If you’re searching for a Big Sur wedding venue that feels tucked away in nature while still offering a truly unforgettable guest experience, let me introduce you to one of the newest wedding venues on the coast: The Village.

I recently had the honor of photographing Emma and Josh’s wedding here, and not only was it an incredible day, but I was technically the first photographer to ever shoot a wedding at this brand-new space. How special is that?

After spending the day exploring the property, photographing portraits beneath the redwoods, and watching guests celebrate along the river, I can confidently say this venue is going to become a mainstay in Big Sur.

The Village is perched along the Big Sur River and is surrounded by nature.

Between the towering California redwoods, flowing river, open-air reception spaces, and cozy cabins, it feels like you’ve stepped into a hidden forest retreat.

This venue is ideal for couples who love the outdoors and want their wedding day to feel connected to nature without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

One thing to know ahead of time about this Big Sur wedding venue, is that it is split into two separate locations.

The reception takes place at The Village Restaurant, while ceremonies are hosted about five minutes away at their stunning A-frame cabin property.

Guests and the wedding party are shuttled between the two locations throughout the day, so transportation logistics are something you’ll want to plan for in advance.

Parking is available but limited since The Village shares a public parking lot with Big Sur River Inn and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Thankfully, vendors are able to park on site with exclusive spots, which is incredibly helpful.

You definitely have to know where you are going to get around here.

This Big Sur wedding venue ceremony space is pure magic.

I am absolutely in LOVE with this ceremony space. It’s one of the biggest reasons I wanted to feature this venue.

The massive A-frame cabin serves as the bridal suite and immediately creates a stunning backdrop for the day. Emma and her bridesmaids spent the morning getting ready together inside the cabin before heading outside for the ceremony.

Just outside the front door sits a beautiful grassy meadow lined with floral decor and ceremony seating. But what makes this location truly unforgettable is its setting.

The ceremony space sits directly on the Big Sur River, so throughout the day you can hear the sound of the river gently moving nearby. At the same time, you’re completely engulfed in a forest of redwood trees that touch the sky.

It’s one of those places you have to be in person to truly experience.

The bridal cabin also features a super iconic balcony that we absolutely had to use for portraits. Emma looked amazing!

The reception area at The Village restaurant is primarily outdoors and features a patio-style dinner setup with round tables and hanging lanterns overhead.

As the sun sets and the lanterns begin to glow, the entire space transforms. It honestly feels quite dreamy when it gets dark… like something out of a Disney movie.

One thing I really love about the reception area is how much room guests have to spread out and enjoy the property. There are opportunities to walk around, mingle, explore the grounds, and spend time by the river.

The venue even incorporates a huge fallen redwood into cocktail hour decor and gathering spaces, which is such a cool Big Sur touch.

The reception layout can comfortably accommodate a large guest count while still maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Then, when it comes time for dancing, the party moves inside The Village in a side building. Large metal doors open up to create an indoor-outdoor feel, and a disco ball lights up the entire space.

Personally, I love tighter dance spaces because they naturally bring everyone together. The energy stays elevated throughout the night, and guests tend to spend more time on the dance floor instead of scattering throughout the venue.

What a party!

One of my favorite parts of Emma and Josh’s wedding had nothing to do with the venue itself.

It was their dog, Brian.

Emma and Josh own a farm and have dozens and dozens of animals, so it only made sense that Brian would play a major role in the day.

Ring bearer, mascot, emotional supporter — you name it.

Brian had their back. The true star of the show!

Beyond that, I was simply so honored to be chosen as the photographer for the very first wedding hosted at this new ceremony site.

There’s something incredibly exciting about watching a venue begin its story, and I truly believe couples are going to fall in love with this place.

Is The Village the right Big Sur wedding venue for your wedding?

If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding surrounded by redwoods, rivers, cabins, and some of the most beautiful scenery Big Sur has to offer, The Village deserves a spot at the top of your venue list.

It’s peaceful, unique, nature-focused, and unlike anything else currently available in the area. You really can’t beat it!

I have a feeling this venue is going to become one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Big Sur, and anyone who books their wedding or elopement here will be so happy they did.

Oh, and don’t forget to bring a photographer along. 

Me. I’ve got your back!