How to Plan a Winter Elopement in the PNW
Planning Your Winter Elopement in the PNW
Some might say to avoid eloping in the winter months, but I am here to tell you why you SHOULD!! The PNW is beautiful year-round but the winters here are truly magical! You get the moody, cloudy weather with snowcapped mountains in the distance and wow does it make for the most jaw-dropping backdrop for your elopement photos!! In this guide, I share my favorite locations for a PNW winter elopement and tons of tips to help you plan and prepare!
Why Should I Elope in the Winter in the PNW?
As a PNW elopement photographer, I am here to tell you that winter elopements are so freaking magical! in my opinion, it's just as beautiful and in fact, I think there is nothing prettier than crisp winter air and light!! Here are a few more reasons why you need to consider a winter PNW elopement:
When getting married in temperate areas like the coastal sides of WA, OR, and NorCal, the weather will be similar any time of year, but with a lot fewer crowds.
Locations are available and it's easier to get permits.
The vendors you want are most likely available.
MORE MOODY vibes in the winter which is quintessential PNW!!
Airbnb and lodging are more available.
8 Best Winter Elopement Locations in the PNW
Colombia River Gorge, OR
The Colombia River Gorge is the quintessential perfect winter elopement location in the PNW. It’s up in the mountains with lush green trees and mountains which creates the most dramatic and moody vibes (my favorite)! The Colombia River Gorge is found along the border of Washington and Oregon, right outside of Portland. It has everything from raging waterfalls and beautiful lakes to miles and miles of dense old-growth trees.
Cle Elum, WA
Cle Elum is a beautiful small city in Washington that offers the most breathtaking views, especially in the winter months. It is the perfect winter elopement location! With snowcapped mountains and winter wonderland vibes, this is the perfect PNW winter elopement location. My advice would be to rent a cozy cabin for your elopement and enjoy a few days to take in all of its beauty!
Rialto Beach, WA
You cannot go wrong with a PNW beach elopement in the winter months. You have WAYY fewer people and the weather is pretty consistent year-round. While it is a little colder, the beautiful coastal views are still there. You can enjoy your winter elopement in a more intimate setting without tons of people around!
God’s Thumb
God’s Thumb is a stunning location on the Oregon Coast with epic coastline views. With just a short hike you can reach the grassy location overlooking the rocky coast. I love this location so much because it is great year-round and there are so many different backdrops you can take advantage of!
Seaside, OR
Another beautiful beach location in the PNW for a winter elopement in Seaside, Oregon. This low-key beach is found in a super-small town in Northwestern, Oregon. It offers miles and miles of simple sandy beaches and amazing surf breaks. It’s the perfect beach to have a cute little elopement picnic set-up and not have to worry about a ton of other people being around, especially in the winter months.
Hug Point, OR
Odds are, if you live in or near the PNW, you have heard of or been to Hug Point. This beautiful beach is about 5 miles from the infamous Cannon Beach. At Hug Point, you will find massive limestone formations, a seasonal natural waterfall, and an amazing natural cave! The weather is pretty consistent here year-round so dress warm and enjoy this intimate location for your winter Oregon coast elopement.
Port Angeles, WA
Port Angeles is found on the edge of the Olympic Peninsula along the shoreline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. With driftwood and rock-covered beaches, it is a beautiful setting for a beach winter elopement. And a great option is to try and rent an Airbnb on the water or in that area so you can enjoy a cozy evening in around the fireplace to celebrate!
Othello, WA
Othello is a small town in Washington that offers miles and miles of grassy fields. While this may not be what you imagine when you think of a winter elopement, hear me out. The grassy fields and cloudy winter weather, create the perfect simple backdrop for your elopement. It’s an even better location for those wanting a Western elopement vibe.
My Favorite PNW Wedding Venues for a Winter Wedding
If you are looking for winter wedding venues in the PNW, there are so many to choose from! Here are a few of my personal favorites:
Lake Quinault Lodge
Less than a 3 hours drive from Seattle located on Lake Quinault is a super charming wedding venue known as Lake Quinault Lodge. This historic lodge is known for its unique farm-to-fork dining experience, beautiful setting, and 91 guest rooms with picturesque views. Overlooking the lake, it is a beautiful winter wedding venue with all of the cozy mountain vibes!
JM Cellars
JM Cellars is a beautiful winery wedding venue in Woodinville, WA. With its rustic decor and cozy feel, this is an amazing winter wedding venue!
Santucci Farms
Santucci Farms is definitely one of my favorite wedding venues in Washington. This venue is super diverse and can accommodate elopements and micro weddings. This venue has super simple bones so you really make it your own with decor.
The Ruins at The Astor
This charming and historic wedding venue in the heart of downtown Astoria, Oregon is perfection. It is a completely indoor venue which is perfect for the winter months. From its natural charm to its rustic architecture, The Ruins at the Astor brings an undeniable romanticism to your special day and creates a beautiful backdrop for memorable photos.
When Should I Plan for my PNW Winter Elopement?
Because the PNW is such a large area and there are so many different locations you can choose to elope at, it can vary. But, ideally, I would say January - March ( maybe even April) are the best months for a winter elopement. You can also do December, but I recommend avoiding that month as things are usually busy because of the holidays and accommodations are also more expensive. Planning your PNW winter elopement from January to March ensures that you will have fewer crowds, snow-capped mountains, and a less expensive stay!
What Should I Wear & Pack for My Winter Elopement in the PNW?
What you should pack for your PNW winter elopement really depends on the location you choose. If you are eloping at or near the beach, it will be slightly warmer and you won't need to worry about things like hiking boots and gear. But, if you choose a location more in the mountains, here is a list of things that you may want to pack!
Hiking boots
Lots of layers
Rain Jacket
A warm wedding dress/suit that is well-suited for hiking
Blankets
Scarves, gloves, ear muffs, wool socks, etc…
Best Activities to Do During Your Winter Elopement in the PNW
When it comes to winter elopements, there are SOOOO many fun-filled activities that you can do on your elopement day! Here are some of my favorite activities that my clients have incorporated into their winter elopement!
Skiing or Snowboarding
Snowshoeing on Mt Hood
Soak in a hot spring
Go sledding or tubing
Enjoy a bonfire on the beach and roast some marshmallows
Rent a cozy cabin with a hot tub
Enjoy a spa day at a mountain resort
Enjoy some of the most beautiful hiking in some cooler weather
Try snowmobiling
Tips for your PNW Winter Elopement
Winter in the PNW is such a magical time but when it comes to eloping during that time of year, there are a lot more things you need to consider. From my several years of experience in capturing winter elopements, here are some helpful tips I have learned!
Expect the unexpected with the weather and be prepared to change your plans last minute.
Plan extra time for travel in case of dangerous weather conditions.
Make sure to bring proper gear and appropriate clothing and shoes.
Consider whether or not you can handle being out in the cold for a long period of time.
Your dream location may close due to weather conditions, so have a few backup options available.
Hire an elopement photographer who is familiar with the area you want to elope in and is comfortable doing it in the winter months.
Need a Photographer for your winter PNW Elopement or Wedding?