Fern River Resort

Wedding Welcome

Staying Onsite

Wedding Day

Welcome! We’re so happy you’re here, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you under the redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This website will be the most up-to-date place for all the key wedding weekend details, including the schedule, travel info, and everything you’ll want to know as we get closer. We’ll keep adding and refreshing info as plans come together, so feel free to check back anytime. If you can’t find what you need here yet, just reach out to the bride and/or the groom and we’ll help you out. Formal invitations will follow soon. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Our Wedding

Zoë & Devin's Story

Zoë and Devin met at UNR in August 2011. Zoë lived across the hall from Devin’s twin brother, Connor, and they ended up in the same friend group pretty quickly, including Zoë’s best friend, Laura. They stayed close for years, even as life sent everyone in different directions. When Zoë moved to the Bay Area in 2017, she and Devin started seeing each other more often, and their friendship deepened into the kind of relationship that just made sense. In October 2018, Zoë finally told Devin how she felt. He felt the same, and it was official soon after. One of their first trips as a couple was to Humboldt County, and it became a place they kept coming back to. In June 2025, Devin proposed at Mal’el Dunes (North) in Humboldt, the day before Zoë’s birthday. The best part is that Zoë thought she was just planning a birthday trip. They stayed at the Scotia Lodge in the redwoods, then headed out to the dunes, as they’d done before. Zoë had been suspicious it might be coming soon, but she had no idea it would be that day. Devin chose a ring on his own that felt exactly like Zoë and her love of classic vintage style. Only Laura knew it was happening, and Devin somehow kept everything else completely under wraps. These days, they love movies of all kinds, especially old ones, and TCM is always on. They’re always exploring Northern California and love a San Francisco staycation, especially when SF Sketchfest is involved. Cats have always been part of it too. Devin’s late orange cat Zo was named after Zoë back in college because she loves cats and (obviously) also has orange hair. Cleo is Zoë’s cat on paper, but she’s claimed them both, and she’s a big part of their little family.

Our Story

Photos

Garden Cocktail

Think cocktail attire with an outdoor, garden-party twist. Timeless looks always feel right at home here. For women: midi or maxi dresses, dressy jumpsuits, or a polished skirt-and-top are all perfect. Lean into lighter, breezier fabrics and feel free to play with prints, florals, or color. A cardigan, wrap, or cropped jacket adds an easy layer (and a little vintage flair never hurts). Heels are totally welcome, but we recommend block heels, wedges, flats, or dressy sandals for the outdoor paths. For men: a suit is always welcome, but it's not required. Dress pants with a button-down (or a nice knit polo) work great, and a blazer or sport coat is an easy upgrade if you want one. Loafers or other dress shoes are ideal. A light layer is a good idea for the evening as temperatures can drop. Please avoid jeans, sneakers, and anything overly casual (and maybe save the dark, slinky cocktail looks for a city night out — we're going more garden than nightclub). If you want a little extra inspo, our setting is all redwoods and greenery, so anything that feels elevated, outdoorsy, and photo-friendly will fit right in.

Dress Code

Because Fern River is a small, cozy resort, we have a limited number of onsite cabins available for the weekend. We’re so excited to have some of you staying right on property, and for everyone else, there are plenty of great nearby lodging options listed below. No matter where you sleep, you’re still part of the full weekend with us. We’d love for all guests to join us at the resort for the rehearsal festivities and to hang out with us before and after the wedding, we just have to keep overnight accommodations within the resort’s capacity.

Located in Ben Lomond, 11 miles from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Quality Inn &amp; Suites Santa Cruz Mountains has accommodations with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. With free WiFi, this 2-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk. The hotel has family rooms. At the hotel, the rooms are equipped with air conditioning and a TV. Quality Inn &amp; Suites Santa Cruz Mountains offers a buffet or continental breakfast. Pasatiempo Golf Club is 11 miles from the accommodation, while University of California Santa Cruz is 11 miles from the property. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport is 34 miles away.

Quality Inn & Suites, Santa Cruz Mountains

Located in Scotts Valley, 7.5 miles from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley has accommodations with free bikes, private parking, a fitness center and a garden. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a shared lounge and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can have a drink at the snack bar. Breakfast is available, and includes à la carte, continental and American options. The hotel has a terrace. Guests at Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley will be able to enjoy activities in and around Scotts Valley, like cycling. Guests can use the business center or relax in the bar. San Jose Convention Center is 25 miles from the accommodation, while Pasatiempo Golf Club is 5 miles from the property. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport is 25 miles away.

Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley

Just minutes from area beaches and the famous Santa Cruz Boardwalk, this hotel features spacious and comfortable accommodations as well as relaxing amenities in Santa Cruz, California. Hilton Santa Cruz-Scotts Valleyfeatures guestrooms and suites that are filled with unique amenities. Guests will enjoy free wireless high-speed internet access, microwaves and refrigerators. Enjoyable facilities at the Hilton Santa Cruz-Scotts Valley include an outdoor pool and well-equipped fitness center with Precor equipment. Guests can stay productive in the hotel's 24-hour business center. Stonehouse Bar &amp; Grill, located on-site, serves traditional California cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Nestled in the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains, Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley is a Spanish-style, California hotel featuring comfortable guest rooms and contemporary amenities. This hotel features a heated outdoor pool and serves a daily full breakfast served fresh every morning from 06:00 until 10:00. Offering free WiEi, the spacious, beautifully appointed 100% smoke-free guest rooms offer stylish furnishings, artful décor, and amenities such as cable TV and a refrigerator. Spa bath suites are also available at this pet-friendly hotel. An on-site business center is available to guests of Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley. An ideal location puts guests within close proximity of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, hiking and biking trails and fishing spots. San Jose International Airport is 25 minutes’ drive away.

Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley

Lodging

NATURE

If guests only have time for one thing nearby, this is the spot. The park is full of easy trails, massive redwoods, and quiet river views that make it easy to see why people fall in love with this part of California. It feels calm and grounded, and it’s perfect for a morning walk before the festivities start.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Peaceful, local-feeling park with a pond, open meadows, and unique Santa Cruz sandhills habitat—easy to do in an hour or two.

Quail Hollow Ranch County Park

One of the most iconic Santa Cruz beaches—great for tidepools, golden-hour walks, and “wow” coastal views.

Natural Bridges State Beach

FAMILY CLASSICS

The classic seaside amusement park—rides, arcade, beach walks, and easy people-watching all in one spot.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Old-school steam train ride that feels like a time capsule—super fun with family, and the redwood scenery is the point. This is the train you can hear from Fern River!

Roaring Camp Train Depot

The iconic 1890s covered bridge (one of the last in the county) plus a big grassy park, river access, and easy photo ops. Quick, free, and totally worth it.

Felton Covered Bridge County Park

QUIRKY & ONLY HERE

The iconic Santa Cruz “gravity hill” roadside attraction—campy, weird, and genuinely fun as a group activity.

The Mystery Spot

MUSEUMS & SCIENCE

Tiny, iconic museum inside the lighthouse overlooking Steamer Lane—quick to visit, super “Santa Cruz,” and the ocean views alone are worth the stop.

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Small but charming local museum with exhibits on the coast, local wildlife, and Santa Cruz history—easy add-on near the water.

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Wineries

A relaxed, redwoods-adjacent tasting spot in Scotts Valley—often a casual, friendly vibe that’s easy for guests.

Pelican Ranch Winery

A historic, laid-back Santa Cruz Mountains tasting room tucked right in Felton—great “redwoods + wine” pairing without a long drive.

Hallcrest Vineyards and Santa Cruz Scrumpy Cider

Boutique Santa Cruz Mountains winery experience with a true “in the hills” feel—great if you want something special but still close.

Roberts Ranch Vineyards

PLACES TO EAT

Bright, modern cafe in the redwoods with excellent coffee, pastries, and satisfying breakfast/lunch plates. Great “grab something yummy close by” option.

The Grove Cafe and Bakery

The classic Felton sit-down spot—comfort food, burgers/sandwiches/salads, full bar, and an easy crowd-pleaser for groups.

Cowboy Bar & Grill

Beloved local breakfast/lunch diner—big portions, classic pancakes/eggs/burgers, and a super casual “mountain town” vibe.

Rocky's Cafe

FORGOT SOMETHING?

Closest full-size grocery store to the venue area for everything from snacks + drinks to full grocery runs.

Safeway

Closest Target for last-minute wedding weekend essentials, toiletries, basics, and quick grab-and-go items.

Target

Closest pharmacy for last-minute essentials (meds, toiletries, snacks, basic supplies).

Things to Do

Registry

Wedding Party

We’re so excited to have Fern River Resort all to ourselves for the wedding weekend!

Fern River Resort is all ours from Friday, September 18, 2026 at 3:00pm through Monday, September 21, 2026 at 11:00am, everyone staying onsite will have a cabin for the weekend at a flat rate, with payment made directly to the resort when you check in. The groom’s parents have generously covered part of the cost for each cabin, and we’re so grateful for their support in making this possible! Because of their generous contribution, the cabin rate is a single flat amount for the weekend – regardless of how many nights you’re able to stay. Whether you arrive Friday or Saturday, and whether you depart Sunday or Monday, your total amount due will be the same. The cabins are cozy and rustic, more woodsy retreat than luxury hotel, but they do come with the essentials: bedding, towels, real bathrooms with flush toilets, and small kitchenettes. Sleeping arrangements vary, with cabins having a mixture of traditional beds and futons. We’ve done our best to assign everyone in a way that feels comfortable and works well for each group. If you’d like, you are welcome to bring your own bedding to make your stay extra cozy. We'll be bringing a handful of spare air mattresses just in case as well! (Several people joked they thought we’d make everyone go camping, so consider this our happy compromise! 😉) And if you would like to stock up, a Safeway is conveniently located nearby, where you can grab snacks, drinks, and any extras that will make your cabin feel like home. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to the bride or groom with any questions or special requests. We are happy to help and will do our best to accommodate you. Zoe: (206) 250-4501 | zrwentzel@gmail.comDevin: (925) 640-0434 | drugaard@gmail.com THANK YOU FOR CELEBRATING WITH US! ﻿We're so excited to have everyone together for our special day!

Z&D

Wedding Welcome

Wedding Day