An Elopement at Carbon Canyon and The Richland

Tracey & Frankie’s Sweet SoCal Wedding Day

Tracey and Frankie’s February intimate elopement, shot on digital and film, was everything you could want in a wedding day—sweet, stylish, fun, and totally them. From getting ready in the elegant charm of The Richland in Orange, to hiking through a redwood grove at Carbon Canyon in their wedding best, to laughing over cake with their families at Orange Hill, their day was full of love, good vibes, and zero stress. Just the way an elopement should be!

Before the Elopement: Getting Ready at The Richland, in Orange

The Richland is one of my favorite spots to shoot—so much character, charm, and the most gorgeous light. Tracey and Frankie got ready there, and the vibe was so relaxed. The girls had hair and makeup done by the talented @alenabeauty__mua, while the guys got to just chill and hang out around the venue (which, let’s be honest, is the dream).

Their first look on the grand staircase was such a sweet moment—Tracey looked incredible in her dress, and Frankie’s reaction said it all. I love shooting first looks because you can just feel the excitement of what’s to come. We then went outside for some fun wedding photos outside of The Richland.

A Nature-Filled Intimate Elopement at Carbon Canyon

After portraits around The Richland, we made our way to Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea for their intimate elopement, where a short little hike leads to a hidden Redwood Grove. Yes, you read that right—redwoods in SoCal! It’s such a magical spot and made the perfect ceremony location for Tracey and Frankie’s intimate wedding.

There were about 20 guests—just their closest family and friends—and everyone made the little trek down in their fancy outfits. (Tracey’s mom even brought a pair of Crocs for the hike back up—iconic!) People on the trail were so excited to see a bride and groom walking by. Definitely not your average nature hike moment!

The ceremony itself was so beautiful. Tracey and Frankie wrote their own vows, and they were the perfect mix of heartfelt, silly, and 100% authentic. No pressure to sound perfect, just two people showing up as themselves and promising forever. It was such a joy to witness.

A Sweet, Laid-Back Reception at Orange Hill

After the ceremony and some dreamy portraits in the redwoods, we all headed to Orange Hill Restaurant for a celebratory lunch. This is the magic of elopements—you can ditch the strict timeline and just enjoy the day. Their lunch was full of laughter, cake, and the kind of toasts that make you tear up and laugh at the same time.

With such a small group, everyone got to really connect and celebrate together. You could feel the closeness, the joy, and just how loved Tracey and Frankie are by their people.

Classy Meets Adventure

One of my favorite things about this intimate elopement at Carbon Canyon and The Richland? It was the perfect mix of elegant and adventurous. Tracey’s gorgeous dress and Frankie’s sharp suit looked amazing against the natural backdrop of the redwoods, and the whole day felt effortless yet refined. From staircases to forest paths, this day had it all.

I Captured It All in Photo and Video and Film!

This was one of those days where I got to do what I love most: document real love stories in both photos and video! I shot both digital and film (which adds such a romantic, nostalgic touch). And yes—Tracey & Frankie’s elopement video is as sweet as it sounds.

👉 Check out their elopement video HERE 👈
If you’re planning an elopement and want someone who can capture the joy, the tears, the laughter—and even the hike-in-the-woods moments—I’d love to document your story in both photo and video.

Planning your own elopement soon?

Check out these other blogs for some of the top tips for elopement and intimate wedding planning!

How to Include Family in your Elopement

How to Plan an Intentional Intimate Wedding