Adventure | Elopement | Nature | Intimate Weddings | Elopement Prep | Washington and Oregon Elopements
COUPLES choose elopements or intimate-weddings (micro-weddings) over the big, traditional NUPTIALS for A VARIETY OF reasons.
Many want to avoid the planning process with too many opinions, familial overstepping, and all the stress that comes along with the big wedding. Some couples just want the adventure experience, doing the things they mutually love. Hiking, climbing, heck even scuba diving, an elopement can be anything you want it to be. An intimate, just the two of us (and our officiant, photographer and maybe videographer) experience. Or a small group of the closest friends or family. There is something magical about eloping with your partner and being fully present. No divided attention, no last minute running around and coordinating with a bunch of vendors. Just you, your partner and the moment.
At the top of the list is often the financial burden. But while smaller, non-traditional nuptials can have a huge cost savings, I would say many couples are often reallocating funds to have the day of their dreams instead of limiting their options to entertain guests. Maybe you don't have a traditional venue, but you have airfare, lodging, permits, etc. to consider. In lieu of not paying for meals for 150 people you may or may not have seen in the last decade, maybe a helicopter ride to the top of a glacier is in the budget. Perhaps due to your small group size you can accommodate an all-expenses paid trip with excursions of a lifetime for you nearest and dearest.
That's not to say you can't do a very simple, budget-friendly elopement. A quick trip to the coast, no frills, and a photographer and you're set. There is an elopement and a photographer for every budget.
Regardless of the reason, all good adventures require a bit of planning. AND always practice LEAVE NO TRACE.
LOCATION CONDITIONS
Weather
You obviously want to be on top of daytime AND nighttime temperatures, common weather occurrences for the time of year, and terrain. But the basics to note are safety related. These are just some suggestions for mild to moderate hiking and not a comprehensive list, especially for more strenuous technical hikes or climbs. In much of the Pacific Northwest, we embrace the moody weather. Arm yourself with the mentality of leaning into all weather conditions, as it's out of your control. Your day is what you make it.
- CRAMPONS - These are critical for some locations in the between seasons. The times when the ground is still (or has just become) icy, but not several feet of deep snow. *note you cannot stow these in your carry-on bag* so you should pack them in your checked luggage, ship them ahead or purchase on arrival to your destination.
- HIKING STICKS - Not necessary, but if you're planning on hiking during your big day you will want to consider how your knees will feel at the end of the day. You know yourself and your limitations, so consider that when choosing your location. I would include these in your checked luggage as well.
- RAIN JACKETS - Hope for the best, prepare for the worst. Aside from being smart adventure preparedness, it's practical for protecting your wedding attire, hair and makeup. For the PNW especially, you want fully waterproof (not weather-resistant) and packable. But don't be discouraged by rain. It can make for some great photos if you let yourself enjoy it).
Of course weather is a super important consideration.But have you considered the local wildlife?
Many people miss this factor all-together. You want to be FULLY up to speed on what you may be encountering in nature.
Bears
If you're in bear country, you should equipped with bear spray, and be ready to use it. Get yourself up to speed on basic bear safety. Your photographer won't be able to do that on the fly in the event of a bear encounter gone wrong. In most of Washington, barring some remote sections of the upper North Cascades range, you will only encounter black and brown bears. A grizzly reintroduction program was approved in the North Cascades in 2024, though its extremely unlikely you will be in their territory.
- BEAR SPRAY - **you cannot travel by plane with bear spray** You can get bear spray in sporting good stores, gas stations and grocery stores near national parks, etc... There are regulations against using bear spray in some locations. Your photographer may bring bear spray if the location warrants this added protection.
Mosquitos and Ticks
Often extremely overlooked, and they can RUIN a good wedding day. In Washington, you can anticipate less mosquitos in most areas than many other places in the US. However, we are talking adventure. After the snowmelt in the mountains, you can expect swarms of the biggest mosquitos you have ever seen. And they are absolutely ravenous. And unfortunately, tick populations have been growing substantially with the rising temperatures in the state. Thankfully I have found the holy grail combination of ingredients to stave off the bloodsuckers.
- PERMETHRIN - Sawyer Application Fabric Pump Spray is the #1 way to protect against mosquitos (and ticks). This product is odorless after drying. Up to 2 weeks prior to the big day, lay out all of your clothing you will be wearing, outside or in a ventilated area like an open garage. You want to include shoes, socks, all of it. Spray until each item is slightly damp and allow to dry fully. The goal is to have as much fabric as possible pre-treated. *wedding dress disclaimer* Use at your discretion. If you choose to go this route, I suggest turning the gown inside-out and spraying the inner layer lightly, allow to dry in the sun and repeat without saturating. Alternatively you can pretreat leggings, socks and undergarments and even your veil.
- PICARIDIN - A mosquito and tick repellent for topical use. There are many brands, but I have had great success with Ranger Ready Repellents Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray with Scent Zero - Mosquito Repellent and Tick Spray. You can do spray, lotion or wipes with picaridin. I recommend using this on all exposed skin, including your hairline where I find mosquitos tend to feast.
- THERMACELL - This one is above and beyond. However, if you are a mosquito buffet on a normal occasion, you may want to up your game with one of these (I am a mosquito magnet and I wear this at Mount Rainier sessions regularly). **you cannot travel by plane with butane cartridges** If you choose to use one of these devices, arrange for the cartridges to arrive at your destination. Discuss this with your photographer who may be able to receive the cartridges and bring them to your elopement. This is the device I have and love, and it can clip to a backpack: Thermacell MR450 is my tried and true. It can also be purchased on Amazon.com.
FOOD & DRINK
When you think adventure elopement, you don't always think about the food and snacks that will not only get you through the day, but will be up to par with the expectations for an optimal wedding experience. If you have a small group, make sure to include options for all of them. Whatever you decide to bring, always follow Leave No Trace principles.
- SNACKS - If you're doing little to no hiking, or are driving to multiple locations, pack a cooler with charcuterie for protein. Take snack breaks on the road or at beautiful overlooks. Again, your photographer can help you coordinate this and may even be able to bring the iced cooler.
- CAKE - Breaking tradition doesn't mean you have to break with ALL traditions. Even if you're taking a longer hike, it might be smart to at least pack a cupcake. If you do have access to your car throughout the day, consider a mini cake to share while looking out at epic views of Mount Rainier or Mount Adams. Wherever you may be, the Pacific Northwest has endless breathtaking landscapes that will be a fantastic backdrop.
- MEALS.- Don't forget about substantial meals. Depending on the duration of your elopement, you may want to work in meals before and after rather than on the road. Maybe you have food ordered for pickup on the way back to your Airbnb or cabin in the woods. Or a private chef who will have a meal ready and waiting for you at the end of the day. Either way, make it special.
- DRINKS - Water obviously. LOTS of water. I recommend doing your research on alcohol restrictions at your chosen destination. Mini champagne bottles are a great way to celebrate. Just make sure to leave no trace and avoid the champagne spray which can negatively impact wildlife in the area.
