Looking for the perfect outdoor session location in Cherry Valley? This post shares why Blooming Ridge Ranch is ideal for family photography


Location Spotlight: Blooming Ridge Ranch in Cherry Valley, CA


As an Inland Empire family photographer, I’m always keeping my eyes open for new outdoor locations that bring a little something extra to a session. I want my clients to feel like they’re stepping into a story—something peaceful, beautiful, and full of personality.


That’s exactly what I found at Blooming Ridge Ranch, tucked away in Cherry Valley, California. It’s one of those places that just has that feel. Quiet. Timeless. Warm.


I’m starting a little blog series to highlight some of my favorite local photography locations—and there was no question that Blooming Ridge had to be at the top of the list.

Here’s how I found it—and why I think you’re going to fall in love with it too.


How I Discovered Blooming Ridge Ranch


It all started with a random Facebook scroll (as most great discoveries do, right?). Someone in a local community group was asking for location recommendations for a photo session, and one of the replies simply said: Blooming Ridge Ranch.


The name stuck with me. I looked them up, loved the vibe of their Instagram, and reached out to ask if they ever allowed photographers to use the property. Danielle, one of the owners, got back to me quickly and was so kind and welcoming. She said yes, absolutely—and I booked a tour right away.


Before I shoot at any new location, I always check out the lighting and landscape in person. So a few days later, I drove up a winding country road shaded by tall trees, and honestly… I felt like I’d stepped into another time.


First Impressions: Calm, Light, and Pure Magic


As soon as I got out of my car, I could feel that quiet kind of magic that only certain places have. The golden hour light peeked through the trees just right, and I could already picture how my camera would soak it up. If you're into natural light photography, you know how important that is. I could tell this was going to be one of those dreamy go-to locations for photo sessions.


A Ranch That’s Been Brought Back to Life


Danielle told me that the ranch used to be completely run down. Overgrown, lifeless, forgotten. But she and her husband had a vision. Little by little, they brought it back to life—reviving lilac bushes, restoring the land, and building gorgeous wood features like arbors and garden accents.


There are horses and chickens wandering around the property, which just gives the whole space this warm, hometown charm. It doesn’t feel staged or overly polished—it feels real. Lived-in. Loved.


I knew immediately that I wanted to shoot there. I put out a model call for a motherhood session during the peak of lilac season so I could officially test the lighting and setting.

And that session? Wow. It did not disappoint.


(That blog is coming soon, by the way—I'll link it here once it's live.)




Why Blooming Ridge Ranch Is So Special


After falling in love with the ranch, I wanted to learn more about the story behind it. So I asked Danielle if she’d be willing to answer a few questions about how Blooming Ridge came to be—and what they hope to create for the local community.


Here’s what she shared:


What kind of services does Blooming Ridge Ranch offer?


"We are an outdoor event venue open for all celebrations. We are a wedding venue in Cherry Valley, but we also host birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, bridal showers, graduations—you name it. And we love welcoming photographers looking for a versatile space to shoot their sessions."


What’s the story behind the ranch?


"My husband and I always dreamed of creating a beautiful space to share with others—a place where people could gather and celebrate life. After he left the military, we searched for a property that felt like home. We found a forgotten farm, completely overgrown and lifeless, but we saw the potential. Little by little, the land came back to life. We called it Blooming Ridge because one morning we noticed flowers blooming on what we thought were dead branches. That moment reflected everything we were building—hope, growth, and beauty returning. Now the ranch is full of color and life, and we love being able to open it up for others to enjoy."


What are your goals for the future?


"We want to continue thoughtfully growing the property—keeping it beautiful and unique while creating meaningful experiences. When guests tell others about Blooming Ridge or come back for another event, it means the world to us. That’s what it’s all about—creating memories that matter."


Why You Should Book a Session or Event at Blooming Ridge


This place is more than just a pretty spot for photos. It’s a ranch that has been brought back to life, piece by piece, by people who truly care about creating something beautiful and lasting.


If you’re a couple looking for an intimate outdoor wedding venue in Cherry Valley, or a family searching for a serene spot to take photos, you’ll fall in love with this place just like I did.

And if you’re a photographer looking for unique, private property in Southern California to book your next session—Blooming Ridge Ranch should be on your list.


Ready to Shoot at Blooming Ridge Ranch?


If you're one of my clients and want to plan your next session at the ranch, I’d love to help. Let’s make something beautiful together out there. And if you’re a fellow photographer looking to connect with the ranch, definitely check them out on Instagram and reach out to Danielle directly.


There’s something so rare and grounding about Blooming Ridge Ranch. It’s not just a backdrop—it’s a feeling. And I’m so excited to keep creating there.


You can follow Blooming Ridge Ranch on Instagram for updates, events, and blooms in season. And keep an eye out—I’ll be sharing more of my favorite session locations and businesses around the Inland Empire in upcoming blog posts.


With love & grace,

Heidi

Empty dirt lot with scattered trees and hills in the background under cloudless sky.
A wooden pergola structure stands in a desert landscape with trees and shrubs surrounding the area.
Metal construction fencing surrounds a dirt area at a construction or development site.
A wooden pergola walkway with string lights creates a path through a garden setting at sunset.
Two horses, one chestnut with white blaze and one dark brown, looking over metal fence in sandy corral.
Rooster walking in a fenced enclosure with dirt ground and metal barriers.
A side view sequence showing a brown horse standing near a white fence in a paddock during golden hour.
Rural entrance gate with American flag and RV visible at sunset.
Rustic wooden building with string lights and signage at golden hour.
Dirt path alongside white fence and eucalyptus trees in countryside setting.
Outdoor wooden venue with string lights set up for events at golden hour.
Close-up of weathered wood plank with etched initials.
Weathered wooden whiskey barrels with rustic metal bands stacked in a row.
Orange neon sign reading 'Blooming Ridge' mounted on dark wooden wall.
Rustic wooden building facade with "BR" logo signage and metal roll-up doors.

Invest in your memories


Curious about how it all works or what’s included? Take a peek at my Investment page to see what session fits your family best.

A dirt path winds through blooming lilac bushes on a warm spring evening.
A mom and son embraces and laughs together along a dirt path lined with blooming purple lilac bushes.
Investment Info

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