Planning a destination forest wedding demands additional considerations than more traditional venues, but with meticulous planning, the result can be an unforgettable event.
When Is the Best Time to Plan a Forest Wedding?
The best time to plan a forest wedding largely depends on the specific location and weather conditions of the area. However, generally speaking, the moderate conditions of spring and fall are considered ideal for outdoor weddings including those in forests.
|
Season |
Average Temperature Range (°F) |
Site at Our Venue |
|
Spring |
45°F – 60°F |
Redwoods at Ridgefield Events |
|
Summer |
55°F – 65°F |
Garden Terrace at Ridgefield Events & Tented Pavilion |
|
Fall |
45°F – 60°F |
Redwoods at Ridgefield Events |
|
Winter |
40°F – 55°F |
Stone Patio at Ridgefield Events |
redwoods wedding venue
Can You Share Some Fun Facts With Me About Redwoods in California?
We’d love to!
- The coastal redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) holds the record as the tallest tree species on Earth, reaching heights over 370 feet.
- Source: National Park Service
- Redwoods are among the oldest living organisms on the planet, with some individuals surpassing 2,200 years.
- Source: Save the Redwoods League
- The shallow root system of redwoods intertwines with neighboring trees, creating a network that helps them withstand earthquakes.
- Source: USDA Forest Service
- Redwood trunks can exceed 20 feet in diameter, making them some of the most massive trees in the world.
- Source: National Geographic
- Redwoods are fast growers, adding more than 2 feet to their height each year in optimal conditions.
- Source: American Forests
- Redwood trees absorb and store several tons of carbon dioxide over their lifetime, contributing significantly to combating climate change.
- Source: Save the Redwoods League
- There are two primary species of redwoods: the coastal redwood along the California coast and the giant sequoia in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Source: National Geographic
- Redwoods have thick and fibrous bark, reaching up to 1 foot in thickness, providing excellent insulation from wildfires.
- Source: UC Berkeley – Gymnosperm Database
- Notable redwood groves are protected in national and state parks, including Muir Woods National Monument, Redwood National and State Parks, and Sequoia National Park.
- Source: National Park Service
- Redwoods hold cultural significance for Native American tribes and are often considered sacred.
- Source: National Geographic
- Redwoods are adapted to the coastal fog, absorbing water directly from the air during the dry summer months.
- Source: California State Parks
- Redwood wood is resistant to decay due to its high tannin content, making it a valuable material for construction.
- Source: Save the Redwoods League
- Redwood forests provide critical habitat for diverse wildlife, including marbled murrelets and spotted owls.
- Source: California State Parks
- Coastal redwoods are native to a narrow strip along the California coast, stretching from southern Oregon to central California.
- Source: National Geographic
- Various organizations, such as the Save the Redwoods League, work to preserve and protect redwood forests through conservation efforts.
- Source: Save the Redwoods League
- Redwoods release water into the atmosphere through a process called transpiration, contributing to local rainfall.
- Source: UC Berkeley – Gymnosperm Database
- Historically, redwoods were commercially harvested for their valuable timber, leading to significant deforestation.
- Source: National Park Service
- Redwoods produce small, woody cones, each containing numerous tiny seeds.
- Source: California State Parks
- The bald cypress, found in the southeastern United States, is a distant relative of the redwood.
- Source: American Forests
- Silvicultural practices are employed to manage redwood forests sustainably, promoting regeneration and biodiversity.
- Source: USDA Forest Service
What Are Some Useful Tips For Planning a Forest Wedding?
Seasonal Considerations
- Choosing the right season for your forest wedding is key. Opt for the gentle allure of spring or the warm hues of autumn. While summer is an option, make sure there’s enough shade for your guests.
Weather Ready Strategies
- Nature can be unpredictable, so having a backup plan is a wise move. Solstice wedding, anyone? Whether it’s stylish tents or a cozy indoor space, be prepared for unexpected raindrops or a burst of sunshine.
Seasonal Integration
- Let the season play a role in your wedding theme. Decorate with forest blooms in spring or embrace the rich colors of fall for a truly seasonal celebration.
Guest Comfort
- Ensure your guests are comfortable by providing thoughtful amenities. For sunny days, consider umbrellas, fans, or sunglasses. On cooler evenings, offer blankets or strategically placed outdoor heaters.
Weather Friendly Attire
- Dress smart for the weather. Stilettos work on smooth terrain, while boots or wedges might be better for uneven or damp ground. (We don’t recommend stilettos for anything in life LOL)
Raindrop Blessings
- In many cultures, rain on your wedding day is considered good luck. Embrace the moment, and let the spontaneous beauty of nature enhance your special day.
Embark on your forest wedding journey with practicality and a touch of imagination, creating a celebration that’s uniquely yours.
Where Else Can I Find a Forest Wedding Venue in North California?
|
Location |
Description |
|
Muir Woods National Monument (Mill Valley) |
Muir Woods, located just north of San Francisco, is known for its towering redwoods. Some venues in this area provide a unique opportunity to exchange vows surrounded by these majestic trees. |
|
Big Sur |
Big Sur is famous for its rugged coastline, but it also features enchanting redwood and oak forests. There are several venues nestled in the hills and forests of Big Sur that offer a magical setting for a forest wedding. |
|
Sonoma Coast State Park |
The Sonoma Coast offers a mix of coastal beauty and dense forests. Some venues in this region provide a blend of both, allowing you to celebrate your special day in a natural and serene environment. |
|
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve |
Located in the Russian River Valley, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is home to some of the tallest and oldest redwoods in the state. Some venues in this area offer a peaceful and intimate setting for forest weddings. |
|
Santa Cruz Mountains |
The Santa Cruz Mountains boast lush forests and scenic vistas. There are venues in this region that provide a serene and secluded atmosphere for a forest wedding with the bonus of mountain views. |
|
Lake Tahoe |
While primarily known for its stunning lake, the Lake Tahoe area also features beautiful alpine forests. Some venues in the surrounding areas offer a combination of lake views and forested landscapes for a picturesque wedding setting. |
|
Shasta-Trinity National Forest |
This expansive national forest in the northern part of the state offers various locations for a forest wedding. Consider venues near Shasta Lake or in the Trinity Alps region for a secluded and natural setting. |
|
Lassen Volcanic National Park |
For a unique forest wedding experience, explore venues near Lassen Volcanic National Park. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, including dense forests and fascinating geothermal features. |
Other options & areas for weekend wedding retreats & elopements.
Providing services to the South Bay, Peninsula, and East Bay regions, including San Jose, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Redwood City, San Carlos, Burlingame, Los Altos, Milpitas, Union City, Fremont, Berkeley, Fairfax, El Cerrito, Ben Lomond, Carmel, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Los Gatos, and the nearby areas.
Another ideal location for a wedding ceremony is the Redwood Grove and Amphitheater, a stunning feature within the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden. Plus the Sequoia Retreat Center and Nestldown are couples favorites for woodsy wedding venues.
What Are Some of the Activities Guests Can Do Near Ridgefield?
- Hiking in the Arcata Community Forest: Arcata Community Forest offers a network of trails for hiking. It’s a beautiful area with redwood trees and diverse plant life. The Fickle Hill Loop is one of the popular trails, providing scenic views.
- Trillium Falls Trail: Located in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, the Trillium Falls Trail is a moderately easy hike that leads to a picturesque waterfall. It’s a serene and romantic spot for couples who enjoy nature walks.
- Fern Canyon: Although not a waterfall, Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a unique experience. The canyon is surrounded by lush greenery, and the walls are covered in ferns, creating a magical atmosphere. The short hike is worth it for the enchanting setting.
- Explore Old Town Arcata: After outdoor adventures, you can explore Old Town Arcata. It’s a charming area with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It offers a lovely atmosphere for a stroll or a romantic dinner.
Embrace the Magic of Outdoor Nuptials & a Woodsy Vibe
Consider the outdoors if the idea of a chapel leaves you yawning, and you want more from your wedding venue than a conventional ballroom or barn. The dreamy, awe-inspiring backdrop of the giant northern California redwoods offers a truly exceptional setting, perfect for couples who love nature and desire a unique experience on their special day. From cathedral groves of towering redwoods to a forest canopy draped in sparkling bistro lights, these venues will elevate your wedding celebration into a magical affair.
entire family in the redwoods
Schedule a Tour
Embark on an enchanting journey with Ridgefield as your backdrop. Schedule a personalized tour today to see our fairytale ceremony site and discover the captivating charm of our venues. Let us bring your wedding vision to life amidst the natural beauty of Arcata’s hidden gem.
Contact us now to schedule your tour and start crafting the wedding of your dreams at Ridgefield. Your extraordinary celebration awaits!
