Sam & Lakana’s Stunning Redwoods & Oregon Coast Wedding

Where to begin with Sam & Lakana’s wedding day…I guess I should start by saying that these two are truly some of the most kind and genuine people I have met since I began photographing weddings. Their playful spirits and fun-loving energy was reflected in every moment of this day, whether planned or spontaneous. It’s no surprise that their friends and family happily and enthusiastically joined them on this epic adventure through the California redwood groves, up Oregon’s incredible Southern Coastline, ending with a wedding reception at Crook Point.

Vendors

Ceremony Venue: Capella by the Sea

Reception Venue: Crook Point

Photography: Overland Elopements

Videography: Sabrina Fitz

Planner: J29 Events

Florals: Freckled Fleurs

Catering: Black Trumpet Bistro

Hair & Makeup: WhitMarie Hair MUA

The day began with a prayer, many hugs and a few tears as Sam and Lakana got ready separately from each other but surrounded by parents, siblings and friends. Once ready, they shared a private prayer together while making sure not to see each other until the ceremony.

An emotional ceremony at Capella by the Sea in Brookings, Oregon

Though this was a destination adventure, it was important to both of them to still hold a traditional ceremony and experience that moment of seeing each other for the first time when walking down the aisle. It was an emotional, heartfelt ceremony held in a picturesque little chapel in Brookings, Oregon. This unique wood & stone chapel sits in the local park just minutes from the ocean.

Afternoon Under the California Redwoods

After tears, cheers, and hugs post-ceremony, it was time for an excursion down to one of California’s most impressive redwood groves. Though Redwood groves really do look beautiful in any light and at any time of day, the soft light that fell on us this afternoon is what fairytales are made of. After spending some time exploring the grove with immediate family, Sam and Lakana continued on a solo adventure for some quality time to themselves. They strolled along the trail, giggling and dancing their way past ancient trees and prehistoric looking ferns.

Portraits at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

When it was time to start making our way back up to Oregon and towards the reception, we had one more stop to make first! Though there are dozens of beaches along the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, Secret Beach is certainly one of the most popular (ironic, right?).

It is super important to be aware of the tides throughout the day and how they impact the accessibility of specific locations. Only a small section of Secret Beach is accessible during average high tides, but most of the beach beyond that can only be accessed during low tides. On this day, we opted to stay well-off the beach as the waves were crashing all the way up to the end of the beach. Even so, we still managed to get rained on by a few rogue waves!

Oceanfront Wedding Reception at Crook Point

After an afternoon under the towering redwoods and along the rocky beaches, Sam & Lakana rejoined the cocktail hour festivities and wedding reception at Crook Point. This family-owned oceanfront estate features multiple wedding venues each with their own luxurious charm. Picture 3,000 acres of coastal forest, ocean bluffs & private beach, with overnight lodging & multiple ceremony sites. Crook Point is one of my top venue recommendations in Southern Oregon for good reason!

The reception was held on the main lawn, overlooking arch rock & the ocean below. Sam & Lakana’s wedding day perfectly married (no pun intended) the very best elements of both an elopement and contemporary wedding. After a wild & fantastic adventure through this rural, landscape, the gang partied the night away under the stars & string lights, a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Redwoods & Brookings Wedding Photographer

Is the Southern Oregon coast or California redwoods calling your name? Overland Elopements is an Oregon based wedding & elopement photographer who loves documenting wild romance & epic adventures. From 300 person ballrooms to mountaintop self-uniting ceremonies, I’ve been documenting couples in love for the past ten years.