How to Have a Beautiful Micro Wedding // Ideas for Alternative Weddings

Ideas for Planning Your Beautiful Micro Wedding

Why Choose a Micro Wedding?

There are so many reasons to choose an intimate tiny or “micro” wedding over a big wedding day — and I want to help break down what that might look like so that you can begin dreaming up your own special day!

Let's start here…

WHAT EVEN IS A MICRO WEDDING?

Well, if you’ve been planning a wedding leading into the year 2020, then you probably know this phrase! Micro weddings (or sometimes called Minimonies) bloomed out of this crazy COVID-19 season of weddings. These intimate days have been a lifesaver this year, and also a catalyst for something SO incredibly special. They’re essentially a wedding day that usually have no more than 30 or so guests, and are either somewhat reflective of a normal wedding day’s events — OR — they are designed fully and completely unique to you, casting aside any traditional norms that you feel don’t fit (my favorite kind of day)!

WHY A MICRO WEDDING?

There’s something so special about boiling down a day to the details that matter most to YOU. These tiny wedding days give room for your creativity to go wild — you can build this to be anything you want and need. Micro weddings are a dream for lovers of all things nontraditional, there are no expectations and the day is flexible in both timeline, events, location, and overall feeling.

These kind of days are truly about presence over perfect — they are about being laid back and soaking up all the precious moments with your partner, family, and close friends who surround you and celebrate you. These are the days that are about a walk through the forest as your ceremony, a champagne shot cheers to “seal the deal,” and about chasing each other with sparklers barefoot on the beach. No two days look alike, because no two couples are exactly the same. It’s about the forests, deserts, clifftops, oceans, or whatever space makes you feel most YOU.

ps. scroll to the end for a few examples

A FEW TIPS //

• INVITE LIST - Spend some time thinking about WHO you want there. Then, maybe you can create a website with details to share with everyone who isn’t able to attend the intimate event. Perhaps that even means hiring a videographer to create a reel of your micro wedding to share with everyone who couldn’t be there.

• DAY OF EVENTS - This is somewhat similar to an elopement, in that you get to structure what components make up the timeline of the day. That could look like nothing about your day has traditional aspects to it, or that could mean you pick and choose what pieces you want or don’t want from a “normal” wedding day. For example, for my sister in law’s micro wedding, they chose to to do their ceremony as a “journey” through the woods — they walked trails from one marked location to the next, each space was a piece of the ceremony where one of their friends or family would speak. This was a super unique exerpience, one that was so memorable and sacred. See below to check out the full day!

• VENDOR LIST - Choose vendors who you feel like “complete” the vision of your day. Have a favorite sentimental restaurant? Order from there! Want a unique installation of florals? Hire a creative florist who can bring that to life! Bring in the people who will be there for you, guide you, and support you through the process.

• MAKING IT MEANINGFUL - This is what matters. Make sure you are creating a day that is meaningful to you — from the biggest to tiniest details. Things like, do you want to share a meal together? Is there music that creates a special atmosphere? This is an excerpt from BRIDES editorial about creating a more personal environment for everyone there… “while you’re thinking about adding those meaningful touches, do so for your guests, too. ‘Write handwritten notes to every guest to place at their seat…’ ‘Or consider hand-painting each invitation instead of having them printed.’ It’s much easier to add those really special touches for 12 people than it is for 200! And since you’ve gone through the trouble of narrowing your guest list down so far, you’re guaranteed to have a super-close connection to every guest, making those little touches all the more meaningful.”

LOCATION IDEAS //

This is probably a great place to begin. The “where” for your special wedding day. Micro weddings are great in that they allow for a bit more flexibility as far as space and location. First, start by talking with each other, where do you envision yourselves getting married? What is the backdrop? What is the setting? Once you follow those trains of thought for a while, then it’s time to dive into the more practical side of things — finding the EXACT location. A few places to check out are…

• Hipcamp — Great for finding large properties, awesome if you want to make a whole weekend event out of it! Typically they’ll have space to either set up tents, trailers, RVs, etc.

• Airbnb — Similarly great for long weekend events! Make sure you always double check with the host about having small events on site. Airbnbs offer so much with property, a space to get ready, a kitchen, bathrooms… they are so great for small weddings!

• Peerspace — This is a place to search for smaller, nontraditional venue type spaces. This might be a good spot to look too if you’re feeling more urban vibes.

Want more specifics or something off the grid with AMAZING views? Message me!! I have a whole list!

DECOR INSPIRATION //

This is where creativity gets really fun — you can go as much or as little as you want with this! One thing I’ve been sharing with my couples lately is — ETSY — get. on. that. There are so many amazing artists and designers on there that are running tiny businesses and making incredible things!! You can find things from invite paper goods to gorgeous wedding dresses and attire. You can even find super unique things like handmade velvet ties or customized wedding jewelry. It’s endlessly amazing. Not only are you finding special details, but you’re also supporting small businesses.

Here are also some Pinterest Boards I’ve put together with fun decoration ideas to get inspired —

Ok so… we’ve chatted about Micro Weddings.

DO YOU WANT TO SEE A FEW INTIMATE WEDDING DAYS?

click on the galleries below to experience the full story and get inspired!

PAIGE & BRENDEN

A-Frame Cabin Wedding at Mt. Rainier

KAYCI &

DALLIN

An intimate Oregon coast wedding

HILARY & THANI

Intimate, Whimsical Forest Wedding

MALLORY & ROBBIE

Urban, Portland Tiny Wedding

IAN & AMALIA

Tropical Maui, Hawaii Tiny Wedding

CARLEE & AARON

Rocky Beach Front Tiny Wedding

PAUL & AMANDA

Portland, Waterfront Intimate Wedding

ALYSSA & SANTI

Redwood National Forest Tiny Wedding

Call it what fits best — intimate, tiny, or micro wedding — this day is ALL YOURS and so incredibly special! Let’s piece your ideas together and make some magic!

I have so many resources to help you structure this day effortlessly, I’m here for the journey of it all — so feel free to reach out with ANY and ALL questions!

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Why Eloping or Having a Small Wedding is so Special

ARE YOU ON THE FENCE ABOUT CHOOSING TO ELOPE OR GOING IN THE DIRECTION OF A SMALL, INTIMATE WEDDING? WELL, LET ME SHARE SOME OF MY THOUGHTS ON WHY THESE KIND OF DAYS ARE SO SPECIAL.

I know, this is a BIG decision for some people — even a tricky one at times! Maybe, it’s not even a choice, maybe COVID-19 has made the decision to downsize for you. And, while I still LOVE big wedding days and totally support anyone who does and can choose that, I just wanted to share a few things that I love about small, intimate days and why they are so incredibly special.

I. IT’S MORE INTIMATE.

There is something so sacred about a small group witnessing your special day — or even JUST YOU TWO having saying your vows and celebrating together! With an intimate setting, there is more room to fully be present. With fewer distractions, you’re able to be more intentional during the day and soak up each moment to the fullest!

II. LESS ROOM FOR STRESS.

I believe NO wedding day has to be stressful — regardless of the size — but, on some bigger days with more moving pieces, it can be hard to avoid the little moments here and there that carry stress. Smaller days have much more of a “go with the flow” mentality — there’s room for adaptability if a “planned” piece of the day needs to change a bit.

III. IT’S AN EXPERIENCE.

I always say that eloping is more of an experience than just a wedding day — and the same goes for intimate weddings. You have SO many options to structure your day, and NOTHING is off limits. This kind of day is more about the journey than a strict timeline. If you want to stop on the way to your ceremony spot and get tattoos — you do it! If you want to go bungee jumping after you say your vows — you do it! If you want to hike up to a secret look out point and camp there the night before your elopement — you do it! You call all the shots on this day! You can make it whatever you want — make it an experience to remember.

IV. AMAZING LOCATIONS.

With bigger wedding days, there are some limitations on locations. BUT, with elopements and small weddings, the world is your oyster! There are some AMAZING spaces for elopements where a larger wedding wouldn’t work! You could say your vows in the middle of the desert, on the peak of a mountain, on the mossy floor of a forest, on a cliff overlooking the ocean, on a rooftop in the middle of the city, in a tropical paradise or in front of snow covered mountains — you could travel across the globe or explore somewhere new in your own State. Smaller days allow for some amazing locations!

V. LAST MINUTE PLANNING.

This is a big one. ESPECIALLY with COVID-19 being a part of our current season of life — last minute planning seems like a new way of living at this point. With smaller weddings and elopements, last minute planning is just fine! I’ve had so many elopements and “micro-weddings” book just a month or two out due to the ever changing wedding plans of 2020. And, you know what? THAT’S OK. With a smaller day, it’s easier to do it on a less busy day (aka a weekday). This means, less crowds, more space to yourself, and more chances that your photographer will be available last minute as well. There are less details and moving pieces to these intimate days, making it so much easier to plan!

(Scroll down to check out my Elopement Planning Guide)

This day can really be whatever YOU want and need. There is something so special about these intimate experiences — each one is fully unique and sacred. And, if you have any questions, I am always here to help guide you along with the small bits of planning to piece together a day that feels fully YOU — whatever that may look like!

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A FEW RESOURCES THAT MAY BE HELPFUL —

— YOU CAN ALSO CHECK OUT MY BUCKET LIST FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL IDEAS

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My Favorite Pinterest Wedding Inspiration

I WANTED TO SHARE MY TOP PINTEREST BOARDS FOR WEDDING INSPIRATION - WHETHER IT’S FOR THE DETAILS OF YOUR DAY, ENGAGEMENT PHOTO LOCATIONS, OUTFIT IDEAS, OR OTHER RESOURCES YOUR ON THE HUNT FOR - I GOT YOU COVERED!

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I know we all browse Pinterest (sometimes for too long) scrolling for pieces of inspiration! And, I’m sure most of us have boards full of collected ideas for a wedding day, what to wear to an engagement session, or maybe it’s just tips for the whole planning process! Well, I’ve gathered some of my favorite resources and compiled them on Pinterest for you!

I want to give you quick and easy access to all the wedding inspiration - as well as helpful resources - so that you don’t have to spend hours scrolling and scrolling!

So, check out some of my wedding boards for decor ideas, wedding attire, color pallets, amazing locations, and all the steps and details in between!

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I. WEDDING DAY INSPIRATION

I have this board broken down into categories — florals, the details, venue spaces, the gals, the guys, etc. This way, you can simply browse for ideas through each category depending on what you’re looking for!

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II. ELOPEMENT INSPIRATION

This board is full of rad location ideas for eloping! It gives you a glimpse into a space you could choose for your own day. Also — if you was A MILLION MORE IDEAS, check out my “wander” board for a bucket list of so many incredible spots to travel to!

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III. RESOURCES: TIPS + TRICKS

This board is a compilation of ideas for your wedding day — a hodge-podge of helpful blogs and checklists. Sometimes it can be hard to know where to begin or what to even add to your list of “to-dos” - none of these are “musts,” but some you may find helpful!

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IV. WHAT TO WEAR TO ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

I could do a whole other blog on this (maybe I will someday), but here is a board full of ideas!! When we’re planning your engagement session, I’ll make sure you walk you through the whole process, but here is a space to find some inspiration of outfits and colors that go well together!

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V. COLOR PALLETS

This was such a fun board to put together! I love arranging colors together and watching different ones compliment others so well! This is a mix of so many different options of color pallets, simply to give you ideas of what mixes and matches well as you begin to piece together visuals of your day!

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Why I Love Black & White Photos

FIVE REASONS WHY I LOVE BLACK AND WHITE IMAGES, AND WHY THEY’LL ALWAYS BE ONES THAT CAPTURE MY ATTENTION.

When studying photography in University, my professor (a true photo legend), always challenged me when seeing that I’d edited a photo in black in white — “WHY did you choose that?” The “why” always lingers in my head when I create a black and white image, that question, that invitation to process a visual choice. I appreciate that voice in my head, reminding me to think through the art and purpose behind it all.

So, I wanted to give you a glimpse into a few reasons why I always find myself drawn to black and white images.

I. COLOR IS EASY

The majority of us see the world in some type of color every day — it’s expected. It’s easy. When editing an image, color is an obvious and natural way to work through the post processing list. Choosing black and white is an “unnatural” direction, it goes against what our eyes and the camera see and capture. But, it gives us a fresh perspective on an image, it forces us to see it in a new way and to notice things we may not have in color. It simplifies it in the most beautiful way!

II. TIMELESS

Everyone has their own styles of editing — there are trends and unique visual color representations. The photo community goes in waves through different stylistic eras. Black and white photos remain timeless, they carry something different that lasts through the different seasons of editing choices. They don’t conform to whatever is currently trending, they last and age well. They are so incredibly special that way.

Think of a few of the legends — the Ansel Adams and Vivian Maiers, from certain landmarks or clothing choices, the photos could belong to any era of history. There is something magical about that, almost as if any black and white image could belong to your own memory somehow. There is a connectedness about it.

III. THE LIGHT

Editing in black in white leaves a lot up to the light - it draws the eye to the contrasts. Instead of just noticing the colors alone, b&w images give you a new space to appreciate the way light falls and the shapes it makes. I love playing with the shadows and highlights in an image when it’s in black in white, it’s a whole new way of seeing the subjects and the composition.

IV. THE FEELING

I’m a huge feeler (all about the feelings). I remember during photography class, when I was challenged about my b&w editing decision, I would often end with “…and it just felt right!” Which, doesn’t always fly in an academic world haha. BUT, there is something about the feeling when an image is boiled down to black and white and all color distractions are removed - it’s rich in a different kind of way. In the end, I really just love the FEELING of a black and white photograph.

Wether it’s wanting to challenge myself to steer away from color, or it’s being drawn to the timeless simplicity, or I’m excited about the way the light plays a role, or simply just the FEELING of it all - I absolutely love black and white images and what they carry. Sometimes during a session, I’ll edit multiple in a row of a certain section all in black and white to create a mini “series” of images. Those series are some of my favorites, a little story within a story.

I hope after reading some of my reasons, you can find a new appreciation for black and white imagery as well.

“When you photograph people in colour you photograph their clothes. When you photograph people in black and white, you photograph their souls.”

-Ted Grant

The Best Portland Oregon Wedding Venues // Finding The Right Space

WEDDING VENUES IN OREGON

Feeling stressed over finding the right space for your big day? Let me help you break it down so you can find exactly what Oregon Venue fits you best!

HERE IS A LIST OF MY FAVORITE WEDDING VENUES IN PORTLAND OREGON AND BEYOND

Oregon is full of diverse wedding spaces — from industrial urban buildings, log cabins, rustic bars, open fields, forest covered mountains, colorful hills, rugged coastlines, and oh so many more! There is a perfect venue for everyone, a space that speaks to YOU for your dream wedding.

LET’S BREAK IT DOWN…

I. INDOOR CITY WEDDING VENUES
II. OUTDOOR / PNW WEDDING VENUES
III. CENTRAL OREGON WEDDING VENUES
IV. VINEYARD WEDDING VENUES
V. ALTERNATIVE WEDDING VENUE IDEAS
VI. GETTING READY IDEAS

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BEST INDOOR CITY WEDDING VENUES

These are for the urban lovers and industrial space seekers! Each venue is super unique, with a city touch to it! Indoor spaces like these can be great for fall, winter, or spring weddings in the PNW, because - rain, lots of rain. But, these are also great summer options if the city is calling your name!

1. YALE UNION - A unique Oregon wedding venue with artistic charm that stands as an iconic wedding venue that marries artistic allure with historical significance. The venue's rich heritage and creative ambiance provide a truly unique space for couples to exchange vows and celebrate amidst thought-provoking surroundings. Guest Limit: varies on event configuration

2. UNION / PINE - For modern couples seeking an industrial-chic wedding, Oregon's Union/Pine offers the perfect blend of trendiness and versatility. The space radiates contemporary style, making it an ideal canvas for couples to create their dream celebration. Guest Limit: up to 200 guests

3. THE ARC LIGHT - An enchanting Oregon wedding venue, captivates with its seamless fusion of contemporary design and natural elegance. This picturesque setting serves as a stunning backdrop for couples to embark on their journey together. Guest Limit: up to 250 guests

4. THE BINDERY - Exuding an air of romance and intimacy, The Bindery in Oregon sets the stage for a charming wedding celebration. Its cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere appeals to couples desiring an elegant and memorable experience. Guest Limit: varies on event configuration

5. BAKER BUILDING - Oregon's Baker Building, an architectural gem, artfully combines vintage aesthetics with modern comforts. This iconic wedding venue offers an extraordinary backdrop, blending history and innovation for a truly unforgettable occasion. Guest Limit: varies on event configuration

6. THE COLONY - A serene haven nestled in Oregon's countryside, The Colony offers rustic charm and refined beauty. The venue's idyllic setting and picturesque surroundings create a perfect atmosphere for couples seeking a romantic and intimate wedding. Guest Limit: up to 100 guests

7. LEFT BANK ANNEX - With an urban-chic vibe and ample space, Left Bank Annex stands as a stylish Oregon wedding venue. Its contemporary charm accommodates a wide range of wedding visions, making it an ideal choice for couples with modern tastes. Guest Limit: up to 500 guests

8. ST. IRENES - Surrounded by Oregon's natural beauty, St. Irenes is a wedding venue that exudes serenity and timeless elegance. Couples can exchange vows in a tranquil setting, embracing the picturesque backdrop for a truly enchanting experience. Guest Limit: varies on event configuration

9. THE CLEANERS AT ACE HOTEL - Offering a unique blend of vintage elegance and modern sophistication, The Cleaners at Ace Hotel is a chic Oregon wedding venue. Its trendy ambiance appeals to couples who appreciate the juxtaposition of history and contemporary style. Guest Limit: around 120 guests

10. THE EVERGREEN - Experience the charm of an urban Oregon wedding venue in a historic warehouse space located on the vibrant East side. Capture stunning photos from the balcony, ideal for grand entrances and capturing unique moments during your ceremony or reception. Guest Limit: up to 200 guests

11. NORDIA HOUSE - Infused with Scandinavian influences, Nordia House in Oregon offers a wedding venue that seamlessly merges cultural richness with modern design. This distinctive space caters to couples looking to add a unique touch to their special day. Guest Limit: varies on event configuration

12. CASTAWAY - With breathtaking views and a fusion of industrial and elegant elements, Castaway is a standout Oregon wedding venue. Its contemporary charm and exceptional vistas provide couples with a one-of-a-kind backdrop for their celebration. Guest Limit: 200-250 guests

13. BLOCKHOUSE - Versatility takes center stage at Oregon's Blockhouse, where couples have a blank canvas to personalize their wedding celebration. This stylish garden greenhouse venue allows for creative freedom, ensuring each moment is a reflection of the couple's unique love story. Guest Limit: up to 200 guests

14. COOPER’S HALL - Blending urban chic with winery charm, Cooper's Hall in Oregon offers a trendy space for couples to celebrate. Its distinctive ambiance caters to those who appreciate a fusion of modern style and rustic warmth. Guest Limit: up to 200 guests

15. ECOTRUST - Oregon's Ecotrust stands as a beacon of sustainability and sophistication, making it a perfect choice for eco-conscious couples. The venue's commitment to the environment aligns beautifully with couples looking to celebrate in a mindful way. Guest Limit: varies on event configuration

16. THE NINES - Elevate your urban Oregon wedding experience at The Nines – a harmonious blend of historic charm and contemporary flair. Discover exquisite event spaces adorned with original artwork, providing a modern and distinctive ambiance that sets the stage for a truly unforgettable Portland wedding celebration. There’s even a rooftop for your wedding ceremony! Guest Limit: varies on event configuration

17. BLACK PEARL ON THE COLUMBIA - (technically WA, but right across the river!) Set against the majestic Columbia River, Black Pearl on the Columbia offers waterfront romance in an Oregon wedding venue. The stunning natural backdrop adds an extra layer of magic to couples' vows, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Guest Limit: up to 300 guests

18. EASTON BROAD - An urban Oregon wedding venue, Easton Broad shines as a woman-owned establishment supporting local vendors and minority-owned businesses in Portland. With 100 feet of floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light, and an industrial-modern vibe from exposed wood plank ceilings and concrete floors, it's an ideal setting for couples seeking a bright, sleek atmosphere. Guest limit: Up to 200 guests

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TOP OUTDOOR / PNW WEDDING VENUES

The Pacific Northwest is full of GORGEOUS outdoor wedding locations — ocean coastlines, mountains, forests, deserts — we’ve got it all.

1. THE GRIFFIN HOUSE - The Griffin House offers an intimate and elegant setting for around 100 guests, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for close-knit celebrations. Its warm ambiance and scenic surroundings, located about 25 miles from downtown Portland, make it a charming choice for couples seeking an inviting and picturesque venue. It also has spectacular elevated views of the Columbia River Gorge.

2. MT. HOOD ORGANIC FARMS - Situated approximately 60 miles from Portland, Mt. Hood Organic Farms is a stunning location with panoramic views of Mt. Hood. Accommodating up to 200 guests, this venue provides a magical backdrop for couples desiring a natural and romantic setting with orchards and mountain vistas.

3. GORGE CREST VINEYARD - Overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, Gorge Crest Vineyard offers a breathtaking setting for up to 250 guests. Located around 50 miles from Portland, the vineyard's combination of stunning views and vineyard charm makes it an exceptional choice for couples seeking a wine country wedding experience.

4. FIVE OAKS FARM - Positioned just 20 miles from Portland, Five Oaks Farm presents a genuine farm wedding experience for up to 200 guests. Its modern barn, open fields, and proximity to the city make it a unique and accessible option for couples aiming for a countryside celebration.

5. BRIDAL VEIL LAKES - Bridal Veil Lakes, located about 25 miles from Portland, boasts serene lakeside surroundings perfect for weddings of up to 200 guests. The venue's tranquil waters and lush landscapes create an oasis-like atmosphere, offering couples a romantic and scenic setting.

6. NOBLE RIDGE TREE DECK - The Noble Ridge Tree Deck, situated approximately 40 miles from Portland, stands out with its treetop celebration space that accommodates up to 75 guests. This distinctive venue provides an intimate and elevated experience, perfect for couples seeking a unique and memorable wedding location.

7. CEDAR VALE - About 30 miles from Portland, Cedar Vale showcases a charming rural landscape for up to 200 guests. The venue's picturesque setting, combined with its customizable spaces, allows couples to create their dream wedding in a serene and natural environment.

8. MCMENAMINS // CORNELIUS PASS - Just 20 miles from Portland, McMenamins // Cornelius Pass offers historic charm with various event spaces accommodating up to 200 guests. The venue's rustic barns, gardens, and historic buildings provide a versatile backdrop for couples who appreciate vintage elegance.

9. DEEPWOOD ESTATE - With historic gardens and architecture, Deepwood Estate, located about 60 miles from Portland, offers an elegant setting for up to 200 guests. Its timeless beauty and refined ambiance create a sophisticated atmosphere, ideal for couples seeking a classic and graceful wedding experience.

10. CATHEDRAL PARK - Situated in Portland itself, Cathedral Park provides an urban setting with the iconic St. Johns Bridge as a backdrop. Accommodating up to 200 guests, the park's unique blend of city charm and natural beauty makes it a distinctive option for couples looking to celebrate within the heart of Portland.

11. REDLAND FAMILY FARM - Located approximately 25 miles from Portland, Redland Family Farm offers a rustic atmosphere for up to 150 guests. The farm's charming barn, open fields, and warm ambiance create a welcoming space, perfect for couples seeking an authentic countryside celebration.

12. JASPER HOUSE FARM - Set around 50 miles from Portland, Jasper House Farm boasts a picturesque rural setting for up to 200 guests. The venue's serene landscapes and elegant barn provide a romantic backdrop, allowing couples to create a memorable wedding immersed in nature.

13. SUTTLE LODGE - Nestled around 100 miles from Portland, Suttle Lodge offers a serene lakeside retreat for up to 150 guests. The lodge's tranquil waters, forested surroundings, and cozy cabins create a relaxed and rejuvenating atmosphere, making it an ideal escape for couples seeking a peaceful wedding experience.

14. WITCH’S CASTLE - Located within Forest Park in Portland, Witch’s Castle provides an enchanting forest backdrop for intimate celebrations of up to 50 guests. The site's unique history and natural beauty offer a whimsical and secluded setting for couples looking to embrace the magic of the Pacific Northwest.

15. THE CROFT FARM - Situated just around 10 miles from Portland, The Croft Farm offers a picturesque setting for up to 200 guests. The venue's charming gardens, historic barn, and proximity to the city create an idyllic space for couples to celebrate their love in a beautifully maintained and accessible location.

16. THE RUINS HOOD RIVER - Nestled in the captivating landscape of Hood River, this remarkable venue provides a blend of historical charm and natural beauty for your Oregon wedding. Accommodating up to 200 guests, The Ruins offers a unique setting with its enchanting stone walls and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. Whether exchanging vows amidst the ruins or celebrating under the open sky, couples can create an unforgettable wedding experience in this picturesque location, located about 60 miles from downtown Portland.

17. SKAMANIA LODGE - Set in the captivating Columbia River Gorge, Skamania Lodge features breathtaking outdoor spaces and versatile indoor reception areas for up to 300 guests. Enjoy a full wedding weekend with various activities. Approximately 45 miles from Portland.

18. THE RUINS ASTORIA - A distinctive historic venue, The Ruins Astoria exudes rugged elegance, reflecting its 1920s origins. Preserving Astoria's pioneer spirit, it's perfect for intimate weddings. Guest count: Inquire. Located around 95 miles from Portland.

19. HOYT ABORETUM - Immersed in natural beauty, Hoyt Arboretum provides captivating gardens and outdoor ceremony options for up to 100 guests, making it a botanical haven conveniently located just 2 miles from downtown Portland.

20. SILCOX HUT - Exchange vows in a winter wonderland at Silcox Hut, near Mt. Hood's peak, reached by snowcat for a cozy celebration inside a historic lodge amidst a snowy backdrop. Guest capacity varies. Located atop Mt. Hood, approximately 60 miles from Portland.

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BEST CENTRAL OREGON WEDDING VENUES

Central Oregon is truly one of the most stunning parts of Oregon! With a variety of indoor and outdoor wedding venue options, it’s a great place to start the searching.

1. RANCH AT THE CANYONS - Experience European elegance at Ranch at the Canyons, a Central Oregon venue accommodating intimate to larger gatherings, amidst stunning natural landscapes.

2. FIVE PINES - Discover romance at FivePines Lodge, a Central Oregon venue ideal for intimate celebrations, offering luxurious cabins and serene surroundings. A perfect spot for a whole weekend gathering!

3. SUN RIVER RESORT - Create your dream wedding at Sunriver Resort, accommodating up to 500 guests, featuring diverse event spaces, picturesque landscapes, and outdoor adventure possibilities.

4. LOLOMA LODGE - Embrace lakeside charm at Loloma Lodge, a Central Oregon venue hosting up to 100 guests, perfect for woodsy lakeside celebrations.

5. ROCK SPRINGS WEDDINGS - Enjoy lush gardens at Rock Springs Weddings, hosting up to 250 guests in Central Oregon, providing a beautiful natural backdrop.

6. PRONGHORN - Elevate your event at Pronghorn Resort, accommodating up to 300 guests in Central Oregon, offering stunning golf course views and luxury amenities.

7. ASPEN HALL - Discover timeless elegance at Aspen Hall, a Central Oregon venue catering to up to 200 guests, featuring historic charm and lush gardens, surrounded by aspen trees.

8. TETHEROW - Celebrate at Tetherow, a Central Oregon venue for up to 200 guests, combining modern style, scenic golf course views, and customizable spaces.

9. BLACK BUTTE RANCH - Host your wedding at Black Butte Ranch, accommodating up to 300 guests in Central Oregon, offering a scenic and spacious setting with modern architecture to elevate the setting.

10. BRASADA RANCH - Experience Brasada Ranch, a Central Oregon venue accommodating up to 250 guests, with panoramic views and a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.

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VINEYARD WEDDING VENUES

Feeling a little more classy and want that touch of nature? Check out these amazing vineyards for the best of both worlds! A little taste of Italy too. ;)

1. DOMAINE ROY & FILS - Experience wine country elegance at Domaine Roy & Fils, accommodating intimate weddings, where lush vineyards provide a picturesque backdrop.

2. PONZI VINEYARDS - Celebrate love at Ponzi Vineyards with up to 200 guests, offering stunning views and an exquisite wine-country setting for your special day.

3. BLACK WALNUT INN & VINEYARD - Find tranquility at Black Walnut Inn, hosting intimate weddings amidst rolling vineyards and offering a luxurious escape for couples and up to 50 guests.

4. DEL MAR VILLA - Del Mar Villa offers an intimate oasis for up to 100 guests, combining picturesque vineyards, gardens, and a European-inspired villa for your wedding.

5. VILLA CATALANA CELLAR - Exchange vows at Villa Catalana Cellar, accommodating up to 150 guests in a Mediterranean-inspired setting with terraced gardens and timeless charm.

6. CHATEAU DE LIS - Discover Chateau de Lis, a serene garden castle estate where your wedding vision comes to life for up to 150 guests, surrounded by elegant landscapes.

7. MAYSARA - Maysara provides an eco-friendly modern winery experience for up to 250 guests, combining sustainability with captivating vineyard vistas.

8. VILLA CATALANA CELLARS - Villa Catalana Cellars offers an enchanting European ambiance, hosting up to 150 guests amidst picturesque gardens and vineyards.

9. DOMAINE DE BROGLIE - Celebrate at Domaine de Broglie with up to 250 guests, surrounded by expansive vineyards and offering a blend of modern luxury and natural beauty.

10. GORGE CREST VINEYARDS - Gorge Crest Vineyards offers stunning Columbia River Gorge views, hosting weddings with up to 250 guests in a breathtaking wine-country setting.

11. SAFRON FIELDS - Saffron Fields combines modern design with nature, hosting weddings with up to 200 guests amidst artful gardens and picturesque vineyards.

12. THE ALLISON INN & SPA - The Allison Inn & Spa pampers your wedding with luxury, hosting up to 200 guests and offering a serene wine-country escape.

13. ZENITH VINEYARD - Zenith Vineyard combines elegance and natural beauty for up to 200 guests, providing a captivating wine-country venue with stunning vineyard landscapes.

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ALTERNATIVE UNIQUE WEDDING VENUE IDEAS

Want something a little different? Check out these unique wedding venues, some of them are better for more intimate ceremonies.

1. THE RUINS AT THE ASTOR - Embrace historic charm at The Ruins at the Astor amidst vintage elegance right alongside the Oregon coast.

2. THE WOODLANDS HOUSE - Perfect for an intimate wedding weekend, Discover a modern space at The Woodlands House, a scenic venue offering enchanting forest views and a cozy atmosphere.

3. OPAL 28 - Opal 28 offers an urban oasis, a stylish venue perfect for modern couples seeking a unique and intimate celebration.

4. TENDUE - Tendue presents minimalist elegance, allowing couples to curate their vision in a serene and natural atmosphere.

5. HUG POINT, COASTLINE - Celebrate on the stunning Oregon coast at Hug Point, where coastal beauty and breathtaking cliffs set the stage for your romantic wedding.

YOU CAN ALSO CHECK OUT THIS AMAZING APP — It’s basically the “airbnb” for wedding venues. It’s an amazing search tool for unique venue locations — PEERSPACE.

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GETTING READY SPACE IDEAS

Some ideas for amazing getting ready locations.

1. THE SOCIETY HOTEL (Portland / Hood River)

2. THE ACE HOTEL

3. THE HOXTON

4. JUPITER HOTEL

5. MODERN, LIGHT SPACES ON AIRBNB — I have a whole list of Airbnbs saved across Oregon, so let me know if you need any recommendations!

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Still not seeing exactly what you want? Message me, let’s chat — I want to help you through this process! I have lots of vendor connections and can make sure you find a space that fits your vision!

MAYBE YOU’RE INTERESTED IN ELOPING?

Oregon also has some of the most stunning locations for intimate ceremonies and tiny weddings if you’re looking to elope.

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