Chris Brodell
Sunrise elopement on the Oregon Coast
Sunrise elopement on the Oregon Coast

Weddings

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20 Beautiful Outdoor Wedding Venues in Portland

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Six months of the year Portland is a rainy, down right gloomy place but when summer time hits the sunshine lights up the city and warms my soul. I’ll take any chance to be outside and as a wedding photographer there’s nothing I love more than natural light and beautiful spaces. With so much rain, the wedding scene is well prepared for indoor wedding ceremonies and there are so many beautiful halls to get married in. If you’re like me though and you love sunshine, here’s a list of some of the best outdoor wedding venues (and places that have outdoor ceremony options) in the Portland, Oregon area (updated for 2024).

Exchange Ballroom

Eastside Exchange, 123, NE 3rd Ave.
Portland, OR 97232
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 9 minutes.

The Eastside Ballroom is located on the east side of the Willamette River and it’s Cascade Rooftop over looks the Downtown Portland skyline. If the weather is right, the rooftop makes for the perfect setting for your Portland wedding. The rooftop can accommodate 150 people and works great for smaller ceremonies or cocktail hours. Afterwards you and your guests can transition into the Exchange Ballroom for an evening of fun.

(503) 334-8624

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Ecotrust Rooftop Terrace

721 NW 9th Ave. Suite 20
Portland, OR 97209
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 9 minutes.

Another rooftop wedding venue because who doesn't love a rooftop? The Eco Trust Rooftop Terrace is a beautiful setting for smaller events but can also accommodate up to 150 people for a ceremony and dinner or 225 for a cocktail style reception. There's a wood burning fireplace, a wet bar, and an indoor atrium. On top of all that you will also be supporting a wedding venue with a social and environmental mission.

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Blockhouse

1988 NW 18th Ave.
Portland, OR 97209
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 10 minutes.

Blockhouse is an intimate event space somewhere between secret garden and private greenhouse. If you’re planning on a smaller wedding, depending on your event style, Blockhouse can accommodate 48 people but can increase to 60 people for fully seated events and 75 for cocktail style. There is also the option of adding more space by renting the beautiful Pomarius Nursery next door. If you love plants and want a wedding focused on intimately connecting with your guests, Blockhouse is for you.

(971) 271-7636

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Crystal Springs Rhododenron Garden

5801 SE 28th Ave.
Portland, OR 97202
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 12 minutes.

Crystal Springs is a favorite place of mine. In the Spring my niece and I walk to feed the ducks and look for cute little ducklings. The gardens also make for a lovely wedding venue. Ceremonies at the garden can take place on the meadow overlooking Crystal Lake or in the woodland site surrounded by old growth rhododendrons.

Check out photos from a Crystal Springs Rhododendron wedding here.

(503) 975-6743

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Lewis and Clark College

0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd.
Portland, OR 97219
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 12 minutes.

Named one of America’s most beautiful campuses, Lewis and Clark College is an incredible Portland wedding venue. The Fir Acres Estate Gardens, with it’s wisteria arbor terrace and reflection pool, are beautifully landscaped and remind me of something right out of a 20th century period piece.

(503) 768-7000

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Peninsula Park

700 N Rosa Parks Way
Portland, OR 97217
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 13 minutes.

Peninsula Park is Portland's oldest rose garden and with it's historic gazebo makes a beautiful location for a simple outdoor wedding ceremony Portland. Both the rose garden and the gazebo are available for a 2 hour rental through the Parks & Recreation Department. Following your ceremony, have your reception at one of the park's picnic sites or take your reception to one of Portland's many tasty restaurants.

Check out photos from a Peninsula Park Wedding here.

(503) 823-2525

Website

Wedding Ceremony at Peninsula Park in Portland, Oregon

Waverley Country Club

1100 SE Waverly Dr.
Portland, OR 97222
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 14 minutes.

I've never wanted to take up golf more than when I first saw the grounds at Waverley Country Club. The club has one of the nicest stretches of riverfront property there is in Portland and what better place to enjoy it than by celebrating your wedding there on a warm summer evening. Waverley offers a classic, elegant aesthetic with a crisp-white clubhouse, stunning interiors, and professional club-level service.

(503) 654-6521

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Photo Credit: Waverley Country Club

Photo Credit: Waverley Country Club

Rossi Farms

3839 NE 122nd Ave
Portland, OR 97230
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 15 minutes.

Rossi Farms is a fifth generation working farm located within Portland city limits. The farm features a beautiful barn that doubles as a reception hall and indoor ceremony site, as well as a large lawn, and vintage homestead homes.

(503) 253-5571

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Cathedral Park

6635 N Baltimore Ave.
Portland, OR 97203
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 16 minutes.

What better way to get married in Bridge City than under one of it’s most iconic spans. Cathedral City Park is located on the eastern banks of the Willamette River underneath the St. John’s Bridge. Named after the gothic cathedral-like arches, the park is a unique and popular wedding location. Couples have their choice of exchanging vows on the steps below the bridge or in the amphitheater on the edge of park.

(503) 823-7529

Website

Unfortunately the staircase and deck at Cathedral Park are unavailable in 2024 due to bridge construction.

Leach Botanical Garden

6704 SE 122nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97236
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 23 minutes.

Once the residence of a local botanist and pharmacist couple, this 16 acre property was left to the City of Portland. Today the garden is home to many northwest native plants and is the perfect place for your garden wedding. Outdoor ceremonies take place on the East Terrace next to the beautiful Carriage House.

(503) 823-1671

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Outdoor Wedding Venues near Portland

If you’re open to traveling outside of the immediate Portland metro area the options for wedding venues with outdoor ceremony setups are wide open. You can pretty much take your pick of Oregon landscapes within an hour drive of the city. Whether you’re looking to tie the knot under a canopy of trees, say I do in front of Mt. Hood, or exchange vows on a farm the possibilities are endless. These are my favorite wedding venues outside of Portland with beautiful outdoor setups.

Langdon Farms

24377 Airport Rd. NE #3
Aurora, OR 97002
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 23 minutes.

I don’t often think of golf courses when I consider wedding venues but Langdon Farms is so much more than the location for your next tee time. As a wedding venue, Langdon Farms has multiple outdoor ceremony locations to pick from. Their Orchard location has an old Sycamore tree to provide shade on a summer day and features a rustic, white barn. Langdon Farms is a bit of countryside just outside of the city.

(503) 776-5211

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Abernethy Center

606 15th St.
Oregon City, OR 97045
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 24 minutes.

Abernethy Center has it all. The venue has two beautiful garden spaces for outdoor weddings, a classic white wedding chapel, and an elegant ballroom to boot. Abigail’s Garden features a white gazebo underneath a beautiful weeping willow and a spacious reception tent. The Veiled Garden and Abernethy Chapel are great options to consider as well.

Check out photos from an Abernethy Center wedding here.

(503) 722-9400

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Vernonia Springs

54658 Nehalem Hwy S
Vernonia, OR 97064
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 40 minutes.

Vernonia Springs is a private park, glamping campground, and beautiful wedding venue all in one. It’s the perfect setting for a wedding weekend with friends and family. The large property has hiking trails, a small lake, plenty of yurts, and of course all you need to have a wedding ceremony and reception.

Check out photos from a Vernonia Springs wedding here.

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Bridal Veil Lakes

Henderson Rd.
Corbett, OR 97019
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 40 minutes.

Old growth forests, lush greenery, wildflowers, and a spring fed lake. Bridal Veil Lakes is a serene, dreamy, wedding venue that feels like a summer getaway in the countryside. Your guests are going to love this enchanting spot. Oh, did I mention there are canoes?!

(503) 981-3695

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Wonser Woods Estate

24250 S Raney Ln
Estacada, OR 97023
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 43 minutes.

Wonser Woods Estate is 622 acres of Oregon natural beauty. The venue can do it all from intimate indoor weddings to large outdoor celebrations. The estate has several outdoor ceremony options from beautiful lawns, rose gardens, or acres of Christmas Trees and wine grapes. Take advantage of their massive outdoor tent and their outdoor fire pit for your evening reception under the starry sky.

(503) 260-3703

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Clackamas River Farm

26700 SE Samuels Rd.
Eagle Creek, OR 97022
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 44 minutes.

Clackamas River Farm is, you guessed it, on the banks of the Clackamas River. The 45 acres of peaceful property has a 130 year old Victorian Farmhouse, a big red barn, and a garden full of flowers. The venue only books one event per weekend leaving couples ample time to setup and enjoy the property.

(503) 784-9965

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The Oregon Garden

879 W Main St.
Silverton, OR 97381
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 55 minutes.

The Oregon Garden is an 80 acre botanical garden with 20 themed specialty gardens sure to provide beautiful backdrops for your outdoor wedding. Beyond the manicured gardens, the venue features a classic white gazebo, a beautiful refurbished barn, and ballroom. The Bosque and Market Garden spaces perfect for summer ceremonies and magical evening receptions.

(503) 874-8100

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The Griffin House

The Griffin House, Westcliff Dr.
Hood River, OR 97031
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 58 minutes.

Wedding ceremonies at The Griffin House take place on the spacious lawn with sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge below. The property has a beautiful house for getting ready and the large lawn accommodates a covered tent for receptions.

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The Orchard

2124 Highway 35.
Hood River, OR 97031
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 1 hour and 8 minutes.

Ceremonies at The Orchard, a working pear farm in Hood River, take place on an open lawn with a magnificent view of Mt. Hood. Receptions take place in their open side barn which helps protect against wind but still lets the mountain put on a show. This spot is a bit of a drive from Portland but too magical to skip.

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Noble Ridge Tree Deck

1212 Snag Mountain Rd.
Washougal, WA 98671
Drive time from Downtown Portland: 1 hour and 9 minutes.

Holy smokes this place is cool! If you love the Redwood Deck at the Hoyt Arboretum but were hoping to have a ceremony with more guests, this is your spot. Following your forest ceremony, you and your guests can enjoy the view from the wedding lawn before transitioning back to the deck for an evening in the treetops. Since the the deck is at 2500’ elevation their event season is mostly limited to July through September.

(360) 772-1478

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About Chris Brodell

I’m a wedding and portrait photographer based in Portland, Oregon. I’ve been photographing weddings for over a decade and I love what I do. Documenting milestone moments in my client’s lives is such a rewarding job and I love sharing my experience and resources whether it’s about wedding venues, timeline tips, or fun things to do in Portland.

My wedding coverage starts at $2800. Check out my wedding packages here.

Mention this article and receive $200 off your photography at any Portland wedding venue.

Check out more of my wedding photos or learn more about me here.

Complete the form below with any questions you might have

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Cannon Beach Elopement Guide

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I put together a comprehensive guide on where, when, and how to elope at Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast (Updated for 2023). Intimate weddings and adventure elopements are becoming more popular these days but picking your special place and coordinating how to do it isn’t always easy. There are so many wonderful, beautiful places to elope in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest but none easier than Cannon Beach. Below you will find some location tips for your Cannon Beach wedding ceremony, recommendations for what times are best, and suggestions for places to celebrate afterwards.

Learn more about my elopement photography packages here and see more of my wedding work here.

Cannon Beach Elopement Packages

4 hours: $2800| 6 hours: $3200

6 hours + Essentials (Bouquet, etc.): $4000

Unlimited photography planning and consultation for your day.

Includes my travel to and from Portland.

Final, Edited High Resolution Digital Files and Full Printing Rights.

Book Now

Where to elope at Cannon Beach

CHAPMAN POINT

This is one of my favorite places to elope at Cannon Beach. Located on the northern stretch of the beach, across from Ecola Creek, is Chapman Point. Depending on the tide you can access the cove at the tip of Chapman Point which can be a quiet place for your ceremony. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can scramble up the rocks and have your ceremony on the bluff above. There is a small parking lot with a restroom on 5th St and for closer access to the point there is a small amount of street parking on Oak St. Thanks to its distance from the more popular areas of Cannon Beach, Chapman Point can sometimes be a little less busy.

Cannon Beach Elopement

HAYSTACK ROCK

The focal point of Cannon Beach is undoubtedly Haystack Rock and what better place to get married than at the base of it. Getting close to the mammoth sea stack is a short walk from either the town of Cannon Beach or a slightly longer walk from Tolovana. Both of these areas have ample parking and access to restrooms. The most convenient public parking is located at the intersection of S. Hemlock St. and E. Gower Ave. Once parked you can walk down Gower Ave. to Ecola Ct. and get right on the beach. To get even closer to the big rock you can head further south down S. Hemlock St. but services (parking and restrooms) are tricky.

Cannon Beach Elopement couple walking in front of Haystack Rock

SILVER POINT

At the southern end of Cannon Beach is a location called Silver Point. It’s a rocky stretch of beach with a smaller, yet still impressive sea stack. This part of the beach is definitely not as popular as the other spots and is a little tricky to access but it could be the perfect place for your elopement. Use Google Maps to find a side street that has access to the beach otherwise be prepared for a long walk on the beach from Tolovana.

HUG POINT

This isn’t technically Cannon Beach but it does deserve a mention. Drive south down Highway 101 about 10 minutes and you'll find a small state park called Hug Point. It’s a beautiful rocky part of the coast with craggy ledges and coastal caves. There is a small parking lot that fills up fast in the Summer months and restrooms are on site too.

Elopement couple being cozy at Hug Point State Park

Ecola State Park

The view from Ecola State Park is breathtaking (and if you’re a fan of the Goonies probably familiar). It looks down on to Crescent Beach with Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock in the distance. Depending on the size of your elopement and what you’re looking for it could be great. There is a decent sized parking lot that is $5 for the whole day. Unfortunately due to erosion some of the lookouts and several of the trails are closed.

Elopement-Location-Mockup.jpg

Bonus Locations and TIPS

When you hire me to photograph your Cannon Beach Elopement, you will receive a full list of North Oregon Coast locations which includes photos and videos of each ceremony location, info about accessibility, and other helpful tips.

When to have your ceremony

The best time to elope at Cannon Beach is definitely during the week and in the morning or early evening. Cannon Beach in the Summer is a busy place and unless you want your wedding party to include hundreds of out-of-towners it’s best to stick to the weekdays. Exchanging your vows in the morning or early evening can work lovely for photos too as light is at it’s best. Be sure to check sunrise and sunset times and work with your photographer to pick the best time for photos.

Another important thing to keep in mind is what the ocean will be doing when you’re out there. Be sure to check the weather forecast as well as tide tables. At low tide you can access some pretty great places especially near Haystack Rock and Chapman Point but conditions can change quick so be safe out there!

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Weather

The Oregon Coast can be a wet place. All that moisture is what makes Oregon so lush and magical (did you know there are 238 waterfalls in Oregon?!). It also means that there is a good chance your wedding vows may get a little soggy. Embrace it! If you’re looking for sunny beach weather, you might not get it. However, picking a wedding date in July, August, or September will probably increase your chances of sunshine. These are the driest, warmest months of the year but also the most popular. If you do luck out and get a sunny day, avoid having your ceremony in the afternoon when light is at its strongest. Nobody wants squinty photos in hard light and on a warm sunny day that sand gets hot!

Engaged couple holding each other closer on Cannon Beach in Oregon
Bride and Groom snuggling driftwood log at Cannon Beach
Sunset portraits of bride and groom on Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach Wedding Permits

Unless you’re planning on having a big wedding ceremony (more than 50 guests) you probably won’t need a special use permit for your Cannon Beach elopement. Most intimate gatherings that don’t prohibit the public from also accessing the area are in the clear. That being said review the rules by Oregon State Parks and see if they may apply to you and your wedding.

If you plan to use tables, chairs, or any structures that require assembly with nails or screws you will need a permit. However, if you work with an expert like Pacific Coast Floral Design they can help design a ceremony structure that may not need a permit.

Cannon Beach Wedding Photos

Check out some of my recent work and get inspired for your wedding!

Vendor Recommendations

Cannon Beach and the Portland metro have some amazing wedding vendors from hair and makeup artists, florists, and officiants. Below are some of my personal favorites who are sure to make your day beautiful and stress free.

Cannon Beach Wedding Officiants

You may have the perfect, most well spoken friend who comes to mind immediately when thinking about your wedding day. That’s so awesome! Alternatively, you might want a professional to take care of all the logistics. Zachary of Old Ways Ceremonies, Carolyn of Oregon Beach Ceremonies, and Emily of Rooted and Wild are all wonderful officiants who help couples create ceremonies that are authentic and unique. They’re well-versed in elopements, the Oregon Coast, and Oregon marriage law.

Cannon Beach Wedding Hair and Makeup

The Union Knot is a full service bridal salon that specializes in bridal hair and makeup. They’ll have you looking your best on your wedding day.

Tiffanie Chante' is also a very experienced hair and makeup artist located in Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach Florists

Nicole at Pacific Coast Floral Design makes incredible bridal bouquets inspired by the Oregon Coast. They offer a variety of beautiful, colorful, and fun arrangements for your day. Her team can also assist you with wedding ceremony structures.

Robin of Anderson Florists is located in Tillamook but works in the Cannon Beach area regularly. She can provide bridal bouquets for elopements or full service floral design for larger beach weddings.

Cannon Beach Wedding Catering & Dining

After your perfect day at the beach you’ll probably be hungry and ready to celebrate over a good meal and drinks.

For smaller elopements and micro weddings, I highly recommend The Bistro in Cannon Beach. Chef Jack and JJ are the sweetest people to work with and make incredibly tasty food.

If you want to stay on the beach for a smaller meal or if you are interested in a full-service intimate dinner at your beach house rental, Sage Bleu Catering can work with you to create an unforgettable experience.

Don’t forget desert! For more traditional Cannon Beach weddings or for some elopement sweets, check out Cannon Beach Bakery. They are a full service bakery that’s been operating for over 80 years.

Cannon Beach Hotels

Thinking about staying the night or making a weekend out of it?

If you’re looking for a romantic place to unwind, here are a few places that are worth checking out:

Portrait of Bride and Groom following wedding ceremony at Cannon Beach

Additional Resources

Still not convinced that Cannon Beach is the place for you? Check out some other locations and tips on when and how to elope in Oregon.

About Chris Brodell

I’m a wedding and elopement photographer located in Portland, Oregon. I photograph weddings and elopements in both the Pacific Northwest and the SF Bay Area in a candid and photojournalistic style and create images that are full of love, light, and vivid colors. To learn more about pricing and my approach, visit my adventure elopement photography packages below or complete the contact form.

Now Booking 2023 Cannon Beach Elopements

Complete the form below and I will get back to you within 24 hours. Please let me know if your date is fixed or flexible and I can share my availability with you. I can’t wait to hear from you!

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Best Places to Propose in Portland

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Portland is full of beautiful and romantic spots perfect for popping that big question. Whether you and your loved one live in Portland or you’re just visiting for the weekend, these are some of the best places to propose in Portland, Oregon. From unique city parks to scenic viewpoints, one of these locations is sure to inspire your marriage proposal plans.

Where to Propose in Portland

1. Redwood Deck

The Redwood Deck in Hoyt Arboretum is a beautiful wooden deck surrounded by tall trees and nature. The deck is relatively private, depending on the season and day of the week, and makes for an intimate and peaceful place in the forest. It’s the perfect place to go for an easy nature walk and take a break and pop the question on the deck.

To get a sense of the space, check out this small wedding I photographed there.


2. Rose Garden 

Like the Redwood Deck, this location is also in Portland’s Washington Park. The International Rose Test Garden is home to a huge amount of roses, more than 10,000 blooms! Typically the garden is in bloom from May to October. Just about anywhere here would make for a romantic proposal but keep in mind that this is a popular destination among tourists so you might end up in a few tourist photos.

Cathedral Park under the St. Johns Bridge

3. Cathedral Park

Cathedral Park, located under the St. Johns Bridge in North Portland, is one of the more unique city parks in the city. The bridge columns create such a cool atmosphere with scale and depth.

Unfortunately due to bridge construction the staircase and deck may be impacted throughout 2022. I’d recommend visiting the park before moving forward with your plans.

4. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

This garden and city park is one of my favorite parks nearby and one of my favorite wedding venues in Portland. It’s 9.5 acres are full of Pacific Northwest flora and fauna and the space is perfect to find a private little nook to propose.

Photo credit: Portland Aerial Tram

5. Portland Aerial Tram

In practice this one might be a little tricky but I think it’s worth the mention just because it’s fun. The Portland Aerial Tram goes between the OHSU medical campuses and treats travelers to beautiful views of the city and Mt. Hood. It’s a four minute trip so you’ve got to be quick!

Unfortunately the tram is closed currently due to covid.

6. Holman Swim Dock

The Holman Dock is located just south of the Hawthorne Bridge and can be accessed via the Eastbank Esplanade. It’s a great spot to get down to the water and have the twinkly city lights from downtown set the romantic mood.

7. Portland Spirit

Set sail on the Willamette River with a sightseeing or dinner cruise on the Portland Spirit.

Want something a little more private on the river? Book a Yacht Tub…it’s a hot tub boat.

Foggy sunrise on Mt. Tabor in Southeast Portland

8. Mt Tabor

Mt Tabor Park is natural gem in the middle of Southeast Portland with dense forested areas and nice views of the city at the top. What I also love about Mt Tabor is that you can find your own little quiet spot to have a picnic and propose.

9. Portland City Grill or Departure

For that classic restaurant proposal with city views, Portland City Grill is the perfect spot. It’s located on the 30th floor of Big Pink in Downtown Portland. Another option is the rooftop of Departure.

10. Waterfall Proposal

Multnomah Falls is the largest waterfall in Oregon and probably the first waterfall that comes to mind as a breathtaking spot for a waterfall proposal. It’s a popular attraction though but definitely worth considering if you're ok with a few onlookers.

Latourell Falls isn’t too far away from Multnomah Falls but often feels a lot less busy. The coolest thing about Latourell is it’s an easy walk from the parking area and you can walk right up to the bottom of the falls for a misty, windy, romantic marriage proposal.

Abiqua Falls is located about 1.5 hours outside of Portland and it’s truly a unique experience. Getting down to the waterfall usually involves a bit of rappelling down a rope but once you’ve arrived you’ll be in a breathtaking rock amphitheater.

Marriage Proposal at Hug Point State Recreation Area

11. Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is a magical place and a favorite weekend destination for many Portlanders. There are countless beaches and scenic viewpoints that I think would work great as the setting for your marriage proposal. Haystack Rock, Ecola State Park, or Hug Point are just a few places near Cannon Beach that would be perfect.

Check out some photos from this Hug Point proposal I helped coordinate.

12. Vista House

The Vista House is a beautiful location and has sweeping views of the Columbia Gorge.

13. Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Each Spring the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm transforms into a scene straight out of Holland with fields full of colorful tulips and if you’re lucky a view of Mt. Hood. They even have a wooden windmill too. It’s a beautiful place to visit and a perfect spot to propose. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop a ride on a hot air balloon and propose in mid air!

14. Mt Hood 

Trillium Lake is one of the most easiest viewpoints to access, at least in the summer months.

Timberline Lodge puts you higher up on the mountain and provides a great place for celebratory meal afterwards.

If you and your partner are hikers, you can get stunning views of Mount Hood from the Timberline Trail near the Top Spur trailhead.


Portland Proposal Ideas

While any of the above Portland locations would make for a beautiful place to propose, I think the best location is the one that is most meaningful to you and your partner. Maybe that location is at your favorite park or maybe it’s just in your own backyard.

Proposal picnic setup on Cannon Beach

1. Plan a picnic

Many of these Portland places would work great for a picnic spot. Team up with your friends or family to set up a little magical spot beforehand and put together some of you and your partners favorite snacks. “Stumble” upon it while you’re taking a neighborhood walk and I’m sure your partner will love it.

2. Revisit your first date

A great proposal idea is to revisit your first date location. Head to that coffee shop where you first met, your old high school, etc. If you met out of state, try to include significant pieces that remind you of that first impression.

3. Take a hike

If you and your partner love the outdoors, you probably also love hiking to scenic vistas and taking in the view. Luckily in the Pacific Northwest we have no shortage of impressive nature nearby. You could include a picnic in this one too or even include your friends and family all waiting at the viewpoint when you arrive.

4. Scavenger hunt

If you’re feeling a bit more creative, design a scavenger hunt around the city that your partner will enjoy solving or include their friends and assorted activities along the way which all lead back to you.

Portland Proposal Photographer

Need some help documenting your perfect Portland marriage proposal? Contact me and we can work together. Since proposals are a unique, personal experience I recommend you come ready with a plan. I’m then happy to provide feedback as it relates to photography.

Oaks Pioneer Church Wedding

I finally had the opportunity to photograph a wedding at Oaks Pioneer Church in the Sellwood neighborhood of Southeast Portland. Maybe it’s all the Little House on the Prairie that I watched as a kid but I’ve always wanted to photograph a wedding in a little white chapel.

This tiny white church was originally located in the town of Milwaukie, Oregon but was moved up river in 1961 to it’s current location in Sellwood. The church is available for small weddings and elopement rentals and can accommodate up to 75 people. The church has everything you think a historic chapel would have like rich wood paneling, stained glass windows, a working organ, and a pot belly wood stove. There’s also a small bridal suite and bathroom on the side of the church too.

These two got married on a weekday morning surrounded by their parents and siblings. Following their ceremony we took some photos around the neighborhood and hopped into a limo for some photos around Portland.

As a photographer, I think the best time of day for a wedding at Oaks Pioneer Church is in the late afternoon or early evening when the sun is positioned slightly behind the church. That way after your ceremony we can shoot portraits in front of the church without having to squint in direct sun. Following your ceremony you can visit the Sellwood Riverfront Park or Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge before heading off to your reception.

For more information on the church including booking and availability, visit their website here.

If you’re in the neighborhood, pay it a visit. The surrounding area is super cute and if you visit in the fall you will be treated to some lovely fall color.

I love that this little gem is right in my neighborhood and I can’t wait to photograph another wedding or elopement at Oaks Pioneer Church.

Wedding at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

This was my first wedding at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden in Southeast Portland and I'm so glad that I finally had the opportunity to photograph a wedding there. I've been visiting this beautiful park for years with my niece and nephews and I was so excited when these two reached out to me to document their wedding day.

Crystal Springs is a beautiful wedding venue and one of my favorites in Portland. Beyond hosting weddings, the garden is an amazing city park to visit. Its 9.5 acres are full of natural beauty and a unique collection of plants. Throughout the year over 90 different species of birds can be spotted there. I recommend visiting the garden in the Spring when the park's namesake plants are in full bloom.

Bride and Groom Portrait at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Portrait of bride with long wedding train at Crystal Springs
Bride and Groom portrait in forest area in Portland

This wedding had a small world feeling from the start. In our initial consultation we came to find out that we actually lived in the same apartment building and like me, the bride and groom both had spent time in Boise and Northern California. To top it off they were getting married about 5 minutes from our home.

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is the perfect setting to celebrate and dance under the moonlight on a warm summer Portland evening. The garden has 3 different ceremony locations and it's easy to feel a sense of privacy and intimacy in each of them.

These two had their ceremony and reception on the large meadow site overlooking Crystal Springs Lake. Following toasts we took a walk and explored the meandering trails, stopping along the way to take photos and take in the nice evening light.

I can't wait to take the 5 minute drive and photograph more weddings here next summer! For more info about booking your wedding at Crystal Springs, you can visit their wedding website here.

If you're new here, you can view more of my Portland wedding photos here and learn more about me here. I'd love to learn more about your wedding plans!