HOW TO ELOPE TO CANNON BEACH
Cannon Beach is one of the most popular places to get married in Oregon. While this isn’t the type of beach that a lot of people like swimming in (because it is quite chilly) this is the type of place that can wow just about anyone with incredible rock formations that amaze and sunsets that leave visitors awe inspired.
If you have ever considered eloping, here are some of the best places to do so in and around Cannon Beach.
Will and I specialize in helping couples plan the photography and timeline for their best days ever. In our 5 years as wedding photographers we have seen a trend rise up in elopements and intimate weddings. Why is this just now blowing up? Eloping is not a new concept.
The answer lies in the fact that this is the most self-aware generation to date, and self-awareness goes hand in hand with happiness.
I will disclaimer this post and say that people who have weddings that are traditional are still wonderful, and still amazing and there is SO much joy had in weddings, no matter what they look like! I am in no way bashing those who hold traditional weddings!
This post is mainly to show that couples should be allowed to hold the wedding they want, not what their family or friends decide for them. The happiest couples are always the ones who are the truest to what THEY want on their wedding, and my job is to help couples achieve that truest form of happiness, no matter how it manifests!
If you have ever given thought to wanting to have an elopement, but are unsure how to make that happen, here is a great resource on how to plan one! We SO hope it helps you!
PICKING A LOCATION
Hug Point
Hug Point State Park has easy access to the beach and offers local history and natural beauty. It's just five miles south of Cannon beach, and the secret nook has a beautiful forested picnic area and a walkway directly to the beach. It also has restrooms to make it convenient for any wedding party or ceremony being held there. There are caves, forested areas, and a beach waterfall you can access when the tide is out.
Ecola State Park Viewpoint
This state park offers a beautiful view of Haystack Rock. The Oregon Coast is famous for its rock formations along the beach. Many others can be seen from this viewpoint. This spot is a beautiful location for photos and your dream wedding. There are caves and plenty of forested areas that you can hike to for breathtaking views and backdrops of the Pacific Ocean. It's easy to access as well, making it a perfect location for anyone's big day.
Haystack Rock
One of the most spectacular features of the Oregon Coast is all of the rock formations anchored in the sand along the beach. Haystack Rock is one of the most famous formations and located at the main beach along the Oregon Coast. While this is one of the more popular areas for recreation and tourists, beach weddings are held there regularly as the rock formation provides beautiful scenery for photos and memories.
Planning your Ceremony
You don't need a permit for ceremonies under 50 people if you're headed to the Oregon Coast. Anything over that, make sure you are prepared with proper documentation.
If you want to add to the Oregon coast's natural beauty with a floral installation or archway, you will need a permit as well.
Get rid of any pre-concieved ideas about what your ceremony should be. Abandon the experiences that you have had that tells you a ceremony has to be a certain way. Now. Refocus. In what way would you want you and your love to share your commitments? Do you foresee exchanging gifts? Sharing thoughtful words? Sharing your commitment non-verbally through actions? What does commitment look like to you? How does commitment manifest itself in your relationship? What would it look like if you had never seen a wedding or been to a wedding ever?
THIS is a beautiful place to start with your partner and a fantastic way to make sure the day is authentic and meaningful for YOU.
Hire the Perfect Vendors
Carolyn Greenwood: Officiant/Celebrant
Instagram handle: @oregonbeachceremonies
Floral: Pacific Coast Floral Design
www.Pacificcoastfloraldesign.com
IG handle: @pacificcoastfloraldesign
The Ashers - Photographers
IG handle: ellieasherphoto
Secure a photogenic Airbnb
Ocean View Pet-Friendly Retreat
This stay offers the entire home with room enough for six guests. It features two bedrooms, and three bathrooms in a solitary location tucked away in the Falcon Cove Marine Protected Area. The home is surrounded by giant pine trees with beautiful views or the Pacific Ocean. There is also a nearby secluded beach that has easy access to spectacular hiking trails.
This studio in Cannon Beach offers room enough for three people. It is a studio apartment with two beds and one bath. You will have the entire home to yourself with a cozy gas fireplace, and a serene spa suite is perfect for a couples' getaway. You can walk around town for coastal shopping or head out for local delights in nearby restaurants. The vacation studio offers a combined living room, dining room, and bedroom space. There is also a patio so you can enjoy the ambiance of Cannon Beach before heading to snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night.
Stunning Ocean Townhome with Large Yard
Located in Gearhart, Oregon, this home boasts three bedrooms with six beds and two baths. This secluded home is just one mile from the beach and a short walk from Neacoxie Creek. Spend your getaway with seven of your closest friends and family exploring the beautiful open property. The kitchen is fully stocked for those looking for pancake breakfasts in bed or take a short walk up the road for pastries and coffee at the Pacific Way Bakery Cafe up the street. You have any activity you can dream up at your fingertips at this stay.
Arcadia Cottage Luxury Ocean View
Four friends can head up to this coastal dream of a stay at this two-bedroom, one-bathroom luxury apartment. It's just down the highway from Cannon Beach and has its own private drive. A large upper patio looks out on the trees and the ocean. The apartment even features a skylight along with an enormous writing desk to journal any and all adventures. You may never want to leave this beautiful coastal retreat.