Elopement Packages

Oregon Elopement Packages

Oregon is one of the most popular places to elope among the couples we feature on Wandering Weddings. We love seeing the amazing adventures that our Oregon vendors go on with Wandering Weddings clients. In this guide, we’re going to give you the rundown on putting together your Oregon elopement with amazing vendors and gorgeous locations.

You’re here, which probably means you are thinking about eloping and considering Oregon as your location. You decided to elope so you could plan the most amazing adventure day that prioritizes what you want. But, getting down to planning can feel overwhelming between permits in different states, national park restrictions, and vetting vendors from miles away. It might feel simpler to go with a pre-built elopement package, but if you do, you lose what you came here to do. Plan the wedding that YOU want.

We started Wandering Weddings because we want you to be able to have the wedding you dreamt of but make the planning easier on you. So, we’ve put together everything you need to build the perfect elopement package that still keeps your unique vision at the forefront. Let’s dive in!!

What You Need in Your Oregon Elopement Package

Here’s where everything starts! What do you actually need to elope in Oregon? Oregon is one of those states where you literally have endless possibilities on both locations and activities you can do, year-round. Oregon is also one of the top states we have featured vendors available to help you plan your dream wedding day. Here’s our list of suggested vendors to check off when putting together your elopement package:

  • Location
  • Permit
  • Officiant
  • Attire
  • Photographer
  • Florist
  • Planner
  • Videographer
  • Hair and Makeup Artist
  • Accommodation
  • Catering

Disclaimer: While we don’t offer bundled elopement packages at the moment, we do provide you with all of the information and resources you will need to create your perfect elopement package in Oregon. Our Wandering Weddings vendors are also amazing vendors to ask questions. These vendors have plenty of experience curating awesome elopement experiences for couples.

How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Oregon?

  • Location: Free to $3,000
  • Permits: Free to $800
  • Officiants: $300 to $500
  • Photographers: $1,500 to $8,000*
  • Videographers: $1250 to $7,000*
  • Outfits: $200 to $1,500 per person*
  • Florists: $200-$1,000
  • Hair and Makeup Artists: $100-$200 per person
  • Elopement Planner: $1,000 to $3,000
  • Accommodations: $250 to $1,200 per night
  • Catering: $80 to $1,200
  • Travel: $20 to $500 per person

* Indicates a “spend what you want” category. That means, while we have an average figure listed, you can go far above this average if it is an important vendor to you!! Learn more about elopement budgets here!

Extra Costs for Eloping in Oregon

Vendor Travel Fees

While there are tons of amazing vendors in Oregon, a lot of them are based in Portland and your adventurous elopement is maybe 2-3 hours away from their facilities or offices. Make sure you ask about travel fees and budget an extra $150-300 per vendor.

Cold Weather Clothing

If you live in Miami and are planning an elopement in one of Oregon’s mountain towns or ski resorts from November through April, you’re going to want to invest in some cold-weather outdoor gear. Base layers, puffy coats, snow boots, and hand warmers should definitely be on your packing list! Check out REI Co-op for some budget-friendly options on your outdoor gear.

Rental Car

Most of the pretty views in Oregon are going to require that you drive at least 2 hours from the airport. You’ll likely need a rental car if you are coming in from out of state. If you’re planning an elopement during the fall or winter months, get a car that has AWD or 4WD. Oregon chain law states, “Oregon’s chain law applies to all highways throughout the state. When you drive in winter conditions, you may see signs telling you to carry chains or traction tires and when you are required to use them. In some areas, lighted message signs also will advise you about chaining up.”

Altitude Acclimation Period

Altitude sickness is a real downer and is even worse if you’re feeling it on the day of your elopement. If you are considering a mountain elopement in Oregon, give yourselves a few days in Portland to acclimate before you head up into the hills. It will add some money to your lodging budget as you may, but we think it’s worth it not to feel awful on the big day!

Tourist Seasons

There are times of the year when Oregon is more expensive than others depending on the various tourist seasons. During winter, the mountain towns (especially ski resorts) are a lot more expensive to stay in since many people are there for ski vacations. However, during the summer the coast is very crowded.

Example Elopement Packages in Oregon

There are a ton of amazing vendors to choose from in Oregon who could help you out with your elopement. You can really fit your elopement package into any budget. We’ve put together some example packages for inspiration for you, and to show just how much elopement budgets can vary based on what you want to do!

The Local Oregon Elopement

  • Marriage License: $60
  • Commitment Ceremony: Free
  • Location: Free
  • Local photographer for one hour of coverage and location planning: $1,200
  • Hair and Makeup: DIY
  • Clothing: $200
  • Florals: DIY bouquet and boutonniere ($50 in materials)
  • Travel: $20 in gas to get to a local hike
  • Dinner afterward at a local restaurant: $100
    Total: $1,540

The Forest Elopement

  • Marriage License: $60
  • Officiant for Ceremony: $400
  • Permit for Ceremony Location in a National Park: $250
  • Photographer for half-day coverage with digital images included: $3,500
  • Florals for two people (like two bouquets, or a bouquet and a boutonniere): $500
  • Hair and Makeup: DIY
  • Clothing and Accessories: $400
  • Ceremony Decoration: DIY ($100 for materials)
  • Travel: $200 in gas to drive round trip to Oregon
  • Airbnb for three nights near the National Park: $600
    Total: $6,010

The Luxury Travel Elopement

  • Marriage License: $60
  • Commitment Ceremony: Free
  • Permit to use National Park: $100
  • Photographer for a full day of coverage with digital images included: $7,500
  • Videographer for ceremony only with highlight film: $1,200
  • Hair and Makeup (not both!): $125/person
  • Clothing: $750
  • Florals for one person (like just one bouquet): $175
  • Picnic Grazing Board from a Local Butcher: $80
  • Bottle of Champagne to Pop for a celebration photo op: $40
  • Travel: $400 for flights + $325 for car rental
  • Dinner afterward at a nice local restaurant: $200
    Total: $10,955

Vendors for your Oregon Elopement Package

When putting together your Oregon elopement package, you want to consider your overall elopement budget. Elopements have a pretty big range when it comes to an average price because it all depends on what vendors you decide to include on your wedding day. Please note that you are not required to include every vendor type in your package.

Are you ready to start planning your Oregon elopement?

Check out our vendor categories to consider when thinking about your elopement package:

Photographers

Many people put a good chunk of their budget towards a photographer for their elopement and for good reason! If you don’t have a planner, your photographer is going to be your go-to local expert for locations, timeline creation, and suggestions for lodging, activities, and more! Not to mention, your photos are what you’ll have left to share your adventures with friends and family. In Oregon, photographers generally range from about $1,000 to $7,500 for 1 hour of coverage to all-day coverage. Your photographer will help advise you on how much time you’ll need for your elopement, and most will have suggested packages for different elopement styles. Take a look at our amazing Wandering Weddings photographers who will love hearing all about your elopement plans below!

Featured Oregon Photographers

Videographers

Like photographers, videographers create amazing lasting memories of your adventure elopement that are amazing to share after the fact! It can be so special to share your vows and ceremony with loved ones… or just keep it to yourself and cry happy tears every time you rewatch your highlight reel. Videographers also offer a variety of packages from an all-day hike into the mountains packages to ceremony-only offerings that just give you a simple edit including your audio. Many also offer a short emotional trailer-style hype video of your day that is an awesome addition to a longer video that might have audio or more footage of your adventures! In Oregon, videographers range from about $1,200 to $8,000 depending on hours of coverage and deliverables. Check out our awesome Wandering Weddings videographers below!

Elopement Planners

Planners for your elopement can be a great option if you are planning from another state, need some help creating your vision, or want specific setups at various locations for your elopements. We have seen planners set up amazing picnic sites for our couples while they’re busy saying their I Do’s, and create amazing arch and flower arrangements for ceremony decoration. So, if you want to take your elopement up a notch, consider a planner to help with the logistics. Elopement planners in Oregon range between $1,000 to $5,000 depending on scope and location of the elopement day. Check out some of our favorite Wandering Weddings approved planners below.

Officiants

Oregon is special because you don’t need an officiant to get married. But, if you would like to have someone help you create a meaningful ceremony and give you some pointers on vows and readings, there are some incredible folks in Oregon who officiate elopements. You can find officiants who specialize in a variety of different types of ceremonies, from religious to focused on your dogs and peppering in some quotes from the Office. They range in price from $300 to $800 depending on location and what you want to include in your ceremony. Many planners, photographers, videographers, and florists double as officiants as well. So keep an eye out for vendors who can offer multiple services for you.

Florists

Whether you’re just looking for a quick bouquet or a more elaborate ceremony site decoration project, you’re going to need a florist! Most can work with a wide range of budgets depending on the types of flowers and size of your decorations. Keep in mind that florists will need access to your ceremony site prior to the wedding to set up. Make sure you check the rules of the ceremony site you have rented to make sure you can decorate the space with flowers. National parks and local parks tend to have stricter “leave no trace” rules about what you can bring and decorate with.

Caterers

Catering companies don’t have to be for big parties! There are so many options when it comes to treating yourself to a great meal after your elopement ceremony. Catering companies are a great resource for small private dinners at picnic sites, private rental properties, and farms. Local butchers often offer grazing board packages that elevate your picnic to the next level! If you just want a luxury dinner and don’t want to go out or do the dishes, a private chef would be a great fit for your elopement day!

Best Places to Elope in Oregon

We’ve gone over all the other vendors you’ll need for your Oregon elopement package, but we saved the best for last. There are incredible options for locations to get married in Oregon from private wedding venues on Mt. Hood’s mountainside, to stunning backpacking trails, to beautiful parks in the bigger cities. The views of Oregon’s parks draw in a bunch of couples year-round.

Like most popular destinations, many of the prettiest spots to elope in Oregon require permits and reservations in advance. But, there are still some popular sites that still let you drive up to a gorgeous view last minute. If you’re looking to elope in a state where you have a little bit of everything to explore, then Oregon is an awesome place to consider. There is also a diversity of gorgeous landscapes to explore including forests, mountains, and beaches. 

It would be nearly impossible to fit everything we know about elopement locations in Oregon into one post. Check out some of our favorite locations to get some inspiration. Don’t forget our local vendors will have insight into many of these locations as well and can be a great resource when you’re planning your day.

Oregon Coast

Do you love beaches, big haystack rocks, and watching the waves? The Oregon Coast is the perfect destination for a laid-back elopement. Bring some cozy blankets and easily drive up to your ceremony spot. From rugged cliffs on picturesque beaches to forests that intertwine into the perfect lookout point. The coast itself spans over 360 miles. Some popular locations within the coast include Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, Cape Kiwanda, Cannon Beach, Hug Point, and so much more!

Depending on your guest count, you may need a permit to get married at certain locations (over 50 people), but usually, small elopements do not need a permit. 

Check out this Pacific Northwest Beach Elopement in Brookings, Oregon

Smith Rock State Park

In the mountain town of Bend, Oregon, you will find Smith Rock State Park. This park is known for its red desert cliffs and awesome rock climbing. If you’re looking for somewhere with epic snow-capped mountain views and waterfalls, then this is your best bet! The trails at Smith Rock as ideal for a wedding adventure of no more than 10 people (or less) in our opinion. Smith Rock is also pet friendly, as long as they are leashed and stay on the trails. On your elopement adventure make sure to explore Rim Rock Trail, Rope-De-Dope, or secret elopement spot your OR elopement photographer found just for you. 

You will need a special use permit from the Oregon Parks to have your ceremony here if you have more than 20 guests, including yourselves and vendors. If you do have more than that, then you’ll have to call park services to request the amphitheater (which only allows 1-2 weddings a month, so reserve ASAP if you are planning a small wedding).  

Check out this dreamy Smith Rock State Park elopement inspiration.

Mt. Hood National Forest

Mt. Hood is a popular destination with a huge snowcapped dome. This gorgeous mountain is the perfect destination for couples who love scenic hikes. The Columbia River is right by this forest and is another awesome place to take some beautiful portraits. You’ll find dense forests, crystal-clear lakes, and epic hiking trails. 

Do you need a permit to have a Mt. Hood elopement? Yes. You do need to apply for a permit, but it’ll most likely be free if you have less than 75 guests with you (most elopements and small weddings do have less than that). It’s important to still apply for the permit to make sure you’re following the latest rules and regulations. 

Make sure to explore Trillium Lake, Old Salmon River Trail, and Mt. Hood Ski Bowl just to name a few!

Check out our favorite Mt. Hood wedding venues perfect for elopements.

Crater Lake National Park

Photo by Sam Starns

Alright, we have to admit that this location is one of the most picturesque locations in Oregon. Located in Southern Oregon, Crater Lake National Park is one of our favorite elopement locations. This volcano basin is filled with clear blue water.

For your Crater Lake wedding, you will need to apply for a special use permit. The permit itself is $50 to apply and $50 once it’s approved. Please keep in mind to apply with plenty of time *at least 8 weeks in advance*, the permitting process is usually slow. 

Another important thing to keep in mind is the north entrance and rim drives open between May and July. This really depends on the snow, so keep yourself updated on the current road conditions if you’re interested in planning for an elopement during this time.

Check out this serene elopement at Crater Lake National Park.

Latourell Falls

This 224 feet waterfall, pouring over a wall of basalt, is an incredible sight to see. Latourell Falls is a beautiful stop for your elopement just off the Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway. If you’re looking for an easily accessible Oregon waterfall elopement location, then this waterfall is probably it. The trail for the lower falls is about .25 miles and is not at all steep. Keep in mind this area gets pretty crowded, so plan a weekday elopement!

Check out this whimsical coastal engagement session at Latourell Falls.

Multnomah Falls

If you want to witness something impressive, then consider going to Multnomah Falls. Totaling 620 feet, this is an amazing waterfall that has two tiers. Please note, that this is a major natural attraction in Oregon, so we highly suggest planning an early elopement ceremony here or a weekday ceremony. There is also a bridge at the bottom tier, facing the waterfall, making this a gorgeous spot for portraits.

Wahkeena Falls

The waterfall of Wahkeena Falls is 242 feet high. Some epic vantage points here will give you some great portrait opportunities. This is also a good alternative if you want to avoid the crowds at Multnomah Falls.

When to Elope in Oregon

The mountain state covered by forest is beautiful year-round, so it’s no surprise that you can elope in Oregon any time of the year. But, Oregon does experience four seasons with drastically different weather and scenery. Here’s what you can expect from the unpredictable Oregon weather during each season!

Winter (November – March)

Winter brings all the cold, snow, and rain throughout Oregon. Expect snow on Mt. Hood and lots of rainfall on the Oregon Coast. Despite the cold and rain, this is the perfect time to plan your elopement if you are aiming for a winter wonderland or a moody coastal vibe. Snowfall in Oregon is usually the highest in the Cascade Range.

Spring (April – June)

Spring is beautiful to visit Oregon, but it is still a bit chilly and rainy. Even though spring is a bit rainy, you can expect a few moments of breaks in the rain to appreciate the sun. Late springtime (May-June) is probably the most ideal.

Summer (July – August)

Although Summer is usually more crowded, it is a great time to elope in Oregon if you’re planning during sunrise, sunset, or a weekday! You can expect 70+ degrees in Oregon. There are little to no rainy days (but still prepare just in case). You’ll be able to enjoy gorgeous hikes and gorgeous views. Summer is a popular time to visit the Oregon Coast! Connect with a vendor to navigate avoiding the bigger crowds at more well-known elopement spots.

Fall (September-October)

Towards the middle of October, Oregon will see more rain on the coast. Fall is great because you’ll still get comfortable weather and less crowds! If you want to plan an Oregon Coast fall elopement, then aim towards mid-September to mid-October.

Getting a Marriage License in Oregon

If you’re planning to have a legal wedding ceremony at Mt. Hood or anywhere else in Oregon, then remember to apply for your marriage license! The license itself is about $60.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Oregon has a three-day waiting period, so you can’t get married the same day you get your license. Keep in mind, that this waiting period can be waived by a county clerk for “good cause”. There may be a waiver fee in addition to this.
  • You have 60 days to use your license.
  • You can apply for a marriage license in any county of Oregon and use it anywhere within OR. However, you’ll need to return it to the same county you first applied.
  • You’ll need an officiant and two witnesses to make your wedding ceremony official. Some elopement photographers double as an officiant, and you can always ask some hikers passing by to be witnesses if you want a just-us wedding day.

Remember if you don’t want to stress the legalities during your elopement adventure, you can always plan a commitment ceremony instead of a legal wedding ceremony in Oregon. You can deal with the paperwork (officiant and witnesses) before or after your adventure together.

Oregon Permits

If you decide to have your wedding ceremony at any of the elopement locations we mentioned above, then you should double-check to see if that location requires a permit to get married. Please note, that most of these places will require a permit and/or fee.

We suggest going to their websites for the latest permit information. If you decide to have your elopement wedding at one of Oregon’s state parks, then you need to get a permit from the state, county, or city.

How to Plan an Oregon Elopement – 5 Things to Remember

When you decide to elope, there is still a fair share of planning you need to do before your big day. Here are some things to remember as you put your Oregon elopement package together:

  1. Obtain your marriage license. The fee is $60 and is also good for 60 days after a 3 day waiting period.
  2. Obtain your permits, if needed. If you decide to have your wedding ceremony at one of the locations we mentioned above, then you should check to see if that location requires a permit to get married. 
  3. Oregon beaches are public. These areas can’t be reserved for your elopement, but we have found that finding a quiet place isn’t too difficult!
  4. Plan your elopement during the week. If you can, plan your elopement during the week to avoid the big crowds, especially during May-September.
  5. Consider daylight and tides. If you are planning your elopement in Oregon, then you should consider avoiding incoming tides and planning for enough daylight.

Have you decided 100% on having your elopement in Oregon? Why not check out other popular locations?

Hawaii – Colorado – Washington – North Carolina

Looking for Somewhere Else to Elope?

Explore Our Top Elopement Packages