How To elope in oregon



A delicate olive green fern leaf frond silhouetted against a dark black background.
From old-growth forests to picturesque coastlines, innumerable waterfalls, and even mountains and high desert, it's hard to imagine a place quite like Oregon!

We created this guide to help you figure out where to go from here, but honestly, all you really have to do is  hop on the phone with us. We're here to help you figure out location, logistics, and all the rest. So keep reading, or click here and let's set up a free Discovery Call!
Two people embrace and share a romantic moment on a cloudy day while holding a vibrant yellow and orange floral bouquet.
Two people in suits throw yellow flower petals in the air while laughing in a meadow at sunset.

 

start with location

 

One of the coolest things about Oregon, is that you can experience several different types of landscapes without traveling very far. More on that later. For starters though, I like to think of Oregon's landscape in regions according to what each area has to offer, including the Oregon Coast, the Columbia River Gorge, Mt Hood, Willamette National Forest and the Makenzie River, Crater Lake and Umpqua National Forest, and Smith Rock/Bend.

 

Sunlight filters through dense evergreen forest canopy creating a mystical atmosphere in the Pacific Northwest woods.
A powerful waterfall cascades down moss-covered rocks into a pool with driftwood logs scattered in the foreground.
want help deciding? reach out!
Dramatic rocky cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean along a misty mountainous coastline at dusk.

>>The Oregon Coast



This is your place for dramatic cliffs, massive waves, incredible rock formations, endless beaches (all public), and mountains of coastal forest and trails. If you love that moody Iceland vibe, this is your spot. Of course, that's a little bit of an oversimplification because the Oregon Coast stretches for miles (363 miles actually) and there are unique features in the north, central and southern parts of the coastline.


Two people standing at the edge of the ocean with the iconic Haystack Rock formations at Cannon Beach, Oregon in view through fog.
Two people stand on a dramatic coastal cliff overlooking the ocean as a white dress flows in the wind.
Two people walk along a rocky beach at sunset with waves crashing against coastal rocks in silhouette.
Couple stands on a wooden deck overlooking the Astoria-Megler Bridge spanning the Columbia River on a misty day.
A romantic couple shares a joyful moment in a sunlit forest as they celebrate their love together.
Couple in wedding attire share romantic moment on dramatic coastal cliff overlooking ocean waves crashing on rocks below.
A couple stands together on a misty beach with Haystack Rock looming in the background at Cannon Beach, Oregon.
Two people in wedding attire walk along a misty coastal cliff as waves crash against the rocky Oregon shore.
Person wearing an orange beanie and dark blazer sits at a misty beach during an overcast day.
A couple in wedding attire runs playfully along a sunny beach with ocean waves in the background.
A couple shares a joyful moment walking hand in hand on a sandy beach with cliffs in the background.
Two silhouettes walk along a dramatic beach coastline with towering rock formations at sunset.
Silhouetted couple walking on rocky coastal shoreline with dramatic sea stacks and crashing waves at sunset.
Couple stands at edge of misty coastal cliff overlooking stormy ocean on moody afternoon.
Two people standing at the edge of the ocean with the iconic Haystack Rock formations at Cannon Beach, Oregon in view through fog.
Two people stand on a dramatic coastal cliff overlooking the ocean as a white dress flows in the wind.
Two people walk along a rocky beach at sunset with waves crashing against coastal rocks in silhouette.
Couple stands on a wooden deck overlooking the Astoria-Megler Bridge spanning the Columbia River on a misty day.
A romantic couple shares a joyful moment in a sunlit forest as they celebrate their love together.
Couple in wedding attire share romantic moment on dramatic coastal cliff overlooking ocean waves crashing on rocks below.
A couple stands together on a misty beach with Haystack Rock looming in the background at Cannon Beach, Oregon.
Two people in wedding attire walk along a misty coastal cliff as waves crash against the rocky Oregon shore.
Person wearing an orange beanie and dark blazer sits at a misty beach during an overcast day.
A couple in wedding attire runs playfully along a sunny beach with ocean waves in the background.
A couple shares a joyful moment walking hand in hand on a sandy beach with cliffs in the background.
Two silhouettes walk along a dramatic beach coastline with towering rock formations at sunset.
Silhouetted couple walking on rocky coastal shoreline with dramatic sea stacks and crashing waves at sunset.
Couple stands at edge of misty coastal cliff overlooking stormy ocean on moody afternoon.

THE NORTHERN COAST gives you the Port City of Astoria, Cannon beach and a few less touristy coastal towns. It's the shortest drive from Portland, so it always seems to be a busier part of the coastline, but there are private stretches for gorgeous elopements. 


Some of my favorite places along the Northern Oregon Coast are:


Astoria

Manzanita

Rockaway Beach

Pacific City


THE CENTRAL COAST is probably my favorite. It's still pretty easily accessible, and has a mix of ALL of the things the Oregon Coast is known for. Seastacks and rocky beaches, sand dunes, mountain trails, incredible cliffs, and my favorite coastal town of Yachats. :)


Favorites along the Central Oregon Coast are:


Yachats

Depoe Bay

Haceta Beach

Florence



THE SOUTHERN COAST of Oregon has the most dramatic landscape and is within road trip distance of the California redwoods, but the down side is the longer drive. (Even if you fly into Medford, Oregon, you have to drive down into California and back up the coast.) I love the southern Oregon coast as an alternative to a Big Sur elopement, because the permit process in California is a lot more complicated than in Oregon where all beaches are public and don't require a permit at all!


The best parts of the Southern Oregon Coast are found in and between:


Gold Beach

Indian Sands

Brookings


I love to talk with couples and then send photos and ideas on specific locations, because everyone is different! If you know you want to be on the coast, reach out and I'll help you figure out which part of the Oregon Coast will be perfect for you!


Here's a map of some of our favorite Oregon coast elopement locations!

 

 

>>The Columbia River gorge


If waterfalls are more your thing, you'll will love the Columbia River Gorge. There are massive waterfalls galore, lots of forest, spring wildflowers, fall foliage, orchards, bridges and overlooks that give you views of the river from above. Not to mention the sobering power of the Columbia River itself. If you imagine an ethereal forest vibe, this is probably the Oregon elopement location for you.

A romantic couple embraces near a majestic waterfall cascading down moss-covered cliffs in a lush forest setting.
A couple in wedding attire embraces on a scenic mountain overlook with the Columbia River Gorge in the background.
Person sitting on wooden deck at night surrounded by lanterns near a misty mountain lake.
Two people stand together on a hilltop surrounded by vibrant yellow sunflowers at sunset.
A dark-clothed figure walks on a wooden footbridge surrounded by lush green forest in moody natural lighting.
A dark-cloaked figure sits on rocky mountainside overlook with misty peaks and valley vista in dramatic moody scene.
Two people in dark suits share a tender moment while standing in front of a majestic cascading waterfall.
A group gathers near a towering waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and mist on a sunny afternoon.
Narrow hiking path along mountainside cliffside walkway with metal railing overlooking misty alpine landscape and lake below.
Two hikers stand beneath a towering waterfall cascading down moss-covered cliffs in a lush forest setting.
A couple in wedding attire stands embracing near a dramatic waterfall on rocky terrain in dark atmospheric lighting.
Two people share an intimate moment under hanging ferns at night while holding lanterns in a dark outdoor setting.
A couple in wedding attire dances at the base of a misty waterfall on rocky terrain at night.
Two people in dark coats stand in conversation on a windswept hillside with rolling countryside in the background.
Two people embrace on a hiking trail beside a majestic waterfall cascading down a moss-covered cliff.
A romantic couple shares an intimate moment in dark clothing near a scenic waterfall in a mossy forest setting.
A romantic couple embraces near a majestic waterfall cascading down moss-covered cliffs in a lush forest setting.
A couple in wedding attire embraces on a scenic mountain overlook with the Columbia River Gorge in the background.
Person sitting on wooden deck at night surrounded by lanterns near a misty mountain lake.
Two people stand together on a hilltop surrounded by vibrant yellow sunflowers at sunset.
A dark-clothed figure walks on a wooden footbridge surrounded by lush green forest in moody natural lighting.
A dark-cloaked figure sits on rocky mountainside overlook with misty peaks and valley vista in dramatic moody scene.
Two people in dark suits share a tender moment while standing in front of a majestic cascading waterfall.
A group gathers near a towering waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and mist on a sunny afternoon.
Narrow hiking path along mountainside cliffside walkway with metal railing overlooking misty alpine landscape and lake below.
Two hikers stand beneath a towering waterfall cascading down moss-covered cliffs in a lush forest setting.
A couple in wedding attire stands embracing near a dramatic waterfall on rocky terrain in dark atmospheric lighting.
Two people share an intimate moment under hanging ferns at night while holding lanterns in a dark outdoor setting.
A couple in wedding attire dances at the base of a misty waterfall on rocky terrain at night.
Two people in dark coats stand in conversation on a windswept hillside with rolling countryside in the background.
Two people embrace on a hiking trail beside a majestic waterfall cascading down a moss-covered cliff.
A romantic couple shares an intimate moment in dark clothing near a scenic waterfall in a mossy forest setting.

Fun Fact!


The Gorge was crafted over eons, even before the Cascades rose, and its cataclysmic history of volcanic eruptions, massive floods, and landslides is still evident today. The Gorge's formation began 40 to 60 million years ago, when molten lava pressure pushed up granite to frame the Columbia Basin.  (Also, there are one billion waterfalls along the gorge. Okay, not a billion, but pretty dang close!)

>>Crater Lake / Umpqua National Forest


Crater Lake National Park is another magical location for an Oregon elopement. The water looks so intensely blue, it doesn't seem real. If ancient volcanic landscape appeals to you, Crater Lake is the holy grail for a unique elopement location. This isn't a location for a last minute elopement, because the process to get a permit takes seemingly forever, but if you're planning in advance, you're good to go as long as you apply right away.



The best time to plan your elopement at Crater Lake is from late June to September due to rim road closures due to snow. However, you can also plan a winter elopement at Crater lake (January-February) and take snowmobiles down the north entrance road to first viewpoint along the rim!

Another perk to a Crater Lake elopement is that it sits on the border of the Umpqua National Forest which is an INCREDIBLE place for waterfalls and endless trails. You can easily access both Crater Lake AND Umpqua in a single day.

>>Smith Rock and Bend


Smith Rock State Park protects a sanctuary of majestic rock spires that rise above the winding Crooked River in central Oregon’s high desert. It is an internationally renowned destination for rock climbing. From certain spots in the park, you can catch amazing views of nearby mountains like Mt. Hood and the Three Sisters. You don't have to be a climber to appreciate the rugged beauty of this incredible landscape. There’s plenty to do around Smith Rock—hiking, fishing, floating, skiing, climbing, camping, exploring waterfalls or hot springs, and even eagle watching. It’s a unique place that’s unlike anything else in the U.S. Since it’s a high desert, the best time to elope is fall and spring to avoid the intense summer heat.



 

consider the season

 

The WHEN can be just as important as the WHERE when planning an Oregon elopement.


If you have a date already in mind, let's talk about the best locations for you. If you have a location in mind, let's talk about ideal dates!

 

Snow-capped Mount Hood rises majestically above a silhouetted treeline of evergreen forest in Oregon's Cascade Range.
Close-up of red autumn maple leaves on branches with blurred bokeh background in soft natural lighting.
schedule a call!
Pink and white wildflowers bloom along a misty coastal cliff with crashing waves and seabirds in flight.

>>Spring



Eloping in Oregon in the spring means tons of blooming wildflowers, misty forests, and lush greenery. The weather is mild and romantic, especially in places like the Columbia River Gorge. However, rain is frequent, so plan on embracing those dreamy, moody vibes!


>>Summer



Summer elopements in the PNW offer the best chance of sunshine and warm temperatures. Coastal towns like Cannon Beach and mountain spots like Mount Hood are stunning and accessible. The main downside? It's peak tourist season, so some locations can get crowded and accommodations fill up quickly. (But don't worry too much. We know where to go to avoid most crowds!)



>>fall



An Oregon elopement in the fall means a colorful wonderland with golden leaves in the valleys and crisp air in the mountains. It's a quieter time to elope, and the days are still a little longer. Weather becomes unpredictable later in the season (by November) and higher elevations may see early snow.



>>winter


A winter elopement brings cozy vibes, snowy backdrops, and serene solitude, especially in the mountains or forest cabins. You’ll have privacy and striking scenery, but snowstorms and limited road access can complicate travel and outdoor plans. Good thing you have someone to help you navigate all of that! ;)

Elopement packages in Oregon
mount hood elopement photographer
mt hood elopement at silcox hut

So, what if it rains?


If you're in Oregon during the rainy season. (October - April) chances of rain are pretty good. So what does that mean for you?


Flexibility is key for ANY elopement, and some of my favorite elopements were on rainy days. (Where do you think those moody PNW vibes come from?) :) While it might sound a little cliche, it all comes down to your willingness to go with the flow. (ha.. puns) Umbrellas, forest ceremonies under the canopy of the towering trees, and dances on the beach are all GREAT ways to keep your elopement spirit alive in any weather.



That being said, if you have small children or grandparents coming with you, or if you absolutely hate the rain, you might want to choose a summer date for your Oregon elopement. July and August will be the least rainy. Which month gets the most rain? November, but all winter is pretty touch and go! Every day from October to April has at least a 34% chance of rain - so be flexible, and have fun! (Or go with a summer elopement date.)


People stand in a rainy field holding an umbrella against a moody forest backdrop.
People hike along a grassy cliff edge with evergreen forest in the background.
A couple in bright winter clothing embraces on a stormy coastal cliff with their dog.
Two people dance joyfully on a misty Pacific Northwest beach with dramatic coastal rock formations in the background.

 

how to legally elope in oregon

 

A couple signs marriage documents during an outdoor beach wedding ceremony while guests look on.
reach out

>> get your marriage license



So, if you don’t live in Oregon, the easiest option is to take care of the legalities at your local courthouse beforehand. It doesn't matter what state issues your marriage license in - all are recognized equally - but it does make it easier to take care of it when you aren't traveling. 


If you want to wait and get legally married on your elopement day, here’s the info on how to do that! (Spoiler.. it's not super complicated.) ;)


Where do you get your Oregon marriage license? You can get your marriage license at the County Clerk’s office closest to where you’re staying. (Check google for the county where you’ll be staying!) The fee for your license will be around $50.


Is there a waiting period for your marriage license to be valid? Yes! There is a 3-day waiting period before your license is valid. However, the waiting period can be waived by filling out an additional form and paying a rush fee of $10. This makes your marriage license effective immediately. 


What do you need to bring to the County Clerk’s office?

Both you and your partner will need to bring your photo I.D. and the following info:


-mothers' maiden name

-location where each applicant was born

-social security number of each applicant 


How many witnesses do you need to elope in Oregon? You need two witnesses for your Oregon Coast elopement. But don’t worry too much about this. If you’re eloping alone, fellow hikers or beach goers are always happy to sign as witnesses!


Do I need an officiant? Yes, you cannot self-solemnize in the state of Oregon, so you'll need someone to officiate. I am ordained and can do that for you, or you can hire someone! 




>> permits



Another great thing about eloping in Oregon is just how EASY it is when it comes to legalities. Unlike a lot of other states, Oregon doesn't require a permit for most elopements unless any of the following apply:


  • You have 50 or more people
  • There is any kind of setup/decor (like chairs, arches, tables etc)
  • You are within a state park


There are exceptions, but as your Oregon elopement photographers and planners, we are here to help you with any permits needed for your location.




FUN THINGS TO DO when you elope in oregon


There's no shortage of things to do in Oregon if you love nature and the outdoors. There are endless trails for hiking, biking and kayaking. Tons of sno-parks for skiing, sledding and snowshoeing. Rock-climbing, beach-combing, sailing... you'd never be able to do everything even if you stayed for a month!




 

Two people relaxing together in a small boat on a serene lake surrounded by pine forest on a summer day.

Here are just a handful of some of my favorite ideas for things to do on your elopement day:


1. Trails, trails, and more incredible trails! (Seriously.. there are countless trails and it's hard to find one that isn't amazing.)


2. Explore tide pools around the sea stacks.


3. Get matching tattoos.


4. Go out on a lake in a row boat!


5. Ride horses on the beach at sunset.


6. Have a picnic from a summit with panoramic views.


7. Dance to your favorite love song in the forest.


8. Stand together in the spray of a 200 foot waterfall.


9. Ride bikes to a local brewery!


10. Wrap up in blankets and watch the stars come out.



Two silhouettes walking on a reflective beach at sunset between dramatic rock formations with cloudy sky.
Two people sit close together on a beach at night with glowing lanterns creating a romantic atmosphere.
A couple shares a romantic moment by a lake as someone in a gown sits on a vintage bicycle on a rocky shore.
Two classic gold wedding bands intertwined together against a white background.

Oregon Elopement Photographer


A note from Amy

I have been in love with the Pacific Northwest my entire life. There's no other place in the US like Oregon and Washington! And I really love that most of my couples come to the PNW for the very first time when they come to elope. It's such a joy for me to see their reaction to the stunning beauty and presence of nature here! I cannot wait to be your Oregon elopement photographer and to create images that bring you back to your wedding day over and over again for the rest of your lives. Fill out our contact form here, and let's start planning your Oregon elopement!

contact us
Candid group photo showing joyful laughter and celebration at a wedding.

"WE ARE OBSESSED"


"We are OBSESSED with all the photos OMG! Y'all did such an amazing job!!!! I got overwhelmed going through them because there's SOOO many I love and want to share but don't even know which ones to start with!!


Thank y'all so much for capturing our big day in such a beautiful way. We loved y'all and are so in love with every picture!!"

-Leigh + Henry

Check out some Oregon elopements on the blog!