so you decided to elope in the redwoods!
I've helped couples plan epic Redwood elopements all over the state, and I'm here to help you every step of the way. From finding those hidden-gem locations and figuring out permits to building a day that's actually fun (and doesn't feel rushed), I've got you covered.
My goal? To make planning your elopement feel way less overwhelming and a whole lot more exciting.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
how TO ELOPE IN the redwoods
WHERE TO ELOPE IN the redwoods
BEST TIME TO ELOPE IN the redwoods
HOW TO MAKE IT LEGAL
permits + national park rules
travel and lodging
what to pack
sample timeline
fun activities to add to your day
common mistakes to avoid
how much does it cost
MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
why the redwoods and oregon coast are the best
The Oregon Coast and Northern California Redwoods are hands down one of my favorite places to photograph elopements. There's something about standing beneath the tallest trees on earth one moment, then watching the waves crash against dramatic sea stacks just a short drive later that feels almost unreal. If you're dreaming of a day that feels adventurous, peaceful, and completely immersed in nature, it's hard to beat this part of the Pacific Northwest.
One of the things I love most about this area is how much variety you can experience without spending your entire day driving. You can wander through ancient redwood groves, exchange vows on a secluded beach, explore hidden coastal trails, chase waterfalls, discover rugged cliffs, and end the evening with one of the most incredible sunsets you'll ever see. Whether your dream elopement is barefoot on the beach, tucked beneath towering trees, or overlooking the coastline from a windswept cliff, this region truly has it all.
Every season brings its own kind of magic, too. Spring fills the forests with vibrant greenery and wildflowers, summer offers the warmest weather and long golden evenings, fall is quieter with fewer crowds and beautiful coastal fog, and winter creates dramatic waves, misty forests, and the dreamiest moody atmosphere.
how to plan your elopement
1. find your photographer
2. dream up your perfect day
3. pick a date (or season)
4. build your dream team
5. find a cute place to stay
6. plan something fun after you say "i do"
7. get freaking married
Yep... before you book anything else.
I know I might be a little biased here, but hear me out. Your photographer is so much more than someone who shows up with a camera. I help my couples find the perfect location, pick the best time of year, build a timeline, recommend amazing vendors, navigate permits, and basically become your professional hype person throughout the entire planning process.
The sooner you book your photographer, the easier everything else becomes.
Close your eyes for a second...
Do you picture saying your vows on a mountaintop? Walking barefoot on the beach? Wandering through an old-growth forest? Watching the sunset over an alpine lake?
Washington seriously has it all, and there's no wrong answer. This is where we figure out what feels the most you and choose a location that matches your vision.
Once you know what kind of scenery you're dreaming of, we'll narrow down the best time of year.
Wildflowers? Fall colors? Snowy peaks? Moody coastal vibes? Every season in Washington looks completely different, and timing can make all the difference.
Pro tip: weekdays are almost always the move if you want fewer crowds.
Now for the fun stuff.
Whether you want gorgeous florals, a private chef, hair and makeup, live music, a picnic, or absolutely none of the above, this is when we start bringing your vision to life. I'll send over all my favorite recommendations so you don't have to spend hours
Your Airbnb or cabin is more than just somewhere to sleep, it becomes part of your story.
I always recommend finding a place with lots of natural light, cozy, and beautiful surroundings. It makes getting ready feel relaxed and gives us an amazing place for photos before we head out on your adventure.
Your ceremony is only one part of the day.
Want to hike to an alpine lake? Pop champagne on the beach? Go kayaking? Grab burgers from your favorite local spot? Eat cake in the back of your truck? Watch the sunset wrapped up in a blanket?
This is your chance to celebrate in a way that actually feels like you.
And finally... the best part.
Your day is going to go by so much faster than you think, so don't worry about making everything perfect. Laugh, cry, explore, get your boots dirty, dance in the rain if it shows up, and soak in every second.
You're getting married in one of the most beautiful places in the country, and you've created a day that's completely your own.
where to elope in the redwoods and southern oregon coast
The National Park Service has a list of 11 pre-approved ceremony locations throughout the Redwood National and State Parks. Choosing one of these locations makes the permitting process much easier because they have already been reviewed and approved for wedding ceremonies.
Templeman Grove
Up to 20 participants
If you're dreaming of a classic Redwood ceremony surrounded by massive old-growth trees, Templeman Grove is a beautiful option. This is one of those locations where the forest really is the main character.
Berry Glen
Up to 6 participants
Perfect for a truly tiny elopement. With a maximum of six participants, this is a great option if it's just the two of you with a very small group of your favorite people.
Organ Donor's Grove
Up to 20 participants
A beautiful forest setting surrounded by towering Redwoods. This is a great option if you want that deep-in-the-forest feeling without needing a huge guest list.
River Trail
Up to 8 participants
With a smaller group limit, River Trail works especially well for couples wanting something intimate and quiet.
Crescent Beach Day Use
Up to 20 participants
Want to bring the ocean into your Redwood elopement? Crescent Beach gives you a completely different landscape from the forest, with the Northern California coast right there beside you.
This location is seasonally available from October 25 through May 1.
Crescent Beach Overlook
Up to 20 participants
Another beautiful coastal option with views of the Pacific. This is a great choice if you're envisioning dramatic ocean views paired with the moody Northern California coastline.
This location is also seasonally available from October 25 through May 1.
High Bluff Overlook
Up to 20 participants
If you want your elopement to feel a little more dramatic, High Bluff Overlook is worth looking at. Think rugged coastline, ocean views, and that wild. Northern California feeling.
Zig Zag #2
Up to 10 participants
A smaller ceremony location that's a great option for couples who want a more intimate experience without having to limit themselves to just two people.
Schmidt Grove
Up to 20 participants
Another beautiful Redwood forest option for couples wanting that quintessential towering-tree backdrop.
Lost Man Creek Gate
Up to 20 participants
A great forest option if you want to feel surrounded by Redwoods while still keeping your ceremony relatively accessible.
Merriman Grove
Up to 8 participants
Another intimate forest ceremony option, perfect for a smaller group.
best time to elope
One of the questions I get asked the most is, "What's the best time of year to elope in southern Oregon ?" The truth is, there isn't a wrong answer. Every season offers something completely different, and the best time to elope really comes down to the kind of experience you're dreaming of. Here's what to expect throughout the year.
Spring is when Oregon starts to wake up after winter. Waterfalls are at their fullest, forests become incredibly green, and wildflowers begin making an appearance at lower elevations. While the higher mountain roads are still buried in snow, the coast, waterfalls, and lower-elevation trails are absolutely beautiful.
Pros
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Waterfalls are at their peak
- Everything is lush and green
- Cooler temperatures for hiking
- Great time for Olympic National Park and the Washington coast
- Mountain roads like Sunrise and Artist Point are usually still closed
- Weather can be unpredictable
- Snow may still limit access to higher elevations
Summer is by far the most popular time to elope in Oregon—and for good reason. Most mountain roads are open, alpine lakes have thawed, wildflower meadows are in bloom, and the days are long enough to fit in all kinds of adventures.
Pros
- Access to almost every location in the state
- Wildflowers in the mountains
- Warm weather and long daylight hours
- Perfect for hiking and alpine adventures
- Best season for Mount Rainier and the North Cascades
- National parks can be busy
- Lodging books up quickly
- Wildfire smoke can occasionally impact mountain views in late summer
Fall is one of my favorite times to photograph elopements. The summer crowds start to disappear, temperatures cool off, and Washington transforms with golden larch trees, colorful foliage, and crisp mountain air. It's peaceful, incredibly scenic, and perfect for couples wanting a quieter experience.
Pros
- Smaller crowds
- Beautiful fall colors and golden larches
- Cooler hiking temperatures
- Cozy cabin vibes
- Incredible sunsets and moody weather
- Weather becomes more unpredictable
- Some higher-elevation roads begin closing in late fall
- Days become shorter
If you're dreaming of snow-covered mountains, cozy cabins, and a true winter wonderland, winter can be an incredibly magical time to elope. While many mountain roads close for the season, there are still plenty of beautiful locations to explore, especially if you're up for a little adventure.
Pros
- Snowy mountain scenery
- Very few crowds
- Cozy winter atmosphere
- Perfect for couples who love skiing, snowshoeing, or winter adventures
- Many mountain roads and trails are closed
- Cold temperatures
- Weather can change quickly
- You'll need to be flexible with your plans
spring (March- May)
summer (June-August)
fall (September-November)
winter (December-february)
now lets make it legal
You can apply for your marriage license at any county auditor's office in Washington, and the best part is that you can get married anywhere in the state, your license isn't tied to the county where you apply.
Oregon has a mandatory 3-day waiting period, so you can't get married the same day you receive your license. Your license is valid for 60 days, giving you plenty of flexibility when planning your elopement. If you're traveling from out of state, I always recommend arriving a few days early so you're not stressing about paperwork before your big day.
Washington requires an authorized officiant to perform your ceremony. This can be a judge or an ordained minister, and yes, that includes someone who has been legally ordained online. (Fun fact: I'm ordained, so if you're planning an intimate "just us" elopement, I can legally marry you and photograph your day!)
Washington also requires two witnesses to sign your marriage license after your ceremony. They must be present for the ceremony, but they don't have to be family or friends. If you're eloping just the two of you, don't worry, we can find witnesses on the trail, at the beach, or wherever your adventure takes us. People are almost always excited to be a tiny part of your day!
Once you've exchanged vows, you'll sign your marriage license along with your officiant and two witnesses. After that, your responsible for returning the completed paperwork to the county that issued your license, and you're officially married! From there, you can request certified copies if you need them for things like changing your name or updating legal documents.
✔️ Apply for your Washington marriage license.
✔️ Wait at least 3 days before your ceremony.
✔️ Bring an officiant.
✔️ Have 2 witnesses present.
✔️ Sign your marriage license after your ceremony.
✔️ Documents get mailed it back. You're officially married!
1. apply for marriage license
2. don't forget 3-day wait
3. find officiant
4. bring two witnesses
5. get married
quick checklist
permits and national park rules
One of the biggest reasons I love photographing elopements is because I genuinely love these places.
That means we do everything we can to leave them exactly as we found them. We'll always stay on established trails, pack out everything we bring in, respect wildlife, avoid stepping on fragile wildflowers, and leave the landscape just as beautiful for the next couple who gets to experience it.
The goal is simple: create an unforgettable experience without leaving anything behind except your footprints.
One of the first things you'll want to figure out when planning a Redwoods elopement is where you actually want to get married.
And this can be a little confusing because the "Redwoods" aren't technically just one park. The Redwood National and State Parks are made up of four different parks that are managed together: Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.
That means you have a ton of options when it comes to exploring, hiking, taking portraits, and creating your elopement day—but not every beautiful spot is available for your actual ceremony.
Here's what you need to know.
so.. how do you get a permit?
leave no trace
a few rules you'll want to know
1. Choose your location
First, we'll figure out exactly where you want to exchange vows.
If you choose one of the pre-approved ceremony locations, the process is much more straightforward.
If you choose somewhere else, your location will need additional review by the park.
2. Choose your date and time
Your permit will specify when and where your ceremony can take place.
Ceremonies are generally planned within a 1–3 hour time block, and permits are issued for day-use hours. Major holidays can also be more difficult because of increased crowds.
3. Fill out the permit application
You'll submit the Special Use Permit application along with the required Threatened and Endangered Species Addendum.
Both are submitted to the National Park Service.
4. Pay the permit fee
Once your application is received, you'll receive instructions for paying the application fee online.
Currently, the pre-approved ceremony locations have a $100 permit fee, while locations that require additional review have a $200 fee.
5. Get approved and bring your permit!
Once your permit is approved, make sure you have a copy with you on your elopement day.
And remember: your permit gives you permission to hold your ceremony at that location, it doesn't mean you've reserved the entire forest for yourselves.
These are public lands, so other visitors can still be around. This is especially important when choosing popular locations and planning your ceremony time.
The Redwoods are incredibly protected, and there are some things you can't bring or do during your ceremony.
You'll want to leave:
Fresh or dried flowers and other natural plant material
Confetti, rice, flower petals, or birdseed
Balloons or anything released into the air
Arches, arbors, stands, or risers
Decorations attached to trees, rocks, vegetation, or park signs
Food service and alcohol
The parks have these rules to protect the ecosystem and prevent the introduction of invasive species.
So if you were picturing a huge floral arch in the middle of the Redwoods, we're going to want to rethink that one.
Instead, think simple, intentional, and focused on the landscape itself. You don't need to decorate a forest that's already thousands of years old.
travel and lodging
Your Airbnb, cabin, or lodge becomes part of your story, not just a place to sleep.
I always recommend finding somewhere with lots of natural light, beautiful surroundings, and enough space to relax while getting ready. Those slow morning moments making coffee together, reading your vows, or popping champagne before heading out often end up being some of my favorite photos from the entire day.
Whether it's a cozy A-frame tucked into the forest, a luxury mountain lodge, or a cabin overlooking the ocean, choosing the right place can completely elevate your experience.
what to pack
A few things I always recommend bringing:
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Warm layers (even in the summer!)
- Rain jacket
- Clear umbrella
- Extra socks
- Water and snacks
- Headlamp for sunrise or sunset adventures
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray (depending on the season)
- Hand warmers for spring, fall, or winter elopements
- 5:30 PM – Meet at the trailhead or your Airbnb and head out for a relaxed adventure together.
- 6:00 PM – Explore a scenic trail, wander around an alpine lake, or hike to an overlook while we capture all the excitement before your wedding day.
- 7:00 PM – Watch the sunset, share a drink, roast marshmallows over a campfire, or enjoy a cozy picnic while taking in the views.
- 7:30 PM – Blue hour portraits before heading back to your cabin to rest up for the big day.
- 12:00 PM – I'll meet you at your Airbnb or cabin for getting ready, details, and those slow moments before everything begins.
- 1:30 PM – First look and private vows (if you want to read them before your ceremony).
- 2:00 PM – Head to your ceremony location, making a few scenic stops along the way.
- 3:00 PM – Ceremony followed by a champagne toast.
- 3:30 PM – Late lunch/ early dinner
- 4:00 PM – Couples portraits while exploring the surrounding area.
- 5:30 PM – Adventure activity! Go kayaking on an alpine lake, paddleboard, explore a new trail, enjoy a picnic, or grab dinner at a local spot.
- 7:00 PM – Chase golden hour and sunset for those dreamy mountain views.
- 8:00 PM – End the day under the stars or during blue hour with a few final photos before heading back to celebrate.
sample 8-Hour Timeline
- 1:00 PM – I'll meet you at your cabin or Airbnb while you get ready, read letters from each other, and soak in the excitement.
- 2:30 PM – First look outside your cabin followed by a few portraits around the property.
- 3:30 PM – Drive to your ceremony location with plenty of stops along the way if we find beautiful views.
- 4:30 PM – Private ceremony and vows.
- 5:00 PM – Private Dinner
- 5:30 PM – Couples portraits while exploring the area together.
- 6:30 PM – Adventure time! Hike to an overlook, explore an alpine lake, or wander the beach together.
- 7:45 PM – Pop champagne, cut a small cake, or share your favorite snack while watching the sunset.
- 9:00 PM – End coverage after blue hour with a few final cozy photos.
sample multi-day Timeline
One of the best things about eloping is having the freedom to celebrate however you want. Instead of rushing from one event to the next, you actually get to spend the day together.
Some of my favorite ways couples celebrate include:
- Hiking to an alpine lake
- Sharing a picnic with mountain views
- Renting a canoe or paddleboard
- Watching the sunrise together
- Exploring the coastline
- Waterfall chasing
- Grabbing burgers and fries from a local spot
- Renting a cozy cabin with a hot tub
- Roasting s'mores around a campfire
- Hiring a private chef
- Taking a seaplane or helicopter tour
- Stargazing after sunset
Fun Things to Add to Your Elopement Day
common mistakes to avoid
Flying in the night before.
- Give yourself a buffer. Flights get delayed more often than you'd think, and arriving a few days early gives you time to actually enjoy your trip.
- If you can, choose a weekday. You'll usually have fewer crowds, more privacy, and a much more relaxed experience.
- Washington weather changes fast. Sometimes those cloudy, misty days end up being the most beautiful. Trust me—we'll have a backup plan just in case.
- The prettiest photo doesn't always mean it's the best place for your day. Accessibility, crowds, permits, timing, and lighting all matter, and I'll help you find somewhere that's just as beautiful but fits your vision.
- One of the biggest reasons couples choose to elope is to slow down. Leave room to breathe, explore, and actually soak it all in.
I've photographed enough elopements to know that a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few mistakes I always help my couples avoid.
how much does it cost to elope in the redwoods
- Elopement Photography $6,800
- Hair & Makeup $350–$700
- Florals $300–$900
- Officiant $100–$800
- Marriage License–$150
- National Park Permit $50–$300
- Airbnb or Cabin (2 nights) $500–$1,500
- Rental Car $300–$800
- Flights (for two) $500–$1,500+
- Private Chef or Celebration Dinner $300–$1,500
- Dress & Alterations $500–$3,000+
- Suit or Tux $300–$1,000
- Adventure Activity (kayaking, helicopter, seaplane, etc.) $100–$2,000+
- Cake or Dessert $50–$300
Here's a realistic look at what couples typically spend when planning a redwoods elopement.
You’re probably here because the idea of a traditional wedding just doesn’t feel right anymore. Maybe you care more about being present with each other than putting on a performance for everyone else.
You and your partner know that making a seating chart sounds genuinely awful, and you’d rather spend your wedding day doing something that actually feels like you. Maybe that means hiking to the coast in the dark for sunrise, or embracing a little type 2 fun together. You care more about connection, and fully experiencing the day together than following a timeline that was never built for you in the first place.
That’s why I help couples create elopement days that feel intentional, connected, and completely true to who they are so they can walk away feeling like they actually lived their wedding day, not just rushed through it.
Meet your redwood elopement guide and photographer
