Thinking about traveling to the Pacific Northwest to elope? 

If you’re wondering how couples actually pull off an out-of-state elopement in Washington, Oregon, or Northern California—this guide is for you. From airports and marriage licenses to weather, timelines, and what to pack, this post covers everything couples need to know about eloping in the PNW (from someone who does this every single week).

If you’re dreaming of mossy forests, jagged mountain peaks, dramatic coastlines, and quiet moments that actually feel like you, there’s a good chance the Pacific Northwest has already stolen your heart.

And you’re not alone.

About 95% of my couples travel from out of state to the PNW to elope, some bring a few of their favorite people, and others come just the two of them, ready for something intimate, intentional, and wildly beautiful.

Traveling for your elopement can feel overwhelming at first, but this is exactly where I step in. I help couples not just show up for photos, but navigate the logistics, plan with intention, and turn a destination elopement into an experience.

Let’s break it all down.

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Why Couples Travel to the PNW to Elope

The Pacific Northwest offers something truly special:

• Mountains, ocean, forests, waterfalls, sometimes all in one day
• Endless options for privacy and adventure
• Moody, cinematic light that feels straight out of a film
• A slower pace that allows your day to breathe

Whether you’re eloping in Washington, Oregon, or sneaking down into Northern California, the PNW is perfect for couples who want their wedding day to feel grounded, adventurous, and deeply personal.

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Airports to Know When Traveling to the PNW

Here are the most common airports my couples fly into, depending on their elopement location:

Washington

• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) – Best for Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, North Cascades, Mt. Baker, and the Washington Coast
• Bellingham International Airport (BLI) – Great for Mt. Baker and North Cascades (limited flights, but quieter)

Oregon

• Portland International Airport (PDX) – Ideal for Oregon Coast, Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, and forest elopements
• Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) – Best for Central Oregon, Bend, and high desert locations
• Medford Rogue Valley International Airport (MFR) – Best for Southern Oregon forest elopements, waterfalls, and easy access to the Redwoods

Northern California (for Redwoods & coastal elopements)

• San Francisco International (SFO) • Oakland International (OAK) 
• Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) – Closest for Redwood National & State Parks

I help you choose locations based on your travel comfort, not just how pretty a spot is on Instagram.

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How Far in Advance Should You Plan Your Travel?

Here’s a realistic planning timeline I recommend for out-of-state couples, keep in mind I have helped couples execute a PNW elopement in less than a week:

6–12 Months Before

• Book your photographer (hi 👋)
• Narrow down your season and general region
• Start watching flight prices
• If inviting guests, give them a heads-up

3–6 Months Before

• Book flights
• Book lodging (Airbnb, cabin, lodge, or hotel)
• Begin permit planning if needed
• Start dress/suit shopping

1–2 Months Before

• Finalize timeline and locations
• Apply for your marriage license
• Book rental cars (especially important in summer)
• Plan activities for before/after your elopement

3–5 Days Before Your Ceremony

• Arrive in the PNW
• Pick up your marriage license
• Adjust to the time change
• Scout locations if needed (We will already have a plan for your day, but its always fun to explore!)
• Breathe. You made it.

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Marriage License Requirements (This Is Important)

Marriage license rules vary by state, but here’s a quick overview:

Washington

• Apply in person • 3-day waiting period after applying • License valid for 60 days

Oregon

• Apply in person • 3-day waiting period (can sometimes be waived) • License valid for 60 days

California

• Apply in person • No waiting period (but appointment required)

Pro tip: Plan to arrive at least 3–5 days before your ceremony to avoid stress and give yourself buffer time.

Don’t worry, I walk my couples through this step-by-step so nothing slips through the cracks.

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What About the Weather? (Yes, Let’s Talk About It)

The PNW is known for its mood—and that’s part of the magic.

You might experience:
• Foggy mornings
• Light rain (very common)
• Sudden sun breaks
• Wind on the coast
• Snow at higher elevations—even in summer
• A super hot summer day

Instead of fighting the weather, I help curate a day, weekend, or even full week that works with it.

That means:
• Building flexible timelines
• Choosing backup locations
• Planning activities that feel cozy, fun, or adventurous
• Making sure your day feels intentional no matter what the forecast does

Your PNW dreams don’t disappear because of clouds—they usually get better.

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Flying With Your Wedding Dress (Carry-On vs Checked Bag)

Always, always carry your wedding attire on the plane.

• Most airlines allow wedding dresses as a carry-on
• Ask flight attendants to hang it in the crew closet if available
• Use a garment bag, not a hard case

Do not check your dress or suit. Lost luggage is not the kind of adventure we want.

Shoes, accessories, and layers can go in your checked bag—but the outfit itself stays with you.

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What to Bring (And Not Forget at Home)

Here’s a quick checklist my traveling couples love:

Don’t Forget:

• Marriage license paperwork + IDs
• Wedding attire + accessories
• Comfortable hiking/walking shoes
• Weather layers (jackets, sweaters, wool socks)
• Vows (written or printed)
• Rings
• Headlamp or flashlight (sunrise/sunset days)
• Snacks + water

Nice-to-Have Extras:

• Blanket for cozy moments or picnics
• Hand warmers
• Towel for misty or rainy days
• Backpack for carrying layers
• Small speaker for music

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How I Help You Navigate All of This

Traveling to elope can feel like a lot—but you’re not doing it alone.

I help my couples:
• Choose locations that match who they are 
• Build realistic, stress-free timelines
• Navigate permits and logistics
• Plan travel-friendly days
• Create an experience, not just a ceremony

Whether you want a single epic day, a slow weekend, or a full adventure-filled week, I help make it happen.

You bring the love. I’ll help you make the PNW feel like home.

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If you’re dreaming of traveling to the Pacific Northwest to elope and want someone who knows the terrain, the timing, and the tiny details that matter—I’d love to help you create something unforgettable.

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Ready to Plan Your PNW Elopement?

If you’re searching for:
• how to elope in Washington, Oregon or California
• the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest
• a photographer who helps you plan and document your day

You’re in the right place.

I specialize in helping couples travel to the PNW for intimate, intentional elopements, whether that’s just the two of you or a small group of your favorite people. From location scouting and timeline creation to weather backup plans and travel logistics, I help turn your ideas into a day that actually feels calm, meaningful, and true to you.

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If You’re Reading This and Feeling Seen, That’s Not an Accident

Most couples who reach out to me say the same thing:
“This feels like exactly what we want.”

If you’re dreaming of an PNW elopement that feels calm, intentional, and deeply meaningful — not rushed, performative, or stressful — I would love to help you plan it.

You don’t need to have everything figured out.
That’s part of my job.