Sunrise Vows & Meadow Magic – An Intimate Elopement Near Bend, Oregon

There’s something deeply sacred about waking before the sun, lacing up your boots in the dark, and walking into the wild to say your vows as the world wakes up with you.

This intimate Central Oregon elopement near the Cascade Lakes was a quiet, stunning, and intentional celebration — the kind that makes you stop in your tracks and remember what it’s all about.

Whether you're just beginning to dream up your Oregon elopement or looking for hidden gems near Bend, this blog is part story, part guide — a love letter to what’s possible when you choose to do things your own way.

Why Sunrise Elopements in Central Oregon Just Hit Different

Central Oregon mornings are magical. The mountain air is crisp, the birds are just beginning to stir, and the soft alpine glow lights up the peaks like a painting.

For these two, we chose a serene lake and meadow near Bend, Oregon — quiet, tucked away, and perfect for a private first look. With the sun rising as they said their vows, the setting couldn’t have been more romantic.

Why sunrise?

• Fewer crowds (you’ll often have the entire trail or lake to yourselves)

• Soft, glowy light that makes every photo feel cinematic

• Cooler temps, especially if you’re eloping in the summer

• A chance to turn your day into an adventure from dawn to dusk

A Tiny Wedding in the Meadow – The Beauty of a Simple Ceremony

After some peaceful portraits at the lake, we drove to a hidden meadow near Sisters where their closest loved ones waited. Surrounded by Ponderosa pines and late-summer blooms, they exchanged vows in front of their families in a tiny, heartfelt ceremony.

No pressure. No performance. Just connection.

That’s what makes Oregon elopements so special — the space to be present, to move at your own pace, and to design a day that actually feels like you.

Tips for Planning an Elopement Near Bend or Sisters, Oregon

If you’re thinking about planning something similar, here are a few tips and insights:

1. Choose the right time of year
Late summer through early fall is often the best window for mountain elopements in Central Oregon. Snow has melted, the lakes are accessible, and wildflowers are peaking.

2. Wake up early — really early
Sunrise over the Cascades is worth the 4:00 AM alarm. Bring a cozy blanket, a headlamp, and some hot coffee to ease into the day.

3. Think about weekday options
If privacy matters to you, plan your elopement on a weekday. Trails and lakes are significantly quieter Monday–Thursday.

4. Pack light, but intentionally
A compact bouquet, a letter from home, or a family heirloom adds meaning without weighing you down.

5. Consider combining locations
Just like this couple did — start the day in the mountains or at a lake, and end it in a quiet meadow or forest for the ceremony. Central Oregon makes it easy to mix landscapes.

Want to Elope in Central Oregon? Here's How I Can Help

As a wedding and elopement photographer who’s hiked countless miles through the Central Oregon wilderness, I specialize in helping couples plan meaningful experiences rooted in the landscape.

I’ll help you scout the best locations, navigate permits and timing, and build a flexible, honest-to-you schedule that reflects your story.

If you’re dreaming of an Oregon elopement that feels slow, grounded, and wildly beautiful — I’d love to help bring it to life.

📸 Reach out here to start dreaming together!

Dramatic Cliffside Engagement at Manzanita – Oregon Coast Hidden Gem Guide

The Oregon Coast is no stranger to beauty, but some corners still feel like best-kept secrets. Manzanita, tucked quietly between the ocean cliffs and forested hills, is one of those places. For couples looking for a romantic, dramatic, and less-trafficked location for their engagement session, Manzanita is pure gold.

As an Oregon-based wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve explored a lot of this coast. But this session at the Manzanita cliffs? It had that wild, cinematic magic you just can’t replicate. We started somewhere epic, and then chased the last bit of sun down on the waterline along the beach.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the story behind this stunning shoot, share planning tips if you’re dreaming of your own session here, and offer helpful insights for crafting an Oregon Coast experience that feels like you.

A Hidden Gem Along the Oregon Coast

Unlike the busier towns of Cannon Beach or Newport, Manzanita offers a slower pace and quieter beauty. The cliffs north of town create an incredible backdrop—think dramatic drop-offs, tall pines, sea spray, and golden-hour glow. For this shoot, we timed our session to begin just before sunset, hiking up a short bluff trail for that sweeping view over the Pacific.

The wind? Yep. It was definitely a character in this shoot. But honestly, it added to the emotion and energy. Windswept hair, cozy embraces, laughter wrapped in blankets—it gave us all the mood.

Planning a Manzanita Engagement Session

If you’re considering Manzanita for your photos, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Timing is everything
Sunset light hits these cliffs beautifully. Aim to start your session about 90 minutes before golden hour so we can capture both sun-drenched and post-sunset images.

2. Pack for coastal chaos
Even in the summer, the Oregon Coast can bring surprises. Pack layers (sweaters, jackets, etc.), and bring extra shoes if we explore both the cliffs and the beach.

3. Avoid the crowds
Manzanita is already quieter than most towns, but weekdays are best if you want an even more intimate experience. Sunrise is also an option if you're open to an early wake-up call for that soft morning light.

4. Respect the land
Some of the most beautiful spots around Manzanita are accessed via short trails or pullouts. Please always stay on trail, leave no trace, and treat the land with care so others can enjoy it too.

What to Wear for Coastal Cliffside Photos

Here’s what worked really well for this couple:

• Flowy dresses that moved beautifully in the wind

• Neutrals and earth tones that complemented the rugged coast

• Layers—think cardigans, scarves, or a wool coat for snuggly moments

• Barefoot vibes when we headed down to the sand (it’s optional, but fun!)

I always offer outfit guidance and ideas ahead of time, so don’t stress—just come as yourselves, and we’ll create something beautiful together.

Why I Love Manzanita for Engagement Sessions

There’s a quiet intimacy here. It feels untouched and real—like a place where you can just be. For couples who want more than the expected, this stretch of coastline delivers something both grounding and cinematic. The cliffs. The waves. The ever-changing skies. It’s a place that invites real connection.

Want Your Own Oregon Coast Adventure?

If you're dreaming of a laid-back, nature-filled engagement session that feels true to you—I'm your person. Whether it’s Manzanita, Cape Kiwanda, Hug Point, or some off-the-map nook, I’d love to help you plan something meaningful and memorable.

Let’s make magic on the coast.
Inquire about your Oregon Coast engagement session →

Planning an Enchanting Engagement Session at Hug Point Beach Waterfall, Oregon Coast

Magic at Hug Point: A Dreamy Oregon Coast Engagement Session

If you’ve ever dreamed of a romantic, windswept engagement session by the ocean, with a hidden waterfall and rugged cliffs as your backdrop, Hug Point delivers the kind of magic you didn’t know existed. Just a short drive from Cannon Beach, this lesser-known gem is one of the Oregon Coast’s most scenic spots for photos and connection. This post is your go-to guide for planning the perfect engagement session at Hug Point, with location tips, timing advice, and a real session to spark your vision.

A Peek Into This Session

This couple embraced the Pacific Northwest wild, wind in their hair, salt on their skin, laughter echoing over the surf. We chased the tide, caught the golden glow of sunset, and ended the evening barefoot under a cotton candy sky. It was dreamy, intimate, and exactly what the Oregon Coast is meant to feel like.

Why Hug Point is Perfect for Engagement Sessions

Hidden just south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point combines everything couples love about the Oregon Coast: crashing waves, sandstone cliffs, tidepools, and yes, an actual waterfall cascading onto the beach. It’s peaceful, cinematic, and has just the right balance of adventure and intimacy. Whether you’re imagining bare feet in the surf or cozy moments wrapped in a blanket during golden hour, Hug Point sets the stage for stunning, emotional photos.

When to Plan Your Hug Point Engagement Session

Golden Hour is Pure Magic
For dreamy lighting, aim for a sunset session when the sun dips behind the Pacific and casts a golden hue over the cliffs and water. Just be sure to check the tide schedule, since Hug Point is only accessible during low tide.

Seasonal Tips
Spring and fall tend to offer the best balance of moody skies and manageable crowds. Summer is gorgeous, but more popular—if you go during that time, weekday evenings are your best bet for privacy.

What to Know Before You Go

• Check the Tides: Hug Point becomes inaccessible during high tide. Use NOAA’s tide chart to plan accordingly.

• Parking: There’s a small lot near the trailhead, but it fills quickly during peak season (arrive early).

• Footwear: Be ready to walk through sand and over rocks. Bring water shoes or go barefoot, depending on your comfort level.

• Weather: The coast can be chilly, even in summer. Bring layers!

How to Make Your Session Feel Unique

• Bring a Blanket: Great for cuddly moments and to stay warm.

• Outfit Ideas: Flowing dresses work beautifully with the wind and ocean; avoid heavy patterns. Neutrals and earthy tones blend naturally with the environment.

• Incorporate Your Story: Whether it’s a shared love of the ocean or a beach proposal story, weaving in personal elements always makes the photos feel more meaningful.

Tips from a Local Photographer (Me!)

As someone who has photographed up and down this coastline, Hug Point is one of my absolute favorite spots. If you’re considering it for your own session, here’s what I recommend:

• Choose a weekday for fewer crowds

• Bring a change of clothes in case you get wet

• Be open to movement, the best photos happen when you’re exploring and having fun

Want help planning your dream Oregon Coast engagement session? Reach out here and let’s create some magic together.

The Oregon Coast is full of hidden gems, but Hug Point is something special. If you’re looking for that perfect blend of romance, nature, and a touch of wild wonder, this spot might just be your place. Ready to plan your own oceanfront engagement? I’d love to guide you there.

Windy Sunset Engagement at Rowena Crest – A Columbia Gorge Adventure & Photo Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of an engagement session that feels like a movie, think wind whipping through your hair, golden light spilling across epic cliffs, and views that stretch for miles, then Rowena Crest is the place. Nestled high above the Columbia River Gorge, this iconic Oregon lookout is more than just a stunning backdrop. It’s a full-on adventure.

In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about planning a dreamy, wind-swept engagement session at Rowena Crest, from when to go, what to wear, and what to expect, plus a peek at one of my favorite couples who embraced the wild magic of this spot at golden hour.

Real Couple Spotlight: Embracing the Wind at Sunset

This Rowena session was pure poetry. We danced along the cliff’s edge, admired the wildflowers, soaked in the sun as it dipped below the hills, and let the wind guide us into those unposed, candid moments. Every single image felt alive — just like them.

If you’re looking for engagement photos that capture connection, movement, and a little edge of adventure, Rowena Crest is calling.

Why Rowena Crest Is an Unforgettable Engagement Photo Location

Rowena Crest is perched along the Historic Columbia River Highway, known for its dramatic horseshoe bend and panoramic views. But what makes it such a special engagement photo location?

• Epic Scenic Overlooks — The cliffs here give you that “top of the world” feel. It’s pure Oregon magic.

• Golden Hour Perfection — This spot lights up in warm tones at sunset, making for dreamy, cinematic lighting.

• Easily Accessible Adventure — Unlike some mountain views that require a hike, Rowena Crest is just a short drive with minimal walking.

• The Wind Factor — Yes, it’s very windy. But honestly? The wind adds so much movement and mood to photos, flowy dresses, hair in motion, and that sense of freedom and play.

When to Plan Your Engagement Session at Rowena Crest

Rowena Crest is beautiful year-round, but spring through fall is ideal for the best light and easier access. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Best Time of Year: Late April through October. Wildflowers bloom in early spring, while fall brings golden tones to the landscape.

• Best Time of Day: Golden hour, about an hour before sunset. The light at this hour turns the landscape into magic. Sunrise can also be gorgeous. Reach out and I can help you plan the perfect time based on time of year and weather.

• Weather: Expect wind! It’s part of the charm, but I always recommend dressing in layers and bringing backup hair ties (just in case).

What to Wear for Windy Engagement Photos

You want outfits that flow, move, and feel like you. My couples often lean into soft fabrics, earthy tones, and layers. Here are my go-to recommendations for Rowena:

• Flowy Dresses or Skirts – The wind adds beautiful drama to long hemlines.

• Neutral Earth Tones – Think rust, olive, tan, cream, and muted blues that blend with the natural palette.

• Comfortable Footwear – The terrain is uneven, so boots or sturdy sandals are a great choice.

• Layers – A cozy cardigan or jacket can help if the wind gets chilly, plus it adds texture to your photos.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Rowena Crest Session

• Make it a mini adventure – Plan a pre-session picnic, or stop for dinner in Hood River after your shoot.

• Stay flexible – If the wind is wild or a storm rolls through, we may pivot to a nearby sheltered spot. That’s the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge — so many options nearby!

• Trust the wild – The unpredictable weather and movement is part of the art. Some of the most magical frames happen when you surrender to it.

Thinking of a Columbia Gorge Engagement Session?

Whether you’re envisioning windswept cliffs, forested trails, or cozy waterfalls, I’d love to help you plan an engagement session that feels like you. Reach out here or check out more of my favorite Oregon engagement photo locations.

Engagement Session at Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

A Dreamy Oregon Coast Engagement at Samuel H. Boardman

If you’re dreaming of an adventurous engagement session on the Oregon Coast, there’s no better place than Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. With its rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views, sea stacks, and dramatic landscapes, it’s one of the most breathtaking engagement session locations in Oregon.

For couples who love epic scenery, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure, this Oregon Coast engagement session was the perfect combination of romance and wild coastal charm.

Whether you’re planning your own engagement photos at Samuel H. Boardman or simply looking for inspiration, this session is packed with stunning locations, outfit tips, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable shoot!

Why Choose Samuel H. Boardman for Your Engagement Photos?

Located along the Southern Oregon Coast, Samuel H. Boardman is a 12-mile stretch of protected coastline featuring massive sea cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush forests. Unlike some of the more crowded coastal spots, this area feels untouched and secluded—making it perfect for intimate engagement sessions.

Why it’s an amazing location:
✔ Dramatic ocean views & unique rock formations
✔ Variety of backdrops—from forests to beaches
✔ Gorgeous golden-hour & sunset lighting
✔ Less crowded than other more popular beaches
✔ Perfect for adventure-loving couples

Best time for photos: Sunset & golden hour give the softest, dreamiest light, while sunrise offers a quiet, misty ambiance.

Engagement Session Details

This engagement session was all about exploring the raw beauty of the Oregon Coast. The couple, wanted a session that felt authentic, adventurous, and reflective of their love for nature.

Session Highlights:

• Sunrise portraits on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean with fog rolling in

• Cozy moments on the beach with the waves rolling in

• Hiking through the coastal forest for dreamy woodsy shots

Their chemistry and natural connection made every moment feel effortless. These two were up for anything—barefoot beach walks, climbing rocks, and embracing the coastal wind for those truly cinematic engagement photos.

Best Photo Spots at Samuel H. Boardman:

There are so many incredible places along this corridor, but here are a few of the must-visit locations for an engagement session:

📍 Arch Rock Viewpoint – A stunning lookout over rugged sea cliffs with a perfect view of natural arches.

📍 Natural Bridges – One of the most iconic spots, featuring towering rock formations connected by natural bridges.

📍 Secret Beach – A hidden cove with golden sands, sea stacks, and the most intimate setting for beach photos.

📍 China Beach – A quiet, scenic beach that’s less crowded and has lush coastal backdrops.

📍 Whaleshead Beach – Known for its rolling dunes and epic ocean views, great for wide, scenic shots.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in peak season, arrive early to avoid crowds or plan for a weekday session for a more private experience

There are a few other more private locations with gorgeous views — reach out and let’s find the perfect spot for you!

Planning Your Samuel H. Boardman Engagement Session

If you’re considering an engagement session at Samuel H. Boardman, here are a few things to keep in mind:

✔ Permits: No photography permits are required for engagement sessions, but it’s always good to check for any updates.

✔ Accessibility: Some spots require short hikes or climbing over rocks, so bring comfy shoes and prepare for a little adventure!

✔ Best Time of Year: Spring & summer offer lush greenery & golden sunsets, while fall & winter bring moody coastal vibes with misty fog.

✔ Weather: The Oregon Coast is unpredictable—be prepared for wind, mist, and possibly even rain. Overcast skies make for dreamy lighting!

A Dreamy Coastal Engagement Session

Samuel H. Boardman is one of the most incredible places for engagement photos in Oregon. Its untouched beauty, wild landscapes, and intimate feel make it the perfect spot for couples looking to capture their love in an adventurous, natural setting.

If you’re dreaming of an Oregon Coast engagement session that’s breathtaking, timeless, and filled with adventure, let’s make it happen!

A Memorable Three Day Wedding Experience // Loloma Lodge, Oregon

An intimate weekend wedding in the Oregon mountains — create a memorable multi-day experience celebrating with your closest friends and family!

you won’t want to miss seeing ALL the moments from this three day wedding event — it is one of the most memorable experiences that I’ve had the honor of witnessing. Not only did each day have the most extravagant and stunning set up by the amazing Mae&Co, but the weekend was filled with intentional moments that will be memories savored for a lifetime — from the rehearsal dinner amongst the forest, to the dreamiest of wedding days, to hiking into the mountains and exploring an epic waterfall, each day was incredible in its own way.

Scroll through to see each unique day and get inspiration for your own intimate weekend experience! I’ve written a bit more at the bottom and included the vendors that made this weekend magic. Reach out about creating your own extended experience to celebrate!

ps. don’t miss each of the AMAZING uniquely designed and styled meal set ups —

DAY 1 // A rehearsal dinner with wine tasting at golden hour and playing games with the forest views. The joy and laughter was shared as loved ones from far away gathered and reconnected. A chic 70s bohemian dinner space was set for the evening of dining and dancing!

DAY 2 // The wedding day. The magic of this day is hard to describe, the warmth and the calm of the day was unmatched! The stories from this day are endless — from the first look amongst the tall forest trees, to saying their vows under a flower canopy, to an incredibly unique modern dinner setting, to speeches that brought me to tears, and of course dancing into the night!

DAY 3 // A farewell brunch, with yet again another gorgeous table design and set up! After a final goodbye to friends and family, we set out to explore a stunning Oregon waterfall. A day after adventure is a great way to have a bit of quiet time after busy celebrations, and get some time in an epic location.

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It’s hard to sum up how meaningful this weekend was, it reminded me how important setting a space and creating experiences are — to slow down in a celebration that most of the time moves so quickly, and create space to really BE with the people you love and experience the joy of the moment to its fullest. I cannot recommend a weekend wedding enough. Whether its a full venue space you use, or even just renting a big airbnb for a few days — invite your family and closest friends and take the time to truly revel in all the time together! You won’t regret it. It was an honor to join along in these days, and leave feeling like close friends is a gift I won’t ever take for granted.

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The incredible team that brought this weekend to life —

DESIGN & PLANNING& STYLING // Mae&Co Creative
VENUE // Loloma Lodge, Oregon
FLORALS // Color Theory Design Co.
RENTALS // The Party Place, Lily & Cane, RPS Events, Nuage Designs
PHOTO // Corrie Mahr Photo
VIDEO // Films by Stanton
PAPER GOODS & SIGNAGE // Wildhouse Ink
BAR // Public Provisions & The Swig Rig
CATERING & FOOD // Tournant & White Pepper PDX & S’mores 1927
DJ // Prestige Sounds / NW
HAIR & MAKEUP // @makemeupcyn

REHEARSAL DINNER DRESS // Christian Siriano
CEREMONY DRESS // Zuhair Murad
RECEPTION DRESS // Galia Lahav
RECEPTION JACKET // Fabrics Tattoo
GROOM OUTFIT // Bespoke & Co.

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Golden Hour on the Columbia Gorge // Delaney & Brenna

GOLDEN HOUR HANG OUTS AND CAPTURING PHOTOS ON THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE — PURE MAGIC.

THESE TWO. Joy joy joy.

Do you ever meet people and feel like you’ve been friends forever? Yep, that was Brenna and Delaney for me. 100%. They are pure joy and full of kindness, oh and also HILARIOUS. We all laughed… so. much. I’m grateful for people who meet me and trust me to see their true selves. It’s an honor to share in a piece of your stories.

Enjoy all the golden goodness that we got to experience on the Columbia River Gorge!

PS. Starting this blog with a little black and white series of images that, I feel like, gives the perfect glimpse into our whole evening together!

xx

Woodsy, Cabin Wedding // Wes Anderson Inspired

A magical cabin wedding in the Central Oregon Forest at Loloma Lodge WITH Wes Anderson Inspiration? Just A DREAM.

I hit it off with these two right from the start — their souls were so inviting and so open to the stories they’ve carried together; so when their woodsy wedding day arrived, documenting it all as each moment unfolded was effortless and magical.

I still feel the warmth and emotion through each and every photo, a joyous summer day with so much intention and love poured out into each and every minute!

You can also scroll to the bottom to check out all the vendors.

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THE VENDOR TEAM //

The Florals // Color Theory
The Venue // Loloma Lodge
The Dress // Emmy Mae Bridal
The Suit // Indochino
The DJ // Higher Ground Entertainment
Baked Goods // sweet life patisserie
Catering // Taco Pedaler PDX

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