In my humble opinion, Oregon is one of the best places to elope, offering rugged and wild landscapes, intimate venues, and a variety of locations to suit every couple’s vision. Whether you’re dreaming of saying your vows on a mountain top, in the mist of a waterfall, surrounded by pines in the forest, or on a rocky beach, Oregon has something for each and every idea. 

What makes Oregon perfect for eloping?

• Variety of landscapes: From rugged coastlines to snow-capped peaks, verdant rainforests to rolling vineyards.
• Privacy: Many beautiful spots in Oregon are pretty secluded, making it easy to find a spot that feels unique and private.
• Year-round destination: Although most of Oregon has a long rainy season, your elopement can be safe and enjoyable in any season.

Are you ready to start planning your Oregon Elopement?

Choose your location:

Oregon has no shortage of breathtaking spots perfect for your elopement ceremony. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Oregon Coast
   • The Oregon Coast is home to dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and rugged rock formations. Whether you prefer the popular Cannon Beach with its iconic Haystack Rock or the quieter shores of Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, the coast offers a perfect backdrop for your vows.
2. Columbia River Gorge
   • If waterfalls are your thing, the Columbia River Gorge offers more than 90 waterfalls, including the famous Multnomah Falls. Options for harder hikes as well as more easily accessible spots.
3. 3. Crater Lake National Park
   • A true wonder of the Pacific Northwest, Crater Lake is known for its blue waters and amazing views.
4. 4. Mount Hood
   • For couples seeking mountain views, Mount Hood is a great option. The mountain provides awesome landscapes, with meadows and crystal-clear lakes, perfect for a secluded, natural ceremony.
5. The Willamette Valley
   • For wine lovers, the Willamette Valley is home to some of Oregon’s best vineyards. Exchange your vows amid the vines, with rolling hills and lush vineyards surrounding you—plus the option for a private celebration with a small handful of your closest friends and family in a vineyard’s tasting room.
6. The Painted Hills
   • For couples who want a truly unique landscape, the Painted Hills of Oregon’s John Day Fossil Beds National Monument provide, colorful hills unlike anywhere else on earth. This remote spot offers solitude and insane scenery.

Legal Requirements

Oregon is one of the easiest states for couples to elope in, as it has relatively simple legal requirements.

Steps to getting your marriage license in Oregon:

1. Apply for a marriage license: You can apply for a marriage license at any county clerk’s office in Oregon. No residency is required, so out-of-state couples can elope here.
2. Cost: The license typically costs around $75.
3. No waiting period: You don’t need to wait to marry once you’ve obtained the license—it’s valid immediately.
4. Officiant: You’ll need an officiant to marry you. This could be a religious leader, a judge, or a friend who has been deputized to officiate weddings (I would love to share my recommendations with you!).
5. Witnesses: It is required to have two witnesses of your marriage. They will have to be at least 18 years old and cannot be your officiant (your photographer and/or videographer count!) 

Plan Your Experience

While elopements tend to be smaller and more personal than traditional weddings, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a luxurious experience. Here are some tips to help you plan the day of your dreams:

1. Hire an Elopement Planner/Photographer (Like Me!)
   • When eloping, photography is one of the most important aspects of preserving your memories. As an Oregon Wedding and Elopement photographer, I specialize in capturing those intimate, candid moments that tell your story. From the moment you start getting ready to the first kiss as a married couple, I’ll ensure every single little detail is captured beautifully, with epic backdrops that reflect the feeling of your day.
2. Make it Unique to You
   • One of the best parts of eloping is that you can personalize every detail without any pressure to follow tradition. Want to hike to a remote mountain lake for your ceremony? Let’s make it happen. Prefer a quiet, sunset ceremony on a secluded beach? Hell yeah! You get to choose what feels right for you and your partner.
3. Consider a Luxury Touch
   • Even though your elopement may be intimate, you can still incorporate luxury into your experience. Think private chefs, floral arrangements, vintage champagne, or even a private helicopter ride to your ceremony spot. There’s no reason you can’t indulge in a little luxury as you celebrate your love.

The Best Time to Elope in Oregon

Oregon offers beauty year-round, but your preferred season will determine what kind of experience you’ll have.

• Spring (April to June):
  • Wildflowers bloom, and the weather is mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor ceremonies. Waterfalls are also at their fullest.
• Summer (July to September):
  • Warm temperatures and clear skies make summer the most popular time for elopements; however, it’s also the busiest season, so be prepared for crowds at popular locations.
• Fall (October to November):
  • Oregon’s fall colors are absolutely stunning, particularly in forests and vineyards. The weather starts to get rainy in most of the state but still mild, and the crowds are thinner than in summer.
• Winter (December to March):
  • Winter is the season with the most extreme weather, but still do-able. Coastal regions give Twilight vibes. Mountains are typically covered in snow and ski areas are open.

Ready to start planning?

I would love to help you make your dream a reality. Let’s create something unforgettable together. If you’re ready to say “I do” in Oregon, I’m here to help! Let’s start planning your dream elopement, and let’s capture the magic and uniqueness of your love in one of the most beautiful places on earth.