Have you ever found yourself wanting a wedding that truly feels like you? Maybe a big party doesn’t match your personalities, or you simply crave something quieter and more meaningful. If that sounds like you, you’ll love Emily and Brent’s adventurous Oregon Coast redwood forest elopement. Their simple, heartfelt day might just inspire you to ditch tradition and choose an elopement of your own.

The Backstory

Emily and Brent’s love story began online over six years ago. “We joke that meeting online is boring,” Emily told me, laughing. “But the truth is, we clicked right away and never looked back.” They’ve spent nearly two years sharing a home and many more sharing everyday moments. From chores to cooking to grabbing sandwiches from their favorite local spot, Valentine’s Deli, their joy is simply doing life together.

Brent proposed in a beautifully spontaneous way. It was Thanksgiving weekend, and they were with family, curled up watching a movie. Brent, always playing with Emily’s rings, slipped a new one onto her finger. Emily felt the unfamiliar ring, froze in surprise, and immediately burst into tears. “My sister screamed, and my dad thought someone was hurt,” Emily laughed. Their young son, Emmett, was adorably annoyed at missing the movie dialogue amidst the excitement. It was simple, genuine, and completely unexpected—perfectly them.

Choosing Nature’s Best Wedding Venue

When they decided to marry, Emily and Brent knew they didn’t want a traditional wedding. They wanted nature, adventure, and intimacy. They chose to elope among the redwoods on the Oregon Coast—a place known for towering trees and rugged shorelines. It was the perfect setting for their small, meaningful ceremony with immediate family and their son.

On their wedding day, we lucked out with warm sunshine streaming through the redwoods, bathing the scenery in golden hues. Emily and Brent exchanged vows beneath the massive trees, the ceremony so intimate that we all wiped tears from our eyes. Quiet moments and genuine promises filled the space around them. Emmett watched intently, quietly absorbing the significance of the day.

Emily described Brent as “the yin to my yang,” someone who grounds her effortlessly. Brent said simply, “She’s easy to be around and makes me laugh without even trying.” Their love feels effortless, genuine, and balanced.

Enjoying the Moment in the Oregon Coast Redwood Forest

After the ceremony, we explored some trails and soaked up the sheltering quiet of the forest. Then, we headed to Ariya’s Beach in Brookings, Oregon, one of my favorite hidden gems. They picked an afternoon elopement, hoping for golden hour and dreamy beach portraits. Even though moody clouds rolled in, it turned out perfectly. The ocean waves rolled in as Emily and Brent walked hand-in-hand along the sand. It was peaceful and stunningly beautiful in its simplicity.

Emily and Brent have such a quiet strength to their relationship. Brent explained that he fell for Emily’s heart first. She took on many challenges with grace, bringing warmth and nurturing compassion to their family. Emily melts for Brent’s eyes and his contagious laughter. Their love story is uncomplicated but powerful, built on mutual respect, laughter, and quiet everyday moments.

If their story inspires you as much as it did me, here’s how you can plan your own Oregon Coast Redwood elopement.

How to Elope in the Oregon Coast Redwood Forest: A Short & Sweet Guide

Dreaming of giant, ancient redwoods and ocean waves for your elopement? If you’ll nerd out with me for a second, Oregon’s unique coast redwoods extend into the southernmost part of Oregon, specifically near the California border. These are the northernmost natural stands of coast redwoods, making them the rarest forest type in Oregon.

And if you don’t find your “I do” spot there, the Oregon Coast and the nearby legendary California redwoods give you the best of both worlds. Here’s what you need to know for an unforgettable experience.

Where the Redwoods Meet the Ocean

Giant redwoods mainly grow in Northern California, but they’re just a short drive from Oregon’s stunning coastline. You can easily combine both in a single day.

My Favorite Redwood Forest + Oregon Coast Elopement Pairings:

Jedediah Smith Redwoods, CA + Secret Beach or Ariya’s Beach (Brookings, OR): Majestic old-growth trees meet rocky, secluded coastline. Perfect for heartfelt, private vows.

Alfred A. Loeb State Park, OR + Harris Beach State Park, OR: Easy-access redwoods and classic sandy beaches with striking rock formations. Ideal if you prefer minimal hiking and a relaxed picnic vibe.

Prairie Creek Redwoods, CA+ Gold Beach, OR: Moody, mystical forest trails and wide-open beaches with epic views. Best for adventure lovers willing to travel a bit more, perhaps even for an overnight stay.

When to Elope in the Oregon Coast Redwood Forest

For ideal weather, late spring through early fall (May to October) offers your best chance at sunshine. Foggy summer days add a romantic, mysterious feel, while winter is rainy and moody. Keep an eye on potential wildfire seasons in late summer.

Permits and Legal Details for Hiking Trail Elopements

If your ceremony involves more than a handful of people and some décor, or if you want to use one of the park’s ceremony areas like Emily and Brent, you may need a permit. Check directly with park offices ahead of time. If you marry in Oregon, obtain your marriage license from any Oregon county clerk’s office. If you’re in California (like Jedediah Smith), get your license in California.

Witnesses: Oregon requires two witnesses; California requires one. Your photographer (hi, there!) can sign as a witness, but most couples prefer to have friends or family members do so.

Pro Tips for an Epic Experience

Attire

Opt for adventure-friendly outfits—think flowy dresses that catch the wind beautifully without dragging, and suits made from breathable, wrinkle-resistant fabrics. Pack a denim or leather jacket for a stylish layer if a chill kicks in during golden hour. Footwear: Ditch the heels and formal dress shoes—wear hiking boots or rugged trail shoes with a solid grip, even under your gown or suit. Many couples love the contrast in photos, and your feet will thank you on rocky ridgelines or sandy dunes. If you’re not loving that look, consider a brand like Vivaia that combines style with function. Vendors: Choose an elopement photographer (like me!) who’s not only skilled with a camera but also doubles as your local guide, trail scout, and timeline wizard. I know the secret outlooks, hidden fern clusters, and off-the-map landmarks where you won’t see another soul—perfect for those jaw-dropping, just-us moments.

Timeline

Like Emily and Brent, plan your day around lighting—early morning for soft forest light (and maybe some fog), late afternoon for golden beach vibes. Don’t rush it; build in time for quiet moments, spontaneous detours, or savoring the beauty together. The best elopements feel like an adventure, not a schedule. Bring snacks, water, and a cozy blanket for a beach picnic or stargazing or s’mores afterward—it’s your day, so make it feel like you.

Ready to Plan Your Oregon Coast Redwood Forest Elopement?

Eloping in the Oregon Coast redwoods means choosing a day that’s rooted in adventure, beauty, and total connection. The forest is your altar, and the ocean is your soundtrack; your love story deserves nothing less.