If you’ve ever wanted to see what happens when you blend forest magic, handmade details, and a whole lot of love into one wedding day, this Gualala Arts Center wedding absolutely delivered. Tucked away in the redwoods of Northern California in Mendocino County, Bree and Johanna’s celebration was a joyful, meaningful, totally them kind of day, being equal parts boho, intentional, and community-driven.
And honestly? It’s one of those weddings I’ll be smiling about for a very, very long time.
From Coworkers to Under-the-Stars Soulmates
Bree and Johanna’s love story started years ago as coworkers in a café. They were friends first until eventually, that friendship turned into something more. Their first kiss? Under the stars. Yep, it’s as dreamy as it sounds.
On their wedding day, you could feel how much they absolutely adored each other. There was this giddy, glowing kind of excitement radiating from both of them, like they’d been waiting for this moment for years. And the way they welcomed everyone in such a warm, open-hearted, and so connected, it made the entire day feel special before the ceremony even began.
A Ceremony Rooted in Love, Nature and a Little Surprise
Right as guests entered the forested ceremony space at Gualala Arts Center, they were invited into a centering moment with a sage ritual, offered by one of the couple’s close friends. That quiet pause set the tone perfectly. There was no wedding party, no traditional aisle. Instead, Bree and Jo slowly approached from opposite sides of the altar. It took a moment for guests to even realize what was happening, which made it feel magical when they finally did.
Their vows were full of emotion, honesty, and the kind of little coincidences that make you believe in the universe’s timing. They hadn’t heard each other’s words beforehand, but somehow, the themes aligned like puzzle pieces.
A Wedding Built by Community
This Gualala Arts Center wedding was the definition of DIY and not just in the Pinterest-crafty way. Friends and family showed up in the most beautiful ways by setting tables, handling sound and video, baking the wedding cake (by someone I literally went to middle and high school with, which was such a fun surprise)!
Johanna hand-painted all the signage and strung dried flowers together for the altar. It was personal and thoughtful, and you could feel the love behind every little detail.
Favorite Photo Moments? Where Do I Even Start?
Let’s start with the dried flower ceremony exit. It was sweet, colorful, and so full of expression. Give me a little exit flair and I am so here for it!
Then, there were the sunset portraits. Quick and relaxed, just the way they should be. Bree’s fire-red curls were blowing in the wind while Jo wrapped her up in a deep embrace. The light was soft, the energy was grounded and they were totally focused on each other.
One of the sweetest behind-the-scenes moments? The videographer wasn’t just a vendor, they were a longtime friend. Their daughter even came along with her own little camera, taking pics and peeking at the video setup like a tiny pro-in-training!
Planning a Gualala Arts Center Wedding?
If you’re considering a Gualala Arts Center wedding, you’re in for a treat. Located on the Mendocino Coast and surrounded by towering trees and rustic beauty, it’s perfect for couples who want an outdoorsy, creative, and intimate space to say “I do.”
Whether you’re planning something boho, DIY, or just deeply personal, I highly recommend checking out Gualala Arts Center.
Vendor Shoutouts
- Venue: Gualala Arts Center
- Catering: Black Oak Catering
- Video: Silverseed Media
