Do you remember Solana and Bridget’s sunny engagement session at Olympic National Park a few months ago? Well, their big day finally arrived, and I could hardly contain my joy and excitement for them! Their Oregon forest elopement was just what they’d hoped for—intentional, romantic, playful, and wonderfully relaxed. It was a beautiful reminder of how meaningful a small, thoughtfully planned celebration can be when you choose to savor every drop.

A storybook setting in the Oregon Forest

They chose a cozy lakeside cabin tucked away in a lush Oregon forest, the kind of place where the air smells like pine, and the only soundtrack is birdsong and gentle waves on the shore. It was a perfect storybook setting for their special day.

Oregon’s Hidden Gems for Intimate Elopements

Oregon is full of hidden gems perfect for intimate elopements like this. Whether you dream of a misty mountain backdrop or a secluded spot by the water, our state is bursting with possibilities. If you’re searching for Oregon’s most breathtaking locations, I’ve got you covered—along with tips on how to find your own perfect place (just like these two did).

But first, let’s revisit Solana and Bridget’s gorgeous lakeside ceremony because I genuinely couldn’t wait to celebrate these two sweet souls again.

Tying the Knot Storybook Style

Solana and Bridget started their wedding day slow and thoughtful, savoring the getting-ready process rather than rushing through it. This day was about them living fully in each moment and soaking in every smile, laugh, and glance exchanged.

Oregon Forest Portraits & Vows 

We began their portraits at midday, capturing Bridget first while Solana continued getting ready. Then we swapped, photographing Solana amid the peaceful quiet of the forest while their closest friends set up the sweetest ceremony space imaginable—an adorable little amphitheater overlooking the lake.

As they exchanged vows beneath towering trees, the energy was warm and joyful, filled with laughter (and yes, maybe a few happy tears, too). Later, we wandered the cabin property together, enjoying the beauty of soft evening light filtering through the trees.

Toasting S’mores & Celebrating Love

Then, we headed back, and they rounded out the evening with glasses of celebratory sparkling wine, an incredible four-layer mini cake, and, naturally, s’mores toasted by the fire. Watching them melt into newlywed bliss and comfortable conversation with their best friends made me feel honored to be there, capturing this moment for them. Then, as dusk settled softly, they headed off to dinner at Portland’s renowned Janken, glowing with happiness while I headed home, still giddy from the day’s events.

Sweet Words from Solana & Bridget

Solana and Bridget planned their day intentionally, keeping it intimate, relaxed, and profoundly personal. And truly, their photographs reflect all the warmth, love, and sweetness of their relationship. I always ask my couples to share a few words about their partner to help me capture their genuine connection. Solana and Bridget’s answers made my heart skip a beat:

Solana shared:

“My favorite part about being with Bridget is how amazingly she treats me and how fun she makes life. There’s never a dull moment, and every day feels brighter with her around.”

Bridget echoed:

“I love the moments where we can simply exist in the moment and laugh about random things together. Watching her smile and laugh is the most beautiful thing.”

These two lovely ladies were made for each other. Even at the start, they have something every couple hopes to have and keep for a lifetime.

How to Find Your Own Dreamy Oregon Elopement Location

Maybe you’re feeling inspired by Solana and Bridget’s peaceful lakeside celebration and dreaming up an intimate retreat of your own. But how do you find that perfect, tucked-away spot?

Here are a few things to consider when scouting rentals and locations for your Oregon elopement:

1. Look for privacy & intimacy

When browsing for a rental cabin or Airbnb for your elopement, consider privacy and seclusion. Search for homes tucked away on private properties, with thoughtful spacing from neighboring houses or roads. Ideally, you’ll want a setting that feels peaceful enough to celebrate without interruption.

2. Consider meaningful amenities

A fire pit for evening gatherings, a lovely porch with lake or mountain views, or a charming outdoor space for your ceremony are all elements to consider. Solana and Bridget’s lakeside cabin featured an amphitheater-style arrangement that beautifully framed their vows, making their setup effortless and elegant.

3. Look closely at reviews & photos

Don’t just book based on the main photo—browse carefully through past guest reviews and additional images. Look for mentions of special spots on the property (like a hidden dock by the lake or a small clearing perfect for exchanging vows).

4. Think about your photography

Select locations that offer a diverse range of backdrops and lighting options. A lakeside setting with forested paths, open meadows, and charming rustic touches will give you varied, beautiful images to carry forward into your future.

The Most Scenic Spots for Your Oregon Elopement

Inspired by Solana and Bridget’s cozy lakeside cabin experience, here are some of Oregon’s other stunning locations for an unforgettable elopement:

Enchanting forests & woodland escapes:

• Silver Falls State Park: Famous for its waterfall trails, lush greenery, and gentle streams. It’s ideal for couples who love nature walks and peaceful forest vibes.
• Hoyt Arboretum in Portland: A hidden gem with winding trails, diverse tree species, and intimate clearings ideal for ceremonies.

Romantic coastal retreats:

• Ecola State Park: Dramatic cliffs, ocean vistas, and secluded beaches offer breathtaking backdrops.
• Cape Kiwanda: Golden dunes, striking rock formations, and expansive ocean views capture Oregon’s rugged coastal beauty.

Mountain & lakeside gems:

• Crater Lake National Park: Deep blue waters and panoramic views give this location a surreal beauty that’s perfect for adventurous couples.
• Lost Lake Resort: A charming lakeside location with mountain views, cabins for rent, and private woodsy spots perfect for vows.

High Desert hideaways:

• Smith Rock State Park: Majestic rock formations and sweeping vistas offer a breathtaking desert landscape for an elopement.
• Painted Hills: Earthy hues of orange, red, and gold create an unforgettable backdrop for your vows—especially stunning at sunset.

Ready to escape to the wild with your forever person? Let’s make it unforgettable!