Your Ultimate Oregon Coast Elopement Guide
Dreaming of a romantic Oregon Coast elopement? This article is your comprehensive guide to planning a magical ceremony surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of this coastal region. From understanding the costs involved to choosing your location and ensuring the legality of your beach wedding. Discover the essential insights to make your Oregon Coast elopement a reality.
As a Portland wedding photographer, my experience in coastal wedding photography offers readers valuable insights, ensuring they can trust this article for the most reliable and practical guidance on planning their Oregon Coast elopement.
The Best Places to Elope on the Oregon Coast
Eloping on the Oregon Coast can be a magical and romantic experience. Stretching for over 360 miles, this coastal area is a place of rugged cliffs and hidden coves to pristine beaches and quaint seaside towns.
Cannon Beach
Known for its iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach offers a stunning backdrop for your elopement. Ecola State Park nearby provides even more breathtaking locations for you to explore.
Website: https://www.cannonbeach.org/
Cape Kiwanda
Located in Pacific City, Cape Kiwanda is known for its rugged cliffs and sand dunes. This state park has some of the best dramatic landscapes creating a perfect setting for an intimate elopement ceremony.
Website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=130
Depoe Bay
If you’re interested in eloping near a quiet seaside town, Depoe Bay is an excellent choice. The town’s harbor and nearby Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint offer beautiful spots for your elopement.
Website: https://visittheoregoncoast.com/cities/depoe-bay/
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor:
This 12-mile stretch along the southern Oregon Coast is a treasure trove of unique and stunning locations. You can find secluded coves, private beachfronts, and forests that provide a variety of settings for your elopement.
Website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=56
Bandon Beach
Bandon is famous for its remarkable sea stacks and wide, sandy beaches. The Bandon State Natural Area and Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint are particularly memorable spots to exchange your vows.
Website: https://bandon.com/beaches/
Let’s create timeless memories together. Make sure your once-in-a-lifetime moments are preserved. Talk to an elopement photographer.
How to Elope on the Oregon Coast
Eloping on the Oregon Coast is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure your special day goes smoothly:
- Obtain a Marriage License
The first step is to apply for a marriage license. Both parties must appear in person at an Oregon county clerk’s office to fill out the application. You’ll need to provide identification, such as a valid driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate, and pay the required fee. There is typically a three-day waiting period before the license becomes valid, and it remains valid for 60 days.
- Select a Location
Choose the perfect spot for your elopement on the Oregon Coast. Whether it’s a beautiful beach, a scenic overlook, or a charming seaside town. Make sure you check if any permits or reservations are required for your chosen location.
- Officiant
Find an officiant to perform the ceremony. In Oregon, judges, justices of the peace, ministers, and priests can officiate weddings. Ensure your officiant is registered in Oregon to make your marriage legally binding.
- Secure Other Vendors
Consider hiring other vendors such as a photographer, florist, videographer, hair and makeup artist. One of the great things about an elopement is you can choose to keep this list small, or simply invest in the things that are most meaningful to you as a couple.
Want to make your elopement a memory that lives on for years to come? Don’t miss out on capturing those moments in time with stunning photographs. Talk to an elopement photographer.
- Witnesses
Oregon requires at least two witnesses to be present at your wedding ceremony. These witnesses must be present throughout the ceremony and sign the marriage license afterward.
- Marriage License and Certificate
After the ceremony, your officiant and witnesses will sign the marriage license. Then, submit the license to the county clerk’s office where you obtained it. Once it’s recorded, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of your marriage.
Related and Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost To Elope in Oregon?
The cost of eloping in Oregon can vary, but you should budget for expenses like the marriage license (typically $60 to $80). Additional costs to consider are permits, vendors, and accommodations, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Do You Need A Permit To Elope On The Oregon Coast?
Yes, you may need a permit to elope on the Oregon Coast, depending on your chosen location. Permit requirements vary, so check with local authorities for specific regulations and fees.
Is It Legal To Get Married On The Beach In Oregon?
Yes, it is legal to get married on the beach in Oregon. Ensure you obtain a valid marriage license, have an authorized officiant, and follow local regulations, including any permit requirements, to make it legally binding.
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