Exchanging the vow of wedlock surrounded by tall trees, verdant greens, and serene music is the dream of many couples. 

If you and your significant other also dream of such a wedding ceremony, choosing a forest wedding venue in California would be the best choice.

But how much does booking forest wedding venues cost? Does it cost more or less than booking indoor wedding venues? And what are the factors that influence the booking and reception cost?

Let’s find out!

Why Should You Pick a Forest Wedding Venue in California?

Many couples with adventurous spirits and a deep love for nature often pick a forest wedding venue to be tied in wedlock. Some of the significant reasons for choosing a forest venue in California are:

  • Natural Beauty: The lush greenery, trees, and pollution-free fresh air provide a unique and beautiful backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions. 

The beauty of a well-decorated serene forest is one of the most romantic places to exchange unbreakable vows.

  • Intimate Atmosphere: Traditional indoor wedding venues can’t replicate the intimate atmosphere of a breathtaking forest venue. A wedding in a forest feels nothing short of a secret and magical affair.
  • Lower Wedding Costs: According to a 2024 Forbes Advisor report, the average wedding cost in California is $36,068, with the average cost of booking a venue for 100 people alone reaching up to $12,000. 

Picking a forest wedding venue doesn’t require booking a ballroom, expensive decor, or lighting. You can book a forest wedding venue for as low as $2,000 if you’re on a tight budget to organize a simple and rustic ceremony.

  • Amazing Photography Opportunities: A wedding in a forest will give you an excellent opportunity to capture breathtaking photos that other indoor venues just can’t offer. 

Tall trees, beautiful flowers, and sunrays piercing through the leaves give the photographers freedom to take mind-boggling photos.

  • Adventure: Forest weddings are all about exploration, adventure, and excitement. Forest venues, such as Redwood Forest wedding venue, are perfect for couples who like to discover new and fun places.

Factors That Determine the Cost of Forest Wedding Venues

The actual cost of booking a forest wedding venue depends on several factors, which are:

  • Location and Region: The geographical location of your forest wedding venue plays a big role in determining the venue cost. Forests located in higher areas like hills and mountains can significantly increase the venue cost.

On the other hand, if the forest of your choice is a popular tourist space, it will also lead to increased expenses.

  • Guest Count: The more guests you invite, the more the venue cost will rise. Inviting more guests means you will need a larger space to host the guests. 

You will also need to spend more on catering, decoration, amenities, logistics, and other services.

  • Venue Services and Amenities: Many forest wedding venues also offer amenities in-house, including a bar, chairs, tables, carpets, lighting, and even external vendors. Booking such services along with the venue will increase the venue cost.
  • Catering and Bar Services: Some wedding venue providers might limit you to choose from a few of their hand-picked caterers and bar services. 

On the other hand, venues without such restrictions allow you to choose other catering services, which might help you lower the overall food and drink cost.

  • The Date of the Wedding: Choosing a wedding day during peak seasons like Christmas or major holiday weekends will significantly increase the venue cost. 

To avoid it, try to pick a wedding day during January, February, March, or April. During these months, the venue costs are usually lower than peak times and some vendors may even offer discounts.

  • Decor and Customization: Do you want a fairytale wedding with a lot of dazzling lights and decor? Then it’ll cost you an extra buck in most cases. Try looking for wedding venues that allow you to customize the decor without charging additional fees.
  • Event Duration: Simply put, the longer you plan to party and hold the space, the more the forest wedding venue will cost you.

Conclusion: How Much Does Booking a Forest Wedding Venue Really Cost?

As you can see, the real cost of booking a forest wedding venue in California depends on various factors, including guest count, location, wedding date, catering, decor, and more.

If you want a quick wedding and reception with less than 50 people, the venue cost may not exceed $5,000. Meanwhile, booking a venue that offers full-event service for a large number of guests can cost more than $25,000.

The choice is up to you and your significant other.