Magical Redwood Forest Wedding: Molly + Leland

redwoods wedding

Happy Monday, friends! We’re excited to share the dreamiest wedding to start the week; one that will surely inspire couples who love the great outdoors. Molly and Leland exchanged their vows in the middle of the redwood forest on the Summer Solstice. According to their talented photog, Katie Shuler, The towering trees left me speechless, but there was also a quiet mystery to the air that made you feel like you were living in a fairytale. We love that description, don’t you? See all of the gorgeousness, and the sweet personal touches Molly + Leland incorporated into their day, in Katie’s beautiful captures below…

treehouse

lavender bouquet

bride getting ready

Molly wore Leland’s great-great grandmother’s veil for the ceremony. Isn’t it stunning?!

bride and dog

bride in the woods

And the wheat + lavender bouquets and boutonnieres were crafted days before the wedding by M + her lovely bridesmaids! Gotta love something that can be made ahead of time + still look this great, right?

pink bridesmaids

wheat bouquets

groomsmen in the woods

wheat boutonniere

redwoods ceremony

Our Favorite Memory From The Wedding

Molly: I knew early on that I wanted the “first look” to be there as I walked down the aisle because there’s so much suspense and magic in that moment. Although we were surrounded by so many, I felt like we were the only two in the forest. I couldn't take my eyes off of him and I couldn't keep a smile off my face. It's so wonderful to then turn around once we said our vows and see so many people who love and care about us. It's surreal knowing you're not alone and that you'll never be alone. I have my best friend for life.

Leland: On Friday we had our rehearsal and walk through. When it was my turn to walk down the aisle I felt this rush of emotion. All the weeks of planning and preparation washed away and I was acutely aware that I was 24 hours from marrying my love. So I had a feeling I would be feeling strong emotions on the big day. Sure enough, I walked down the aisle to see my family and friends old and new. I was on the brink but still maintained my composure. The bridesmaids and groomsmen walked down the while as I took in my surroundings. And then it happened. The first note of Molly's song played and I couldn't hold back my emotion. Boys don't cry, but sometime men cry like babies. Then at the end of the aisle I saw her, a vision in white, my beautiful wife to be.

redwoods ceremony

redwoods ceremony

ring bearer

redwoods ceremony

redwoods ceremony

Our Musical Choices

Processional: The Girl – City and Colour (acoustic instrumental version)

Recessional: Hold You in my Arms – Ray LaMontagne (acoustic instrumental version)

First Dance: Sunny Side of Heaven – Fleetwood Mac

redwoods ceremony

redwoods wedding party

redwoods wedding party

redwoods bride and groom

lavender bouquet

redwoods bride and groom

redwoods bride and groom

flower crown

redwoods bride and groom

barn in the woods

Adjacent to the venue’s 19th century reconstructed barn, a gorgeous meadow surrounded by giant Redwoods served as the perfect location for all to feast on BBQ + locally made pie…

reception decor

dinner menu

succulent favor

wheat table decor

his and hers chairs

bucket of lavender

redwoods wedding

first dance

photo with guests

Our Advice To Those Planning Now

As the big day approaches make sure that you have a detailed timeline and revise it as necessary. Make sure all of the involved parties have a copy so they know how you want the day to go or flow (e.i. Coordinator, Caterer, D.J. etc.). Also, delegate-delegate-delegate! Find some key people that you know are true "work horses" and who love to help and make sure you communicate clearly with them as to their job or responsibility on the big day.

And have fun planning! Don't be afraid to be daring and do something fun and original. It's YOUR day so let your imagination run wild. Try not to get too caught up in how it "should" look like according to tradition.

photography: Katie Shuler // venue name: Stones and Flowers Retreat, Santa Cruz Mountains, California // florals: all homemade from lavender and wheat // wedding dress: Bridal Gown Studio // bride's shoes: Jeffrey Campbell // hair stylist: Ashley Buck // makeup artist: Ignacio Maciel // videography: Dominic Parisi // paper goods: The Quill // catering: Bruno's BBQ-Scott's Valley // music: Justin Horrell // flower crown: Twigs Floral Design // vintage lace from groom's great-great grandmother's veil: re-done by Epiphany Boutique // pie: Elena's Bakery // succulent favor boxes: Alibi Interiors // ceremony backdrop: Lilify // head table garland: Lilify

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