Places To Elope in Oregon: 2025 Guide To Oregon Elopments
COMING FROM A LOCAL, I’M HANDING YOU THE BEST LOCATIONS, PERMITS, MARRIAGE LICENSE INFO, VENDOR RECOMMENDATIONS & MORE FOR YOUR OREGON ELOPEMENT.
Find Out How To Elope In Oregon
Hey friends, have you wondered how to piece together the most incredible Oregon elopement? Well, allow me to spill the beans on how you can say “I do” in one of America’s most spectacular elopement venues, Oregon, and revel in a day that is unequivocally yours. Choosing the right Oregon elopement vendors, including hair and makeup, officiant, and florals, is crucial to enhancing your elopement experience and showcasing your unique style. Just imagine if you and your soul mate exchanged vows surrounded by towering redwoods and cascading waterfalls. That’s not a bad way to spend a day you’ll remember for the rest of your lives, and it’s a day that I’d love to help facilitate. I’m Sam, and I help renegade couples create their perfect Oregon elopement packages.
Digging the resources? You ain’t seen nothing yet…
Let’s create a day for you that’s wild, bold, and full of fun in a dramatic landscape!
sam@samstarns.com @samstarns
DO I NEED WITNESSES TO ELOPE IN OREGON?
Yes, Two Witnesses And An Officiant
If you plan to elope in Oregon, a couple of essentials must be taken care of to make it official, including obtaining an Oregon marriage license. Sidestepping a traditional wedding that most friends and family would expect and that you don’t want requires you to have a chosen officiant and two witnesses.
You can choose friends, or I can serve as your officiant and Oregon elopement photographer if that ticks your wishlist, and you’ll need two witnesses over the age of 18 who can be anyone you like. Whether you choose your best friends, family members, or strangers, it’s your elopement, your day, your choice.
Marriage License Info & Cost For Oregon Elopement
Escaping the expectations of others and vamoosing with your beau to elope in Oregon is insanely romantic and will require you to obtain an Oregon marriage license. This is super easy and you can even apply for it online. Your marriage license will cost $60 and remain valid for 60 days from the issue date.
In most counties, you can pay a small fee and waive the 3-day waiting period, freeing you to kickstart your elopement. Oregon-bound and psyched to make your coupling official, you’ll only need your two witnesses and officiant to sign your license.
OTHER BLOG POSTS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN…
Oregon Elopement tips on youtube
THE BEST OREGON ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
Again and again, the Beaver State is dubbed as the USA’s Iceland. The Pacific Northwest, particularly Oregon, offers a diverse range of landscapes ideal for elopements. As a local, I can bear witness to the innumerable breathtaking landscapes that provide unspoiled settings for eloping. In Oregon, eloping couples have a choice of immense backdrops for their union, including grasslands, rivers, and forests to mountains and deserts. With endless places to elope in Oregon, you can have your dream day among the state’s never-ending unique natural beauty.
Crater Lake National Park Elopement In Oregon
When organizing your dream elopement package, Oregon is a location that delivers stacks of idyllic locations. Southern Oregon, with scenic areas like Crater Lake National Park, is ideal for elopements. Crater Lake National Park offers a magical setting to elope in Oregon, with remarkable blue waters, prehistoric volcanic scenery, and a tranquil ambiance. Crater Lake provides a breathtaking backdrop for couples seeking a unique, intimate, and unforgettable location to get hitched.
THE BLUEST BACKDROP YOU CAN FIND FOR AN OREGON ELOPEMENT
BEST TIME TO VISIT CRATER LAKE IN OREGON
June through September is the ideal time to arrange Oregon elopement packages. The north entrance opens in late May to July and closes due to the snow in late October, making much of the scenic Rim Drive inaccessible from November to May. Therefore, planning your elopement during these months ensures great accessibility and awesome views.
Landscape Traits Of Crater Lake
Crater Lake provides stunning views of the caldera, Pumice Desert, Wizard Island, and countless hiking trails, giving endless Oregon elopement picture opportunities. Because of its high elevation, it’s perfect for stargazing and experiencing magically romantic sunrises and sunsets. Although you’ll require a permit and some restrictions apply on amplified music, the location is well worth it and it’s one of the best places to elope in Oregon. With awesome hiking and jaw-dropping raw beauty, Crater Lake will make the perfect setting for a magical once-in-a-lifetime elopement escape, delivering memories you can savor forever.
Insider Info For Crater Lake Elopement In Oregon
The ideal times for an Oregon elopement at Crater Lake will be in late June, late July or September to avoid wildfires. Early mornings and around sunrise are less crowded than sunsets, and afternoons can be windy around the rim, so taking a jacket is a good idea. Winter isn’t ideal for a visit as you’ll have limited access and the lake is often obscured (unless you’re up for a snowmobile ride to the rim!).
PRO TIP: Get your permit early.
MORE OREGON ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS BELOW!
“Can’t say enough positive things about Sam and her Oregon elopements! If the idea of a traditional wedding makes you squirm, BOOK HER.”
I’m offering a free copy of “Elope Your Life”
In appreciation of the adventurous couples I have the privilege to work with, I’m delighted to offer a complimentary copy of my book, designed to energize and inspire couples for a next-level adventure.
This book is brimming with inspiration, captivating stories, and PRACTICAL steps to empower you to create the extraordinary day that sets the bar for all your future adventures.
BONUS – You’ll also receive a copy of my elopement planning checklist!
Oregon Mountains & Waterfalls Oregon Elopement
Creating your elopement package in Oregon wouldn’t be complete without considering the state’s mountains and waterfalls as a possibility for your nuptials. Central Oregon, known for its desert landscape and unique elopement locations, also offers a distinct charm. From the incredible snow-capped mountains and cascading falls, these locations offer stunning backdrops of natural beauty that will make your special day truly unforgettable.
waterfalls out the ass no matter where you look in Oregon.
Best Time To Elope In Oregon’s Mountains & Waterfalls
For couples seeking to elope in Oregon, package plans are best made from April to October. Be aware though, that during these times, some higher-elevation waterfalls, such as the North Umpqua and McKenzie Rivers may still have snow. Generally, November through April is the rainy season and not ideal.
Location Traits Of Oregon’s Waterfalls & Mountains
The area boasts an abundance of spectacular waterfalls, picture-perfect to be included in elopement packages. Oregon has it all, whether you’re looking for towering cascades or rivers rushing over boulders. Considering how far you’re prepared to hike is essential, as options range from easy walks to challenging treks. You’ve got a great selection of waterfalls just outside Portland along the Colombia Gorge, close to the North Umpqua River or the picturesque McKenzie River. From April to October, these locations offer spectacular views for eloping in Oregon, and then the rainy season between November and April transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise.
Insider Info Elope In Oregon At A Waterfall
When looking for elopement venues, Oregon has a few absolute bangers up its sleeve and the high desert is way up there in terms of jaw-dropping beauty. Offering numerous spectacular remote spots for your union, you could say your “I do’s” to a magnificent sunrise or sunset.
AVOID
Multnomah Falls
INSTEAD, EXPLORE
McKenzie River, North Umpqua
There are so many waterfalls that aren’t listed in places like AllTrails – my top tip is to book a photographer that is familiar with the area. That way, you’ll have an authentic PNW experience and experience an adventure with waterfalls that few people may ever see!
“Sam was such an empowering person to have on our non-traditional wedding day.”
High Desert Oregon Elopements
When looking for elopement venues, Oregon has a few absolute bangers up its sleeve and the high desert is way up there in terms of jaw-dropping beauty. Offering numerous spectacular remote spots for your union, you could say your “I do’s” to a magnificent sunrise or sunset.
Wanting epic sunrise/sunset views, or just a unique Oregon location?
The Best Time To Visit The High Desert & Elope In Oregon
From the beginning of April to October is the perfect time to elope in Oregon. Eastern Oregon falls in a rain shadow, getting less precipitation than the Cascades. However, Harney and Lake Counties can still experience several inches of snowfall. Temperatures often hover around freezing, and the Alvord Desert experiences its driest season during fall.
LANDSCAPE TRAITS OF OREGON’S HIGH DESERT
When you envisage places to elope in Oregon, you might conjure images of rugged coastlines, rain, dense forests, and waterfalls. It’s true that all these incredible natural wonders are here, but half the state is actually high desert. Beyond the Cascades, the eastern side is home to numerous astonishing landscapes, including salt flats, colorful hills, distant mountains, and dry lake beds. These varied and mind-boggling areas are just as monumental as the rainier portions, providing unique and unforgettable Oregon elopement locations for your runaway wedding.
Insider Info For Oregon Elopement At The High Desert
When creating unique elopement packages, Oregon has the Painted Hills (permit required), Christmas Valley, or my favorite, Alvord Desert (plus so many more). All three locations are insanely stunning and far from civilization, providing very little in the way of shopping or convenience stores, which can be an issue for some couples.
MY FAVORITES
The Alvord Desert
“I can’t recommend Sam enough! She made our elopement so incredibly special and easy to be in front of the camera. Her expertise, guidance and sense of adventure helped make every moment so memorable and special.”
Oregon Elopement On The Coast
Escaping for an enchanting Oregon coast elopement would be a fantasy for many couples. Consider specific Oregon Coast elopement locations such as Ecola State Park and Painted Hills for their stunning views and unique settings. An intimate ceremony against an awe-inspiring ocean backdrop, embraced by rugged cliffs and tranquil beaches sounds pretty special. If you’re searching for a quiet, secluded spot, an Oregon coast wedding elopement might just be the one for you!
Best Time To Elope In Oregon On The Beachfront
Visiting anywhere from late May to early October will give you the best weather for elopement. Oregon visitors can expect rain and drizzle from late October to March. However, if you love the drama of crashing waves, king tides occur from December to February.
Landscape Traits For Beach Oregon Elopement Locations
There are numerous incredible places to elope in Oregon as it offers a magical mix of natural attractions, from rocky bluffs to sandy beaches adorned with sandstone formations and cascading waterfalls. Iconic lighthouses stand guardian against a backdrop of the vast Pacific Ocean, adding to its effortless charm. It’s a place extremely close to my heart, where tranquility meets kickass adventure. Many escapee couples tailor their elopement packages on the Oregon coast because the region offers such a serene setting even though it’s highly popular. With long boardwalks, charming shops, and a vibrant craft beer scene with more than a few microbreweries, there are endless opportunities for adventure.
INSIDER INFO FOR OREGON COAST WEDDING ELOPEMENT
Many couples love the idea of a Cannon Beach elopement, but the reality is that it gets crowded, and parking is a nightmare. Many more scenic locations along the coast are far better suited to an intimate ceremony with amazing photo opportunities. I’ve got a “secret list” of over two dozen less crowded and more scenic locations up and down the coast.
Avoid:
Cannon Beach
Many couples love the idea of Cannon Beach. Key phrase: “the idea of“. I would actually urge you to consider another nearby beach, if not avoid the north coast altogether. There are so many locations that are more scenic, and more importantly: LESS CROWDED. Crowds have been a nightmare for couples like you.
Parking can be a nightmare (there isn’t really a designated spot for the beach, so street parking is typical). There’s a reason people decide to go to Cannon Beach – it’s one of the most blogged and photographed places on the Oregon Coast. If you want beachcombers in your images, then this may be the place for you, but if not…
I’ve got a list of over two dozen other significantly less crowded and more scenic locations all up and down the Oregon Coast. Let’s find you one that resonates with you.
Oregon Coast Elopement Locations to Consider
Generally, as you move south along the coast from Cannon Beach, the less crowded it is. The two hot spots along the Oregon Coast for crowds is the north coast near Cannon Beach/Pacific City and now the south coast near Brookings along Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor. But even then, the Brookings area is much less crowded than farther north.
Create Your Elopement In Oregon With My Custom Vendor Referrals!
I’m passionate about photography, people, and relationships. I love capturing intimate moments for couples on their big day, giving them a lifetime of special moments to relive, but I don’t create elopement packages in Oregon. What I can offer to couples booking me for Oregon elopement photography is access to my badass vendor list. The Beaver State delivers breathtaking landscapes by the truckload, and having high-quality Oregon elopement vendors, including hair and makeup, officiant, and florals, to support your vision and make it all happen is awesome!
Whether you envision exchanging vows during an Oregon coast elopement amidst the rugged waterfront, in a serene forest, majestic mountains, or desert, my handpicked vendor recommendations will be a great start to ensuring every detail is perfect. I leave it to couples to communicate with the vendors as connecting with the people involved is essential to making the day totally your own. I’ll connect you with the best people to help create Oregon elopement packages and give you the space to decide who you want to work with.
“Everything from the first phone call meeting to the day of and beyond was truly amazing. Sam is a fountain of knowledge and endless support.”
Oregon Elopement Vendors
The following vendors are my top recs for Oregon in general. They travel, and are some of the best when it comes to specializing in adventure elopements:
Hair and Makeup: Meaghan of Black Fern Beauty Company is an adventure elopement specialist with concierge service (tagging along to make sure your makeup is fire all day). She travels all over the Pacific Northwest but is based in Southern Oregon. If you want to elope in Oregon, she’s likely your top hair and makeup gal.
Officiant: Jimmie Berguin is a top-notch comedy man that will give you an amazing ceremony! I would also recommend looking into Emily at Rooted & Wild PDX, who has fantastic vow workshops.
Florals: While florals are more location-specific, here are a few I have loved working with: Flowers & Thyme (Eugene), Barb’s Flowers (Roseburg), Bramble Floral (Portland), Woodland Floral (Central Oregon), and Flora Organica Designs (Eureka, CA).
Your Oregon Elopement Planner
I’m Sam, and as an Oregon elopement photographer, I’m on a quest to capture the awesomeness and intimacy of your special day, helping you keep every cherished moment forever.
With my history as a park ranger and living in the romance capital of Europe (France if you were wondering), I transfer my unique perspective to every adventure.
Liquid-fueled by my passion for Diet Coke, I ensure each Oregon elopement is nothing less than sensational. I believe a genuine connection with couples is key, and I love getting to know the incredible people I photograph. I’m all about creating a day that is uniquely yours when you elope in Oregon.
