Abby & Alicia
Why They Chose to Elope in the PNW
Abby & Alicia wanted a wedding day that left them feeling loved and connected without too much extra fluff. They strayed from the idea of a traditional wedding to avoid others’ opinions on how they should get married and to have the freedom to plan the intimate day they envisioned for themselves—something peaceful, woodsy, and full of adventure. An intimate elopement in the Pacific North West was the perfect fit.
For months, they kept their plans a secret, something special just between them. Their goal was to spend every moment of their wedding weekend together—exploring new places, laughing, and making memories in a place they’d always wanted to see. And they did just that.
Abby & Alicia’s Fall Pacific Northwest Intimate Elopement
A Slow Morning with Mimosas & DIY Florals
The day before their wedding was spent in a cozy bed and breakfast perched along the cliffside in Brookings, Oregon. While a warm fire crackled in the brick fireplace, they shared mimosas and local pastries while the morning fog drifted in from the coast.
Their florist- “What in Carnation” provided a variety of local and native greenery to be made into custom florals. Abby and Alicia wanted to add their own personal touch reminiscent of their flower cart engagement. They spent the morning making their own bouquet and boutonniere together. Lots of laughs were shared as they spent the better part of the morning creating their masterpieces. It was simple, creative, and set the tone for the rest of their weekend.
The rest of their first day in Brookings was spent exploring on their own and enjoying quality time spent together before saying their vows the next day.
A Misty First Look by the Sea
The morning of their elopement was purposefully slow and spent doing hair and makeup together. Abby surprised Alicia with a first look on a quiet pebble beach between sea stacks to reveal her gorgeous dress. It rained lightly as the two saw each other in wedding attire for the first time. With excitement they were smiling through the mist and wiping away raindrops. Their rain boots kept things fun and practical, they wandered the shoreline together before heading off to Jedediah Redwoods State Park for their ceremony.
Vows Beneath the Redwoods
To reach their ceremony location they took a short hike through the towering redwoods to find their quiet spot among a grove of fallen trees. Rain trickled through the canopy as they exchanged handwritten heartfelt vows and rings, while tucked warmly beneath their jackets without another soul around. Truly the definition of an intimate ceremony.
Having had enough of the rain and wet. they dried off and headed to a local Irish pub for lunch. The pub was a warm, dimly lit spot where they shared hearty food, drinks, and stories from the morning. It was the perfect way to slow down and take it all in.
Lantern Walk by the Pacific Ocean
That evening, the clouds finally broke as the sun dipped toward the horizon. Abby and Alicia returned to the coast for one last walk, lanterns in hand. They wandered along the shoreline as the last of the storm rolled out to sea, ending their day with soft light, laughter, and a feeling of calm that lingered long after dark.
Abby & Alicia ended their evening with a unique donut cutting (instead of cake!) and a mix of charcuterie and wine to finish out their elopement day. Despite the consistent drizzle from morning to night, Abby & Alicia kept their spirits high. They embraced the unexpected, and their day was the epitome of a relaxed, intimate elopement.
Tips for Planning a Fall Pacific Northwest Intimate Elopement
Expect rain—and embrace it. The PNW’s unpredictable weather adds to its charm. From fog, to sun, to torrential rain; you could see it all on your wedding day. Plan ahead, pack rain gear you love being photographed in, and keep your plans flexible. Must haves when planning a PNW elopement are neutral colored rain jackets, cute rain boots, and clear umbrellas.
Pack smart The weather in the Pacific North West can change in a moments notice, especially in the fall. From sun, to rain, to dense fog, and even snow you never know what kind of weather you may see in 24 hours. Prepare for inclement weather by packing extra layers, extra socks, skin colored leggings, and a few towels in the car. These things make a huge difference in your experience when the weather shifts.
Choose cozy stays. Fall is a time for slowing down. Even nature is prepping for the stillness of winter. So why not piggyback on that feeling and really embed it into your elopement. Slow down and really take the time to soak it all in. Having the right environment can also help with that- pick a cabin or BNB with indoor charm so you have a beautiful space to relax between outdoor adventures.
Follow Leave No Trace. The Pacific Northwest has many fragile ecosystems that people can easily damageand those delicate landscapes are exactly what make it so beautiful. When you elope in the Redwood National or State Parks, always follow Leave No Trace principles so that years from now, you can return to find your ceremony spot just as stunning as it was on your wedding day.
