Yes! And: Things to consider if you want to get married at the Oregon Coast in colder months
I’ll get this out of the way first – YES, you can elope on the Oregon Coast in the winter months (November – March or so). In fact, I absolutely love it out there during this sleepier period. I’ve seen days in December, January and February that put the summer to shame as far as crisp, blue skies and gentle breezes. That said, there are a few things to think about if you’d like to meet me at the coast in the colder season.
What I love about the Oregon Coast in winter
Fewer people. Oregonians are hardy and we love to be outside in all conditions, but you’ll still find significantly fewer folks at the coast in fall and winter. If you’re really dreaming of a more private elopement, without having to book a space of your own, winter might be the perfect choice for you.
Dramatic weather. One of the reasons we all love the Oregon Coast is the sheer moodiness. Huge waves, big wet rocks, rolling clouds – it’s what makes the coast so special. And, it’s heightened in the winter. If you’re looking for windswept, stormy, surroundings, you’ll get it in the middle of the year.
Drivability. Much of Oregon’s jaw-dropping landscapes become subject to snow in the winter. Although there are ways to get to the mountains safely, snow at the coast is extremely rare. During the winter, most people prefer to drive west over east for safety reasons.
A few things to think about
Flexibility. Although I am often blessed with gorgeous winter weather at the coast, it’s not guaranteed. For photography sessions, I’ll always strategize with you to build in some buffers. We may need to flex around bad weather, which might mean moving your timeline a bit the day-of or, worst case, moving to the following day. Truthfully I LOVE shooting in the rain and it can be so romantic! If I end up moving a shoot, it’s almost always because the wind is intolerable.
You will almost surely get wet / sandy / muddy. You wouldn’t be here if you didn’t love a little adventure, but it still has to be said: Dress appropriately, and have a strategy for getting warm and dry quickly when you get back to your car.
Planning your winter elopement at the coast
The Oregon Coast is like no other, with its rugged cliffs, ancient forests, and vast stretches of sandy shoreline. The ever-changing weather only enhances its magic, turning the landscape into a breathtaking backdrop for intimate moments.
But it’s not just the scenery that makes the Oregon Coast special—it’s the rich history and character woven into its small towns. Places like Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Depoe Bay, and Yachats each have their own unique charm, offering cozy cafés, local art galleries, and laid-back dive bars to explore between outdoor adventures.
There’s a certain timelessness to the coast, where the rush of everyday life fades away, leaving only the connection between you and your partner.
To help understand logistics, I’ve compiled some important-to-know details over here. I also have a list of my very favorite locations, however if you’re not sure where you’d like to meet, I am always happy to hop on a call to help you decide!
