Prepare to be swept away by the romantic charm and rustic elegance of a wedding that beautifully weaves together love, nature, and celebration. Nestled within the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Waterfall Lodge & Retreat provided the perfect backdrop for this magical day. From intimate moments to joyous festivities, every snapshot is a testament to a love story beautifully told. Whether you're planning your own wedding or seeking inspiration, you're sure to find something to love in this enchanting forest celebration.

The magic of a wedding day starts with the smallest of details. The bride's gorgeous lace wedding dress, hanging patiently in the charming bridal cabin of the Waterfall Lodge, is a vision of elegance. This fairy tale dress paired with striking blue suede shoes from Lulu's is an unexpectedly chic combination. Who said something blue couldn't make a bold statement? These details alone paint a beautiful picture, serving as inspiration for anyone envisioning their own special day.

Surrounded by a lush forest, the couple's first look was truly a sight to behold. As the bride elegantly made her way down the staircase, the vibrant ferns and towering trees added a touch of fairy tale charm to the moment. This serene and intimate scene at Waterfall Lodge & Retreat perfectly captured the beauty of their love, offering a picturesque snapshot of what dream weddings are made of.

In a clearing nestled amongst the grandeur of the Santa Cruz Mountains' redwoods, the couple said their 'I do's. The air was filled with love and a profound sense of unity, as nature itself stood witness to their vows. A special highlight of the ceremony was when the bride, in a heartwarming gesture, shared vows with not only her groom, but also her new stepson. A testament to the blended family they were becoming, it was an unforgettable moment that echoed the love and commitment shared on this incredible day.

Complementing the lush surroundings, the bridesmaids looked stunning in their matching green dresses. Adding to the theme of nature, they carried eco-friendly Sola Wood flowers that were as breathtaking as real blooms. The groomsmen, in their sleek grey suits, added a classy touch with their matching green ties, blending seamlessly with the forest hues. In a unique and casual twist, the entire group, including the groom, sported cool sneakers. The blend of style, comfort, and eco-conscious choices truly showcased the couple's thoughtful approach to their special day.

Taking advantage of the stunning surroundings, we captured some truly beautiful portraits of the couple among the majestic redwoods. Their love for each other shone as brightly as the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees. Each photo is a testament to their connection, offering a snapshot of their journey as they begin this new chapter at the beautiful Waterfall Lodge & Retreat.

Lia Adams Events and her team truly outdid themselves with the reception decor. Long tables draped in greenery and baby's breath created a stunning forest banquet, accentuated by beautiful geometric glassware filled with twinkling fairy lights. Wooden blocks with table numbers burnt into them added a rustic touch, fitting perfectly with the lodge setting. All of this was set under a canopy of string lights, with the towering redwoods standing as grand sentinels, making the night feel all the more enchanting.

The reception was brimming with joy and laughter, a true celebration of the couple's love. The moment the newlyweds made their entrance, the atmosphere was electric. Surrounded by their entourage, their happiness was mirrored by every guest present. The toasts that followed were heartfelt and beautiful, each word echoing the love and excitement that filled the air. It was a night of memorable celebrations, perfectly capping off a day full of love and unity.

The cake cutting ceremony had its own adorable twist. The cake was crowned with the cutest topper: a miniature version of the couple holding a frame that replicated the Tinder app, complete with 'swipe left' or 'swipe right'. It was a fun nod to their origin story - meeting each other on Tinder. The laughs and cheers as they cut into the cake were proof that love can be found in the most modern of ways.

The highlight of the reception had to be the couple's first dance. The bride, a fantastic dancer, moved with such grace and passion that every guest was left in awe. Their dance was not just spectacular, it was a heartfelt performance that spoke volumes about their chemistry and mutual affection. It was a beautiful expression of their love story, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

Adding an unexpected twist to the reception, the bride and bridesmaids put together a surprise dance for the groom. The routine was full of energy, excitement, and a good dose of fun! The surprise was evident on the groom's face, but what really stood out was the delight. It was a memorable performance that added a unique charm to their already extraordinary day.

As the night wore on, the dance floor truly came alive. Lit by the warmth of celebration, it was a whirl of happiness and fun. The music echoed through the redwoods as guests moved in rhythm, their laughter and cheers ringing out into the night. It was the perfect end to a perfect day - a joyous celebration of love, and a party that will be remembered for years to come.

A spectacular event like this wouldn't have been possible without the hard work and dedication of some truly amazing vendors.

A heartfelt thank you to Lia Adams Events for their flawless coordination and planning.

And to Waterfall Lodge and Retreat for providing the breathtaking venue.

Sound in Motion kept us all on our feet with great music.

While Sola Flowers created beautiful, eco-friendly floral arrangements.

Special thanks to Kala Ketchum for the stunning makeup and to Jennica Leys for the lovely hairstyling.

The delicious catering from Joseph Talley of 831 Catering was appreciated by all.

Nick Brugioni of Multimedia Weddings captured beautiful moments on video.

The Santa Cruz Experience provided invaluable shuttle services.

And finally Alexis Party Rentals.



Together, you all helped create a day that will be remembered forever.