Thinking about planning a celebration that feels more like you? Considering a micro wedding in Northern California? You’re in the right place—and I can’t wait to help you start dreaming about what is possible for your day.

Micro weddings are the perfect way to bring your favorite people along for the ride, while still embracing all the freedom and intentionality of an elopement. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy dinner under the stars or a full weekend getaway filled with meaningful moments and time in nature, the possibilities are endless.

In this blog, I’m sharing tips for planning your own Northern California micro wedding—plus a list of the best small wedding venues and hidden gem locations to help you bring your dream day to life.

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What is a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding is a smaller-scale celebration—usually with 30 guests or less—that still includes the heart of a traditional wedding: a meaningful ceremony followed by dinner or a reception.

What makes micro weddings so special—especially in Northern California—is they allow you to slow down and be truly present. With fewer guests and less pressure to follow traditional wedding expectations, you can focus on what really matters: intentional time with your partner and your people.

Whether that’s a short hike to your ceremony, a laid-back beach picnic, or a cozy multi course dinner with heartfelt toasts, your micro wedding is all about creating a day that reflects who you are and what you value most.

5 steps to start planning your Northern California Micro Wedding

1. Pick a general area or location

Do you two have a favorite mountain town for summer getaways, or a quiet coastal spot you keep going back to? As you get started in the process of planning your micro wedding, think about the places that already feel like you—or maybe it’s time to explore somewhere new together!

Northern California is full of laid-back, small-town destinations that are perfect for micro weddings. A few favorite areas for you to consider: the coast, with its rugged landscapes and beautiful resorts, and the Sierra Nevadas for alpine lakes, mountain vibes and outdoor adventures.

2. Find an Airbnb, Unique Hotel, or Private Property

My biggest tip, is to think of your lodging as more than just a place to sleep—it can double as your photo backdrop, ceremony site, or the setting for a private dinner with your people.

As you’re exploring options, consider what kind of experience you want to create for your guests. Depending on your group size, everyone might be able to stay on-site or nearby, which makes the whole day (or weekend) feel more connected and relaxed.

3. Find your Northern California Vendors

One of the best things you can do early on is lock in a photographer who knows the area you’re considering (hi, it’s me!) and—if needed—a planner to help guide the process. We’re often the ones helping with timeline planning, vendor recommendations, logistics, and all the little pieces you might not even realize you need to think about.

Photographers who specialize in micro weddings—especially here in Northern California—usually have a trusted network of florists, officiants, caterers, private chefs, and more. Having the right team means you’re not stuck Googling options last minute or crossing your fingers on quality.

With solid support in place, planning becomes way less stressful—and a lot more fun!

If you’re ready to dive into planning your Northern California micro wedding, let’s chat. I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up and help you bring it to life.

4. Make Your Guest List (and Intentionally Include Your People)

Whether you’re keeping it to just immediate family or inviting a slightly larger group of your closest friends too, one of the best parts of a micro wedding is the space it creates for real connection. With fewer people, you get more time with everyone—and that thoughtfulness shines through in every part of your time together.

Here are a few beautiful ways to make your guests feel involved and appreciated:

  • Ask someone to officiate — Have a friend or family member get ordained to lead your ceremony. It adds a personal, heartfelt touch that makes the moment even more meaningful.
  • Celebrate with dinner — A shared meal is often the heart of a micro wedding. Think family-style under twinkle lights, a private chef experience, or a coastal picnic with champagne and a bonfire.
  • Get ready together — Invite a few special people to be part of the getting-ready process. It’s a quiet, grounding part of the day that’s often filled with laughter and emotion.
  • Incorporate toasts or stories — Ask guests to share a favorite memory or a few words during dinner. These are often the most emotional, unforgettable parts of the celebration.
  • Include those who can’t attend — Have a friend gather video messages or letters from loved ones who aren’t able to be there. Taking time to watch or read them together adds so much love to the day.

And if you’re still deciding whether a micro wedding or something larger is the right fit, check out this guide to help weigh your options.

5. Start Planning Activities for Your Micro Wedding

One of the best parts about a micro wedding? You’re not limited to a single afternoon. With a smaller guest list, it’s easy to turn your wedding into a full weekend experience. Most guests are traveling in and staying nearby anyway—so why not make the most of that time together?

Here are a few activity ideas to help kick off or wind down your celebration:

  • Take a hike or explore a local area as a
  • Plan a beach bonfire — I can help you find local beaches where fires are allowed.
  • Have a picnic in a scenic spot or local park.
  • Go kayaking at sunrise — peaceful, photogenic, and a great way to start your day.
  • Host morning yoga at your Airbnb or resort — invite your guests to join and soak it all in.

Whether it’s something active or something slow, planning a couple of shared experiences can make the entire weekend feel connected, relaxed, and unforgettable.

AutoCamp Russian river is a Northern California Resort that would be a great location for your Micro Wedding

Best Small Venues in Northern California for a Micro Wedding

AutoCamp Russian River – Guerneville, CA

Tucked into the redwoods just minutes from the Sonoma Coast, AutoCamp Russian River is a glamping-style stay that makes your whole wedding weekend feel like a relaxed retreat.

Why it’s great for micro weddings:
Each guest or couple gets their own Airstream, creating a built-in community vibe while still offering privacy. You can host a private ceremony under the trees, explore the nearby redwoods at Armstrong Reserve, have a picnic out at the coast, and end the night with a dinner back at camp.

Quick details:

  • Guest Capacity: Up to 80
  • Dog Friendly: Yes
  • Closest Airports:
    • Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County (30 mins)
    • Oakland Intl (1.5 hrs)
    • San Francisco Intl (1.5 hrs)

Photographer’s note: AutoCamp locations are some of my favorite elevated venues centered around the outdoors—Russian River is a beautiful property with lots of local options to make your day uniquely yours.

Cuffey’s Cove Ranch – Mendocino Coast, CA

Perched on the bluffs of Elk with sweeping ocean views, Cuffey’s Cove Ranch is a coastal hideaway made for multi-day weddings. The property includes a historic home, open meadows, and canvas tent glamping options—making it feel like your own private retreat.

Why it’s great for micro weddings:
Cuffey’s Cove gives you space to unplug and fully be with your people. With room for up to 10 overnight guests in the main house and more in tents, it’s ideal for gathering everyone in one spot for a full weekend of connection and celebration.

Quick details:

  • Guest Capacity: Up to 180
  • Dog Friendly: Yes
  • Closest Airports:
    • Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County (2 hrs)
    • Oakland Intl (3.5 hrs)
    • San Francisco Intl (3.5 hrs)

Photographer’s note: The light on this bluff is unreal—sunsets here are something else. It’s one of my favorite places to shoot for the wide-open feeling and rugged coastal views.

Stable Cafe – San Francisco, Ca

Tucked into the Mission District, Stable Cafe is a charming garden café that transforms into an intimate wedding venue by afternoon. With lush greenery, twinkle lights, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for a cozy dinner celebration after an elopement in nearby Marin County, or along the coast.

Why it’s great for micro weddings:
The private garden patio is small but full of personality—perfect for a ceremony followed by a shared meal. It’s a great fit for couples wanting a more casual, urban celebration without losing that touch of charm.

Quick details:

  • Guest Capacity: Ideal for smaller groups
  • Dog Friendly: Generally yes, but double-check directly when booking
  • Closest Airports:
    • San Francisco Intl (20 mins)
    • Oakland Intl (30 mins)

Photographer’s note: This spot feels like a hidden gem in the city—warm, earthy tones and natural light make it such a vibe for photos, especially during golden hour.

Oz Farm – Point Arena, Ca

Tucked into the redwoods along the Mendocino Coast, Oz Farm is a one-of-a-kind, off-the-grid retreat filled with rustic cabins, yurts, and a deep sense of community. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and truly connect—with nature and your people.

Why it’s great for micro weddings:
You can host a full weekend celebration with up to 30 overnight guests, surrounded by gardens, meadows, and forest trails. Oz Farm sources florals right from their land and works with local vendors who know and love the property, making the whole experience feel rooted and intentional.

Quick details:

  • Guest Capacity: Up to 100 day guests / 30 overnight guests
  • Dog Friendly: Yes
  • Closest Airports:
    • Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County (2 hrs)
    • Oakland Intl (3 hrs)
    • San Francisco Intl (3.5 hrs)

Photographer’s note: Oz Farm feels like stepping into a secret forest hideaway. If you want your photos to reflect that wild, earthy vibe, this property is a hidden gem.

Timber Cove Resort – Sonoma Coast, Ca

Just a couple hours north of San Francisco, Timber Cove is a luxury hotel perched on the cliffs with panoramic views of the Pacific. It’s a quiet, elevated escape that feels like a world away—perfect for an elopement with just the two of you, or a full micro wedding with your favorite people.

Why it’s great for micro weddings:
You’ll get oceanfront ceremony options, refined lodging, and space to host up to 70 guests. The vibe is romantic, natural, and design-forward—ideal if you’re looking for something that feels both adventurous and elegant.

Quick details:

  • Guest Capacity: Up to 70
  • Dog Friendly: Yes – $150 per stay
  • Closest Airports:
    • Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County (1 hr)
    • Oakland Intl (2.5 hrs)
    • San Francisco Intl (2.5 hrs)

Photographer’s note: I’ve photographed weddings of all sizes here—the property offers ways to scale your wedding to the guest list. The light, the cliffs, the textures—it’s just stunning and one of my favorite spots on the coast!

Olema House – Point Reyes, Ca

Just over an hour from the Bay Area, Olema House feels like stepping into a quiet retreat far from the city. Nestled at the edge of Point Reyes National Seashore, this boutique hotel offers beautiful garden spaces, cozy rooms, and a peaceful vibe that pairs perfectly with a nature-forward micro wedding.

Why it’s great for micro weddings:
Its close proximity to the coast and nearby hiking trails makes it ideal for a weekend celebration. You can use the property for your ceremony or stay here while hosting your celebration elsewhere in Point Reyes—it’s also perfect for getting ready photos!

  • Quick details:
  • Guest Capacity: Up to 120
  • Dog Friendly: Yes
  • Closest Airports:
    • Oakland Intl (1 hr)
    • San Francisco Intl (1.5 hrs)

Photographer’s note: I love Olema House for how relaxed and natural it feels—whether you’re staying here, getting ready here, or hosting your celebration on-site, it’s a hidden gem right near the coast.

Desolation Hotel Hope Valley – Sierra Nevadas Mountains

Tucked in a quiet valley just outside Lake Tahoe, Desolation Hotel in Hope Valley is a laidback, mountain resort surrounded by forest, and alpine views. With cozy cabins, yurts, and campsites, this spot is all about unplugging and spending quality time outdoors.

Why it’s great for micro weddings:
It’s the kind of place where everyone stays on-site, and your wedding weekend turns into one big adventure. You can host your ceremony right on the property, go hiking or kayaking nearby, and gather around the fire in the evening.

Quick details:

  • Guest Capacity: Up to 100
  • Dog Friendly: Yes
  • Closest Airports:
    • Sacramento Intl (2 hrs)
    • Oakland Intl (3.5 hrs)
    • San Francisco Intl (4 hrs)

Photographer’s note: If you’re dreaming of fall colors, crisp air, and quiet mountain vibes, this is one of my favorite hidden gems in Northern California. It’s also an incredible location for a summer-in-the-mountains vibe.

5 Reasons to Have a Micro Wedding in Northern California

  1. It’s easy to get to—even if you’re not local. With multiple international airports nearby, Northern California is incredibly accessible for guests flying in for your celebration.
  2. The location variety is unmatched. Beaches, cliffside coasts, redwood forests, alpine lakes, and mountain meadows—this region has it all, often just a few hours apart.
  3. You get to skip the pressure and embrace the experience. A micro wedding means fewer traditions and more time for what really matters. Venues like Timber Cove, Oz Farm, and Hope Valley let you celebrate, stay, and gather all in one beautiful place.
  4. Vendors here get it. Since micro weddings took off in 2020, Northern California has become a hub for creative, experienced vendors who know how to make small celebrations feel deeply meaningful.
  5. You can go from city to seclusion in no time. In just a short drive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by peace, nature, and some of the most stunning landscapes you could imagine for your wedding day.

Best time of year to get married in Northern California

As a Northern California Native, I must say we are incredibly spoiled here with the weather and a diverse variety of location types to pick from. Whether you want to get married in the forest, on the coast, or on top of the mountain – there are many stunning areas to pick from. 

Fall is by far my favorite season here. Late August through October is the best time of year to visit the Northern California Coast with warmer temperatures, sunny days, and fewer crowds. The Sierra Nevada Mountains have beautiful fall colors for a few weeks as well! Hope Valley is a stunning spot in the fall season.

Winter brings foggy mornings on the coast, and snow in the mountains. If you don’t mind the cooler temperatures – this is a great time for a cozy “California” winter wedding. 

In the spring, the hills turn green, the redwoods are stunning and the rivers are flowing in the mountains. Late April through May is a lovely time for a micro wedding with a solid chance of nice weather in most places.

Summer is warm and sunny in all places but the coast! California’s coastline is often socked in with fog in the summer season. If you don’t mind it being busy out, we sure do have the warm weather. 

How to obtain a California Marriage License for your Micro Wedding

How to Get a California Marriage License for Your Micro Wedding

Good news—California makes it easy!
You don’t need to be a California resident to get married here, and the process is pretty straightforward. You can usually walk out with your marriage license the same day as your appointment and be ready to say your vows.

Here’s how it works:
Once you’ve picked your location, find out what county it’s in and check with the County Clerk’s Office for details on how to apply. Every county is a little different, so timelines and requirements can vary.

You’ll need to book an appointment and follow their application process. You don’t need to get married in the same county where you get your license, but you do need to get married somewhere in California. This applies to both Public and Confidential Marriage Licenses.

A few quick tips to keep in mind:

  • Both partners must be present and bring valid photo ID to apply.
  • Fees and office hours vary by county.
  • A Public Marriage License requires one witness and an officiant.
  • A Confidential Marriage License only requires an officiant (no witness needed).
  • Your officiant must return the signed license to the county within 10 days of the ceremony.

Frequently Asked Questions About Northern California Micro Weddings

How do you get a Northern California marriage license?
Check out the section above on how to obtain a California marriage license—it has everything you need to get started!

Do you need a permit to get married in Northern California?
If you’re planning to get married or take portraits in a California State or National Park, you’ll likely need a permit. Each park has its own rules, so it’s always best to double-check with the site directly.
Need help navigating permits? I’ve got you. I’ll guide you through what’s required for your specific location so there are no surprises.

Do you need a planner for your micro wedding?
If your venue doesn’t come with a coordinator, I always recommend hiring a planner—especially for multi-day events or anything a bit more logistically involved. It helps keep things smooth and stress-free.
That said, as your photographer, I do more than just show up with a camera. I’ll help you plan a timeline, recommend vendors, and support you with logistics so your day flows with ease.

What vendors do I need for a micro wedding in Northern California?
Start with your must-haves: a venue or private property, a photographer (hi, I’d love to help!), an officiant (I can help you find one or a friend can get ordained), and a caterer or private chef.
Once we lock in your location, I can also point you toward trusted vendors for things like florals, rentals, and coordination if needed.

Meet Your Northern California Micro Wedding Photographer

Hey, I’m Jess—a photographer who’s all about capturing intentional celebrations in the outdoors. I specialize in elopements and micro weddings across Northern California, and I believe your wedding should feel like you—whether that’s a quiet ceremony in the redwoods, a full weekend at a cozy mountain lodge, or dinner under the stars with your closest people.

From timeline help and vendor recs to location scouting and emotional storytelling, I’m here to guide you through it all—camera in hand.

If you’re dreaming up your own Northern California micro wedding, I’d love to hear what you’re planning.

Reach out through my contact page and let’s start creating something unforgettable.

Additional Resources for Planning Your Northern California Micro Wedding

Want to keep diving into ideas, inspiration, and practical planning tips? Here are a few of my most-loved blog posts to guide you:

How to plan an Intentional Micro Wedding in Northern California

Sunrise Mountain Vow Renewal in Alabama Hills

Elopements

On the Road Together | Adventure Couples Session in the Sierra Nevadas

Real Stories

Brand Photos for Chaparral Jewelry

Brand Shoots

Petaluma Couples Session with the Pups

Real Stories

Top 10 Places to Elope in Northern California in 2025

Guides + Locations

4 Meaningful Ways to Elope with Family

Guides + Locations

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