Washington State Elopement Photography
Washington State Elopement Photography
Wondering how to plan your Washington elopement? I’ve got you!
Washington is one of the most geographically diverse states in the country, with mountains, deserts, rainforests, rocky coastlines, waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and more. Since I live here in Washington, I can tell you that it’s the perfect spot for an adventure elopement– no matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for!
These dramatic landscapes are the only backdrops that could do justice to your love story, which is why I moved to the PNW in the first place. I was obsessed with photos I had seen of couples in front of jagged peaks and moody lakes, and so my partner and I moved across the country so that I could be a Washington elopement photographer.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ELOPING IN WASHINGTON STATE…
THE WEATHER
If you’re hoping to hike through the mountains or see wildflowers, you’ll want to elope in late summer or early fall! Our winters and springs are great options for forest, beach, and lakeside locations– or a snowshoeing adventure.
THE LEGALITIES
Getting your marriage license is super easy in Washington! You can apply online and all you need to make it official is one ordained individual (like myself) and two witnesses (like two hikers that we might find on the trail!)
THE LOCATIONS
Western Washington is a paradise for elopements– we have just about everything you could want for your magical day, and it’s all within a few hours of Seattle. Scroll through the slideshow to see Olympic National Park, Mt. Rainier National Park, the North Cascades, Mt. Baker, Snoqualmie Pass, and much more.
READY TO MEET YOUR
WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER?
Hi, I’m Marla, and I’m so glad that you’re here considering a true-to-you wedding day here in the Pacific Northwest!
I’m a photographer for the couples who want a wedding day that feels like the real them; the couples that want gorgeous, timeless pictures to tell the whole story of their big day. Those who value fun and adventure, and are looking for a memorable, meaningful experience.
I’m here to guide you through this whole process– from choosing the perfect location to say your vows, securing permits, and crafting a timeline, all the way to that celebratory hug after you’ve leveled up from fiancé(e) to spouse.
Washington Elopement Location Guides
Best Elopement Planning Resources
How much coverage do you need for your elopement?
Depending on how much of your day you want captured (and trust me, the more, the better!) I recommend anywhere from 4 hours to 2 days.
Check out these sample timelines for some ideas of how quickly the day goes by when you’re designing your dream elopement day experience!
Full Day Washington Elopement Timeline
- 9:00 – marla arrives, J + M start their morning together with coffee on the porch
- 9:30 – J + M copy their vows into the vow booklets, marla starts photographing details
- 10:15 – J + M help each other get ready
- 10:45 – final getting ready/detail photos
- 11:00 – leave for lake crescent
- 2:00 – arrive, find perfect ceremony spot
- 2:15 – vows + ring exchange
- 2:30 – first kiss, champagne pop, sign the marriage docs!
- 2:45 – picnic lunch
- 3:15 – leave for hoh rainforest
- 4:30 – arrive + explore the hall of mosses, taking portraits amongst the trees
- 6:45 – leave for ruby beach
- 7:15 – arrive, read letters from loved ones
- 8:00 – golden hour portraits
- 8:40 – sunset
- 9:00 – coverage ends
Half-Day Washington Elopement Timeline
- 12:00 – marla arrives for details & getting ready photos
- 1:15 – first look outside cabin
- 1:30 – drive to trailhead
- 2:15 – arrive at trailhead
- 2:30 – begin our hike up, taking our time and stopping for photos along the way
- 4:00 – arrive at fire lookout
- 4:15 – ceremony
- 5:30 – head to the lake
- 6:00 – arrive with family & picnic
- 7:00 – golden hour photos
- 7:40 – sunset
- 8:00 – coverage ends
Washington Elopement Photography Packages
• Unlimited consultations & communication
• Customized location guide & timeline crafted around your needs
• Trusted vendor recommendations
• All travel fees
• A roll of photos shot on black and white film
• First sneak peeks delivered next day!
• A friend to hold your hand throughout this whole process, calm your nerves, fix your hair, and cheer you on.
PNW Elopement Pricing
All packages are customizable, and typically range between $5500-$10,000
Receive unlimited planning assistance, expert guidance and resources, personalized location recommendations, trusted vendor connections, timeline creation, help applying for permits, complimentary officiant services, a roll of black & white film photos, sneak peeks within 24 hours, a full gallery delivered online, printing rights, and a custom album design. Oh, and incredible memories of what will be one of the very best days of your life!
The Two Day
For those who can’t imagine their adventure being limited to just one day. Also the perfect option for those wanting family and alone time, or if you’re having a reception but still want the elopement experience!
The Full Day
Time enough for multiple locations and activities, this package lasts from getting ready through stargazing, and everything that happens in between. Recommended if you have any kind of reception!
The Half Day
My most popular package, since it can acommodate nearly any hike as well as some extras, depending on your vision. My recommended minimum for elopements with guests, so that you still get some you time!
The Mini
This package typically gives us enough time for getting ready photos and one other location, or time for a short hike. Typically centered around sunrise or sunset, this is perfect if you want short and sweet!
We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer for our wedding day. From capturing the intimate moments of our morning ceremony to hiking 7 miles with us and our family to Maiden Peak, she was there every step of the way, ensuring that every precious moment was beautifully preserved. Her dedication and enthusiasm were truly remarkable, and her photos perfectly encapsulate the love and joy of our special day. We are so grateful for her talent, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of our wedding day.
You *will* *not* regret choosing Marla to be your photographer. Highly recommended!!
WHERE ADVENTURE MEETS ROMANCE
Based in Seattle, available in Washington, Oregon, California, Utah, and beyond.