The Night Before

Big River Beach at Mendocino Headlands State Park

Pizza Party on the Beach

The Big Day

Mendocino Presbyterian Church

Ceremony

MacCallum House Inn & Restaurant

Reception

After Party

The Farewell

The Waiting Room

Bye Bye Brunch

Our Wedding

Our Story

Our first photo together, snapped by one of our favorite toddlers (and future ring bearer)

A tale as old as time... or at least as old as dating apps. Like many modern love stories, ours began with a swipe. In early June 2023, Emma was killing time at LAX waiting for a flight. With hours to spare and nothing but overpriced snacks in sight, she opened Hinge. One profile caught her eye. Matthew’s big smile drew her in. She swiped right. At that exact moment, Matthew was mid-workout at the gym when he saw the match notification pop up. He replied immediately (ever the multitasker). Though our summer travel schedules didn’t line up right away, we kept up a steady stream of banter for nearly two weeks before finally meeting in person for drinks at Emissary, a cozy bar/café perfectly positioned between our apartments. Emma, fresh off an intense day-long meeting, had only planned to stay for one drink. One drink turned into two as the conversation flowed so naturally that neither of us wanted to leave. For Emma, it was unexpectedly easy. Within an hour of saying goodnight, she texted Matthew about a second date, blissfully unaware she was breaking any so-called dating “rules” (this was only her second first date in a looooong time, after all). Matthew, of course, didn’t mind one bit because for him, it was love at first sight. From there, a few dates a week turned into spending nearly every day together. Since then, we've celebrated the highest highs together and supported one another through the tough stuff. Somewhere along the way, it became clear we weren’t just dating—we were building a life. Which brings us to the proposal.

Spoiler: Emma did eventually say, "Yes!"

When: A cold, rainy Friday night in January.Where: Emma’s messy apartment.What Emma assumed was happening: A date night at their favorite spot, Sushi Taro.What was actually happening: A very happy surprise! Emma was puttering around the apartment in her bathrobe, unpacking a long-forgotten suitcase, folding laundry, and decidedly not getting ready for date night. Meanwhile, Matthew was getting increasingly nervous, trying to stay calm and find the right moment to pop the question.

Primary Source Documentation

With a dinner reservation looming, he gently nudged Emma to get dressed. Had she known what was coming, she would have at least shaved her legs. But instead, she threw on some clothes, added a little mascara, and returned to cleaning. While she buzzed around the apartment, Matthew casually mentioned he had a little date night gift. “Flowers?” she asked excitedly. When Matthew shook his head, she replied, “Oh, cool. Can you put these sweaters in the closet, please?” As Emma finally plopped down on the couch after putting everything away, Matthew took a deep breath and handed Emma a wedding-themed needlepoint canvas he’d sneakily ordered. She looked at him with confusion, he got down on one knee to propose. Through happy tears, Emma said, “Why did you let me fold all those clothes?” and then put the ring on her own finger. After being reminded that she did, in fact, need to give a verbal answer to Matthew’s question, she said, “Yes!”

An obligatory Engagement-Night-Mirror-Selfie before dashing to dinner

It was imperfectly perfect: At home. On the couch. And just a little bit messy. And now we’re here, excited to share our story with you—and to celebrate the next chapter with the people we love most.&nbsp;

Wedding Party

For those of us that love to go with the flow, as long as we know what time the flow starts, what to wear to the flow, and if there will be parking.

Q + A

Getting to Mendocino

Mendocino is approximately a 3.5 hour drive from both San Francisco (SFO) and Oakland (OAK), which have nonstop flights across both coasts.
 
The Sonoma County Airport (STS) is around a 2 hour drive to Mendocino, making it the closest option, though most travelers won't have a non-stop option.
 
Mendocino is a scenic drive from the Bay Area. Due to it's "off-the-grid" location (at least by California standards), the best way to reach Mendocino is by rental car. The beautiful drive along Highway 128 will take you past the rolling hills of wine country and through the towering redwoods until you reach the coast.
 
If you want to stop and stretch your legs on the drive up, there's a whole section on the Things To Do page dedicated to our favorite stops along the way (especially if you have a designated driver).
 
One more note: The road is a little bit windy so those prone to carsickness may want to plan ahead. We ordered <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/motion-sickness-glasses-review/">these</a> for our next trip up.

Staying in Mendocino

Mendocino is a small town, with many Inns, B&amp;Bs, and Airbnbs within walking distance of our venue. We've blocked rooms when we could, but most are only available on a first-come, first-served basis; properties do book up, so we recommend making reservations early! Here are some nearby options we recommend, but we welcome you to explore other options.

We've blocked the whole hotel! Call the hotel for availability and mention you're a part of the Grahn/Rubin wedding. Online booking is not available for our wedding weekend. Why it's great: The Seagull Inn was built in 1883 and has served the traveling public since the 1960s. Along with its spectacular location, this treasure is noted for its hospitality, charm, delicious breakfast, meticulously maintained gardens, and affordability for the best value and experience in the Village. Where you'll stay: A 2-minute walk from MacCallum House What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one or two beds What they cost: Starting at $209/nt When it's bookable: Now

Seagull Inn Bed and Breakfast

Although our family and wedding party have fully booked the MacCallum House Inn, rooms 25 - 33 at the MacCallum House Suites are available Why it's great: The MacCallum Suites are a short walk from the Main House. Just four blocks away, overlooking the village, beside one of Mendocino’s famed and historic graveyards, sit the MacCallum Suites, a luxury accomodation replete with gas fireplaces, jetted spa-tubs, decks, and hot tubs. The property boasts stunning ocean views and are pet friendly. Where you'll stay: An 8-minute walk from our venue What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one or two beds, or multi-room suites What they cost: Starting at $329/nt (AAA/AARP/Military rates available) When it's bookable: Now

MacCallum House Suites

Why it's great: The ultimate in luxury and location, Nicholson House offers a bespoke experience that is both comfortable and convenient--plus a pizza garden! Where you'll stay: 5-minute walk from our venue What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one or two beds What they cost: Starting at $370/nt When it's bookable: Now

Nicholson House at Beaujolais Mendocino

Why it's great: An enchanting 1888 Victorian&nbsp;Inn, is situated in the heart of&nbsp;Mendocino, boasting breathtaking views, snug featherbeds, a tranquil atmosphere, and lush gardens. Plus, it was Jessica Fletcher's house in Murder She Wrote. Where you'll stay: A 6-minute walk from our venue What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one bed What they cost: Starting at $175/nt When it's bookable: Call to book

Blair House Inn

Why it's great: Sleek sophistication defines this plush and stylish Mendocino bed and breakfast.&nbsp;Soothing cream and gray tones and leather accents make for an elegant stay. Many rooms offer peeks of the rugged cliffs and ocean beyond, while a lovely garden offers timeless grace. Where you'll stay: A 3-minute walk from our venue What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one bed What they cost: Starting at $335/nt When it's bookable: Now

Blue Door Inn, An Inn of Mendocino

Why it's great: JD House is near the sea&nbsp;and offers English gardens, a large deck and stunning views of the Mendocino coast. Where you'll stay: A 4-minute walk from our venue What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one bed What they cost: Starting at $285/nt When it's bookable: Now

JD House, An Inn of Mendocino

Why it's great: Packard House, a Mendocino bed and breakfast, features custom art and pops of red. Where you'll stay: A 5-minute walk from our venue What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one or two beds What they cost: Starting at $305/nt When it's bookable: Now

Packard House, An Inn of Mendocino

Why it's great: A pet-friendly hotel nestled on a hillside, Stanford Inn sits atop a meadow overlooking Mendocino Bay. Where you'll find it: A 4-minute drive from our venue. Shuttle service will be available on our Wedding day. What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one or two beds and multi-room suites What they cost: Starting at $420/nt When it's bookable: Now

Stanford Inn & Resort on the Mendocino Coast

Why it's great: The property includes a cozy country manor from 1867, an adjoining modern lodge, and other unique guest rooms. Where you'll stay: A 6-minute drive from our venue. Shuttle service will be available on our Wedding day. What type of rooms are available: Rooms with one bed and suites What they cost: Starting at $399/nt When it's bookable: Now

SCP Mendocino Inn and Farm

Travel

The Plushbrains' Guide to Mendo

Some places you visit once and check off a list. Others, you return to again. And again. And again. Mendocino is one of those places. Situated ninety miles north of San Francisco on the California Coast, Mendocino is a charming seaside town, slow in all the right ways and riddled with eccentricities. It's known for its cliffside trails, photogenic streets, and beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. The rough Pacific Ocean, wild cliffy bluffs, and whipping coastal wind remind you that nature is never far away. Mendocino is also a special place for Emma’s family. Her parents, Robin and Dale, affectionately called "The Plushbrains," received a trip to visit as a wedding gift, and they’ve been going back ever since. It quickly became the family's shared happy place: the rare kind of destination everyone agrees on without argument. Over the years, it became a backdrop for countless family memories, both joyful and bittersweet, all deeply rooted in the town’s foggy charm and weathered beauty. The Grahns shared Mendocino with Matthew on his first trip to California. It’s a place that holds a lot of love, and it means so much to share the town with all of you on our wedding weekend. Over the years, we’ve collected our favorite spots to eat, the hidden gems you miss if you blink, and a few local quirks that only start to make sense after your third visit (maybe fourth). Are they the absolute best by any official measure? Maybe, maybe not. But they’re ours. Whether you're visiting for the first time or have made the drive many times, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your time here. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1jyH-LFd7FjvOqPTpVeD0LUoJjoPiURg&amp;hl=en&amp;usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">View Our Recommendations on Google Maps</a>

If you want to stretch your legs on the drive up:

Getting to Mendo is a good reminder that sometimes the trip can be just as much fun as the destination. The winding drive along Highway 128 will take you past the rolling hills of Anderson Valley wine country and through the towering redwood tunnel until you reach the coast. That first glimpse of the ocean takes our breath away every time.

This roadside gem is a true family operation, run by James Beard–nominated bartender Scott Baird, his wife Molly, and named after their son, Jumbo.&nbsp;Come for what might just be the best burger Emma has ever had, stay for the soft serve drizzled with olive oil. Add in the delightfully quirky decor, and you’ve got yourself a spot that feels like Wes Anderson designed a diner after binge-eating comfort food. It's our favorite place for lunch on the drive up.

Jumbo's Win Win 

Navarro Vineyards has been a Plushbrains favorite since...forever? Though they obviously have wine, our hearts belong to their non-alcoholic grape juice. Emma has been sipping both the Gewürztraminer&nbsp;and the Pinot Noir since she was a little kid, long before she discovered her love of Chardonnay. Whether you're wine tasting or juice sipping, it's the perfect pit stop.

Navarro Vineyards & Winery

Hendy Woods State Park was established in 1958 to preserve old-growth redwood trees. Home to some of the tallest, most majestic redwoods in the valley, this peaceful forest that feels worlds away from everything—even though it’s just minutes off the main road.

Hendy Woods State Park

Anderson Valley Brewing Co is one of the oldest craft breweries in the country and an ideal spot to stretch your legs, sip something cold, and officially switch into weekend mode. Bonus points for sustainability: it's recognized as the world's first solar powered brewery.

Anderson Valley Brewing Co

We also love the Navarro Vineyards' sister farmstead, Pennyroyal. At this working farm and creamery, you can sample handcrafted goat and sheep milk cheeses alongside estate-grown wine and farm-made pickles. Grab a tasting, then settle out back to watch the sheep.

Pennyroyal Farm

Between 1880 and 1920, the residents of Boonville invented their very own secret language. Boontling, as the locals called it, was a playful and elaborate jargon full of oddballisms and inside jokes. Though mostly extinct today, you can still catch glimpses of it around town. For a quick and quirky taste of Boonville’s&nbsp;famous secret language, grab a horn of zeese (that’s Boontling for coffee) and don’t miss the Bucky Walter, the town’s vintage phone booth turned Boontling time capsule.

The Bucky Walter

Farmhouse Mercantile is filled with the kinds of beautiful home goods, gifts, and vintage treasures that you don't know you need until you see them. Right next door is the Boonville General store in case you need that horn of zeese or a snack.

Farmhouse Mercantile

If you love long walks on the beach:

There are miles of shoreline to explore here from cliff-y bluffs to sandy beaches, and you really can't go wrong. These are our go-tos.

Down the cliff from the village is one of our favorite spots. We've always called it "Driftwood Beach" because of the piles of sea worn wood piled in the white sand.&nbsp;It’s the perfect family-friendly spot for a picnic, a sandy stroll, or simply soaking in the ocean views. You might want to try your hand at driftwood engineering and build a fort or kick off your shoes, roll up your pants, and dip a toe in the surf… but swimmers, beware, the water is COOOOLD. You can get to Big River Beach one of two ways: If you’re on foot, start in the village. Head to the Presbyterian Church on Main Street, walk into the rear parking lot, and follow the path to the cliffside. Wooden steps will take you down to the west side of the beach. If you’re driving, head south out of Mendocino and turn east onto Big River Road just before crossing the bridge to reach a parking lot right at beach level. P.S. This is where the pizza party will be on Friday night

Big River Beach

All of Mendo is photogenic, in our opinion, but Point Cabrillo is especially Instagrammable.&nbsp;The historic lighthouse, built in 1909, still stands guard over the dramatic cliffs. You can stroll the scenic half-mile path from the parking area, explore the museum, and soak up the history and salty ocean breezes as you watch for seals.

Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

Another Plushbrains favorite is Fort Bragg’s signature attraction: a former town dump that was transformed by time into a beach of gleaming sea glass. As kids, Emma and her brother Augie would clamber down to search for treasures among the tumbled glass. Today, it is far more accessible, but also badly picked over. Though it's no longer the treasure hunt it once was, it's still a worth the 15 mile drive north! Two of the three original dumping sites are easily accessible by a path at the north end of the Fort Bragg. The southern beach has more sea glass than the northern beach, although it is slightly more difficult to access, with a steep descent in part of the trail. The third beach still retains the majority of the sea glass (especially non-white and green colored glasses), but is accessible only by sea kayak.

Glass Beach

If you're a card carrying member of the Jessica Fletcher Fan Club: 

If parts of Mendocino feel a little familiar, it might be because it once doubled as the fictional town of Cabot Cove, Maine in Angela Landsbury’s classic Whodunnit series, Murder, She Wrote. The traditional clapboard houses, white picket fences, and rugged ocean views made it easy to transform Mendocino into a small east coast enclave with a suspiciously high per-capita murder rate. The town’s streets—Little Lake, Lansing, Ukiah, and Main—all provided the perfect backdrop for Jessica Fletcher’s many mysteries. The show aired for twelve seasons, from 1984 to 1996. Over it’s 264-episode run only ten episodes were filmed in Mendocino. If you want a little preview before you visit, here are a few of our favorite rewatches:&nbsp;- Deadly Lady (S1, E2)- Hit, Run and Homicide (S1, E7)- Sticks and Stones (S2, E10)

Fans of Murder, She Wrote will certainly recognize Mendocino’s charming Blair House Inn as the exterior of Jessica Fletcher’s iconic Victorian home. Perched on Little Lake Street, this storybook house appeared throughout the series as the cozy residence of everyone’s favorite mystery writer. Today, Blair House is a real bed-and-breakfast where visitors can stay for the wedding weekend.&nbsp;

Originally built in 1861 by pioneer William Kelley, the Kelley House Museum has stood for more than 160 years as a keeper of the town’s stories. In Murder, She Wrote, Kelley House became the Cabot Cove Historical Society. Today, its mission is to collect, preserve, and share the history of Mendocino. They’ve become the go-to spot for Jessica Fletcher fans. Each year they host an annual Murder, She Wrote festival and we all loved their walking tour themed around the show.

Kelley House Museum

In later seasons of the show, Ford House served as the “new” Sheriff’s station. Today, it’s a museum and visitor center where you can dive into Mendocino’s history, from its bustling shipping days to the rise of the lumber industry. Stop in to learn more about local flora and fauna or pick up a Headlands trail map before heading out to explore.&nbsp;

Ford House Visitor Center & Museum

As you stroll down Lansing Street, you might recognize this crisp white-redwood building as the Cabot Cove Courthouse. Originally built in 1866 as Mendocino’s Masonic Lodge, it now houses the Savings Bank of Mendocino County. If you look up, you’ll also find a favorite photo stop: Time and the Maiden, a 10-foot-tall redwood statue carved from a single log.&nbsp;

Savings Bank of Mendocino County

Just up the street from the reception venue is Crown Hall, another Murder, She Wrote favorite. Built in 1901 as a social and fraternal hall, this cute little blue building made the perfect stand-in for Cabot Cove’s public library. Today it’s still a gathering place, hosting community events, art shows, and live music.

Crown Hall Inc

If you're looking for a moment of zen:

Mendocino offers endless ways to slow down and soak in the moment. Wander along the cliffside trails to take in the ocean views, breathe in the fresh coastal air from a quiet garden bench, or find a spot to enjoy a warm drink. Whether it’s a gentle beach walk, a spa session, or simply listening to the waves, these moments of calm will leave you feeling wonderfully “blue minded."

There are tons of ways to enjoy Mendocino's headlands, but our hands-down favorite way to experience this rugged stretch of coastline is simpler: find a spot on the bluffs, let the wind ruffle the wild grasses and flowers around you, and watch the sun sink into the Pacific.&nbsp; Any of the parking lots on Heeser Drive will give you a great view, but we’re especially partial to the overlooks near the Mendocino Arch and Goat Island. Just watch your step near the cliff edge and keep little adventurers close.

Mendocino Headlands @ Sunset

After strolling the narrow headlands footpaths to the Blowhole, take a pause at the driftwood “Love Bench” above Portuguese Beach to watch the swells come ashore. But watch out: if Dale spots you sitting there, he will snap your picture.

The Love Bench

If you’re looking for a little serenity between wedding festivities, treat yourself to a soak, sauna session, or massage at Sweetwater Eco Spa in the heart of the Village. This charming spot offers redwood hot tubs, a traditional cedar sauna, and private infrared saunas.

Sweetwater Inn and Spa

Wander the winding paths of the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, one of the few public gardens that fronts an ocean shore. Here, you’ll find a little bit of every kind of garden you can imagine: colorful blooms, fern-covered canyons, coastal pine forests, and wildflower-filled bluffs. The mild coastal climate keeps the gardens vibrant year-round, making it a joy for both seasoned gardeners and casual wanderers. Cross your fingers that the dahlias will be in bloom.

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

If you're looking for some family friendly fun:

Plushbrains Pro Tip: Don’t forget a towel and a change of clothes. The water here is freezing year-round, but somehow we always managed to wade in up to our knees (or fall in completely).

Van Damme State Park is 3 miles south of the town of Mendocino, where the Little River crosses Highway 1.&nbsp;It’s perfect for little explorers (and their grown-ups). The wide, paved trails are stroller-friendly and easy for tiny legs. Wander through the redwoods and keep your eyes peeled for the park’s unofficial mascot, the bright yellow banana slug! They’re slow, slimy, and surprisingly cute.&nbsp;

Van Damme State Park

All aboard for kid approved fun! Step back in time and chug through towering old-growth redwoods on the historic Skunk Train dating back to 1885. Take a 75-minute ride through trees so big they look like they belong in a story book, over trestle bridges, through tunnels, and into the heart of the Noyo River canyon. Or, if you are craving a little bit of adventure, the electric-assisted rail bikes are supposed to be a fun option.

The Skunk Train

Located a few minutes north of&nbsp;Fort Bragg, about twenty minutes north of&nbsp;Mendocino, this park is the go-to spot for tidepooling. Make sure you check the tide because when it's low, MacKerricher’s rocky shoreline transforms into a treasure map of tiny ocean worlds. When Emma was little, she and her brother Augie would spend hours here hopping across the slippery rocks, peering into tide pools like they were treasure chests. Kids (and kids at heart) will love searching for sea stars, sea anemones, nudibranchs, and other wiggly, jiggly neighbors. Seals often sunbathe nearby, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale spout in the distance. Kids love the thrill of discovery, and the park’s wide beaches and accessible trails make it easy for the whole family to join in. Just bring sturdy shoes, curiosity, and maybe a towel because adventures by the sea tend to get a little…splashy.

MacKerricher State Park Tide Pools

This charming old-fashioned toy store is the kind that seems to be disappearing from the world: shelves brimming with wooden toys, puzzles, and tiny surprises fill every corner, just waiting to spark a giggle or a pretend game. It’s one of those magical spots that makes you believe in childhood wonder all over again. If you want to sneak a keepsake home, the blocks shaped like Mendocino buildings are a patented Plushbrains present.

Village Toy Store

For many years, Emma and Augie were outfitted from Bebe Lapin, the childrens boutique nestled in the heart of the village. They offer an adorable selection of clothes for babies and young kiddos.

Bebe Lapin

If you’re craving an outdoor adventure:

There are 23 state beaches, parks, and nature reserves here, plus hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, if you're into that kind of thing.

Just two miles north of Mendocino,&nbsp;Russian Gulch State Park boasts miles of hiking trails, caves, beaches, forested canyons, and a three mile paved bicycle trail.&nbsp;Inland, a 36-foot waterfall plunges down into a bower of redwoods, mosses, and ferns. Along the coast, waves crash into a collapsed sea cave so dramatic, it's literally called Devil’s Punchbowl.

Russian Gulch State Park

Catch a Canoe &amp; Bicycles, Too is a quirky, eco-friendly outfitter ready to equip your outdoor adventure. Want to be on the water? They're your source if you want to glide up the Big River in a kayaks or outrigger canoe. Prefer to stay on land? Channel your inner Jessica Fletcher and rent a bicycle for a spin around town or a ride through the redwoods.

Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too!

If you can’t start your day without a cup of coffee:

Odds are your hotel will have coffee for you, but sometimes it's worth venturing out in your cozies for a really good latte and a pastry.

The Waiting Room, from the experts at Cafe Beaujolais, is the kind of coffee shop where you’ll actually be glad your latte takes a minute because it means more time to cozy up in this living room-eqsue hangout. You’ll find excellent espresso, homemade pastries (try the olive cake), and something playing on the record player. If you find yourself in Mendocino a day early, you can also swing by for happy hour specials, a half-beer-half-cider combo called the “Beauj Bite,” and little nibbles. After visiting no less than four times in 48 hours on our last visit, we decided it was the perfect place for brunch the morning after the wedding. Coffee and pastries are available daily starting at 7:00 am. Happy hour starts at 3:00 pm!

The Waiting Room at Cafe Beaujolais

More of a coffee shack than coffee shop, Emma and Matthew discovered this walk-up window on Wingspan's first day of operation. They were so new that they didn't even have a way to take our payment! We love this tucked away hideaway for a cup of coffee to start your day before a walk around town. Emma thinks it might have been the best oat milk latte she's ever had. Open Thursday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Wingspan Coffee

GoodLife Café &amp; Bakery is Mendocino’s go-to spot for comfort and cheer—where the coffee is strong, the breakfast burritos have a cult following, and the pastry case could tempt even the most disciplined guest. With its bustling, friendly vibe and cozy indoor-outdoor seating, which reminded Matthew of Collegetown Bagels in Ithaca. Whether you’re craving something hearty, healthy, or just a giant cinnamon roll the size of your head, GoodLife lives up to its name. Open for breakfast and lunch everyday from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm.

GoodLife Cafe & Bakery

If you need to stock up on sips or snacks:

Whether you’re packing a beach picnic or just grabbing a bottle to toast the weekend, you’ll find plenty of delicious options right in town.

Though it's not as big as the name brand grocery stores in Fort Bragg, Mendosa’s still provides everything one could need, from pharmacy and toiletries to produce, adult beverages, and freshly-prepared hot foods.

Harvest Market at Mendosa's

Pop into this historic red church to experience Mendocino's Hippie undercurrent. This long standing grocery collective has some of the best produce around and is a great spot to fill up on healthy snacks; the bulk food section is unmatched.

Corners of the Mouth, Health Food Store

Looking for an adult beverage? Don’t miss the Fog Eater's well-curated selection of wines from around the world, plus craft beers and ciders from this cuuuuutee turquoise and orange shop.

Fog Bottle Shop & Wine Bar

If you never take a trip without bringing home a souvenir:

Matthew: "So mostly we just walk in and out of stores?" Dale: "Some of the stores have comfy chairs we can sit in."

For us, no trip to Mendocino is complete without a stop at Gallery Bookshop and its whimsical children’s nook, Bookwinkles. Emma's been visiting since she was little, and it’s still one of her favorite places to browse the shelves and leave with a stack of A+ recommendations from their wonderful staff. It’s a can't miss stop.

Gallery Bookshop & Bookwinkles

In a town filled with art galleries, Highlights truly lives up to its name. It’s a little bit of everything: paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and furniture. There’s always something new to discover, which makes it a place we keep coming back to on every visit.

Highlight Gallery

True to its name, this shop is a universe of fun. It’s packed with telescopes, puzzles, science kits, games, and curiosities for every age. It's the kind of place where you walk in “just to look” and end up staying way longer than you planned. When we were kids, we used to linger for hours testing out the games, and honestly, not much has changed. Unsurprisingly, Matthew got sucked in playing Rush Hour on his first visit.

Out of This World

The Mendocino Art Center has been the heart of the town’s creative community for decades. Its galleries showcase local talent, its studios buzz with workshops, and its stages host an unforgettable range of community theater (we’ve seen both the hidden gems and the wonderfully quirky performances that make small-town theater so special). Whether you’re browsing an exhibit or just wandering the grounds, it’s a spot that captures the spirit of the village.

Mendocino Art Center

This candy shop is small but packed with handmade treats. The Plushbrains are especially fond of their caramel. We love it in all its forms, but the pure caramel squares are our favorite. And the caramel apples, and pecan logs. Not to mention the white chocolate with raspberries and fudge. Honestly it's all good, you can't lose. We always say we'll “just pop in” and inevitably leave with a bag (or two) of treats.

Papa Bear's Chocolate Haus

For a taste of Mendocino you can take home, we suggest Mendocino Jams &amp; Preserves. Their small-batch jams and jellies capture the flavors of the region in every jar. We especially love the tangy sour cherry and the olallieberry. It’s the perfect stop for a little edible taste of the coast.

Mendocino Jams & Preserves

This tiny shop showcases handcrafted and locally made clothing, accessories, home goods, and antiques, all with a soulful and nostalgic vibe that supports local artists.

FOLKLORE

If you forgot to pack your dancing shoes (or dress, or pants):

There are zero chain stores in Mendo; it's one of the things that makes it so charming. That means no big-box retailers, no Starbucks, and definitely no last-minute Target runs. So if you forget something you’ll be relying on local boutiques. Consider yourselves warned!

The Mendocino Study Club was originally established in 1908 as a place for women to advance “their highest intellectual and spiritual development through avenues of study or works.”&nbsp;The original organization met for the last time in 2023, but the legacy lives on in this is a beautifully curated, luxury boutique filled with clothing, homegoods, and accessories.

The Study Club

This store has played a key role in helping Dale cultivate his Pendleton collection. It's not exactly fancy, but it just might have what you're looking for.

Circa

Forgotten underwear may still be an issue, but it's not actually a problem if you don't pack socks because there's a whole store with every kind of sock you can imagine. Sock influencers, rejoice!

Village Sock Shop

If you’re already thinking about your next meal:

Between the beachside pizza party and a wedding feast, you won’t go hungry while you’re here. That said, if you find yourself with a little extra time, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots for lunch and dinner.

No list of Mendocino restaurants is complete without Café Beaujolais. The original restaurant is a true Mendocino classic that's been serving upscale, farm-to-table French food in a charming Victorian house for decades. We prefer the Brickery, Cafe Beaujolais' laid-back little sibling serving wood-fired pizzas in a lovely garden setting. Casual and welcoming, you'll order at the window and then find a spot under the trees to enjoy glass of wine or a soda to wait for them to bring you your perfectly blistered crust topped with seasonal ingredients. It’s all the quality Café Beaujolais is known for, but with a more relaxed, picnic-in-the-garden vibe—making it an easy crowd-pleaser and our top food recommendation. Open For: LunchHours: Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 5:00 pmReservations: Not accepted

The Brickery at Cafe Beaujolais

Luna Trattoria is a true hidden gem—tucked between buildings down a little garden path, it feels like stumbling onto a secret Italian bistro. Warm, intimate, and family-run, it serves up house-made pastas, rich sauces, and authentic flavors that taste straight out of Bologna. Open For: DinnerReservations: Required

Luna Trattoria

Trillium Café is a Mendocino favorite that strikes the perfect balance between relaxed coastal charm and polished dining. Set in a historic building with a sunny garden out back, it’s known for creative California cuisine that highlights local seafood, farm-fresh produce, and an excellent wine list. Trillium feels both welcoming and special—a spot that delivers that quintessential Mendocino mix of laid-back and elevated. Open For: Lunch and Dinner Friday to TuesdayReservations: Recommended, especially for dinner

Trillium Cafe & Inn

Flow may not be a top foodie destination, but what it lacks in culinary fireworks it makes up for with one of the best views in town. Located on the second floor on one of Main Street's classic water towers, it's the perfect place to watch the sun sink into the ocean because sometimes the view really is the main course. Open For: Lunch and Dinner everydayReservations: Recommended; call (707) 937-3569

Flow | Restaurant & Lounge

Good Bones Kitchen in Caspar is a cozy, modern farm-to-table restaraunt/music spot. Tucked just off the coastal highway, it feels like the kind of place you’re lucky to stumble upon: warm, welcoming, and a little unexpected. The menu changes often, but always leans into bright flavors and hearty comfort, making it a favorite for a quick jaunt out of town. Open For: Lunch and dinnerReservations: Not available

Good Bones Kitchen

Princess Seafood Restaurant in Fort Bragg is famous for fresh seafood, generous portions, and a bit of small-town charm with a twist of mystery. Fans of Murder, She Wrote will recognize Noyo Harbor the show’s many dock scenes. Whether you’re digging into clam chowder, fish and chips, or just soaking in the nautical décor, it’s a quintessential Fort Bragg stop that’s part tasty meal, part cozy coastal nostalgia. Open For: LunchReservations: Not available

Princess Seafood Restaurant

Egghead’s Restaurant in Fort Bragg is a classic greasy spoon decked out in full Wizard of Oz theme (yes, you really can follow the Yellow Brick Road to the bathroom); it’s whimsical and just the right amount of kitschy. The hearty breakfasts (think stacks of pancakes, omelets, and plenty of diner coffee) are the stuff of comfort food dreams. When Emma was little, she loved all things Wizard of Oz, and Eggheads was no exception. Open For: Breakfast and lunchReservations: Not available

Egghead's Restaurant

The Pub at North Coast Brewing Co. in Fort Bragg is a laid-back spot for lovers of craft beer and hearty pub fare (we often pick the Fish &amp; Chips). Although it can get busy at peak times, use your time on the wait list to window shop on Fort Bragg's main drag. Open For: Lunch and dinnerReservations: Not required, but expect a wait

The Pub at North Coast Brewing Co.

About Mendocino

Registry

Your Presence is Enough of a Gift

We know Mendocino isn’t the easiest place to get to, so the fact that you’re willing to travel to celebrate our special day with us is the the best gift we could imagine. While we don't expect gifts, here are a few places where we are registered as we prepare to start this next chapter of our life together.

<a href="https://www.williams-sonoma.com/registry/nrj8lc7s6g/registry-list.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">View Williams-Sonoma Registry</a>

<a href="https://overthemoon.com/apps/registry/grahn-rubin-6773" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">View Over the Moon Registry</a>

Our Registry

Photos

We'll provide additional details about shuttles and other logistics as we get closer to the wedding weekend.

Emma & Matthew

Emma & Matthew

Details