If you’ve ever dreamed of a wedding straight out of Middle-earth, this Lord of the Rings-inspired celebration at Waterfall Lodge in Santa Cruz will have your heart singing like a bard at a hobbit feast. Nestled in the redwoods and filled with thoughtful DIY details, sword fights, cloaks, and Elvish elegance, Danika and Robert’s whimsical wedding felt like stepping into an enchanted storybook. As a Santa Cruz wedding photographer, capturing the magic of this day—both the epic and the intimate—was a true honor.

Before the rain, before the first look, before the vows—this was the quiet moment when everything was still. I hung Danika’s dress from one of the A-frame cabins at Waterfall Lodge, with the forest rising all around us. Her bridal details were arranged on a mossy tree stump that honestly looked like it had been plucked straight from Middle-earth.

From her white boots (both cozy and elegant), to the Elvish-style invitation suite sealed with a wax crest, every detail was intentional. Her necklace—yes, the Evenstar pendant, just like Arwen’s—hung perfectly against the green moss, next to their vow books and ring box. And yes, that is a real sword.

The dress itself, from Lorien Bridal, had the kind of flowing lace and delicate details that would make any elf queen proud. Everything here felt like an offering to the forest, a tribute to their love of fantasy, and a fitting start to what truly felt like a hobbit wedding.

A winding concrete path meanders through towering redwood trees in a lush forest setting.
Medieval sword stuck in mossy tree stump with maps and white shoes in enchanted forest setting.
A white wedding dress hangs from a rustic wooden treehouse deck surrounded by tall evergreen trees in a forest setting.
White leather book with ornate Gate of Moria design and green ribbon bookmark featuring a wooden clock embellishment.
A pair of white leather ankle boots with low wooden heels resting on vibrant green moss in a forest setting.
Silver Evenstar pendant necklace displayed against mossy green tree trunk backdrop in ethereal forest setting.
Beautiful white lace wedding dress hanging on wooden cabin porch in a dreamy forest setting with redwood trees.

The forest was still damp from days of steady rain, but that morning held a rare pause in the storm. Everything felt soft and quiet, with the redwoods soaking up the silence. Danika got ready with her bridesmaids in matching tie-dye PJs, laughter echoing through the trees as they soaked in the moment—and the dry weather while it lasted.

Danika surprised each of her bridesmaids with a custom necklace of their names written in Elvish script. The perfect touch and completely on theme. We stepped outside for some portraits under the canopy of trees, and the group looked right at home.

Wedding party group wearing matching pale blue pajama sets laughs together on brick pathway surrounded by forest.
A group of people in matching light blue uniforms smile and chat while standing outdoors.
Three friends wearing matching blue shirts laugh together while looking at their phones in an outdoor wooded setting.
Multiple hands holding playing cards in a circle on a brick paved ground during a game session.
Two people in light blue shirts stand on a brick path in a wooded area while holding a small brown dog.
A group wearing matching tie-dye outfits stand together with arms around each other in a wooded forest setting.
A group in coordinated powder blue outfits stands together on a paved path in front of a rustic cabin in the woods.
Wedding party members walk along a curved pathway leading to a rustic wooden cabin surrounded by tall trees in the forest.

Inside the bridal suite, the energy shifted—calmer, more focused, but still full of joy. Danika stepped into her dress with help from her maid of honor and best friend, who carefully fastened the buttons along the back while they both tried not to tear up. The lace detail on the gown caught the light beautifully in the soft, white-walled room.

After slipping on her earrings and those white boots, it was time for the finishing touch: the Evenstar necklace, a subtle but meaningful nod to the story that inspired their whole day. I played with the reflections in the room—mirrors hung like little golden suns across the wall—and caught a few favorite shots of Danika seeing herself, smiling, ready.

A joyful bride in a white lace wedding dress laughs during a dress fitting while someone makes final adjustments.
Final wedding dress fitting shows delicate lace detailing and long train being adjusted in a bridal boutique.
Two people share a warm embrace in front of a pink floral wall art piece in a bright interior room.
Someone in a white lace wedding dress puts on earrings in front of a circular mirror and floral wall decor.
A bride in a flowing white lace wedding dress sits on a pink sofa while putting on her bridal shoes.
Ornate gold sunburst mirrors adorn white wall creating elegant vintage style decor.
Beautiful wedding gown with delicate lace details in a room decorated with sunburst mirrors and floral artwork.

Over at one of the cabins perched above the waterfall, Robert got ready with his friends on the balcony. The forest stretched out around them, green and still glistening from the rain, with the sound of water running in the distance.

Inside, there was a quiet excitement as he tied his shoes and adjusted the deep green Elvish-patterned tie—a subtle nod to the theme. His friends helped with the finishing touches before stepping out onto the deck for a few photos together. Just a small group, relaxed and present, enjoying the calm before the day really began.

A rustic wooden treehouse cabin nestled among tall redwood trees in a peaceful forest setting.
Someone wearing a white dress shirt, grey vest and pants sits laughing on a teal cushioned bench in a wood-paneled room.
A groomsman in a gray three-piece suit and green tie stands by a rustic wooden cabin exterior on a wedding day.

Just as we were about to head outside for the first look, the skies opened up again. Not a drizzle—real rain. But that’s part of what I love about weddings: you’re always adapting, finding new magic in unexpected places.

Instead, we set up the first look inside the lodge, with its grand carved doors open wide to the storm. The rain poured down just beyond the threshold, and soft light spilled in, perfectly framing Danika and Robert as they saw each other for the first time that day. He teared up immediately. She smiled with that kind of joy that doesn’t need words.

It was peaceful and intimate, like the world had paused just for them.

As the rain kept falling, we made the call to move the ceremony inside too. And the couple? They didn’t miss a beat. They were just happy to be together, ready to say “I do,” no matter where or how it happened.

Black and white wedding photo of couple holding hands in front of rustic open wooden doors with natural light streaming in.
Black and white wedding photo of a couple holding hands in a rustic wooden room with ornate doors and natural light.
A black and white wedding photo showing a couple standing in a doorway of a vintage barn with stained glass windows above.
A black and white photo showing a tender moment between a couple in wedding attire.
Black and white wedding photo showing a private emotional moment between newlyweds in a doorway.
A couple in wedding attire holds hands while standing in a doorway framing a view of green forest beyond.

Just after their first look, the rain let up—almost like the forest gave us its blessing. We didn’t waste the moment. We headed to the spot we’d originally picked for their first look, a tucked-away staircase surrounded by ferns and towering redwoods. It felt enchanted, like something out of a storybook.

There’s something humbling about being among trees that ancient and kind. (Redwoods really are the ents of our world—they even share nutrients underground to support each other. Yes, I’m a tree nerd. And yes, it makes me love them more.)

From there, we made our way to the waterfall, which was actually flowing, thanks to all the recent rain, something that doesn’t always happen here. With the water rushing behind them and the forest alive with color, it was as close to Rivendell we were getting in California.

A couple climbing stone stairs through a lush forest path leading to a rustic wooden cabin in the woods.
A wedding couple stands on forest steps surrounded by lush ferns and redwood trees in a magical woodland setting.
A rustic A-frame cabin with a wooden deck sits among tall trees and ferns in a misty forest setting.
A bride and groom stand together on rustic stone steps surrounded by lush ferns in a forest setting.
Intimate wedding moment shared on rustic wooden deck overlooking scenic forest waterfall.
A couple in elegant wedding attire stand together on a wooden deck overlooking a scenic waterfall in a lush forest setting.
Couple stands on wooden observation deck overlooking majestic waterfall in lush forest setting.

We gathered the wedding party for portraits in front of the lodge, timing it between little bursts of rain. The wooden facade, with its arched windows and medieval charm, felt like the perfect backdrop—like it belonged in Middle-earth.

The bridesmaids were stunning in rich green dresses, all in slightly different styles and textures—some velvet, some pleated, some classic. It gave a subtle Elvish vibe without feeling too “costumey,” and the bouquets pulled it all together with soft blush, white, and fern greens. Danika, right in the middle, looked completely at home in that little woodland kingdom.

The groomsmen matched the mood in classic suits—some charcoal, some lighter gray, with ties and accents echoing the deep green tones. It was such a cohesive group, and you could feel the warmth and friendship between everyone.

Honestly, it made these photos such a joy to take.

Wedding party poses in front of rustic wooden barn venue with forest backdrop and paver stone courtyard.
A bridal party wearing elegant emerald green dresses laughs together while holding floral bouquets in front of rustic wood doors.
Wedding party in various shades of emerald green dresses poses together holding floral bouquets at stone venue.
Five groomsmen in gray and green suits stand together on a stone patio outside a rustic wooden venue.
Two people in formal suits shake hands warmly at an elegant venue with lanterns and rustic wooden doors in the background.
A formal group photo of a family wearing coordinated outfits in green, gray and white standing against a rustic wood wall.

The ceremony took place inside the warm wooden walls of the lodge—cozy, intimate, and full of heart. Just before it began, one of the flower girls peeked through the big open doorway, looking for a sign of the bride. Inside, the aisle was lined with greenery and soft rose petals while the rain outside gently tapped the roof.

The moment Danika appeared in the doorway, framed by the forest beyond, it took everyone’s breath away. The space may have been snug, but it only made the ceremony feel more special—guests standing shoulder to shoulder, completely surrounding the couple in love and support.

A close friend officiated, bringing such tenderness and personal depth to the ceremony. I always adore ceremonies led by people who know the couple so well—there’s an ease and a warmth to the words that can’t be scripted.

Since music is a big part of both Danika and Robert’s lives—he works in the music field, and they both have a deep passion for it—it felt especially fitting when their friends performed a Beatles song live during the ceremony. It was emotional and magical, one of those moments that linger long after it’s over.

Their vows were full of honesty, humor, and tenderness. The kind that makes you smile and tear up at the same time. You could tell they meant every word. And when they sealed it all with a kiss, the whole room felt like it was wrapped in love.

Historic black and white photograph showing figures in long dresses gathered on a porch in ethereal lighting.
A black and white photograph of figures framed in a doorway with light streaming through an open door entrance.
A groom stands at the altar in a classic dark suit and boutonniere while guests look on in the background.
Three people in formal attire stand framed in a rustic wooden doorway surrounded by lush forest greenery.
Black and white photograph of a wedding ceremony taking place inside a rustic wooden church interior.
A rustic barn wedding reception features dancing on a wooden floor as guests in teal dresses watch from the sides.
A couple exchanges wedding vows inside a rustic wooden barn venue with guests watching in the background.
Black and white photo of two grooms exchanging vows during their wedding ceremony while guests watch in background.
Wedding celebration inside rustic wooden barn with teal bridesmaid dresses and romantic candlelit atmosphere.

Guests stepped into cocktail hour greeted by a welcome sign that read, in a very fitting elvish font, “Welcome to a Long-Expected Wedding.” It was the perfect nod to the day’s subtle Lord of the Rings theme. There were so many personal touches—like a puzzle guestbook encircled with elvish script for guests to sign, and a “bucket list” station where friends and family could jot down ideas for adventures the couple should go on together.

The One Ring Toss game was a crowd favorite—guests took turns tossing golden rings onto a custom tower straight out of Middle-earth. And while that was going on, a mariachi band filled the forest air with music, and a grazing table worthy of any hobbit celebration kept everyone happily snacking.

Under the cozy cover of the clear roof, guests mingled and laughed, soaking in the rain-dappled redwood views. It really felt like something out of a storybook.

Rustic wooden welcome sign for a wedding with white calligraphy text displayed on stone patio under canopy.
A white puzzle with elegant gold 'R&D' lettering surrounded by decorative circular script writing.
A framed vintage-style sign reading 'Please Sign Our Guest Puzzle' sits on a dark table with a pen holder nearby.
Rustic wooden sign with hanging tags inviting guests to write bucket list ideas for wedding couple's future adventures together.
Two wooden signs with gold rings reading 'The One Ring Toss' create a Lord of the Rings themed party game setup on a patio.
Wedding menu display in gold frame with eucalyptus arrangement and decorative chair ornament on wooden table.
A rustic timber barn venue hosts an outdoor gathering with guests gathered under a covered patio area in a wooded setting.
Attendee in navy suit and patterned tie stands near rustic wooden wedding sign at outdoor venue.
A mariachi band performing outdoors with trumpet players and violinists in traditional black and silver attire.
A group of people gather around wine barrels in an outdoor wooded setting in black and white.
Someone in a white lace dress draws on a large guest book at a wedding venue next to decorative flowers.

Okay, now for the good stuff—the reception decor! This Lord of the Rings-themed wedding at Waterfall Lodge in Santa Cruz was every Tolkien fan’s dream come true. Nearly everything was handmade or DIY, and the amount of detail the couple put into this forest wedding was seriously impressive.

Each reception table was marked by a painted wood-slab sign featuring a location from Middle-earth, made by the bride herself. We’re talking Rivendell, Gondor, The Shire, Mirkwood, Bree, and (my favorite) Grey Havens. These weren’t just table signs—they were mini works of art that made the whole space feel like a page out of a fantasy novel.

The rest of the forest-inspired decor followed suit: mismatched vintage glass bottles filled with wildflowers, gold candlesticks, lanterns, and Elvish-script charger plates. Each table also had little LOTR figurines—Gandalf, Sam, Aragorn, and even Sauron himself—hidden among the flowers and greenery.

Every place setting had a bookmark that read, “I think I’m quite ready for another adventure.” Honestly, it's the best wedding favor ever.

The sweetheart table was next-level—surrounded by crates overflowing with books, moss, lanterns, old maps, and relics from Middle-earth. There was even a sword display and a tiny nook for Danika’s necklace once the dancing started.

Even though rain brought everything under the clear tent, it didn’t take away the magic. The views of the redwoods and the warm, glowy vibe made it feel like a cozy woodland celebration—just the kind of place hobbits would throw a party.

Rustic wooden entrance with latticed door, vintage lantern, wine barrel planter and handwritten welcome sign on wood.
Wedding seating chart displayed on an elegant gold-framed board in a clear tent reception venue with crossback chairs.
Wooden cross-back chairs and dining tables set up under an outdoor tent for a rustic wedding reception.
A rustic wooden Rivendell sign sits on a decorated table at what appears to be an elegant themed event setting.
Elegant outdoor wedding reception setup with wooden cross-back chairs under clear tent and string lights at dusk.
A white dragon figurine rests beside a rustic wood slice decorated with Erebor artwork from Lord of the Rings.
A wooden table setting themed after The Shire from Lord of the Rings with miniature figures and decorative signage.
A decorative plate with Elvish script around the rim sits on a wooden surface with eucalyptus leaves and wine glasses.
Wedding table centerpiece features a rustic wood slice with Grey Havens artwork, candles and eucalyptus leaves.
Fantasy-themed wedding decor features a dark armored figurine beside eucalyptus leaves and a rustic wood slice with carved initial.
Rustic wooden cross-back chairs and tables set up under a clear tent for an elegant outdoor wedding reception.
Rustic wooden table decorated with candles and a vintage Bree sign for an intimate wedding reception setup.
Vintage wooden crates arranged as plant stands with potted greenery displayed in a rustic outdoor setting near stone border.
Vintage wooden box sits atop old leather-bound books with decorative scrolls and greenery in rustic setting.
A romantic floral arrangement of peach roses and white carnations in a dark wooden box with a hanging silver charm ornament.
Elegant wedding table setting with gold charger plate, green drinking glass and eucalyptus garland on wooden table.
Decorative eucalyptus garland draped over wooden furniture with soft bokeh lights in the background.

As dinner began, the wedding party made their grand entrance—and in true Tolkien fashion, it wasn’t just a walk-in. Each group came armed (literally) with swords, bows, shields, and more, fully embracing the fantasy theme. There were mock duels, playful choreography, and full-on character commitment. I couldn’t stop smiling behind the lens—it was theatrical, fun, and so them.

Robert and Danika entered last, with Robert raising his sword high like a true hero returning from battle, and Danika wrapped in her forest green cape, radiant and glowing. The guests erupted in cheers, and the joy was infectious.

As everyone settled in, the mariachi band played on, weaving music through the cozy space under the clear tent. Guests chatted, laughed, and enjoyed dinner—plates piled high with comforting fare that felt worthy of a hobbit feast. It was warm, welcoming, and full of love—the kind of evening you never want to end.

Guests at an elegant event stand next to a seating chart display under a covered patio with stone flooring.
A couple dances under a clear tent on a stone patio during a festive celebration.
Three attendees at a formal event pose together on a stone patio outside a rustic wood cabin venue with twinkling lights.
People in formal attire dance energetically at an outdoor venue with a seating chart display in the background.
A couple celebrates their wedding at a rustic outdoor venue with a seating chart display and string lights overhead.
A candid black and white shot of a vintage outdoor celebration showing two people in formal attire surrounded by flowers.
People celebrate at an outdoor dinner party under string lights in a tent, captured in black and white photography.
String musicians perform at an elegant outdoor reception under a clear tent with twinkling lights and guests seated at tables.
A couple shares laughter while dining together at a restaurant with champagne glasses on the table.
Wedding reception guests celebrate joyfully at rustic indoor venue with forest backdrop.
A reception celebration under a clear tent with string lights and elegant table settings during an outdoor evening event.

After everyone was settled and bellies were happily full, it was time for the toasts. Danika’s maid of honor kicked things off with the perfect blend of heartfelt memories and hilarious moments—cue the tears and laughter. The best man followed with his own epic toast, complete with a printed cutout of Aragorn’s face for Danika to hold up over Robert’s, jokingly declaring him the ultimate man (book girlies, you get it).

Robert’s mom had everyone reaching for tissues with her emotional tribute, and then came Danika’s parents, who brought props! They raised musical note cutouts every time a song lyric or title appeared in their speech—yes, it was adorable, and yes, it was frequent. The toasts ended with a warm thank-you from the couple, filled with gratitude and love. It was one of those moments where you could feel just how deeply they’re cherished.

Wedding reception held at rustic venue with floral decorations and people laughing at head table.
Wedding guests enjoy an outdoor reception dinner at a long table decorated with candlelight and floral arrangements.
Wedding reception guests share laughter and joy around a rustic table decorated with flowers and wine barrels.
Wedding attendees share a joyful moment at an elegantly decorated reception table with floral arrangements and champagne glasses.
Wedding reception guests raise their glasses in celebration under a clear tent with twinkle lights and floral decor.
A celebration at an elegant table setting with floral arrangements and decorative greenery while people share a joyous moment.
Two people laugh together at a wedding reception table decorated with elegant floral centerpieces and greenery.
People embrace during an emotional moment at an indoor wedding reception with clear plastic walls and rustic decor.
People gather for a celebratory dinner with champagne glasses and smiles at an elegant event setting.
Two people stand together reading from papers and speaking into microphones at a formal event gathering.
Wedding guests gather under a clear tent with romantic lighting for an evening celebration.

After toasts wrapped up, the lights dimmed and the wooden lodge came alive with emotion. Danika and Robert’s first dance was sweet and joy-filled, with everyone gathered close to watch them sway under glowing lanterns. The father-daughter dance followed, full of fun and laughter (and some surprise spins!). Then came the mother-son dance, heartfelt and emotional, with Robert and his mom sharing a moment that had more than a few of us teary-eyed. These dances were the perfect way to transition into the evening celebration—and a beautiful reminder of the love that surrounds a couple on their wedding day.

A couple shares their first dance at a rustic barn wedding venue surrounded by guests watching from the sides.
A couple shares their first dance at a rustic barn wedding venue with wooden walls and hanging lanterns.
Couple shares romantic first dance at rustic barn wedding reception on wooden floor in black and white photograph.
A couple shares their first dance at an indoor wedding reception with string lights and floral decorations overhead.
A couple shares their first dance at a rustic barn wedding venue while guests look on in black and white photography.
A tender dance moment at a rustic wedding reception with wooden walls and vintage lantern lighting.

After heartfelt dances inside the warm glow of the lodge, Danika and Robert stepped outside for a cake-cutting moment worthy of the Shire. With everyone watching, they drew a dagger from its scabbard—yes, a real one—channeling serious main-character energy. With laughter and a little flair, they sliced into their decadent cake, kicking off the next chapter of celebration.

Couple sharing a piece of wedding cake together under string lights at an outdoor evening reception.
Newlyweds celebrate during their rustic barn wedding reception under glowing string lights as they cut their cake together.
At an evening wedding reception under string lights, a couple cuts into their rustic cake together on a wooden table.
A couple in formal wedding attire feeds each other pieces of cake under twinkling string lights at an outdoor reception.

As the night carried on, the forest echoed with laughter, clinking glasses, and the occasional clash of swords—yes, the props made a strong return to the dance floor. Guests played ring toss under the stars, warmed their hands by the bonfire, and fully embraced the whimsical spirit of the evening. The dance floor turned into a full-blown Middle-earth melee of joy, with photobooth swords and flower crowns flying through the air. And as the celebration wound down, Danika and Robert shared one last quiet dance, holding each other close as the lights twinkled above them—ending their enchanted Waterfall Lodge wedding on the perfect note.

A group of people gather around a warm campfire at night, holding drinks and socializing.
Indoor event venue with string lights overhead, featuring a wooden bar setup and barrels in warm ambient lighting.
Joyful dancing moment captured during a rustic barn wedding reception with twinkling lights and floral decorations.
People dancing and celebrating at a rustic barn wedding reception with string lights and Christmas tree decor.
A joyful couple wearing wedding attire laugh together during their cake-cutting ceremony at a festively lit reception.
A couple dances together at a rustic barn wedding reception with string lights and wooden walls in black and white.
A lively wedding party poses together in a rustic barn setting with guests wearing formal attire in teal and gray.
Two dancers sharing a lively moment on a wooden dance floor in a rustic barn-style venue with twinkling lights.
A romantic black and white photo of a couple sharing a dance moment at a wedding reception.

Danika and Robert’s Waterfall Lodge wedding was the kind of day that makes you believe in magic. Every detail, from the handcrafted Tolkien table signs to the sword-wielding entrances and the love-filled toasts, told a story uniquely their own. As a wedding photographer who specializes in intimate and creative weddings in Santa Cruz and beyond, it’s days like this that remind me just how beautiful and personal a wedding can be. If you’re planning a redwood forest wedding with a touch of fantasy, let’s make your vision come to life—capes and all.

Huge thanks to the incredible team that helped bring Danika & Robert’s wedding to life. I’m so grateful to have had such thoughtful and creative vendors to photograph:

Venue: Waterfall Lodge & Retreat

Planner/Coordinator: Events with Jules

Hair & Makeup: Jenna Kurnosoff (friend of the bride)

Officiant: Christian Tudino (best man)

Florals: DIY by the couple + blooms from Flower Moxie

DJ: DJ Phonic – Edward Kelley

Videography: Gown and Tie Films

Wedding Dress: Lorien Bridal (designer: Madison James)

Bride’s Shoes: SODA Shoes

Groom’s Attire: Castelli Fashions

Catering: Mission St. BBQ

Grazing Table: Quesos de Diana

Bar Service: Jenni & Jessi Jimenez

Shuttle Transportation: The Santa Cruz Experience

Mariachi Band: Mariachi Tapatio