Why choose an Oregon Elopement?
If you're an adventurous couple with a love for the outdoors, Oregon is the ultimate destination for your elopement. From breathtaking ocean views on the coast to the towering mountains in the Cascades, the state offers a variety of stunning wedding locations, each more unique than the last.
Whether you're drawn to the rugged cliffs of the Oregon Coast or the serene forests and waterfalls in the central part of the state, Oregon’s diversity in landscapes is a perfect backdrop for a memorable elopement.
Oregon is for the lovers of the outdoors
If you love adventure, unique landscapes, and a more intimate wedding experience, an Oregon elopement is the way to go.
The possibilities for an unforgettable wedding experience are endless.
The Deschutes National Forest is home to an incredible diversity of landscapes, including high deserts, coniferous forests, and alpine lakes. Tumalo Falls, located within the forest, is a popular spot for elopements, with a stunning waterfall surrounded by moss-covered trees.
Couples looking to connect with nature will find Deschutes National Forest an ideal location for their special day.
Deschutes National Forest
A magical and iconic Oregon location, Crater Lake is an awe-inspiring destination for couples seeking a truly memorable elopement. The lake’s intensely blue waters, set within an ancient volcanic caldera, create a surreal backdrop for exchanging vows. The surrounding mountains and pristine wilderness offer a remote, romantic atmosphere perfect for your ceremony.
Crater Lake National Park
For couples who love to hike, rock climb, or simply appreciate towering geological formations, Smith Rock State Park is a must-see location. With its dramatic cliffs and scenic views over the Crooked River, it offers a strikingly beautiful setting for an elopement.
Adventurous couples can also enjoy a post-ceremony rock climb or hike to further explore this unique location.
Smith Rock State Park
Cannon Beach is one of Oregon's most iconic coastal locations, known for its dramatic rock formations, including the towering Haystack Rock. Although this beach is quite popular, it offers plenty of stunning spots to escape the crowds and have a more private elopement ceremony with panoramic ocean views.
The beauty of the coastline here, especially at sunset, is unmatched.
Cannon Beach
If you're after alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and stunning waterfalls, the Three Sisters Wilderness is an outdoor lover’s dream. Located near the Cascade Mountains, this area offers breathtaking views of the Three Sisters peaks, as well as tranquil lakes and lush forested areas, perfect for an intimate and picturesque elopement.
THree Sisters Wilderness
Located in southern Oregon, the Umpqua National Forest is a hidden gem with its lush forest landscapes, winding rivers, and beautiful waterfalls. Toketee Falls, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by mossy trees, is a favorite spot for couples. For those looking for a more secluded, intimate ceremony, this stunning forest offers countless beautiful and peaceful locations.
Umpqua National Forest
For couples who want to get off the beaten path, the Alvord Desert in southeastern Oregon offers a dramatic, wide-open landscape, similar to the Utah Salt Flats. This desolate beauty, with its salt-crusted ground and vast, flat horizon, creates a one-of-a-kind elopement experience. Here, couples can say their vows in solitude under expansive skies.
Alvord Desert
Nestled along the southern coast of Oregon, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is famous for its dramatic coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and natural rock arches. The view of the ocean stretching out in front of you provides an unforgettable backdrop for a ceremony.
The rugged coastline here is perfect for couples seeking an adventurous yet tranquil location for their Oregon Coast elopement.
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
One of the many reasons couples flock to Oregon for their elopements is the incredible variety of stunning locations. Whether you're dreaming of saying your vows with the sound of waves crashing on the shore or beneath towering trees in a secluded forest, Oregon has something for every couple.
Here are just a few of the most picturesque Oregon wedding locations:
Stunning Oregon Elopement Locations
Best time of year to elope in Oregon
When planning your Oregon elopement, timing is key. Oregon’s natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to elope depends on your preferences for weather and crowds.
Summer (June – August)
The peak season in Oregon is during the summer months, particularly July and August, when the weather is warm, and most outdoor activities are accessible. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, and popular locations like Cannon Beach or Crater Lake can become crowded. If you choose to elope during this time, it’s important to book reservations well in advance to ensure you get your preferred location and time slot. Keep in mind the further inland you go, the hotter it gets!
Spring (March – May) & Early Fall (September – October)
These shoulder seasons offer milder weather and fewer tourists. Spring is a beautiful time to visit Oregon as the wildflowers bloom and the forests begin to come alive. Early fall is also ideal with its warm temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in forested areas like the Columbia River Gorge.
Winter (November – February)
For couples who don’t mind cooler temperatures, the winter months provide a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. Locations like Crater Lake and the Oregon Coast can look magical with fewer crowds, but be prepared for colder, wetter weather and the possibility of snow at higher elevations.
Legalities of an oregon elopement
Marriage License: Head to any Oregon County Clerk’s office to get your marriage license. The fee typically ranges from $50-$75, depending on the county.
Waiting Period: You must wait three days after obtaining the license unless a judge or county clerk waives this period, in which case an additional fee may apply.
Officiant: Arrange for someone to perform your ceremony. Oregon allows a variety of officiants, including religious leaders, judges, or even friends and family members who are authorized by the state to officiate weddings.
Witnesses: Your elopement must be witnessed by at least two adults (age 18 or older).
License Expiry: Be sure to get married within 60 days of obtaining your license, or it will expire.
oregon makes it fairly easy to elope...
Things to Do in Oregon
An Oregon elopement is more than just a ceremony; it’s an adventure. After your vows, you and your partner can explore the natural beauty that Oregon offers. Hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking are just a few of the outdoor activities you can enjoy together. Some of the best experiences include:
Hiking: There are countless hiking trails throughout Oregon’s state parks, including spots like the Three Sisters Wilderness and Columbia River Gorge.
Rock Climbing: Smith Rock State Park is known worldwide for its rock climbing opportunities, with routes for all levels.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Oregon is home to numerous beautiful lakes and rivers, including Lost Lake and the Deschutes River.
Hot Springs: After a day of adventuring, soak in the natural hot springs, such as those in Umpqua National Forest.
Star Gazing: For couples who love to gaze at the stars, Oregon’s wide-open spaces and clear skies offer ideal conditions for stargazing, especially in places like Alvord Desert or the high desert regions.
What to Wear for your Oregon Elopement
Oregon’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to prepare for a variety of conditions. If you're eloping during the summer months, opt for breathable, light fabrics to keep cool while still looking stunning. For spring, fall, or winter elopements, layers are a must.
Rainy Days: Oregon is known for its rain, especially in the winter and spring. A waterproof, stylish rain jacket or shawl can help you stay dry without sacrificing style. Don’t forget to pack waterproof shoes or boots that look chic but are functional for wet conditions.
Wind: If you’re eloping along the Oregon Coast or in the mountain regions, be prepared for wind. Dresses with flowing skirts or fabrics like chiffon or tulle create beautiful movement in photos as the wind sweeps through the landscape, but make sure you're comfortable moving freely in them.
If your elopement involves hiking to a secluded location or exploring rugged terrain, your attire should be both functional and stylish.
Hiking to Your Ceremony: For a hike to a picturesque spot like Smith Rock or a waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge, consider a wedding dress that allows for movement. Opt for lightweight, flexible materials like chiffon or soft cotton that are easy to walk in.
Activity-Ready Outfits: If your adventure includes rock climbing or kayaking, you might want to wear a wedding dress or suit that’s functional and flexible. Some couples even choose to pack their outfits and get ready on-site, allowing for a more relaxed, spontaneous feel.
Durability: Choose fabrics that can handle outdoor conditions. Heavier materials like satin may be challenging to manage on uneven terrain, so go for something lighter and more durable.
When planning an Oregon elopement, the weather and terrain are key considerations in choosing the perfect wedding attire. With Oregon’s wide range of landscapes—from coastal beaches to forested mountains—it's essential to select clothing that is not only beautiful but functional for your outdoor adventure.
Dressing for the Elements: Weather & Season
Choosing Attire for Your Adventure
Oregon’s diverse landscapes—from the coastal cliffs to the alpine meadows—provide stunning backdrops for your elopement, so your attire should complement the natural beauty around you.
Earthy Tones & Textures: Neutral shades like ivory, soft pastels, or earthy hues blend beautifully with Oregon’s natural settings. A wedding dress with lace details or linen textures will look striking against the rugged landscapes, creating a timeless contrast.
Movement & Flow: For couples seeking a more ethereal feel, choose fabrics that flow beautifully with the wind. A dress made of tulle or chiffon can add a magical, romantic element to your photos, especially in the stunning natural light of Oregon’s outdoors.
Harmonizing with Oregon’s Natural Beauty
Whether you’re hiking through the forest, walking along a sandy beach, or simply standing for your ceremony, your shoes need to be both stylish and practical.
Hiking Boots & Wedding Dresses: If you're venturing to your ceremony location on foot, don't shy away from pairing your dress with hiking boots. They can look unexpectedly chic while being functional for rugged trails. Just make sure to break them in before your big day!
Comfortable Flats or Sandals: For a more relaxed ceremony on flat ground or a beach, comfortable shoes like flats or sandals with cushioned soles are a great choice. Be sure to choose footwear that suits your surroundings, especially if you plan on exploring afterward.
Post-Ceremony Footwear: Consider packing a second pair of shoes for your post-ceremony adventure or photoshoot. Hiking boots or comfortable sneakers are ideal for exploration and photos in Oregon’s beautiful outdoors.
Shoes: comfort is key
To make your wedding day photos truly special, don’t forget the little details that can add visual interest and personality.
Veils & Accessories: While not for everyone, a veil can add a beautiful touch to your photos—especially when caught in the wind! If you’re eloping along the coast or by a waterfall, a long veil can add dramatic movement to your pictures.
Bouquet: A bouquet not only adds color and elegance to your photos but also gives you something to hold, creating natural and relaxed poses during the ceremony and afterward.
Adding finishing touches
Catch the sunset while waves crash on natural rock arches
Cameron and Lexi’s intimate elopement at the breathtaking Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor was a moment of pure magic. Nestled along the rugged Oregon coast, the couple exchanged vows with waves crashing on the natural rock arches behind them, their love amplified by the raw beauty of the landscape.
As the sun set, casting warm golden hues over the ocean, the pair stood hand-in-hand, framed by the dramatic cliffs and pristine coastline that made this moment feel timeless.
Surrounded only by nature’s beauty and the sound of the waves, Cameron and Lexi’s day was as unique and unforgettable as their love story.
Oregon elopements
Cameron and Lexi wanted to celebrate their elopement on the gorgeous oregon coast
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You can get married on the oregon coast with epic views!
Kyle and Mars’ adventurous elopement at Natural Bridges on the Oregon Coast was a testament to their wild love.
After a steep hike down to the iconic natural rock arch, the couple found themselves surrounded by the rugged beauty of the coastline, with the ocean’s waves crashing below. The stunning arch served as the perfect backdrop for their vows, standing tall as a symbol of the strength and connection they share.
With the soft mist of the sea in the air and the vast ocean stretching out before them, they exchanged heartfelt promises, embracing the rawness of both nature and their journey together.
The hike itself was a reflection of their shared spirit—challenging but rewarding, leading them to this breathtaking moment.
kyle and mars exchanged vows at Natural bridges at sunrise
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Heather is amazing!! She is an incredible photographer and made our vision come together so quickly and effortlessly! She makes you feel so comfortable in front of the camera, and we couldn't be happier with how our photos turned out! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Gabby + Daniel
vendors
One of the greatest benefits of having an Oregon elopement is the flexibility in the number of vendors you choose to work with. Unlike traditional weddings, you don’t need a long list of service providers if you don’t want them.
Here are some vendors that can help make your day even more memorable:
• Photographer: As a destination elopement photographer, my goal is to help you capture your day authentically. I’ll guide you through the process and create stunning memories you can cherish forever.
• Officiant: A professional officiant can help make your ceremony even more special.
• Florist: If flowers are part of your vision, a local florist can add a beautiful touch to your day.
• Videographer: A videographer can capture the sights and sounds of your Oregon elopement in cinematic style.
selecting your elopement photographer
Choosing a photographer for your Oregon elopement is one of the most important decisions you'll make. You’ll want to work with someone who understands your vision, can capture the essence of your relationship, and make you feel at ease on such a monumental day.
As a destination elopement photographer, my goal is to make your wedding day feel as natural and stress-free as possible. I will guide you through your day with expert knowledge of the park and help you feel relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera. I believe in capturing genuine moments—those spontaneous laughs, happy tears, and quiet embraces that make your elopement so special.
If you’re ready to plan your elopement in Oregon, reach out to me today! Together, we can create the wedding experience of your dreams.
EVERY PACKAGE INCLUDES:
Oregon Elopement Packages
6+ hours of photography coverage:
We’ll spend the day adventuring together, capturing stunning moments in some of Oregon/California's most breathtaking locations.
full elopement planning support:
From start to finish, I’ll guide you through the process, helping you with location selection, adventure activities, and crafting the perfect day.
Personalized timeline creation: We’ll design a schedule to make the most of the best lighting and views, ensuring we capture those magical moments at the right time.
Consultation calls: Let’s connect and dream up your adventure! I’ll help with location ideas, activities, and we’ll work together to build a timeline that suits your style.
custom location guide
A location guide tailored to you including location ideas, adventure activities, vendor recommendations, and accommodations.
My travel and permit application fees are included!
That way you can focus on the fun stuff!
I'll just need a seat if you plan on going for a helicopter ride, go for a 4x4 adventure, etc.!
packages starting at $4500
My husband and I absolutely loved working with Heather! She takes beautiful pictures and I love how she captures the background in photos. If you are looking for an all around awesome photographer I would definitely recommend Heather!
Haley + Mason
