HOW to ELOPE
in OREGON
Imagine standing hand in hand on a rugged cliff, the waves crashing against the rocks below as the rest of the world fades away. In that moment, it's just the two of you—the vastness of creation and the quiet promise of forever.
THAT'S WHAT ELOPING IS ALL ABOUT.
I’m fueled by my faith in God, my rockstar husband, and our fluffy sidekick, Mowgli. I’m all about helping couples reclaim their wedding day, stripping away the chaos and expectations to focus on what really matters—a celebration of your covenant love.
Why does this mean so much to me? Because my own wedding day didn’t quite turn out the way I dreamed. Family drama cast a shadow over a day that should have been pure joy. Honestly, I wish we had eloped. That experience lit a fire in me to make sure no couple has to feel the way I did.
That’s why I’m here—to create space for you to embrace the most meaningful, intentional, and joy-filled day of your life. Let’s make it magical, your way.
HI, I'M ABBY
a storytelling elopement photographer serving playfully intimate spirits
aR & pnw elopement photographer
preserving the sanctity of marriage
CONNECT WITH ME
WHY ELOPE IN OREGON?
Some places make you feel small in the best way. Oregon is one of those places. Standing on a windswept cliff above the Pacific, watching mist rise from an ancient forest, or hearing nothing but rushing waterfalls and birdsong in the mountains has a way of quieting the noise. It reminds you what truly matters.
Diversity in your Oregon elopement day
Your adventure, your way
Every season brings something extraordinary
From rugged coastlines and misty forests to towering mountains, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and expansive deserts, Oregon is a state of remarkable diversity. No matter what scenery feels most like you, there's a place here that fits your vision—and often several. It's one of the few destinations where your wedding day can unfold across multiple breathtaking landscapes, making the adventure just as unforgettable as the vows you exchange.
One of the greatest things about eloping in Oregon is that adventure looks different for every couple. For some, it's summiting a mountain at sunrise or exploring hidden beaches. For others, it's sipping champagne in a luxury cabin, enjoying a slow morning together, and ending the day with an intimate candlelit dinner. However you choose to celebrate, your wedding day should reflect who you are—not someone else's definition of adventure.
Every season in Oregon offers a completely different kind of beauty. Spring brings rushing waterfalls and vibrant wildflowers, summer offers long days and mountain adventures, fall paints the forests in rich shades of gold and crimson, and winter transforms the mountains into a snowy wonderland while the coast becomes moody and dramatic. No matter when you choose to elope, Oregon has a season that can beautifully complement your vision.
STEPS TO PLANNING YOUR OREGON ELOPEMENT
Choose a season & location, and elope on a weekday for optimal privacy!
Make it legal! Officiant, witnesses, marriage license, & any necessary permits.
Craft a unique elopement experience that speaks to you and your love. Eloping can be more than just a ceremony!
Hire an elopement photographer (AKA me!) that will help plan your dream elopement from start to finish.
STUNNING PLACES TO ELOPE IN OREGON
NORTH OREGON COAST
The North Oregon Coast is home to some of Oregon's most iconic elopement locations, including Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Hug Point, and Oswald West State Park. Known for its dramatic sea stacks, rugged cliffs, misty forests, and expansive beaches, this region offers breathtaking scenery with easy access from Portland. If you've always dreamed of saying your vows with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, the North Coast is hard to beat.
SOUTH OREGON COAST
The South Oregon Coast is where rugged beauty meets a sense of peaceful seclusion. The Brookings area is home to some of Oregon’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes, including Secret Beach, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, and countless hidden beaches surrounded by towering cliffs, sea stacks, and lush coastal forests. With fewer crowds and a more untouched feel, this region is perfect for couples looking for an intimate, adventurous elopement surrounded by wild beauty.
BONUS: The Redwoods aren't too far from Brookings, and many of my couples are able to incorporate the Redwoods into their southern Oregon elopement day!
CENTRAL OREGON
Central Oregon is where rugged desert landscapes meet towering Cascade peaks. Places like Bend, Sisters, and the surrounding Deschutes National Forest offer an incredible variety of scenery, from alpine lakes and volcanic landscapes to pine forests, waterfalls, and sweeping mountain views. With endless opportunities for adventure, Central Oregon is perfect for couples who want a beautiful, outdoorsy elopement with a little more sunshine and a laid-back mountain-town feel.
MOUNT HOOD
Mount Hood is one of Oregon’s most breathtaking and recognizable landscapes, offering a perfect blend of mountain adventure and Pacific Northwest charm. Just outside of Portland, this region features snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, towering forests, and scenic viewpoints that make every corner feel like a postcard. Whether you're dreaming of a sunrise mountain view, a quiet forest ceremony, or exploring the surrounding trails together, Mount Hood offers an unforgettable backdrop for an intimate Oregon elopement.
COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE
The Columbia River Gorge is a breathtaking destination where towering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, wildflower-covered hillsides, and sweeping river views create an unforgettable backdrop for your elopement. Just outside Portland, this region is famous for its incredible waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, scenic overlooks, and endless opportunities to explore together. Whether you're chasing sunrise views, wandering through lush forests, or celebrating beside a waterfall, the Gorge offers a perfect blend of adventure and accessibility.
CRATER LAKE
Crater Lake is one of Oregon’s most iconic and breathtaking destinations, known for its impossibly blue water, dramatic cliffs, and incredible volcanic history. Formed inside the remains of Mount Mazama, this ancient lake creates a truly unforgettable backdrop for an intimate elopement. Surrounded by rugged wilderness, towering evergreens, and mountain views, Crater Lake offers a quiet sense of wonder for couples who want their wedding day to feel truly extraordinary.
$100 Special Use Permit required to elope here!
HOW TO ELOPE IN OREGON
When you work with me, I help you through every step of the planning process—from finding the perfect location and creating a meaningful timeline to navigating logistics and preparing for your adventure. As an intentional elopement photographer and planner, my goal is to make sure your wedding day feels effortless, authentic, and completely centered around your love story. You deserve to spend your day soaking in every moment—not worrying about the details behind the scenes.
Park passes
permits
group size
If you are holding an elopement ceremony or taking photos inside of any national or state park, you will need to have a NPS pass to enter the park. I always recommend purchasing the America the Beautiful pass beforehand online, as it has the most diversity for adventurous couples (and the best deal!).
Permits for Oregon elopements vary depending on your location. In many places, you typically won’t need a permit for a simple ceremony with a small group of people, especially if you aren’t bringing in decorations, props, or setting up anything. However, permits are often required when eloping on National Park, State Park, or BLM/Coastal lands, so it’s important to check the specific rules for your chosen location.
Most locations for Oregon elopements don't have a maximum number for group size. However, to be considered an elopement, there must be no more than 15 guests including all vendors. I always help my couples choose locations that accomodate any special guests.
elope on a weekday
Choosing a weekday for your Oregon elopement comes with so many benefits. Popular locations are often quieter, giving you a more peaceful and intimate experience without as many crowds in the background. Weekdays also offer more flexibility when it comes to permits, vendors, accommodations, and creating a timeline that allows you to truly slow down and enjoy every moment.
oregon elopement friendly vendors
to help bring your vision to life
Edge Hair and Makeup
Makeup Mafia
Whitney Dano
Cannon Beach Cottage Flowers
Pacific Coast Floral Design
James Cress Florist
Neahkahnie Blooms
My Petite Sweet
Cannon Beach Bakery
Niblack Events
The Culinary Concierge
White Cap Catering
Rogue Picnic
Picnics with Elegance
Officiant Kenneth
Michael D Wade
HMUA
FOOD
JOIN THE EXPERIENCE
OFFICIANT
PHOTOGRAPHER
CAKE
FLORALS
NAVIGATING YOUR OREGON MARRIAGE LICENSE
Oregon is "pretty chill" with marriage licenses. There's no residency requirement to elope in Oregon. You can obtain a marriage license from any Oregon county, and get married in any Oregon county (even if it's a different one).
How to obtain a license:
Get a physical copy at the courthouse together when you arrive in Oregon, OR pre-apply for an Oregon Marriage License:
- Request an application by mail by calling the county courthouse or check out their website for an online application
- I recommend Washington County online
- 3 day waiting period required - The waiting period may be waived under certain circumstances at the discretion of the County Clerk or a Judge for an additional fee (varies). Contact the Clerk's office for more information.
- You'll have 60 days to get married
What to bring:
- $85 application fee (cash, visa, or mastercard)
- Marriage Pre-Application confirmation
- Proof of date of birth (ID, SSN, birth certificate)
- Your parents' birth places and maiden names
For the ceremony:
- You'll need an officiant and 2 witnesses for your ceremony
P.S. I'm always happy to be a witness for you!
***will have to allow time in your trip to visit the courthouse together or ensure your officiant takes the license to the office
Pro Tip: Most of my couples opt to get legally married in their home state/county, and then celebrate their official marriage day on their elopement day through reading vows to one another. This just skips some of those logistics within your travel timeline so that you can fully focus on your elopement experience without the stress of logistics. For some couples, getting legally married on their elopement day is super important, and they happily go through these steps to ensure that happens. Either way you choose, I'm here to support you through the process and guide you through the logistics!
EXAMPLE 8 HOUR OREGON TIMELINE
12:30PM - Coffee + Write Vows
1:15PM - Get Ready + Detail Photos
2:15PM - First look Outside of BnB
2:45PM - Travel to Ceremony Location
3:15PM - Ceremony
4:00PM - Exploring / Activity / Picnic
5:30PM - Travel or Mini Hike to Sunset Spot
6:15PM - Golden Hour + Sunset Portraits at Secondary location
7:30PM - Blue Hour + I'll leave you two to enjoy the rest of the evening as Newlyweds!
With expert planning and intentional photography woven together, your elopement becomes a seamless, heart-full experience—not a production. You bring the love; I’ll take care of the rest.
ELOPE WITH ME
BEST SEASONS TO ELOPE IN OREGON
FALL
SPRING
Fall in Oregon brings a cozy, romantic atmosphere with golden foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. The coast becomes moody and peaceful, while forests and mountain regions transform with vibrant autumn colors. Keep in mind that some higher-elevation mountain locations may already be covered in snow or have limited access later in the season, but fall is still a beautiful time for couples looking for a quieter, more intimate Oregon elopement.
Pros
- Beautiful fall colors and cozy atmosphere
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Comfortable temperatures for exploring
Cons
- Mountain locations may already be snowed out
- Rain and unpredictable weather can return later in the season
- Some trails may have seasonal closures
Spring is one of Oregon’s most underrated seasons for an elopement. While many couples wait for summer, spring brings a quiet kind of magic with blooming wildflowers, lush green forests, flowing waterfalls, and fewer crowds. The landscape feels fresh and alive, making it the perfect season for couples who want a peaceful and unique Oregon adventure. From coastal cliffs to forest trails, spring offers incredible beauty without the busy summer crowds.
Pros
- Lush greenery, wildflowers, and powerful waterfalls
- Fewer crowds at popular locations
- Fresh, vibrant landscapes throughout Oregon
- Cooler temperatures for exploring
Cons
- Weather can still be unpredictable with rain
- Higher elevation locations may still have snow
- Some mountain roads and trails may have seasonal closures
Winter in Oregon offers a peaceful, moody, and unforgettable elopement experience. Snow-covered mountains, misty forests, and dramatic coastal landscapes create a magical backdrop for couples who want something a little different. While winter requires more flexibility with weather and access, it’s a beautiful season for an intimate celebration away from the crowds.
Pros
- Fewer crowds at popular locations
- Snowy mountain views and cozy PNW atmosphere
- Dramatic coastlines and moody forests
- Unique experience for couples who love a quieter adventure
Cons
- Mountain locations may be inaccessible due to snow
- Shorter daylight hours
- Weather can be cold, wet, and unpredictable
- Some trails and roads may have seasonal closures
Summer is Oregon’s most popular season for a reason. With long days, warmer temperatures, wildflowers in bloom, and the best access to mountain locations, summer offers endless opportunities for adventure. From alpine lakes and mountain views to coastal escapes and forest trails, this season is perfect for couples who want to explore more of Oregon’s landscapes during their elopement day.
Pros
- Best access to high-elevation mountain locations
- Long daylight hours for exploring multiple locations
- Warmer weather and wildflowers in bloom
- Great time for hiking and outdoor adventures
Cons
- Most popular locations can be crowded
- Some areas may have limited parking or require permits
- Wildfire smoke can impact visibility later in the summer
- Popular dates and lodging can book quickly
WINTER
SUMMER
ACTIVITY IDEAS
Some of my favorite elopement day activities to incorporate into your timeline include:
- Get ready together
- Slow morning with coffee
- Watch the sunrise at a fire lookout
- Write vows
- Read letters from loved ones
- Cook breakfast together
- Go on a hike
- Share a first dance
- Run into the ocean/lake together
- Beach bonfire
- Explore another location
- Ride horses
- Scrapbook
- Include family into your day
- Luxury picnic
- Go fishing
VIRTUAL HUGS FROM PAST CLIENTS
READY TO START PLANNING YOUR OREGON ELOPEMENT?
Your elopement deserves to be more than just a beautiful location and pretty photos—it deserves to be an experience that feels intentional, effortless, and completely you. From the very first conversation, my goal is to make sure you feel supported, understood, and excited for the adventure ahead.
When you inquire, we’ll take time to get to know each other, talk through your dream elopement vision, and make sure we’re the right fit. I care deeply about preserving the intimacy and meaning behind your day, which means I’ll never encourage something just for my own gain. My priority is helping you create a celebration that feels authentic, surrounded by the right people and vendors who align with your vision.
Once we decide we’re a perfect fit, the planning begins! I’ll guide you through every step—from location scouting and timelines to permits, marriage license details, packing lists, backup plans, vendor recommendations,
and all the little details you may not even know to consider. With open communication throughout the entire process, you’ll never feel like you’re navigating your elopement alone.
When your day finally arrives, you’ll be able to slow down, soak it all in, and fully enjoy the adventure you’ve created together. We’ll laugh, explore, celebrate, and capture every intentional moment of your Oregon elopement experience. Within 24 hours, you’ll receive your first sneak peeks, and within 60 days, you’ll have a full gallery of memories to relive this incredible chapter of your story.
Your marriage is worth celebrating intentionally—and I can’t wait to help you create a day that feels as unforgettable as your love.
Next steps
Reach out to me through my contact form! I'll get back with you within 1-3 business days.
We will get to know each other and envision your dream elopement together. At this time, we will get a feel of the date and general location of your elopement.
Once you have completed your booking proposal and paid the 50% deposit, your date is booked!
01.
INQUIRE
03.
YOU'RE BOOKED!
02.
CHIT CHAT
