Thinking about a destination elopement? Here’s why couples from all over the U.S. are choosing to travel to Oregon for their elopement adventure.

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Deciding where to elope can be difficult, but Oregon stands out as an easy choice. As an Oregon elopement photographer, I think the state’s stunning variety of easy-to-access scenery and straightforward marriage requirements make it a great destination for out-of-state couples who would like to elope. Whether you are flying across the country or road-tripping from nearby, you’ll find Oregon is worth the journey. 

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1. Oregon Has Some of the Most Beautiful Elopement Locations in the U.S.

With the famously rugged Oregon Coast, cascading waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, snow-capped mountains and alpine lakes in the Cascades, and scenery straight out of Mars in the High Desert, Oregon has it all. And the best part? Couples who choose Oregon can focus on exploring one of those amazing backdrops or combine multiple in an epic multi-day elopement adventure.

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2. You Can Elope in Oregon Year-Round

I highly recommend Oregon for couples who are looking for year-round options for their destination elopement. Each region experiences different climate patterns, making Oregon a good option no matter when you are choosing to elope. 

Learn more in my guide on When to Elope in Oregon.

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3. It’s Easy to Get Legally Married in Oregon

The state has easy and straightforward marriage license and ceremony requirements making it simple for couples who are traveling to Oregon for their elopement. 

If you would like to legally elope in Oregon, you can get your Oregon marriage license in the county where your marriage is taking place or any county that’s easiest for you along your travels. You’ll just want to check ahead of time to see what that county’s requirements, costs, and expiration dates are for marriage license applications and ensure you bring any required documents with you.

Once you have your marriage license, you can officially elope (there is a three-day waiting period, but you may also be able to apply for a waiver for an additional cost). You’ll just need to be married by an ordained officiant with two witnesses present. 

Want to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I’m ordained and can act as your photographer and officiant. Reach out here.

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4. Oregon Offers Privacy and Intimacy Without Sacrificing Beauty

Oregon – in off season especially – packs all the punch of gorgeous scenery without the crowds you might see in other states. It’s easy to find less-traveled locations, making Oregon a great spot to travel to for your elopement.

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5. It’s Easy to Travel to and within Oregon for Your Elopement

There are some states where you really have to make an effort to go see all the beauty it has to offer. Oregon makes it easy. Couples traveling to Oregon for their elopements can fly into Portland and easily rent a car and drive for two hours to reach the coast, an hour to the scenic Columbia River Gorge, or three hours down to Bend and the high desert area. There are also closer regional airports like Redmond Municipal Airport near Bend.

Learn more about Where to Elope in Oregon.

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6. Oregon is Perfect for All Couples: From Outdoor Enthusiasts to Casual Adventurers

Oregon makes it easy to choose your own level of adventure for your elopement day. If you want to do an intense full-day hike or other adventurous outdoor activities, you can totally do that. If you want to focus more on spots where you can drive up and see beautiful things, you can also totally do that. This is an elopement location where you can customize completely to your comfort levels.

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7. Oregon Has Fun Cities and Towns to Explore

If you’re wanting to spend some time on your elopement day exploring a city or a cute town, Oregon has a lot to offer. Even on the coast or in the high desert area, there are a lot of cute towns to explore.

Of course, it’s also just nice to have fun towns nearby to explore leading up to and after your elopement. Oregon’s smaller towns have a lot of character and cool local spots to try. 

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8. Oregon Has Epic Cabin Rentals 

If you’re wanting to stay somewhere fun during your elopement, you’ll find a lot of options in Oregon. From remote woodland cabins to coastal getaways to tiny homes and tree houses, you can find pretty much anything you’re dreaming of. 

A cool rental adds a lot to an elopement day and can serve as a backup rain location if needed. Why not find something fun with a lot of character?

I help the couples I work with find awesome rentals near their elopement locations. Learn more about my photography and planning services here.

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9. It’s a Great Excuse for an Elopement + Honeymoon Road Trip

Oregon is one of those states you could spend years and years exploring. There’s something beautiful around every corner, and the landscapes are so varied that you could very easily plan a combined elopement and honeymoon and never be bored. Explore the Samuel Boardman Scenic Byway along the Oregon Coast or drive out to the Painted Hills in the high desert for the perfect Oregon elopement road trip. No matter your vibe, there’s a lot to do and see. 

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10. Oregon Has a Community of Elopement-Friendly Vendors

A final perk? Oregon is no stranger to destination elopements, and there are plenty of talented elopement vendors who can help you put together the perfect day. From Oregon elopement photographers like me to elopement officiants and florists, you’ll have all the vendors you need for your Oregon elopement.

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Bonus Tip – You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

Did I mention I specialize in planning and photographing Oregon elopements? As an elopement photographer, I help the couples I work with to scout the perfect elopement locations, plan the timeline and activities of their day, get gorgeous photos documenting their elopement story, and more. Basically, I’m here to help. You can learn more about my Oregon elopement photography services here as you get ready to travel to Oregon for your elopement!