How to Elope in Oregon
How to elope in Oregon
Ultimate Oregon Elopement Guide
you want to elope in Oregon, but Don't know where to start.
you don't have to do this alone.
I know planning your elopement has you feeling overwhelmed, but I've got your back.
I know planning your elopement has you feeling overwhelmed, but I've got your back.
The decision to elope was easy - you ditched the big wedding and now you know you want to have a day that's all about making you feel celebrated and doing things you love.
But now that you can go anywhere and do anything, you may feel overwhelmed and like you don't know where to even start with planning.
Well don't worry too much! I've put together this comprehensive guide on exactly how to elope in Oregon, so that you can get started with confidence. Let's get into it!
Or skip all this and...
The decision to elope was easy - you ditched the big wedding and now you know you want to have a day that's all about making you feel celebrated and doing things you love.
But now that you can go anywhere and do anything, you may feel overwhelmed and like you don't know where to even start with planning.
Well don't worry too much! I've put together this comprehensive guide on exactly how to elope in Oregon, so that you can get started with confidence. Let's get into it!
Or skip all this and...
Table of Contents
- Oregon Coast
- Oregon Coast
- Oregon & California Redwoods
- Columbia River Gorge
- Mount Hood
- Winter Elopements in Oregon
- Spring Elopements in Oregon
- Summer Elopements in Oregon
- Fall Elopements in Oregon
- Marriage License Information
- Location Permits
- Should We Include Guests?
- How to Include Guests?
- How Can We Get Privacy on the Trail?
- How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Oregon?
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- How to Prepare for the Weather?
- Where to Stay for Your Oregon Elopement?
- Redwoods
- Columbia River Gorge
- Mount Hood
- Bend & Central Oregon
- Winter elopements
- Spring Elopements
- Summer Elopements
- Fall Elopements
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- Marriage License Info
- Location Permits
- How much does it cost?
- How to include guests?
- Should we Include Guests?
- How to Travel to Oregon?
- Where to Stay?
- How Can We Get Privacy?
- Bend & Central Oregon
- How to Travel to Oregon?
- How to Prepare for the Weather?
Who am I, and why am I making a guide about eloping in Oregon?
That's me eloping in Iceland!
That's me eloping in Iceland!
Working with the sweetest couples
Hey, I'm Desiree! I am a photographer who specializes in helping eloping couples plan and get beautiful photos of their elopement days. I'm based in Ohio and love traveling, especially to beautiful locations like Oregon (it's my favorite state in the US!).
I've also eloped myself, so I've been in your shoes as an eloping couple trying to figure it all out. I remember how excited I was, but also how stressful it felt. And I wished I had a guide telling me exactly what to prep for.
Which brings us to this guide to How to Elope in Oregon, I have a unique skill set that can help eloping couples just like you. I'm here to spill the secrets, and make planning more smooth and less stressful for you!
Capturing your elopement memories
Hey, I'm Desiree! I am a photographer who specializes in helping eloping couples plan and get beautiful photos of their elopement days. I'm based in Ohio and love traveling, especially to beautiful locations like Oregon (it's my favorite state in the US!).
I've also eloped myself, so I've been in your shoes as an eloping couple trying to figure it all out. I remember how excited I was, but also how stressful it felt. And I wished I had a guide telling me exactly what to prep for.
Which brings us to this guide to How to Elope in Oregon, I have a unique skill set that can help eloping couples just like you. I'm here to spill the secrets, and make planning more smooth and less stressful for you!
If you're looking for an adventurous elopement day focused on hiking and exploring rugged beaches, this is the perfect spot. The Oregon Coast is my FAVORITE location in all of Oregon because of its stunning natural beauty and variety. It's my top recommendation for couples eloping in Oregon!
If you're looking for an adventurous elopement day focused on hiking and exploring rugged beaches, this is the perfect spot. The Oregon Coast is my FAVORITE location in all of Oregon because of its stunning natural beauty and variety. It's my top recommendation for couples eloping in Oregon!
Oregon Coast
Main features: Beaches, Sea stacks, cliffs, forests
With waterfalls, beaches, mountains, old growth forests, and high desert scenery, Oregon has hidden gem locations just waiting to be found
The Best places to elope in Oregon
Step 1. Let's find your location!
This one is probably a bit unexpected, but if you are eloping on the Oregon Coast, you can easily add a trip to the Redwoods into your elopement. The Southern Oregon Coast and the Oregon and California Redwoods are super close together and would add some super beautiful scenery to your day.
This one is probably a bit unexpected, but if you are eloping on the Oregon Coast, you can easily add a trip to the Redwoods into your elopement. The Southern Oregon Coast and the Oregon and California Redwoods are super close together and would add some super beautiful scenery to your day.
Oregon & California Redwoods
Oregon & California Redwoods
Main features: Forests, old growth trees
Main features: Forests, old growth trees
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most stunning locations in Oregon, especially if you love chasing waterfalls! There is seriously a waterfall around every corner, and most all of them would make beautiful elopement locations.
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most stunning locations in Oregon, especially if you love chasing waterfalls! There is seriously a waterfall around every corner, and most all of them would make beautiful elopement locations.
Columbia River Gorge
Main features: overlooks, Forests, waterfalls
Mount Hood, only an hour from Portland, is one of the most beautiful and convenient locations for an elopement. I especially love the trails that feature lakes with the mountain in the background!
Mount Hood, only an hour from Portland, is one of the most beautiful and convenient locations for an elopement. I especially love the trails that feature lakes with the mountain in the background!
Mount Hood
Mount Hood
Main features: Lakes, mountains, forests
Main features: Lakes, mountains, forests
This area feels SO different from the rest of Oregon. Central Oregon has an unmatched variety of scenery in a small area including amazing locations like Smith Rock State Park and the Painted Hills.
This area feels SO different from the rest of Oregon. Central Oregon has an unmatched variety of scenery in a small area including amazing locations like Smith Rock State Park and the Painted Hills.
Bend & Central Oregon
Main features: High desert, Lakes, waterfalls, forests
Take a deeper dive into Oregon locations!
Explore more!
The weather will depend on the area of Oregon you are eloping at. If you are looking for more mild weather, head to the Coast or Columbia River Gorge. If you're looking for snowy landscapes head to Mount Hood or Bend.
The weather will depend on the area of Oregon you are eloping at. If you are looking for more mild weather, head to the Coast or Columbia River Gorge. If you're looking for snowy landscapes head to Mount Hood or Bend.
Winter Elopements in Oregon
Pros:
Of course, winter is going to be chillier! It can also bring more changeable and rainy weather on the Coast and Columbia River Gorge areas. You'll also want to keep in mind that winter sees fewer daylight hours.
Cons:
Best time of year to elope in Oregon
Step 2. Pick a date!
It's important to time your elopement just right for the type of weather and scenery you'd like for your day
Of course, winter is going to be chillier! It can also bring more changeable and rainy weather on the Coast and Columbia River Gorge areas. You'll also want to keep in mind that winter sees fewer daylight hours.
Spring is the season of flowers and waterfalls, my friends! The weather is getting warmer during this season, and it can offer some of the most beautiful scenery for an elopement. This is also the shoulder season for Oregon, so you can get more privacy.
Spring is the season of flowers and waterfalls, my friends! The weather is getting warmer during this season, and it can offer some of the most beautiful scenery for an elopement. This is also the shoulder season for Oregon, so you can get more privacy.
Spring Elopements in Oregon
Pros:
Spring sees pretty changeable weather in Oregon and in most places it's the rainy season.
Cons:
Spring sees pretty changeable weather in Oregon and in most places it's the rainy season.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and greenery throughout Oregon. You can enjoy a lake day, hiking, and being outdoors. You also get the maximum daylight hours throughout the summer, so you can be outside earlier or later and still have great light.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and greenery throughout Oregon. You can enjoy a lake day, hiking, and being outdoors. You also get the maximum daylight hours throughout the summer, so you can be outside earlier or later and still have great light.
Summer Elopements in Oregon
Pros:
Some locations, like the Oregon Coast and Columbia River Gorge, are at peak tourist season in the summer and popular locations will get more traffic. The weather can also get quite hot depending where you are in Oregon.
Cons:
Some locations, like the Oregon Coast and Columbia River Gorge, are at peak tourist season in the summer and popular locations will get more traffic. The weather can also get quite hot depending where you are in Oregon.
Fall is going to bring cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. September especially is one of my favorite times for an elopement because it's the shoulder season in most locations in Oregon. October also brings the leaf change.
Fall is going to bring cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. September especially is one of my favorite times for an elopement because it's the shoulder season in most locations in Oregon. October also brings the leaf change.
Fall Elopements in Oregon
Pros:
The weather starts to get more rainy and changeable the further you get into fall. In late fall, you may also be contending with King Tides on the Oregon Coast.
Cons:
The weather starts to get more rainy and changeable the further you get into fall. In late fall, you may also be contending with King Tides on the Oregon Coast.
Learn more about the best times of year to elope in Oregon!
Explore more!
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Work with a photographer who can help you through the elopement process. As an Oregon elopement photographer, I'm here to not only provide beautiful photos of your elopement day, but also help you plan a day unique to you and your relationship. And most importantly... to help take the stress off!
1. Hire your Oregon Elopement photographer
Oregon is a huge state with a lot to offer, so I know it can be difficult to narrow down where to elope! Whether you want to get married out in nature with a waterfall flowing behind you or at an intimate venue along the coast, I can help find your ideal location for your unique elopement vision.
2. Choose your location
It's time to finalize the details! Book your lodging, make reservations, and hire any additional vendors (like an officiant, florist, hair and make up artist, etc.). Need help with recommendations? This is something I help with as your photographer so you don't have to spend hours on Google!
3. Finalize your Plans
You can get your marriage license sorted at any county in Oregon that's most convenient for you! Just make sure you check that specific county's requirements and either keep in mind the 3 day waiting period before you can get legally married or pay extra to waive the waiting period.
Depending on your elopement location, you may also need a permit from the appropriate park office or department. This is something I help the couples I work with know how to do!
4. Take care of the legal stuff
It's time to elope! Say your vows, have an amazing and stress-free day, and officially tie the knot in an epic location!
5. Get eloped!
How to elope in Oregon
Step 3. Figure out the details
This process doesn't have to be hard. Here's how to elope in Oregon in 5 simple steps!
Depending on your elopement location, you may also need a permit from the appropriate park office or department. This is something I help the couples I work with know how to do!
Let's break down some of that stressful stuff
How to get your Oregon marriage license
Where to get the Oregon Marriage license?
You can get the marriage license in any county in Oregon. Be sure to check with the county where you are obtaining your marriage license on their specific requirements, costs, and expiration dates. Even if you submit an application online, please note that you both will need to show up in person to complete your marriage license application.
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).
How soon can we get married?
This part's easy! You 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 officiant as well as your photographer! And we can ask passersby to serve as your witnesses.
Officiant? Witnesses? What do we need?
this probably sounds scary, but bear with me here...
Oregon Elopement Location Permits
What is a location permit?
This is going to be entirely dependent on the location and what you are planning for your day. Some locations have different rules for ceremonies vs. just taking professional photos. For some, it could depend on how many guests you have or if you are planning an elaborate set up. But no matter what, you should check with the locations you plan to be on your elopement day to see if a permit is needed.
What locations need a permit?
Some locations require a special use permit before you can host a wedding (elopements included!) or take professional photos there. This is to ensure the entity in charge of the location is aware of the activity and that the activity falls in line with what's allowed there.
Sometimes locations make this super easy for us and post the information on their websites. For others, you may need to call the main office, let them know what you are planning, and see if anything is necessary. Pro tip: don't ever trust ChatGPT (often incorrect!) or anyone other than the office in charge for this information!
How do I know if I need a permit?
If instructions are available on a website, move forward with those. Often though, you will need to call ahead to make sure your date and time are available, so it never hurts to call and ask questions!
In general, call for the most updated information, scheduling, and permit advice!
How do i get a permit?
Want to skip the hours of research? Permits are something I help eloping couples with!
Multi-Day elopement sample timeline
- 11:00 AM: Get a slow start, sip coffee, have some snacks, and write vows together cuddled up on the couch
- 11:30 AM: Get ready separately
- 12:30 PM: Meet for a first look outside your rental cabin
- 1:00 PM: Head to your first location, a secluded beach
- 1:30 PM: Arrive at the beach and wonder down the shoreline
- 2:00 PM: Arrive at your ceremony location and get set up
- 2:10 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license, and soak up being married
- 2:50 PM: Portraits at your ceremony location
- 3:30 PM: Enjoy some cake together
- 4:00 PM: Head to your second location, a cliffside hike
- 4:10 PM: Arrive at the second location and start your hike
- 4:30 PM: Reach the cliffside and spend time soaking it up, exploring, and hanging out together
- 5:30 PM: Head back to your rental cabin
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at your rental cabin and have a picnic on the lawn. Read letters from your loved ones congratulating you.
- 7:00 PM: Cuddle up and roast s'mores by the fire
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
- 11:00 AM: Get a slow start, sip coffee, have some snacks, and write vows together cuddled up on the couch
- 11:30 AM: Get ready separately
- 12:30 PM: Meet for a first look outside your rental cabin
- 1:00 PM: Head to your first location, a secluded beach
- 1:30 PM: Arrive at the beach and wonder down the shoreline
- 2:00 PM: Arrive at your ceremony location and get set up
- 2:10 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license, and soak up being married
- 2:50 PM: Portraits at your ceremony location
- 3:30 PM: Enjoy some cake together
- 4:00 PM: Head to your second location, a cliffside hike
- 4:10 PM: Arrive at the second location and start your hike
- 4:30 PM: Reach the cliffside and spend time soaking it up, exploring, and hanging out together
- 5:30 PM: Head back to your rental cabin
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at your rental cabin and have a picnic on the lawn. Read letters from your loved ones congratulating you.
- 7:00 PM: Cuddle up and roast s'mores by the fire
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
- Morning & afternoon: Drive to the Columbia River Gorge and get settled in your new rental cabin
- 3:00 PM: Meet at the waterfall trailhead & start hiking in
- 4:00 PM: Arrive at waterfall, take it in, and do couples portraits
- 5:00 PM: Hike out
- 6:00 PM: Stop for a quick snack at a local food truck
- 7:00 PM: Arrive at your second location, a beautiful overlook on the Gorge and wait for sunset
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
- Morning & afternoon: Drive to the Columbia River Gorge and get settled in your new rental cabin
- 3:00 PM: Meet at the waterfall trailhead & start hiking in
- 4:00 PM: Arrive at waterfall, take it in, and do couples portraits
- 5:00 PM: Hike out
- 6:00 PM: Stop for a quick snack at a local food truck
- 7:00 PM: Arrive at your second location, a beautiful overlook on the Gorge and wait for sunset
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 14 hour Multi-day elopements in Oregon. Here's an example of what that could look like:
Example Oregon elopements
Step 4: Get inspired!
elopements are a chance to be your unique selves on your wedding day. Let's see what's possible!
Full-Day elopement sample timeline
- 4:30 AM: Getting ready separately at your rental cabin
- 5:30 AM: Head to first location for sunrise firstlook
- 6:00 AM: Arrive at first location, a high desert hiking trail with craggy rock formations
- 6:15 AM: One partner heads to overlook and gets set up for first look, second partner heads down afterward
- 6:30 AM: Sunrise first look, soaking up the moment, and exploring
- 7:00 AM: Start hiking part of the trail
- 8:00 AM: Stop at a scenic spot to exchange vows and rings, read letters from family congratulating you
- 9:00 AM: Start hiking back out
- 10:00 AM: Head back to the rental cabin
- 10:30: AM Arrive back at rental cabin and cook brunch together
- 11:30 AM Wrap up and relax before the evening
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at the second location and start your hike stopping along the way to take photos with the otherworldly scenery of the high desert
- 8:00 PM: Head back to your jeep and drive to an nearby overlook for sunset, pop some champagne and enjoy the view
- 9:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 10 hour Full-day elopements in Oregon. Here's an example of what that could look like with a split between sunrise and sunset:
Half-day elopement sample timeline
- 2:00 PM: Getting ready photos at your rental cabin
- 2:30 PM: Head to your first location
- 2:50 PM: Arrive at your location and hike down to a waterfall for your ceremony
- 3:20 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license, and soak up being married
- 4:00 PM: Head to your second location, a nearby lake
- 4:30 PM: Arrive at the second location and launch your canoe, spend time relaxing and spending time together out on the water.
- 5:30 PM: Head back to shore for a picnic & champagne pop
- 6:30 PM: Return to your rental cabin and get changed
- 7:00 PM: Cuddle up and roast s'mores by the fire
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 6 hour Half-day elopements in Oregon. Here's an example of what that could look like:
"I’ve never been totally comfortable in front of a lens, but her calm, warm, and playful energy made all of that melt away. The shoot itself was so much fun! We were laughing and giggling away trying new ideas and poses. My Husband and I were just genuinely enjoying the moment with Desiree. Nothing felt stiff or overly posed, which can be hard to achieve! It was all so natural and easy, which honestly made the entire experience unforgettable.
If you’re looking for someone who will make you feel confident, seen, and completely comfortable, Desiree Dube Photography is the one. Her talent, kindness, and ability to bring out the best in you truly shine through every single photo."
Oregon Coast
-Gabby & Hunter
Your elopement doesn't have to be Some cookie cutter, average day
I help couples plan unique and awesome elopement days that allow them to be themselves and do things they actually enjoy doing (not the boring traditional stuff we all think we have to do during a wedding day!). Let's craft your perfect day together!
Mid-Range Elopement Costs
- Photographer for full-day elopement: $4,200
- Wedding dress & accessories: $1,500
- Wedding suit: $500
- Florals: $300
- Hair & Makeup: $250 at a salon
- Location Permit: $0 - $200 depending
- Marriage License: $50 - $60 depending on county
- 3 nights at a nice rental cabin: $900
- Food & drinks: $300
Frequently Asked Questions
Step 5: Let's answer those last questions!
You may still have some questions about how to elope in Oregon. Let's get those answered!
How much does it cost to elope in Oregon?
High-end Elopement Costs
Elopement costs vary widely and depend on the kind of activities and experiences you'd like to have for your day. You can spend anywhere from a few thousand to ten thousand or more for luxury experiences. No matter your budget, you can find awesome activities and locations to suit it!
- Photographer for multi-day elopement: $5,200
- Wedding dress & accessories: $4,000
- Wedding suit: $1,000
- Florals: $600
- Hair & Makeup: $600 on site
- Location Permit: $0 - $200 depending
- Marriage License: $50 - $60 depending on county
- 3 nights at a luxury rental cabin: $1,800
- Private chef dinner: $700
Total: $8,210
Total: $14,160
How to include your family & Friends in your Oregon elopement day
Whether you want to elope just the two of you or bring some guests along, there are a ton of different ways to include your loved ones.
- Your ceremony
- Celebratory meal
- Yard games
- Bonfire
If they're coming with:
- Setting up a tripod with your phone so they can view the ceremony on Zoom
- Read letters from your family & friends
- Call your family & friends after your ceremony
- Have a post-elopement celebration
If it's just the two of you:
- Do these guests make me and my partner happy? Do we enjoy being around them? Would we enjoy being around them on our elopement day?
- Would these guests attending become the center of our attention on our elopement day or cause any negative drama or feelings?
- Do we want our elopement day to be solely focused on spending time together and doing things we enjoy with one another? Or do we want to use some of that time to spend with other people?
Should You include guests in Your elopement day?
Here are some questions to ask yourself to help decide whether or not to include guests:
How to travel to oregon for YOur elopement?
Traveling from out of state for your oregon elopement? It doesn't have to be hard!
Choose an elopement location
Rent a car
Arrive early
Planning an elopement out in nature? A nature retreat is the perfect spot for your elopement accommodations! Look for unique a-frame cabins, glamping tents, tree houses, and tiny homes. You'll want to make sure your accommodations are good as a potential rain location for your elopement day as well, so don't be afraid to splurge on something cute!
Where to stay for Your Oregon Elopement?
Choosing the perfect cabin
I help the couples I work with find epic accommodations for their elopement day. No more googling for hours and wondering if you're missing out on something awesome - let me know you're vibe, and I take it from there!
How I can help
How can we maximize privacy for our Oregon elopement day?
You're eloping, that means you don't want a crowd of random people looking on or asking to take pictures with you. I'm here to help.
Aim for weekdays
Find hidden gem locations
Work with your photographer
As much as I'd love to tell you it never happens... it happens. I'm sorry. If it's any consolation, rain on your wedding day is supposed to be good luck! And it rained almost my entire elopement day, so I speak from experience. We still had an amazing time, and the rain actually brought us fun unplanned experiences!
But, there are some things we can do to prepare in advance for adverse weather during an elopement day! From having weather-proof outer layers ready to go to having back up locations in mind, we can make a plan!
How to prepare for adverse weather for your Oregon elopement
Rain, snow, thunderstorms... oh my!
Start Planning Your Oregon elopement
Step 6: Let's work together!
Work with a photographer who specializes in elopements & will help you plan your unique elopement day
As your elopement photographer and someone who's done it myself, I'm here to help guide you along the way so you can have a fun-filled, epic, and stress-free day all about celebrating your relationship.
I'll be your dream big cheerleader, off-the-beaten-path location finder, day-of sidekick, and adventure planner.
Your elopement photographer, PLanner, & adventure buddy
Hi, I'm Desiree!
Looking to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I am ordained and can serve as your officiant as well as your photographer.
officiant services
No surprise charges here! Standard travel fees for Oregon are already included in all my Oregon elopement photography packages.
Travel Fees Included
Sometimes locations require permits to perform marriage ceremonies or take photographs. As your elopement photographer, I'll lead the way in making sure you know what each location's requirements are, and I'll provide guidance throughout the permit process.
Permit Coordination
You'll have unlimited planning consultations with me as we go through the process. You've got questions? I'm here to help!
Unlimited planning consultations
Wondering where to elope in Oregon? No worries! I've got a list of iconic spots and the hidden gem locations I love and can help give you advice on where to elope for your adventure of a lifetime!
Location scouting
One less thing to stress about! You'll receive a custom packing list for your day so that you don't forget anything!
Custom Packing lists
Planning Your elopement doesn't have to be hard.
In-depth Planning assistance
You're not in this alone. I'm here to help you throughout the planning process.
Here's how I help make the process simple.
Tailored Planning guides
You'll receive tailored planning guides with recommendations for where to stay, local food options, vendors, and more.
Planning your elopement doesn't have to be hard.
In-depth Planning assistance
You're not in this alone. I'm here to help you throughout the planning process.
Here's how I make the process simple:
Location Scouting
Wondering where to elope in Oregon? No worries! I've got a list of iconic spots and the hidden gem locations I love and can help give you advice on where to elope for your adventure of a lifetime!
Permit Coordination
Sometimes locations require permits to perform marriage ceremonies or take photographs. I'll lead the way in making sure you know what each location's requirements are, and I'll provide guidance throughout the permit process.
Tailored Planning guides
You'll receive tailored planning guides with recommendations for where to stay, local food options, vendors, and more.
Custom Packing lists
One less thing to stress about! You'll receive a custom packing list for your day so that you don't forget anything!
Officiant Services
Looking to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I am ordained and can serve as your officiant as well as your photographer.
Unlimited planning
consultations
You'll have unlimited planning consultations with me as we go through the process. You've got questions? I'm here to help!
Travel Fees Included
No surprise charges here! Standard travel fees for Oregon are already included in all my Oregon elopement photography packages.
