Caroline and Kyle held an intimate wedding in the woods that was so true to them and their values! They’re both avid outdoors people, rock-climbers, backpackers, and everything in between. They’re from the Bay Area but the mountainous Sierra is where they’re most at home, so the HideOut, tucked deep into the wooded forest of Kirkwood, CA made the perfect venue for them. It was a destination wedding with a homemade, DIY touch. 

The couple made the most of their venue, hosting their wedding party at the onsite cabin and camping in the field for the entire weekend. They even hosted a “field day” the morning of their wedding, where their guests all came early to do archery and other games. The Hideout speaks for itself in terms of beauty –– a gorgeous cabin, a lake to paddle and swim around in, meadows and woods, all tucked into a field of boulders to climb around. This was perfect for Caroline and Kyle, who trekked up the boulders for their couple’s photos…in suits, heels, and all. 

Since the venue itself is so beautiful and adorned by nature, the couple kept it very minimal when it came to decor. The details that they did incorporate were things that they both poured a lot of time and love into. For example, their wedding favors were jars of honey collected from their own bees. Caroline made the pies for the dessert. The couple even made their own simple syrup for the bar to use just so their guests would know how loved they are by them. People were the absolute focus of their wedding, and the entire day was filled with intimacy and emotion. Nothing ever had to be faked for the camera. 

Caroline chose a dress that was so different from what she expected, but made her feel like a woodland fairy (her words!). And she definitely did, scaling the boulders in a gown and heels. A highlight of the day was when the sky absolutely lit up for sunset; Caroline, Kyle, and I ran and danced around the venue (literally) for 10 minutes to make the most of the. absolutely incredible sunset. And then they ran straight back to the dance floor to soak in every moment with their loved ones! 

Venue: The Hideout Weddings
Planner: Graceful Eventing
Catering: Motherlode Catering
Dress: Justin Alexander
Bridal Shop: Paris Connection
Groom’s Apparel: Taylor’s Keep
Band: Lucky Devils Band
Rentals: Premiere Event Rentals
HMUA: Tahoe Salon Be