What to pack so you’re prepared for anything on your elopement day.

Yay! You’re eloping in Oregon! Or the greater PNW! Either way… what the heck should you pack?

So, because this is a blog post on an adventure elopement page, a good deal of this article will be dedicated to preparing for weather.

Oregon’s weather is varied, to say the least. And it can differ wildly from region to region. I’m going to be rather general about this, speaking about the West side of the Cascades, and the East Side, with some alpine advice thrown in.

Broadly speaking, west of the Cascades is on the wetter side, and east of the Cascades is on the drier side, but preparing for cold and wet is wise no matter where you choose.

Even an elopement in the middle of July could have freak thunderstorms or even snow (yes, I had it snow on me in July in the Oregon desert a few years ago).

Elopement Attire Basics

Choosing elopement attire pieces that lean less formal can make things a little easier if there’s a hike involved. A dress that is looser fitting and flowier works well. And there are even outdoorsy hiking pants that aren’t super ugly anymore! Kuhl, Cotopaxi, and Mountain Hardwear are brands to check out for this.

Another option, especially for a longer hike, is to pack the more formal parts of the attire in a backpack, then change when you get to the main destination. I personally like a gallery with some wardrobe variety… plus it’s fun to have a little transformation in the field.

Eloping in Colder Months or Colder Environments

Layering 101

For cold and cool months, you should have a basic 3 layer system– a base layer, a mid-layer and a shell. You can add to this system pretty easily if you run cold.

Base layer – the layer closest to your skin. The foundation of your layering system, that helps wick sweat away from your skin. This layer is the most important one in keeping you comfortable as well as warm. It should be made of wool or synthetic material, never cotton. Cotton will suck the heat from your body when wet, but wool and polyester will continue to insulate you, even if it gets wet.

Mid-Layer – The powerhouse of warmth in the layer system. Choose a highly insulating piece, like a fleece or puffy jacket. If you’re in a wetter climate, consider a synthetic insulation, as down can get clumpy if it gets wet, losing it insulating power.

Shell – The shield between you and moisture. It should be waterproof, windproof and durable. A shell is not necessarily something you’ll have on all day long, but it is crucial for keeping you dry if the weather takes a turn.

This is the tried and true, field tested system that will keep you warm and comfy. Now… the question is this: how does it integrate with elopement attire?

Well, I would recommend having all of these layers with you on a hike, whether you think you’ll use them or not. Especially in the mountains– things can change quite quickly there.

For folks wearing a dress, it’s easy enough to wear leggings under the skirt, and to have layers over the top.

For folks wearing a suit, there is a little more to consider– though, having never worn a suit, I can’t speak from experience. Choosing a wool suit will keep you warm, but not dry. So pairing the suit with a baselayer and a shell should do the trick.

Eloping in Warmer Months or Hot Environments

You might think that eloping in the summer months means you can just ignore the advice in the previous section, but you shouldn’t throw it all out the window.

It’s true that you likely won’t need the 3 layer system most of the time, but, in certain environments, you’ll want to have those things in your backpack.

In alpine and desert locations, things can heat up during the day, but will often cool off rather quickly in the evenings. Dry air changes temperature very quickly.

Along the coast, things might never heat up significantly at all. Oregon is weird like that. In fact, on a July 1st elopement day in Cannon Beach, I was chatting with my couple about things they could do the following, before they get on an airplane and head back to Pennsylvania. I told them mostly about different hikes and outdoor spots they should check out, and it ended up raining the entire day– not the patchy cloud bursts that are more characteristic for the summer… Constant rain. All day.

All this to say, packing layers that’ll keep you warm and dry is never a bad call. At least keep it in the car.

Generally speaking, though, during the day, light weight & breathable fabric is the name of the game. Cotton is not long the enemy in the summer months. Cotton, gauze, linen, etc.

As with warmer layers, I think it’s wise to put cooler clothing items in the pack or car, just in case.

Elopement Footwear

The question I most often get asked is “what kind of shoes should I wear?” And I always recommend hiking boots or trail runners.

I really like the wedding attire + hiking shoe aesthetic, but I understand that some people want some photos with more formal footwear. In which case, I suggest you pack them. Wear the shoes that are good for walking/hiking, and slip on your fancy shoes when it’s time for the ceremony.

If you’re a sandal type of person, that’s great. The summer in Oregon consists of a lot of river, lake and waterfall play. Chacos, Tevas, Keens, LUNAs or similar, are all great options. I wear Xero Shoes, but they are extremely minimalist and I do not recommend them if you are new to barefoot style shoes. Whatever you choose, you’ll just want to make sure they’ll stay on your feet and that they don’t dig into your skin.

For cold, snowy or icy conditions, consider packing microspikes or yaktraks. Slipping and falling on your tailbone is pretty demoralizing and can really put a damper on the day, and these help to give you more traction on ice.

Oregon Adventure Elopement Gear

Backpack– And on that note, it might be wise to invest in a good backpack if you haven’t got one already. Nothing crazy, like a 60L pack covered in straps and buckles. But something big enough to hold shoes, wedding clothes, jackets, water and snacks– comfortably.

Trekking Poles– Not everyone likes them, but they can be helpful for stabilization on tricky trails, especially if your pack has more weight in it than you’re used to (with all the matrimonial stuff and whatnot).

Tent– Not necessary on most trips, but if you come in the summer, I recommend camping at least one or two nights. Oregon has amazing wilderness and amazing campgrounds. And if you want to do an overnight elopement, perhaps in the backcountry, I’m more than happy to help you plan that!

Sleeping Bag– As a former thru hiker, I have a lot of opinions about sleeping bags. But, similar to a tent, you probably won’t need one unless you plan on camping or backpacking… which, again, I’m happy to do if that is your dream elopement.

Waterbottle– Please please please do not forget a waterbottle. Dehydration is one of the easiest ways to accidentally have a crappy time, and we do not want that on your Best Day Ever. And snacks… same with snacks.

Adventure Elopement Packing List

Elopement Specific Items

Marriage License & Pens
Special Use Permit for elopement location (if necessary)
Dresses/Suits
Head Pieces – veil, flower crown, hat, tiara, etc.
Ceremony Shoes
Jewelry – earrings, necklace, bracelets, watch, cufflinks, bolo tie, etc.
Florals – bouquet, boutonniere (personally, I recommend those pocket pieces… they’re so much easier than pinning!)
Vow Books
Rings
Makeup for touch ups
Other ceremony items – cord for hand tying, shot glasses/champagne flutes for celebration, vessels for sand jars, letters from family, etc.
Emergency Items – Tide 2 Go Pen, Safety pins, sewing kit, lint roller, bobby pins, hair ties, nail file, first aid kit, etc. (I nearly always have most of these in my camera bag!)

Clothing & Gear

Warm Layers (base layer, mid layer, shell)
Good Walking Shoes
Extra Socks
Change of Clothes (if you want to be more comfy for part of the day, or if you want photos with a more casual look)
Beanie and/or sunhat
Gloves
Sunglasses
Waterbottle
Sunscreen (spray so you don’t mess up any makeup – I’m not much of a makeup expert, but I hear you can get setting spray that doubles as SPF)
Insect Repellant (especially in the mountains in June/July)
Microspikes/Yaktraks
Headlamp/Flash Light
Doggy Bags, Leash, Treats, Water Bowl (if your pup is joining us!)
Snacks & Picnic Items
Picnic Blanket (I’ve got a great one!)

Tips for a comfortable, fun elopement day

Since a stress-free and fun day is one of the main reasons people decide to elope, here’s a few tips for achieving that.

Already mentioned, but SHOES. Having good walking shoes that are comfortable to wear, that are appropriate for the environment and the season, makes ALL the difference in the world. Don’t shy away from having multiple pairs – for example: hiking boots, sandals, and a fancy pair to round out the day.

Consider spending part of the day in a different outfit. Perhaps more casual dress for an evening hike, or maybe a party outfit if you plan on going out to eat or something… generally, having a break from tight, restrictive clothes is a nice reprieve, plus it adds variety to your final photo gallery.

Stay warm (or cool) – don’t fret too much about getting the perfect shot of you in your wedding attire, we will get them, but more importantly is being comfortable. Wear your puffy coats in the morning or slap your beanie on as the sun is setting. The photos of you in your adventuring gear AND your wedding clothes might end up being your favorite– they tell the TRUE story of the day.

Get dirty. Your dress and/or suit is going to get dirty… it’s best not to fight it.

Take breaks – whether it’s to catch your breath, warm your hands or take in the scenery. There’s no need to be a hero… getting to the top of the hill with no breaks, then you’re sweaty and want to die… no fun at all. This day is supposed to be fun! We work WITH our timeline, our clothing, our needs, etc. to make sure it’s the best day possible.

SNACK! Oh my gosh, please snack and make space for meals. Hangry is real and it is the most efficient way to ruin a mood. And on a similar note, please please please drink water.

Oregon Adventure Elopement Photographer

“Adventure” means whatever you want it to. Whether that’s a hike to a mountain top, visiting a museum, or celebrating at an arcade. When talking about elopements, I sort of use it as a catch all term for “fun things that fit your style.”

I have a background in outdoor guiding, nature education and ecology, which I think gives me a unique angle in planning adventure elopements for people. My favorite thing in the world is helping people connect more deeply with nature, and I love helping others do it on their Best Day Ever.

Please browse the blog for elopement planning tips and inspiration, and get in touch here when you are ready to get started!