How to Elope in the Pacific Northwest:
- Abigail Schmitt
- Sep 6, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 21, 2025
The Ultimate Guide for a Magical Experience
You've probably already decided - or at least, deep down you know that you want to elope. Or maybe you’re imagining a more intimate, blended “micro-wedding” with private vows. There are countless ways to make your bond of love uniquely yours. But let’s be honest: planning a wedding can feel overwhelming. Where do you even start? Choosing your location is often the first and arguably one of the most exciting steps on your list.
The Pacific Northwest provides a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable elopement, with landscapes ranging from lush forests and serene lakes to majestic mountains and rugged coastlines. Here’s a little guide to help you get started on planning your dream PNW elopement.
Why the Pacific Northwest?
The PNW is renowned for it’s diverse natural beauty, moody weather, incredible sunsets and drastic mountains. The mountains or the ocean are just a short drive from most airports (SEA or PDX, or BLI) Whether you envision exchanging vows on a secluded beach, atop a mountain with panoramic views, or in a moss old-growth forest, the PNW has it all. Here are a few standout locations to consider:
Olympic National Park, Washington: A UNESCO World Heritage site with a mix of mountains, rainforests, and coastline. Check out Kalaloch Beach, Hoh Rainforest or Lake Crescent.
Concrete, Washington. A more remote and budget friendly area but with incredible views, river rapids, hiking and inexpensive summer stays.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington: Offers dramatic mountain vistas and beautiful wildflower meadows. Stay on the north side or south sides of this massive wilderness. Vast ADA accessible trails to consider.
Columbia River Gorge, Oregon/Washington: Known for its spectacular river canyon and waterfalls, there are scenic vistas and incredible stays are in this whole area.
Glacier, Washington: Mount Baker (Kulshan) and Mount Shuksan are incredible for hiking and skiing. Find an airbnb in Maple Falls or Glacier. Another favorite is Baker Lake, on the other side of the mountain. The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie Wilderness region is vast and offers countless trails and back roads for those looking for a more tough adventure.
Steps to Your Elopement:
Choose Your Location: Select a spot that resonates with you both: Consider accessibility, weather conditions, and the best time of year to visit. Plan as you can and expect the unexpected! The shoulder season (Oct/Nov and May/June) is when it will be the rainiest - expect quick and drastic weather changes and lower lodging costs.
Obtain Necessary Permits: Some locations, especially within national parks, require permits for ceremonies and photography. Be sure to check the regulations and secure any needed permits in advance, the Northwest Forest Pass will be your vehicle pass of choice. Your photographer will know about this the best!
Your marriage certificate in Washington requires a 3 day waiting period before your ceremony. Plan at least 3-5 days for your trip. Each county has different regulations, so check out each website accordingly. If you're eloping at Mount Baker, here is the Whatcom County info.
Book a Cozy / Romantic Stay: Airbnb, VRBO and Booking.com are the common platforms for finding hotels or houses to rent. Find them there and if you can, book privately through their website to save on fees. Bonus points if it has a kitchen!
Plan your Wedding Dinner and Meals: Most remote locations have limited dining opportunities. Enhance your elopement experience with a personalized dining experience by hiring a private chef, or a catering company. Imagine enjoying a gourmet meal tailored to your tastes, prepared and served in a picturesque setting. It can be just you and your partner for a plated tasting menu dining experience, or a family style dinner if you're inviting your close friends and family. There are always options available for charcuterie boxes (perfect for hikes), breakfast spreads, getting ready snacks or just stocking the fridge! Look for more planning tips @ginkgofinedining
Book a Professional Photographer: An incredible photographer will ensure that your love story is beautifully documented of course they will know all the best locations, how to capture you and your partner in the best lighting conditions and more. Your wedding photographer is your go-to person for it all.
Plan Your Ceremony: Decide if you want a simple exchange of vows or a more elaborate ceremony. You can also choose to include personal touches like handwritten vows, a meaningful reading, or a symbolic ritual like palo santo cleansing, and sauna/cold plunge spa sessions together.
Prepare for the Elements: The PNW weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear to stay comfortable. Consider having a backup plan in case of inclement weather.
Schedule Your Day: Your photographer will have the best insight on this, since they will be there with you for most of the day. Here is how it could go down: Morning: Sunrise ceremony or getting ready in luxury with an easy morning and mimosas? Afternoon: chill time or hiking to your scenic spot to exchange vows? Evening: Sunset dinner and wine tasting, or golden hour portraits and family style dinner? Plan ahead so when the day comes you won’t have to worry about anything…
Sounds like too much to do? Maybe you want to hire a planner to take care of all the little details in planning and day-of preparation (and clean up!). I have a few recommendations I will list below.
Photographers:
Washington experts:
In The Alpine Glow (your two-in-one florist and photographer!)
Henry Tieu Photography
Oregon Favs:
Wedding Planners:
Bridal Bliss (Maddy is top tier! Best for bigger weddings and events)
Venues:
The Après Cabin Mazama, WA
Kellys Resort - Cle Elum, WA
Luxury Getaways -Glacier, WA
Kalaloloch Lodge - Olympic National Park, WA
Caterers and Private Chefs:
Ginkgo Fine Dining - Worldwide! (Currently serving: BC, Canada and Japan)
Paella Works Bellingham, WA
Coastal Cooking - Washington
The Skagit Table - Mount Vernon, WA
Chef Paige - PDX / White Salmon, OR
Meire Catering - Portland, OR / Washington
Cakes:
Slice of Heaven - Bellingham, WA
Deep Sugar - Seattle, WA
Table settings and Rentals:
The Social Event Rental - Bellingham, WA
C3 Farms - Deming, WA
Florals:
Ready to Elope in the PNW?
If you’re ready to plan your dream elopement in the Pacific Northwest, contact us today to learn more about our exclusive packages. We’re here to make your special day as magical and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what matters most.
Cheers,
Abigail
All photos from
Between the Pines
Jess Smith
Emily Simms
and my own photos.
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