Enchanting Almond Orchard Elopement in Merced County
In this blog post:
Almond Blossoms Photo Inspiration
Elopement Wedding Vendors around Merced County
About Kruppa Farms and Garden
Why Have an Almond Orchard Elopement
Tips to Plan an Almond Orchard Elopement
Almond Blossoms Elopement Photo Tips
Last Spring, I had the opportunity to attend a styled shoot at an almond orchard field in California’s central valley.
The week of the photoshoot, it had been raining non-stop at this location, but the forecast showed that on the day we were to meet, there would be sunshine. And guess what?
There truly was!
I was thrilled that we got the golden sunset that is almost every photographer’s dream. Not only did that give us an amazing light but it also made the location look dreamy— It was no doubt the perfect set up for a fairytale-like and enchanting elopement.
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Almond Blossom Photo Inspiration
Our beautiful couple models (V & J) took the opportunity to stand in as a wedding couple during this elopement set up. They were perfect for this, and I personally was thrilled to see them here after having worked with them on an engagement session at Yosemite Lake!
In addition to the models, the hosts of the photoshoot put together a team of vendors from local businesses that brought the ultimate magic.
From the wedding invitation card all the way to an elegant cake and a gorgeous picnic setup, the attention to detail made this almond orchard elopement photos complete!
The list of vendors for this photoshoot (local to Merced County and the Central Valley) is located below these highlight images!
Elopement Wedding Vendors around Merced County
If you’re looking at Kruppa Farms or any other location in the central valley like Merced, Turlock, or Fresno for your elopement day, here is a list of local vendors.
They can best serve you on your day locally or out of town:
Day-of Coordinator: Timeless Events by Jess (@timelesseventsandweddings )
Makeup Artist: Jessica (@jqglam )
Hair Stylist: Avery (@beautyinfused_)
Tanning Services: Golden Sunless Tanning (@sierrah.studiobae )
Picnic Setup: Picnics and Bloom (@picnicsandblooms)
Florals: Belle Fraga Design (@bellefragadesign)
Cake: @carmo_cakes
Stationary: Shelby Lynn Designs (@shelbylynndesigns) *Out of State Vendor
Wooden Signs: @jayfermade
Bridal Earrings: Evellie Clay (@evellie.clay)
Bridal Hat: Westward Hats (@westwardhats)
The bride gown was a rental piece from @desertgowns and the groom’s suit was self-provided.
About Kruppa Farms and Garden
If you’ve dreamed of your elopement day at an accessible and intimate outdoor location, there are several almond orchard farms in California that offer space for couples and their guests.
Kruppa Farms and Garden is one of those!
Located within Merced County, Kruppa Farms offers stunning scenery during the almond blossoms season (late Winter, early Spring) as well as with their lush garden during the Summer and Fall months.
In addition, choosing Kruppa Farms as your elopement location comes with benefits like:
Having the option to book in-house Wedding Planner and Day-of Coordinator
Being able to use the garden area or the fields for the ceremony
Ability to reserve the garden area for a reception of up to 200 guests
Accessing party rentals like tables, chairs, and other decorations
Located near a city for last-minute necessities (or a trip to Yosemite)
MORE ON ELOPEMENTS:
Why Have an Almond Orchard Elopement
Having an intimate elopement ceremony at an almond orchard farm allows couples to embrace the beauty of nature and connect with the agricultural heritage of the area.
If country living is something that they value, this is a meaningful way to honor their traditions, support local businesses, and showcase an appreciation for the environment. But there are still so many more reasons to consider this location when choosing where to elope:
Romantic background for photos. During a short time during the Spring, the almond blossoms cover the trees with magical white and pink flowers creating a romantic background for photos. Since the blossoms only last about 3 weeks in the year, it makes elopement photos much more unique
Intimate and private outdoor setting. Almond orchards are located in the middle of agricultural land which means it’s far from city noise and free from constrictions to being indoors. In addition, outdoor lighting is preferred for photos, which makes it even more convenient as you can easily step outside during golden hour and have a wonderful view.
Rustic and rural charm. The combination of the almond orchard’s natural beauty, wooden look and open fields create a sort of whimsical atmosphere that can’t be replicated anywhere else. The rustic and rural charm add character and authenticity to special moments like an elopement.
Flexibility for unique timeline events. Unlike other elopement spots, almond orchards provide a blank canvas for couples to personalize their day with decorations, color, and timeline activities that reflect their taste and preferences. For example, instead of using florals for the centerpieces you could use faux candles, and instead of setting regular tables you could book luxury picnics for your guests.
Tips to Plan an Almond Orchard Elopement
If you’re ready to start planning your elopement day at the almond orchards, below are 6 tips to keep in mind.
Tip #1. Finding an Almond Orchard venue
Not every orchard field has a venue for weddings or elopement so make sure to do your research before heading out to check it!
In California, the almond orchards bloom in the Central Valley, between Sacramento and Bakersfield. Many are likely to be much more accessible through Highway 99, but there will be others that are easier to reach from Interstate 5.
If you want ideas where to start searching, some of the best almond orchards are in Yolo County, Merced County, and Tulare County.
Be mindful that if you’re driving around and want to see the blossoms or the venue, it’s best to call the owners ahead of your visit. Please do NOT trespass onto their property without their consent!
Tip #2. Picking a Date for an Almond Blossom Elopement
The images from the elopement setup shown above were taken on March 2nd, but the blooms began about a week before and ended a few weeks after. Thus, the best time to have your elopement at an almond orchard is late winter/early spring.
Once you find an orchard you like, ask the owners what date they think is best to have your elopement there so that you can take advantage of the enchanting vibes!
One thing to note is that almond blossoms bloom during or after winter so it’s possible that your elopement day will encounter rain too. In this case, you have two choices: Check what the forecast will be like on your desired date and pick one near it when it shows as sunny (not cloudy) OR pick the date you want and just embrace whatever weather comes along.
Tip #3: Permit fees and restrictions
Even if you decide to have an intimate elopement with your partner (no guests), permit fees are still very likely to apply. Call the owner and ask the questions: how much it is and how to pay, where to obtain the application, and how far in advance it needs to be submitted.
Again, don’t show up without permission as you can get kicked out and even ticketed for trespassing onto private property-- Not a good way to spend your elopement day!
Tip #4. Share your ideas with the venue
Tell the owners how you envision using their venue and what type of décor you’d like to use. They may offer advice on the best location to decorate and alternatives for ideas that may not work.
In addition, they might share a list of preferred vendors that have worked there in the past and can bring your vision to life.
Tip #5. Hire local vendors
If the almond orchard venue doesn’t have a preferred list, ask if they know of local businesses they have worked with before. Picking local vendors will help make sure your day goes smoothly and if they need to pick additional items they can do so without extensive travel!
Tip #6. Always Have a Backup Plan
As with everything in life, it’s always ideal to have a backup plan for your elopement in case there is unfavorable weather. A few ways to create a backup plan are by having a large tent on stand-by for your guests and reception (if applicable) or a pair of clear umbrellas for you and your partner.
Ask the venue owner or the photographer for help to craft a backup plan that’s perfect for you.
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Hey, I’m Sara!
I’m a California elopement photographer based in the Central Valley.
If you’re recently engaged or ready to start planning your elopement day, I’m cheering you on and I’d love to help!
Let’s talk about your vision, gush over stunning locations and spend the day creating memories.
I’m here to guide you through the process + capture your day how you dream it.
YOUR PERFECT DAY STARTS HERE
