The Pacific Northwest is truly one of the most breathtaking places in the world. There is everything from mountains and waterfalls to rocky coastlines and boutique cities surrounded by towering mountain ranges. Washington State is home to the same idyllic views and wonders that make this area so sublime. It is no wonder why people look to planning their own Washington state elopement in this place! However, before jumping straight into it, here are a few things to consider for how to elope in Washington State:
Weather
Eloping in Washington State can look like anything from a sunny wildflower field to a frozen tundra. It all depends on what vibe you want for your wedding day. The summer boasts warmer temperatures, sunnier skies and beautiful wildflowers while fall includes the beautiful fall colors and cooler temperatures. Winter is snowy and freezing but makes for gorgeous pictures and a cozy atmosphere.
Crowds also tend to dwindle down during the fall and winter months making it easier to find a secluded elopement location!
Location
These Washington state elopement locations are epic – check out the details below!
- Mt. Rainier is the most popular location, and for good reason! The stunning mountain and surrounding land is breathtaking. However, it is also the most crowded and you may need to opt for a post-peak season elopement or talk with your photographer about other secret spots!
- Olympic National Park is another beautiful place to elope in Washington. It holds the biggest variety of terrain allowing for a rainforest, beach or mountain elopement. It’s all up to you! Again, crowds flock here so finding a photographer that knows the area and can help direct you to a less crowded spot is ideal.
Both of these locations are at least a 2 hour drive from central Seattle so checking out VRBO or AirBnB is important to find a fun place to stay close to your location!
- Leavenworth Washington is a location that seems like you are stepping into a fairytale. It’s a Bavarian village that is filled with Alpine-style architecture and charming chalets, shops, breweries, and more. Surrounded by woods filled with magical hikes and cabins. The Cascade Mountains overlooking the small village. This is truly a fairytale getaway and elopement.
- Mt Baker offers an adventure to any elopement! There are multiple hiking trails that showcase the lush forests, peaceful lakes, and panoramic views of Washington State. You get the rocky mountains with glimmering snow tops that makes this elopement a memorable experience.
Other Details
In order to legally get married in Washington State you need an officiant and at least 2 witnesses. In addition you will need to have your marriage certificate. It is important if you are coming from out of state to take care of your certificate in your home state in advance in order to have it done and turned in on time. Being a destination elopement photographer, I’m actually ordained and can legally marry my couples if they choose to not have anyone else a part of their day!
All in all, Washington State is one of my favorite locations for an elopement and the pictures definitely are a testament as to why!
Things to Do in Washington State
Washington States offers adventures of all sorts! Hiking trails galore and other activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, skiing, bicycling, fishing, boating, and exploration of the woods and wildflowers.
Wildlife you may encounter
There are all sorts of wildlife that you would find in a state with grand forests such as bears, deer and elk, badgers, raccoons, rabbits, skunks, weasels, seals, whales, dolphins, foxes, coyotes, and various species of birds.
See more elopements on my Instagram! Or to see more from these epic elopements in Washington Sate, click the links below:
Lastly, you may be thinking “Are there elopement photography packages near me?”. I have good news for you – I’m your gal. As a Washington elopement photographer (really, a destination elopement photographer), there’s no added on travel fees for my packages anywhere in the U.S.
I’m so game to team up with you two for an incredible day.
>>PLAN YOUR OWN WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT<<
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