An Oregon Coast elopement featuring Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, Secret Beach, and Redwood National Park
This elopement is a perfect example of an experience based day featuring the most epic places on the Oregon Coast.
They started the day by getting ready together (an amazing way to break tradition, by the way). We had a good laugh about some of the decor choices of the vacation rental. Our next stop was Redwood National Park. This is a perfect early afternoon stop since the forest gets dark early. Next was the infamous Secret Beach in Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor. They wrapped up the day with a sunset picnic overlooking the beach.
Photos from this elopement are featured on my winning Rangefinder 30 Rising Stars submission!
Kind words from the couple:
Miki is amazing!! I could not recommend anyone higher. My husband and I were totally unsure of how we wanted to get married – we knew a traditional wedding didn’t suit us, but we also didn’t want to simply go to the courthouse either. We had no idea an adventurous elopement was even an option until we found Miki. The experience she creates is SO much more than photos. We had a well thought out, perfectly planned, romantic, relaxing, super fun day that we will never forget. Miki sent us a detailed timeline beforehand and coordinated all locations / meet up spots day-of. We were both a bit nervous, having never gotten photos before and thinking we would likely be in a public setting, but Miki made everything so natural and fun and we were totally shocked at how empty the gorgeous spots were that she took us to. She knows the southern OR coast like no one else!! During the day she even taught us little things about the wildlife we were seeing and the marine layer, what a fun little bonus! We would not do our wedding day any differently. And the PHOTOS. We picked Miki because we loved her style of pics, but she totally blew away our expectations. I still get goosebumps when I look at them. If you’re on the fence, I truly don’t see how anyone could regret the decision to elope with Miki… do it!!
Getting Ready Photos
Getting ready together is a trend I’d love to see grow. How sweet are these photos?? Many couples experience some anxiety early in the day and it’s usually because they have to stay hidden from their partner. These two didn’t experience the nerves because they spent the entire day together. Some couples opt for a solution in the middle: getting ready together until the outfits. Once it comes time for outfits, they’ll go in separate spaces so they can do the first look with the entire look.
Elopement Photos in Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park is one of the most awe inspiring forests to visit. When paired with the Oregon Coast, it gives you a massive diversity of photos.
Permit rules have been updated as of 2025. The park is now separated based on whether it’s a state or national park section (though all are under the Redwood National and State Park umbrella still). For more on rules for the national park section, check out this resource from NPS. For the state park sections, like Jedidiah Smith Redwoods featured here, you now need a $20 permit for any kind of photos. If you’re having a ceremony, you need an additional permit and liability insurance. Photographers need an additional permit via the California Film Commission to use any images taken in any capacity. This information is not currently available online and you will need to contact California State Parks to work out permits for your elopement. I was able to get the contact via contacting the federal Redwoods permit coordinator.
It’s also very important to know that live and dried florals are NOT allowed in the Redwoods to protect the forest from invasive species.
Secret Beach Elopement Photos
This iconic beach is perfect for elopement photos. Make sure to check the tides before visiting! This small beach is unsafe at high tide and some middle tides. I recommend visiting during off hours/seasons as it can get very busy.
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
When you’re planning your elopement, make sure you’re not planning a giant photo session. For my couples, we make sure to include hiking, picnics, vow exchanges, letters from family, and any other meaningful events for the couple. This day should so fun and special, not just a day where you took a bunch of pictures. These two spent this part of the day exchanging vows, having a picnic, and having their first dance on a foggy cliff.
35mm Film Elopement Photography
All of my elopement packages come with one roll of 35mm film. While 95% of galleries are in digital, that roll of film adds something special to the gallery. Here’s some of my favorites from these two’s day.
Dreaming of eloping on the Oregon Coast? Check out these other resources!
