The Logistics of Eloping in Washington State (Without the Stress!)
Let me handle the details—you just show up and get married.
So, you’ve decided to elope in Washington. Cue the happy tears and adventure vibes! Whether you’re drawn to misty coastlines, lush forests, or alpine peaks, Washington is seriously one of the dreamiest places to say “I do.”
But you might be wondering:
“Okay… how do we actually do this?”
Spoiler alert: it’s easier than you think—especially when you have me in your corner.
As your elopement photographer, I’m not just here to take epic photos (although, trust me, we’ll get those too). I’ll also help plan your entire day, handle permits, help with logistics, and make sure your elopement feels like you from start to finish.
Here’s a little breakdown of how to elope in Washington—made simple, stress-free, and full of love.
1. 💍 Get Your Marriage License
Let’s start with the legal stuff—it’s super straightforward!
- Where to get it : Any county in Washington. You don’t have to get it in the county you’re eloping in.
- Waiting period : 3 days (so plan ahead!)
- Valid for : 60 days after it’s issued
- No need to be a WA resident!
Pro Tip : If you’re traveling from out of state, King County (Seattle) allows you to apply by mail. I’ll help you through that process so nothing gets missed.
2. 📸 Choose Your Location (This is the fun part!)
Washington is packed with stunning elopement locations, from moody beaches and lush rainforests to dramatic mountain overlooks. Some popular options include:
- Olympic National Park (Hoh Rainforest, Ruby Beach, Lake Crescent)
- North Cascades (like Lake 22 or Artist Point)
- Mount Rainier National Park (Sunrise & Paradise)
- Snoqualmie / Gold Creek Pond (easy access and beautiful!)
Not into hiking? No worries—I know tons of accessible spots with jaw-dropping views that require minimal walking.
3. 📝 Permits? I’ve Got You.
If you’re eloping in a national or state park, you will need a permit to hold your ceremony and possibly a separate one for photography. But don’t stress—I take care of all of that for you.
Here’s how it works:
- You pick the spot.
- I file for the permits.
- We elope legally and stress-free.
Even if you’re not in a national park, some public lands and private areas still require permission. I’ll double-check everything so you don’t have to deal with the paperwork shuffle.
4. 🗓 Let’s Plan Your Day (Like, All of It)
Once we nail down the location, I help you plan everything else.
Think of me as your photographer + elopement BFF + day-of coordinator all rolled into one.
Here’s what I help with:
- Building a custom timeline for your day
- Location scouting and backup spots (because PNW weather!)
- Recommending vendors like florists, hair & makeup, officiants
- Helping you write your vows (if you want!)
- Packing lists and trail tips
- Local lodging suggestions
We’ll co-create a day that’s relaxed, intimate, and full of “holy crap, we’re getting married” moments.
5. 🙌 Who Can Officiate and Sign?
In Washington, you have a few options:
- Bring an officiant (I can recommend amazing ones!)
- OR have a friend/family member get ordained online (it’s free + legal)
- You’ll also need two witnesses, and guess what? If it’s just the two of you, I can be one witness and we can ask a kind stranger or fellow hiker for the second. It’s part of the adventure!
6. 💌 What You Need to Bring
- Marriage license + photo ID
- Your vows (if you wrote them)
- Comfortable shoes (even for easy-access spots)
- Layers (PNW weather likes to keep us on our toes)
- Rings (or champagne, or tattoos—whatever you’re exchanging)
- Yourselves. That’s it.
You Dream It, I Handle It
You don’t need to be a planning expert or hiking pro to elope in Washington.
I’ll walk you through every step—from permits to portraits—so you can focus on what matters most: your love, your vows, and your wild, beautiful story.
Ready to start planning your Washington elopement?
Let’s make some magic. ✨