Nick & Nicole
Fun, Genuine, Forest, Cinematic || Saratoga Springs, Saratoga
A JOYFUL SPRING WEDDING AT SARATOGA SPRINGS IN THE SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS
Nick and Nicole’s spring wedding took place beneath the towering redwood trees at Saratoga Springs, one of the most sought-after forest wedding venues in the Bay Area. Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this venue is known for its historic charm, creekside settings, and stunning redwood groves — the perfect backdrop for couples who love nature but still want an elevated, well-designed celebration.
With family traveling in from the Midwest, the Philippines, and Europe, Nick and Nicole chose a Bay Area wedding venue that was not only breathtaking and showcased Northern California’s iconic redwood scenery, but conveniently located near San Jose Mineta International Airport.
As proud dog parents, they also loved the fact that Saratoga Springs is a dog-friendly wedding venue. Even though all of the ceremony sites are decorated with romantic string-lights, they were especially drawn to the Longbridge site which had a spacious lawn where they created a playful area for their pups (and a few furry friends).
PRIVATE VOWS AMONG THE REDWOOD GROVES
The day began with separate getting-ready locations. Nicole and her bridesmaids shared emotional first looks at a hotel in Santana Row, while Nick got ready at their Sunnyvale home nearby.
Before the ceremony, they met for a teary first look on a picturesque wooden bridge. With the creek flowing gently below and redwoods surrounding them, they exchanged private vows — an intimate moment tucked away from the crowd.
We captured romantic portraits throughout the forest property, taking advantage of the soft spring light coming through the trees. As a Bay Area wedding videographer, I always find these redwood settings incredibly cinematic, peaceful, and effortlessly beautiful.
CEREMONY BENEATH THE ICONIC STONE LONGBRIDGE
Guests gathered beneath the chandelier-lit ceremony site, framed by Saratoga Springs’ signature stone Longbridge. The towering structure created a dramatic focal point as Nick and Nicole became husband and wife.
The mix of historic architecture and lush greenery makes this wedding venue stand out — it feels grand yet grounded in nature.
HIGH-ENERGY WEDDING RECEPTION WITH PROFESSIONAL DANCE PERFORMANCES
From dog-themed cake toppers to custom engraved wedding favors and Southeast Asian-inspired cupcakes, every detail reflected their personalities. But my favorite part of their day as a wedding videographer was their dance performances (plural!).
Nicole has performed as a professional dancer for multiple Bay Area sports teams, so I had a feeling their first dance would be show-stopping. They surprised guests, however, by performing choreographed grand entrance dances, parent dances, AND first dance. Just when everyone thought the surprises were over, they launched into a coordinated flash mob with select friends to open the dance floor.
It was one of the most high-energy, joy-filled receptions I’ve filmed — and such a fun example of how couples can personalize their wedding celebration.
A FUN, GENUINE SARATOGA SPRINGS WEDDING FILM, COMPLETE WITH BLOOPERS
Nick and Nicole’s relationship is playful and full of humor, so naturally I created a highlight film that reflects that same energy. Alongside the cinematic ceremony moments and epic dance performances, I included something extra special: a blooper reel.
The in-between conversations, unscripted moments, and funny genuine reactions often become couples’ favorite parts of their film. Weddings aren’t just about the grand, polished scenes — they’re about the real, joyful ones too.
Nick and Nicole had 8 hours of coverage, 2 videographers, and drone coverage on their day. They added a full dance edit after wedding day to remember all their choreographed dances - including a flash mob with their guests!
Planning Your Saratoga Springs Wedding?
If you’re getting married at Saratoga Springs in the Santa Cruz Mountains — or dreaming of a redwood forest wedding anywhere in the Bay Area — I’d love to help you preserve both the big, cinematic moments and the beautifully imperfect ones.
Reach out through my Contact page to reserve your wedding date. Let’s create a film that feels like you.
Need more forest wedding inspiration? Watch Pris and Ben's highlight film
Want more fun, high-energy wedding films? Watch Olivia and Mark's highlight film
Looking for choreographed first dance ideas? Watch Kat and Stephen's highlight film