Oregon Coast Elopement at Heceta Head Lighthouse | Florence, Oregon| Oregon Coast Elopement Package

lesbian couple dressed in white hold lanterns up to light their faces as they embrace for a kiss in front of the heceta head lighthouse. it is after sunset, the sky is dark yet has pink/purple hues and the lighthouse is illuminated.

Nicky and Mara's Oregon Coast Elopement at Heceta Head Lighthouse

Nicky and Mara's elopement at the Heceta Head Lighthouse on the Oregon Coast is a beautiful testament to love amidst nature’s grandeur. The photographs capture a couple deeply connected, their joy and affection evident in every frame. The intimate setting of the lighthouse, combined with the rugged coastline, provides a picturesque backdrop that enhances the romantic ambiance of their special day.

a lesbian couple in white attire, the night before their elopement, run on the beach to chase the huge flock of seaguls that have landed nest to the towering, moss covered sea-rock wall. they are at heceta head beach on the oregon coast.

A Two-Day Elopement Adventure

Unlike a traditional single-day elopement, Nicky and Mara chose to spread their celebration across two days, ensuring they had time to soak in every moment. The day before their ceremony, we captured stunning couples’ portraits along the coast, taking advantage of the dramatic landscape. The following day, they exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends. This approach allowed them to truly savor their experience without feeling rushed, creating a relaxed and deeply personal atmosphere.

a lesbian elopement couple stand in the rain, on the beach, while the officiant reads his speech. the brides are looking at the officiant and their flowers in a pensive and meaningful way.

The Oregon Coast Weather: Embracing the Storm

The Oregon Coast is known for its moody and ever-changing weather, and Nicky and Mara’s elopement was no exception. The skies were stormy, the rain relentless, but instead of seeing it as an obstacle, they embraced the wild beauty of it all. The misty air, the crashing waves, and the soft, diffused light created a dreamlike setting, adding a dramatic and ethereal quality to their photos. As their photographer, I thrive in capturing the raw and unfiltered moments that make each elopement unique. The rain wasn’t a setback—it became an integral part of their story, adding an element of adventure and authenticity.

a newly wed lesbian couple dressed in white wedding attire kiss in the rain on heceta head beach on the oregon coast.

Why choose my Oregon Coast elopement package

As an elopement photographer, my goal is to document not just the moments, but the emotions, the atmosphere, and the unspoken connection between two people. Through my lens, I focused on capturing the laughter as they ran through the rain, the tender moments shared under umbrellas, and the sheer joy on their faces as they embraced the elements. Even with the stormy weather, the warmth of their love was undeniable, shining through every photograph.

guests at an oregon coast elopement clap, smile and celebrate as the newly wed couple kiss to seal their new commitment to each other.

Heceta Head Lighthouse: A Historical Gem

Perched 205 feet above the Pacific Ocean, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States. Built in 1894, this 56-foot-tall lighthouse emits a beam visible for 21 nautical miles, making it the most powerful light on the Oregon Coast. Named after Spanish explorer Bruno de Heceta, who surveyed the area in 1775, the lighthouse has been guiding mariners for over a century.

The Keeper’s House and Surroundings

Adjacent to the lighthouse is the Lightkeeper’s House, constructed in the Queen Anne style. This historic residence now operates as a bed and breakfast, offering guests a unique experience steeped in maritime history. The surrounding area, part of the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint, features lush coastal forests and a secluded beach, providing visitors with stunning views and a tranquil environment. If you'd like to stay here, visit their site to learn more and book!

a view of heceta head lighthouse and lighthouse keep's house from accross the beach. it is close to sunset, at golden hour. the warm light highlights the beach and the landscape while a singular person on the beach stares out towards the ocean while they soak in the sounds of the waves, the smell of the salty air and the sight of the flocks of sea birds landing on the shore.

Why Heceta Head Lighthouse is a Perfect Elopement Location

Heceta Head Lighthouse offers a stunning variety of landscapes and features that make it an incredible place for an elopement. Couples can exchange vows with the breathtaking Pacific Ocean as their backdrop, explore the dense coastal forest trails, or have romantic portraits taken on the secluded beaches below. The versatility of this location provides a unique and picturesque setting that adapts beautifully to any couple’s vision, whether they prefer a dramatic cliffside ceremony or an intimate celebration near the lighthouse itself.

How to Get Married at Heceta Head Lighthouse

For couples dreaming of eloping at Heceta Head Lighthouse, there are a few legal steps to consider:

Marriage License: Oregon requires a marriage license, which can be obtained at any county clerk's office. There is a three-day waiting period before the license becomes valid, and it is good for 60 days. The cost varies by county but typically ranges between $50 and $60.
- Lane County Marriage License Info: Lane County Website
- General Oregon Marriage License Info: Oregon.gov
Officiant Requirements: Oregon allows for a variety of officiants, including judges, clergy, and even ordained friends or family members. Couples can become ordained online through sites like Universal Life Church.
Witnesses: Oregon law requires two witnesses to sign the marriage license.

Permit Requirements for a Heceta Head Lighthouse Elopement

Because Heceta Head Lighthouse is located within a scenic viewpoint managed by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, couples may need a permit depending on the size and nature of their ceremony.

Small Ceremonies: If your elopement consists of just the couple, officiant, and photographer, you likely won’t need a permit.
Larger Gatherings: If you plan to have guests (over 50 total) or any setup (chairs, arches, decorations), a Special Use Permit may be required.
Photography Permits: Professional photography in state parks often requires a permit, though small elopements typically fall under general use.

To confirm permit requirements, check with the Oregon State Parks website:

a lesbian couple dressed in white is exchanging rings at their oregon coast elopemet at heceta head lighthouse.

Ready to embark on your own Oregon Coast elopement adventure?

Nicky and Mara’s elopement at the Heceta Head Lighthouse beautifully intertwines personal love with the rich history and natural splendor of the Oregon Coast. Their decision to include a two-day experience, embrace the stormy weather, and incorporate their beloved dogs made their elopement uniquely theirs. As their photographer, I was honored to capture their story in a way that highlights their adventurous spirit and deep connection.

If you're looking for an Oregon coast elopement photographer who does more than just take pictures, but truly immerses themselves in your journey, I’m your person. I specialize in capturing the real, unfiltered moments—the ones filled with laughter, adventure, and raw emotion. Whether you’re exchanging vows under stormy skies or running barefoot on the beach, I ensure your elopement is captured in a way that reflects your love story authentically and beautifully. I help plan all aspects of your elopement day, including location scouting all across the PNW. If you want an experience that’s as epic and unique as your relationship, let’s make magic together! Visit my homepage to fill out an inquiry to learn more about my Oregon Coast elopement packages!