so you decided to elope in the washington
I've helped couples plan epic Washington 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 WAshington podcast
how TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON
WHERE TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON
- OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
- NORTH CASCADES
- MT RAINIER
- methow valley
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 elopeing in washington is the best
If you ask me, Washington is one of the best places to elope because you can get so many completely different landscapes in one state. You can say your vows surrounded by towering alpine peaks and wildflowers, wander through a mossy old-growth forest, explore rugged beaches and sea stacks, or head east for golden hills, open landscapes, and desert-like scenery. And the best part? Washington is beautiful in every season. Summer brings wildflowers and snow-free alpine trails, fall brings moody forests and golden colors, winter turns the mountains into a snowy wonderland, and spring brings lush greenery, waterfalls, and fewer crowds. Whether you're dreaming of a big mountain adventure, a cozy forest elopement, or a quiet coastal day, Washington gives you so many ways to make your elopement feel completely you.
listen to me yap about all things washington
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 washington state
One of the best parts about eloping in Washington is that you never have to choose just one type of scenery. In a single day, you can hike through a lush, moss-covered forest, exchange vows surrounded by wildflowers with a massive mountain backdrop, explore alpine lakes and rugged peaks, and end the evening along the coast watching the sun disappear over the Pacific. From the North Cascades and Mount Rainier to the Olympic Peninsula, the Washington coast, and the drier landscapes on the east side of the state, there is so much variety to explore. Whether you're dreaming of towering mountains, wildflower meadows, moody forests, dramatic beaches, or a little bit of everything, Washington makes it incredibly easy to create an elopement that feels like an adventure from beginning to end. Here are some of my favorite places to start dreaming up your perfect Washington elopement.
olympic national park
mt rainier
north cascades
methow valley
Olympic National Park is one of my favorite places in Washington because you can get so much variety in one elopement day. You can start your morning wandering through a moss-covered rainforest, explore waterfalls and old-growth trees, and end the day standing barefoot on a rugged Pacific beach surrounded by sea stacks. From the Hoh Rain Forest and Lake Crescent to Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, and the quieter corners of the peninsula, Olympic feels wild, moody, and incredibly romantic.
It's especially perfect for couples who don't want to choose just one landscape. You can build an entire adventure around the forest and coast, or slow things down and spend the day exploring a few different areas together. It's one of those places where the landscape does most of the storytelling for you.
Mount Rainier is hard to beat if you're dreaming of that classic Washington mountain elopement. With the mountain towering above you, endless alpine meadows, wildflowers, waterfalls, old-growth forests, and beautiful lakes, there are so many ways to experience the park. Paradise and Sunrise offer some of the most incredible alpine scenery, while places like Tipsoo Lake, Myrtle Falls, and Mount Fremont give you opportunities to explore without spending your entire day on the trail.
One of my favorite things about Rainier is that your day can be as adventurous or relaxed as you want it to be. You could have a short hike and spend the rest of the day exploring viewpoints, or turn your elopement into a full hiking adventure through the alpine. And if you time it right, the wildflowers in late summer are absolutely unreal.
The North Cascades are for the couples who want big mountain views and a true alpine adventure. This area is home to jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, alpine ridgelines, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Washington. Places like Artist Point, Heather Meadows, and the surrounding Mount Baker area offer incredible views without always requiring a huge hike, while locations like Skyline Divide and Chain Lakes are perfect for couples who want to make hiking a bigger part of their elopement experience.
What I love most about the North Cascades is how wild and remote it can feel. You can spend the day hiking through the mountains, stopping for a picnic beside an alpine lake, exploring little trails along the way, and ending your evening watching the light change across the peaks. If your idea of a perfect elopement involves hiking boots, mountain air, and getting a little dirty along the way, this is your place.
Methow Valley is one of those places I wish more couples knew about when they're dreaming up a Washington elopement. Located on the east side of the Cascades, it has a completely different feel from the lush, moody landscapes you typically picture in western Washington. Think wide-open valleys, rugged mountain peaks, golden grasslands, wildflowers, alpine lakes, and huge open skies. It's especially beautiful in the summer and fall when the landscape turns golden and the mountains seem to stretch forever.
It's also an amazing option if you want something that feels a little more secluded and relaxed. You can spend the day hiking, exploring the valley, horseback riding, enjoying a picnic, or simply driving the scenic roads and stopping whenever you find a view you love. Methow Valley is perfect for couples who want a mountain elopement but prefer wide-open landscapes, golden light, and a slower pace over the busier feel of some of Washington's national parks.
- Ruby Beach — Dramatic sea stacks, rugged coastline, and gorgeous sunset potential.
- Rialto Beach — Moody, wild, and perfect for couples who want a more rugged coastal feel.
- Hoh Rain Forest — Moss-covered trees, ferns, and that quintessential dreamy PNW forest.
- Lake Crescent — Mountain views, crystal-clear water, and a more peaceful lakeside setting.
- Hurricane Ridge — Huge alpine views and wildflower-filled meadows with the Olympic Mountains surrounding you.
- Artist Point — One of the easiest places to get those jaw-dropping Mount Baker + Mount Shuksan views.
- Heather Meadows — Alpine meadows, wildflowers, lakes, and tons of trail options.
- Bagley Lakes — Turquoise water, Mount Shuksan views, and a relatively easy adventure.
- Chain Lakes Loop — A bigger adventure with alpine lakes, wildflowers, and nonstop mountain views.
- Skyline Divide — Huge open ridgelines and that “we're on top of the world” feeling.
- Paradise — Wildflower meadows, waterfalls, and incredible views of Mount Rainier.
- Myrtle Falls — An easy hike with a waterfall and mountain views.
- Tipsoo Lake — Alpine lake reflections, wildflowers, and beautiful views of Rainier.
- Naches Peak Loop — A little more adventurous with alpine meadows and panoramic views.
- Mount Fremont Fire Lookout — A bigger hike with some of the best panoramic views in the park.
- Winthrop — A cute western-style mountain town that makes a great home base for an elopement.
- Sun Mountain — Sweeping valley views, wildflowers, rolling hills, and golden landscapes.
- Washington Pass Overlook — Huge mountain views and an incredibly accessible viewpoint.
- Twisp River Valley — More secluded, with open meadows, forests, and mountain scenery.
- Twisp / Methow Valley trails — Tons of hiking options ranging from easy walks to bigger mountain adventures.
best time to elope
One of the questions I get asked the most is, "What's the best time of year to elope in Washington?" 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 Washington 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 Washington—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.
Washington 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
The answer is... maybe!
Many of Washington's most popular ceremony locations require a permit, while others don't. It all depends on the land manager and the location you've chosen. Once we decide where you're getting married, I'll help you figure out exactly what permits (if any) you'll need and point you in the right direction.
One of the questions I get asked all the time is whether you need a permit to take photos all over the park after your ceremony.
Most of the time, your ceremony permit covers the actual ceremony location. After you've said "I do," we can usually continue exploring the park for portraits as regular visitors, as long as we're following park rules and not setting up another ceremony or bringing prohibited equipment. Since every park has slightly different policies, I always recommend confirming the details with the park when we apply for your permit.
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.
The good news? You don't have to figure all of this out on your own.
From helping you determine whether a permit is required to recommending ceremony locations that fit your vision, I'll walk you through the process so you can spend less time stressing over paperwork and more time getting excited for your adventure.
Whether or not you need a permit depends on where you're getting married, not just where you're taking photos. National parks, state parks, and other public lands all have different rules, so it's important to check the requirements before making plans. In many National Parks, you'll need a Special Use Permit for your ceremony, even if it's just the two of you. These permits help protect the park, preserve the landscape, and make sure everyone can enjoy these incredible places for years to come.
do we need a permit?
what about photos?
leave no trace
i'll help with the rest
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 washington
- Elopement Photography $6,600
- 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 washington elopement guide and photographer
