How to Elope in Washington
Washington elopement guide
So, you want to plan a Washington elopement?!
You're dreaming of the ultimate Washington adventure elopement for just the two of you, BUT you have no idea how to plan a whole wedding to a place you've never been before.
Don't worry because that's exactly why I've put together this comprehensive guide to eloping in Washington!
Don't worry because that's exactly why I've put together this comprehensive guide to eloping in Washington!
You're dreaming of the ultimate Washington adventure elopement for just the two of you, BUT you have no idea how to plan a whole wedding to a place you've never been before.
Don't worry because that's exactly why I've put together this comprehensive guide to eloping in Washington!
Don't worry because that's exactly why I've put together this comprehensive guide to eloping in Washington!
But now what?
Welcome to your comprehensive guide to eloping in Washington
Best Places to Elope in Washington State
Home to the tallest volcano in the lower 48, Mount Rainier National Park is the most iconic location in Washington. It's got heaps of wildflower meadows in the summer and plenty of cute A-frame cabins to stay during your elopement. Plus, it's even accessible year-round for the perfect winter wonderland. Check out my Mount Rainier National Park Guide
Mount Rainier National Park
Also known as the American Alps, the North Cascades is not only filled with towering peaks but alpine lakes and wildflower meadows. Imagine saying your vows among a sea of mountains! This is a climber's dream location. Check out my North Cascades National Park Guide
North Cascades National Park
As a rainforest, the Olympics is the most diverse of all the national parks in Washington. From beaches to mountains, lakes to waterfalls, there's something for everyone. You'll find mossy trees, glistening dew and crashing waves. After you've chased a peak, run to the beach and feel the sand beneath your feet
Olympic National Park
Over 150 islands exist in the San Juan Islands group. Take a ferry over to an island that's a cross between PNW landscapes and New England small town. Kayak to your ceremony location or hike to an observation tower to say "I do". End your day by celebrating at a local farm-to-table restaurant
San Juan Islands
Situated in the North Cascades, the Mount Baker area is filled with quiet hikes and incredible vistas. From fire lookouts to easy access peaks, this is one of my personal favorites! I love the landscapes from summer into early fall for maximizing color on the alpine slopes
Mount Baker National Forest
Located as the closest national forest by Seattle, this is a great accessible location for those wishing to include family or have a little bit of city and nature all on the same day of your elopement. Filled with alpine lakes and waterfalls and stunning peaks, it's easy to see why this is a local favorite. It's the perfect spot for eloping year-round
Snoqualmie National Forest
Did you know Washington has nearly 100 fire lookouts? Imagine staying at a lookout all to yourselves overlooking a massive cliff for the most epic photos. Choose between views of Mount Rainier or Mount Baker or anything in between. Rugged mountain views or golden fall colors, a fire lookout is the perfect combination of comfort and backcountry wilderness
Washington Fire Lookouts
Quintessential summers are often spent lake side in the mountains and the Alpine Lake Wilderness is the pinnacle destination. Wildflowers dancing the shorelines and aqua blue waters. Set up your tent to wake up with the birds chirping and say your vows in this vibrant landscape
Alpine Lakes Wilderness
The gorge winds its way between the Washington and Oregon, teeming with waterfalls, cliffs, and windswept bluffs. It's also home to some of the best early season wildflowers for those choosing to elope in April to May. Watch a golden sunset overlooking the Columbia River as you dance through the night
Columbia River Gorge
Oh the places you can go! Washington has no shortage of epic and beautiful destinations where you can elope. Here are a few highlights of Washington elopement locations.
Can't get enough? Read more about the best places to elope in Washington
Why You Should Elope
in Washington State
I might be a smidge biased, but Washington is one of the best places to elope in the US. Here's just 5 reasons why Washington is an incredible place to elope:
- Washington is home to the American Alps. Need I say more? It's full of epic, rugged peaks!
- There are 3 outstanding national parks (re: not lame) each within a 2.5 hour drive from major international airport, so getting around is easy
- We have the best summer weather. As a temperate climate state, summers are sunny and 75, and even winters are not cold
- You can elope in all 4 seasons! You can even experience snow in summer, we've got wildflowers, glaciers, fall colors and so much more
- It's a great place to extend your honeymoon. Found some extra trails you want to explore? Feel free to take a little road trip after your elopement
Best Time of Year to Elope in Washington State
Summer Elopements in Washington
Winter Elopements in Washington
Fall Elopements in Washington
Fall is the season most overlooked in Washington. We have gorgeous fall colors from September to October, ranging from golden larch trees to rich crimson from blueberry bushes and vine maple. This is best for minimizing crowds and enjoying cooler but sunny weather on your elopement.
Summers are what most Washingtonians live for and when most people travel here. Weather is near perfect with sunny days from June to September. Experience wildflowers, deep aqua alpine lakes, hike to your heart's content. This is the most favorable season for predictable weather.
Winter makes for the bulk our cloudy months. It lasts from mid October to April in most areas. Snow can persist even until July in high elevations. There's a wide variety of accessible areas to snowshoe, hike or ski. This is a great season to elope for those who love snow sports or winter wonderlands.
Washington is full of weather patterns unique to the Pacific Northwest. I've lived here for most of my life and let me share with you some of the best things about each season. And let's debunk the rainy myth about Washington! Let's learn about when you should elope in Washington.
Weather in Washington
So, does it actually rain all the time in Washington?
Washington actually doesn't even rank as a top 10 state for amount of rainfall, however it is the least sunny state. What this doesn't account for is our 2-3 month streak of sunny and 75 weather that we get each summer!
Eloping during July-early September 99% guarantees you perfect weather. However, for the cloudy days we do get, it only ever mists and sprinkles. Rainstorms are rare and only happen in the fall to winter months. As your elopement photographer, I will help you mitigate any weather issues we may run into. But for my summer elopement couples, you've got so many different trailheads to choose from. Learn how to pick your Washington ceremony location
Eloping in the winter months is not out of the question, especially if you love snow. We get spectacular winters. Washington has one of the snowiest ski resorts in the world! Ski couples - let's get you hitched on the slopes! Check out how you can have a ski elopement in Washington
Should You Elope at Sunrise or Sunset
The big debate is really down to you! Are you a morning bird or night owl?
Pros: More solitude on your hike in, time to enjoy coffee as you watch the sun rise, more pastel sky colors, the rest of daylight afterwards, cooler temperatures hiking
Cons: Increasing crowds throughout the morning, harder to wake up, fewer vendors available
Cons: Increasing crowds throughout the morning, harder to wake up, fewer vendors available
Sunrise
Pros: Potential star gazing and s'mores, fewer people when you're hiking out, more fiery sky colors, more visibility while hiking
Cons: More people watch sunset than sunrise, possibly warmer temperatures hiking in
Cons: More people watch sunset than sunrise, possibly warmer temperatures hiking in
Sunset
Washington State Elopement Planning Process
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Step by step of what you need to know to elope in Washington
Let's get planning!
1. Choose Your Washington Elopement Photographer
5. Plan your Elopement Activities
4. Secure Any Necessary Permits
3. Choose Your Ceremony Date
7. Create a Timeline
8. Have the BEST. DAY. EVER!!!
6. Book Lodging and Other Vendors
2. Choose Your Washington Ceremony Location
9. Relive Your Elopement Through Photos
The next step is figuring out specifically where you want to elope. This might be tied to your date or vice versa. Are you looking for a winter wonderland or a summer lakeside view? Don't forget to check out my blog on how to choose your Washington elopement location
Yes, you read that right. Finding your photographer (and elopement planner) is the single most important thing before even deciding on a date and location. That's because they have the local knowledge to help guide you to making the right decision for you as a couple. Some locations aren't even possible for certain dates, so work with your photographer/planner to make sure your visions are coming to life! Learn more about me or book a free consultation call to discover what it's like to elope in Washington.
After deciding your Washington elopement destination, now is the time to figure out when is the best time to go. Some locations are great year-round while some are best during summer or fall. There's lots to consider to decide when to elope in Washington
While you might not be paying for a wedding venue, some public lands require a special use permit to have a wedding or elopement ceremony. Plus, you'll need a Washington marriage license to make it all official. Still confused? Keep scrolling or read more in depth about how to legally elope in Washington
Elopements are an incredible way to get married because you can do absolutely whatever you want! Activities to include on your Washington elopement could be anything from hiking to skiing or from rock climbing to kayaking. Think of your favorite hobby, we can do it Washington!
Your photographer is your most important vendor, but there are many components to an elopement and you might want to book people like a florist, hair and make up artist, officiant, caterer, or musician. This is also the time to find your wedding outfit and other details like rings, jewelry, vow books etc. And now that you've figured out your location, you can now book lodging and other any reservations (dinner, tours...)
As you figure out what activities to include in your elopement, this is when you'll start to build out your timeline. Your photographer will work with you to plan around the best light and whether you want a sunrise or sunset experience. With a local photographer who formulates the perfect timeline, you'll have a stress-free elopement day!
You made it!! All you have to do is show up and let your elopement day play out. Your photographer will keep track of time for you so you have time to relax and soak in the day while adventuring through the mountains. So sit back, enjoy the day. After all, you're getting married!!
It doesn't just end there! Relieve your best day through high quality, professionally edited photos so you can feel all the wonderful emotions again. Flip through a timeless bespoke photo album and experience the joy you felt on your elopement day. Share it for generations to come!
Washington State Elopement Timelines
Depending on your activities and how long you choose your elopement day, your timeline can vary greatly. It's critical to have a well thought-out timeline that has built in time to relax and enjoy the day so you don't feel rushed. A great timeline also accounts for varying times to hike or get to a destination and allows for flexibility for any unexpected changes. Here's an example for a sunrise hiking elopement:
2:00 am - Wake up
2:30 am - Get hair and make up done
4:00 am - Meet your photographer at trailhead
5:15 am - Arrive at destination
5:30 am - Change into wedding attire
5:45 am - First look before sunrise
6:15 am - Official sunrise and golden hour
6:45 am - Enjoy breakfast and coffee on the mountain
7:30 am - Head to second more accessible location
8:15 am - Private vows and marriage license signing
8:45 am - Portraits and adventure
9:30 am - Hike back down
10:00 am - Head to a third location
10:30 am - Hike to a quiet spot for a picnic
11:30 am - Picnic, cake cutting, first dance
12:30 pm - Hang out and enjoy the scenery
1:00 pm - Head back into town for celebration drinks
2:00 pm - End Photography Coverage
2:00 am - Wake up
2:30 am - Get hair and make up done
4:00 am - Meet your photographer at trailhead
5:15 am - Arrive at destination
5:30 am - Change into wedding attire
5:45 am - First look before sunrise
6:15 am - Official sunrise and golden hour
6:45 am - Enjoy breakfast and coffee on the mountain
7:30 am - Head to second more accessible location
8:15 am - Private vows and marriage license signing
8:45 am - Portraits and adventure
9:30 am - Hike back down
10:00 am - Head to a third location
10:30 am - Hike to a quiet spot for a picnic
11:30 am - Picnic, cake cutting, first dance
12:30 pm - Hang out and enjoy the scenery
1:00 pm - Head back into town for celebration drinks
2:00 pm - End Photography Coverage
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Washington State
You might be surprised at the answer! Like with everything, the cost to elope in Washington State varies greatly from couple to couple. Usually where this differs is in having professional help vs DIY and what activities you choose to include. What is consistent throughout all budgets is photography, which usually makes up bulk of cost for a Washington elopement. Here's some examples:
Affordable Washington Elopement Budget
Luxury Washington Elopement Budget
Average Washington Elopement Budget
$4,000 - Photographer (4 hours)
$70 - Marriage License
$150 - 1 Night at Airbnb
$20 - Floral (DIY)
$15 - Hair and Make Up (DIY)
$100 - Attire for Both (Thrifted)
$50 - Picnic (DIY)
$0 - Officiant (Friend)
Total Cost: $4405
$5,000 - Photographer (8 hours)
$70 - Marriage License
$300 - National Park Permit
$500 - 2 Nights at Airbnb
$200 - Floral
$300 - Hair and Make Up
$1,000 - Attire for Both
$100 - Decor
$300 - Catered Dinner
$400 - Officiant
Total Cost: $8,170
$7,000 - Photographer (full day)
$70 - Marriage License
$300 - National Park Permit
$750 - 2 Nights at Luxury Airbnb
$300 - Floral
$450 - Hair and Make Up
$2500 - Attire for Both
$200 - Decor/Tablescape
$400 - Private Catered Dinner
$700 - Full-Service Officiant
$1,000 - Elopement Planner
$700 - Private Guided Tour
Total Cost: $14,370
So you can see even with the luxury elopement, the cost to elope is still far less than a traditional wedding, which currently average $30,000. Eloping isn't just about cutting costs, it's about the priceless experiences and making memories from your wedding day that last a lifetime.
$4,000 - Photographer (4 hours)
$70 - Marriage License
$150 - 1 Night at Airbnb
$20 - Floral (DIY)
$15 - Hair and Make Up (DIY)
$100 - Attire for Both (Thrifted)
$50 - Picnic (DIY)
$0 - Officiant (Friend)
Total Cost: $4405
$5,000 - Photographer (8 hours)
$70 - Marriage License
$300 - National Park Permit
$500 - 2 Nights at Airbnb
$200 - Floral
$300 - Hair and Make Up
$1,000 - Attire for Both
$100 - Decor
$300 - Catered Dinner
$400 - Officiant
Total Cost: $8,170
$7,000 - Photographer (full day)
$70 - Marriage License
$300 - National Park Permit
$750 - 2 Nights at Luxury Airbnb
$300 - Floral
$450 - Hair and Make Up
$2500 - Attire for Both
$200 - Decor/Tablescape
$400 - Private Catered Dinner
$700 - Full-Service Officiant
$1,000 - Elopement Planner
$700 - Private Guided Tour
Total Cost: $14,370
So you can see even with the luxury elopement, the cost to elope is still far less than a traditional wedding, which currently average $30,000. Eloping isn't just about cutting costs, it's about the priceless experiences and making memories from your wedding day that last a lifetime.
What to Wear for Your Washington State Elopement
Here's a few tips for what to think about when deciding what to wear for your elopement.
- Dress for the Weather: If you're eloping in the summer, good news, you're probably planning for warm and sunny weather. If you're eloping outside of summer, keep in mind it might be chillier than you expect, so make sure to bring cute outerwear like a shawl or wool coat. If you are wearing a dress, consider skin-toned leggings underneath.
- Wear Proper Footwear: For hiking elopements, bring hiking shoes for the trail and an optional second formal pair to switch into for your ceremony. On snowy terrain, consider bringing microspikes for added traction to your shoes. I'd also recommend waterproof shoes (or extra socks) because trails can always be muddy or have a creek crossing year round. I personally love the wedding clothes + hiking boots combo, but this is a style preference too.
- Style for Your Activity: Your photographer will let you know when you should hike in your formal wear and when you should change at the destination. For the hiking elopements, make sure you can move easily in your attire. Flowy dresses are easier to move around in than fully fitted (mermaid) dresses. Think about comfort as you try on different outfits since you'll be moving around in them for several hours at a time. Simplicity is key for quick changes, like zippers instead of dozens of buttons.
- Complement the Surrounding: When choosing colors (usually for suits), pick neutrals or earth tones to avoid overpowering the colors in nature, especially in fall when everything is vibrant in Washington. Pops of color, especially in florals, can be great, especially in winter! Ask your photographer about what colors would work well for your elopement. I'd recommend dark blue or chestnut brown. I find that greens often blend too much with the green environment.
- Plan on Your Dress Getting Dirty: Yes, your dress will get dirty! And likely your pants too! This is a unique aspect of eloping. I like how the dirt ombre tells the story of the adventure you had on your elopement day. Embrace the look and after all, dry cleaning gets rid of stains pretty well if you choose to keep your clothes clean for storage after your elopement.
Washington State Permits and Marriage Licenses
Public Lands Permits in Washington State
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Depending on where you elope, you might need a Special Use Permit to have a wedding or elopement ceremony in Washington State. This is something I help all my couples with. Generally, national forest lands do not require permits. Washington State Parks and our National Parks, including Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympics all require a permit. The cost of each permit depends on the park itself and how many guests attending. Usually you'll want to submit this well in advance. If you're deciding to spend an extra day or two or more, you will need recreating or entrance fees even if it is the day after your elopement. Read more about specific permits for each Washington park.
Leave No Trace in Washington State
If you haven't heard, Leave No Trace principles is a set of 7 guidelines to help the environment and park conservation so we can recreate on these public lands for years to come. This goes beyond "pack it in, pack it out". I love to encourage all my couples to continue being great stewards of the lands we get to enjoy. Here's a few tips for eloping while adhering to Leave No Trace principles:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Work with your photographer to make sure you've got the right permits, be prepared for quick-changing weather in the mountains and have backup plans, keep your group size small and manageable
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Unless we are in designated backcountry zones, we will remain on trails and avoid trampling vegetation
- Dispose of Waste Properly: This is the famous "pack it in, pack it out" including your apple core and human waste. I make sure you know when the next toilets are and if you'll have to use the "facili-trees"
- Leave What You Find: Especially in national parks, we won't be picking up souvenirs like flowers and rocks. We'll just take our memories with us.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts: If your elopement location allows for campfires, they need to be contained, in established fire rings. Washington has dry summers and summer wildfires are a real risk every year from poorly maintained campfires.
- Respect Wildlife: This seems obvious but we don't feed wildlife or get close to them. I love observing wildlife from a distance, such as deer, marmot, or pika! We are protecting wildlife by letting them live their lives separate from us. In some locations, you are allowed to bring dogs and pets, but generally they are not allowed in national parks and wilderness
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: While some ceremony locations have a permit, this does not allow us to shoo away other visitors. They have as much right to enjoy the public lands as we do. If a first dance is part of your elopement, we'll play the music softly as to not disturb other hikers nearby.
Washington State Marriage Licenses
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If you're getting married in Washington, you'll need a Washington marriage license. You have to apply no sooner than 60 in advance and at least 3 days before your elopement day. But good news, you can apply for it online! Every county has a different application, but I would recommend applying through King County if you're traveling here just in case you need to go to the office in person. But if you're local, check out your county's marriage application. A marriage license from any county in Washington is legal to use anywhere in Washington! If this all sounds confusing and daunting, don't worry because when you work with me, I'll make sure this is as stress-free as possible.
Meet Your Washington State Elopement Photographer
Hey, I'm Cherlyn! And I love to climb mountains, search for fields of wildflowers, hike amongst golden larches in the fall, bake pumpkin pies, grab brunch with friends.
While I grew up in Washington, it wasn’t till college that I found myself escaping into nature and lugging my camera everywhere -- from skiing off the summit of Mount Baker to climbing up the knife-edge ridge of Eldorado Peak and canyoneering down waterfalls of Zion and Southern Sierras. I'm guessing if you're here, you're into epic adventures too!
While I grew up in Washington, it wasn’t till college that I found myself escaping into nature and lugging my camera everywhere -- from skiing off the summit of Mount Baker to climbing up the knife-edge ridge of Eldorado Peak and canyoneering down waterfalls of Zion and Southern Sierras. I'm guessing if you're here, you're into epic adventures too!
Check out my services
My goal is to help you have the most epic and meaningful elopement to celebrate your love.
I know that planning your Washington state elopement can be stressful, so I'm here to help walk you through everything from location scouting to vendor connections and last minute details.
What you get having me as your Washington elopement photographer:
- Location scouting - Never been to Washington? Rest easy, I hike all the trails so you don't have to
- Stress-free planning and unlimited consultation - Have a random question? Ask away. I'm here to get things expertly planned
- Vendor recommendations - Straight from a local, everything from florists to restaurants and lodging, I gotcha. Planning has never been made easier.
- Permit and marriage license guidance - That icky stuff you scratch your head about? Yeah, I'm here to help you get that done painless and easy
- Omg and did I mention 48 hour sneak peaks and custom album designs too??
Adventure Elopements
What's Included
BOOK YOUR CALL
Starting at $4000
My couples invest an average of $5000
Custom packages available for multi-day and unique elopements!
- 4+ hours of coverage
- Vendor recommendations
- Custom timeline
- Local expertise
- Logistics and permit guidance
- Unlimited planning consultation
- The ultimate elopement planning guide
- High resolution online gallery ready for prints and sharing
- Photographer travel fees included
- Bespoke album included for elopements 8+ hrs
So what are you waiting for?
let's be friends!
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@CherlynElizaphoto