Last fall, I had the absolute honor of documenting Alana and Josh’s unforgettable elopement on the Oregon Coast on both film and digital. This intimate celebration held at the Samuel H. Boardman State Park was nothing short of a dream come true, and I’m excited to share the magic that unfolded on September 6, 2023.

Elopement on the Oregon Coast

Choosing the stunning Oregon Coast for their elopement, Alana and Josh checked off my bucket list location with a landscape so mesmerizing… it’s almost otherworldly. I shared this sentiment with Alana, who disagreed with me. “It’s not otherworldly,” she said. “It looks exactly like EARTH.” She’s right – I’ll never forget that statement. Samuel H. Boardman State Park offered 12 miles of hiking trails, cliffs, boulders & beach that “hug the ocean,” providing nature’s playground for us to run around, frolick, and create forever memories.

Super 8 Video Coverage

When you book an elopement with Abby Leigh Photography, you always have the opportunity to add video coverage to your day. Alana & Josh opted to include this special memento to their day, completely shot on Super 8 film. I find myself re-living the enchantment of Alana and Josh’s elopement by watching this video back. You can feel like you were there, too: Watch it here.

The “Night Before” Photos

To add an extra layer of romance to their story, we went out for a “night before” session, exploring the very spaces where their elopement would take place the next day. This allowed us to capture moments of them being themselves, comfortable, and having fun in the place that held so much significance to their relationship. I wanted to make the environment an intimate space for them to reflect on how far they’ve come together, and where they will go beyond the horizon. The photos 100 percent reflected those thoughts, making them some of my favorite photos I’ve ever taken. I LOVE adding “night before” photos to your elopement gallery to really allow those feelings to sink in & to catch those feelings on camera. Plan it with me today! It can be anything from exploring your wedding space, grabbing a drink in the city you’re getting married in, your lipstick on the hotel mirror- let’s dream big.

The Morning Of

Waking up the morning of Alana and Josh’s elopement, I had time to reflect on our time together so far, and I want to share the words with you that came to mind that morning:

“Right now I’m in the PNW – sitting on a couch in a wooded cabin with my hot cup of coffee, here for Alana & Josh’s wedding. As I sit here – probably the coziest I’ve ever been – reflecting on Alana & Josh’s love is easy. Their love is gentle, kind, intimate, sweet, and cozy. They kiss each other like no one’s around. They gaze in each other’s eyes like it’s the most beautiful view they’ve ever seen. The Oregon coast just makes sense. I’m so grateful that I’ve gotten to capture them across coasts.…Wow – I’m so blessed. Alana & Josh, I love you!!! I’m so excited to capture your wedding… among the most glorious sights in the world.”

The morning of the elopement dawned crisp and beautiful, Josh bringing breakfast to Alana at the Airbnb. They spent the morning writing vows over cups of coffee, cherishing the quiet moments together.

A First Look by the Coast

For the first look, we discovered a secret cove on the trail to their elopement space – a hidden gem that became one of the most beautiful first look spots I’ve ever witnessed. It was a private, intimate moment filled with genuine sweetness. Josh surprised Alana with a Super 8 camera, and in return, she gifted him a book of heartfelt letters written before they even met. She also gave him a little boudoir book, adding a personal, silly spicy touch to their day. (Don’t forget to book your boudoir photos with me before your wedding to give your partner such a special gift!)

Personalizing an Intimate Elopement Ceremony

Before the ceremony began, each family member present went around & expressed their love for the couple, making the celebration even more special. Alana’s father preformed the ceremony, highlighting the presence of God in a place he created. Against the diverse backdrop of trees, cliffs, beach, and fields of grass, we captured the essence of their love in a series of enchanting portraits after they said “I do.”

An Intimate Reception and Sunset on the Beach

After couples’ portraits, everyone gathered for a heartwarming lunch reception, celebrating the union of two souls madly in love. Fun fact: we had lunch in is the most Western civilized town in the continental United States! Just a fun tidbit. Alana & Josh’s love spreads from coast to coast and beyond. We ended the day by capturing the sunset of their wedding night, I’m left filled with complete and total joy.

Inspiration for Your Elopement

For those seeking the perfect Pacific Northwest elopement experience, let Alana and Josh’s story be your inspiration. The Oregon Coast awaits, ready to weave its own kind of magic into your love story. For more inspiration, check out these Pinterest boards and follow me on Instagram! Let’s book your wedding today.

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Photo: Abby Leigh Photography | Location: Samual H. Boardman State Park (Oregon Coast) | Florals: Two Lovers Flowers | Dress: Anthropologie Wedding