my favorite wedding venues
in Santa Cruz
Getting married in Santa Cruz is a dream come true. I've lived here for a long time, and it's a joy to photograph weddings in the same forests where I hike with my family. The stunning coastal views and magical redwood forests provide an incredible backdrop for your special day. Whether you're exchanging vows on a romantic beach with the sound of waves or among towering redwoods, Santa Cruz offers a variety of beautiful settings.
Santa Cruz's mild climate is perfect for outdoor ceremonies, especially in the fall when the weather is at its best. The unique venues here, from historic sites like the Cowell Hay Barn to adventurous spots like Roaring Camp Railroads (shout out to my train-loving neurospicy peeps!) and gems like Waterfall Lodge & Spa, are simply breathtaking. I’ve shot at most of these venues multiple times and never tire of their beauty. I love sharing my local knowledge and helping couples create the perfect Santa Cruz wedding.
Santa Cruz is also an ideal location for your guests, offering the perfect vacation town experience with its charming downtown, scenic beaches, and abundant activities. Plus, it’s conveniently close to Silicon Valley and San Francisco, making it easily accessible for your guests.


Amphitheater of the Redwoods
Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this venue provides a serene setting among towering redwoods, ideal for nature lovers seeking a tranquil, forested wedding location
Take a historic steam train ride into the redwoods to exchange vows in a charming grove. This unique venue is perfect for adventurous couples and train enthusiasts.


Cowell Ranch Hay Barn
This historic barn offers a rustic charm with its open-air design and scenic views, perfect for a romantic, countryside wedding.


Waterfall Lodge & Spa
Take a historic steam train ride into the redwoods to exchange vows in a charming grove. This unique venue is perfect for adventurous couples and train enthusiasts.
more venues in Santa Cruz
Sand Rock Farm
This historic farm offers a blend of rustic charm and elegance with its gardens, redwoods, and vintage barn, perfect for an intimate wedding.

Mt Madonna County Park
Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this venue provides a serene setting among towering redwoods, ideal for nature lovers seeking a tranquil, forested wedding location

Fern River Inn
Set in the heart of the redwoods, Fern River offers a peaceful and intimate setting, ideal for couples looking for a nature-inspired wedding venue.
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Overlooking Monterey Bay, Chaminade offers elegant indoor and outdoor spaces with stunning views, making it a versatile choice for a luxurious wedding.

Hollins House
Located at Pasatiempo Golf Club, Hollins House combines historic elegance with stunning views of Monterey Bay, perfect for a sophisticated wedding.

New Brighton State Park
Take a historic steam train ride into the redwoods to exchange vows in a charming grove. This unique venue is perfect for adventurous couples and train enthusiasts.
Seascape Golf Course
Situated in Aptos, Seascape Golf Club offers picturesque views of coastal highlands and beautifully designed interiors, perfect for a stylish and memorable wedding.

The Forest of Nisine Marks
Situated in Aptos, Seascape Golf Club offers picturesque views of coastal highlands and beautifully designed interiors, perfect for a stylish and memorable wedding.

Quail Hollow
Located in the redwoods, this venue features an enchanting waterfall backdrop, providing a serene and fairytale-like setting for your wedding.