A beautiful, low key elopement day featuring Brookings, OR on the Southern Oregon Coast and Redwood National and State Parks.
These two really took their elopement day and made it their own. There’s nothing more wonderful than seeing all the traditions ditched in favor of a day that fits the couple just right.
One of the first things they told me: they’re not big on dressing up. While they wanted photos in their dresses, they opted to spend most of the day in casual clothes. It’s a great reminder to focus on what you want and be less concerned with what’s traditional.
We started the day with a hike in Redwood National Park. Afterwards, we moved to their vacation rental for letters and gifts from family, and making matcha tea together. They even opted to help each other get ready (another non traditional event that I think everyone should consider). Our last stop was a beautiful overlook hike for their ceremony and sunset photos.
I can’t emphasize enough how relaxing and honest this elopement was. Every part felt genuine and there was no stress. It’s the kind of wedding day everyone deserves.
Photos from this elopement are featured on my winning Rangefinder 30 Rising Stars submission!
Redwood National Park Hike
Redwood National Park is a perfect place for stunning forest photos. There’s no forest like it! This unique park has particular rules to preserve the ecosystem.
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.
Make sure to keep to the trails because these old growth forests are delicate (I promise even the following photo is on trail). While it’s tempting to stand on top of fallen redwood trees, these are actually important ecosystems for young plants. Standing on the fallen trees prevent the plants from growing there.
Getting Ready and Gifts
There’s so many great ways to add extra meaning to your day. For these two, it was letters from family/friends (a loved one even made the jewelry they wore!), making matcha, and getting ready together. If you’re opting for no guests, having them record video messages or write letters is a great way to include them without having them physically present. Check out this blog for more information on how to include family whether near or far.
When you’re thinking of activities to add, think simple. What’s something you two love doing together? Maybe you love trying new coffee shops or taking your dog on a walk. While these seem simplistic, it’s actually a way to celebrate what you’ve built together. It will help you forget about the camera for more natural photos. The experience will feel more genuine and less of a show. This blog is packed with activity ideas from extravagant to simple.
First Look
Samuel H. Boardman Elopement Hike and Ceremony
The Southern Oregon Coast is the place to go if you want a private experience. We didn’t see anyone during this hike! Since the area is so isolated, there’s not as many visitors and it’s far easier to find privacy. It also helps that it’s probably the best part of the Oregon Coast. I have lots of resources for you if you’re interested in Brookings, OR and the surrounding area. This blog is packed with all the info you need to know to elope in Brookings and this one covers some of your epic location options.
Want to learn more about eloping in Brookings, OR? Check out these other resources!
