Intimate, intentional micro wedding in Bend, OR

Sometimes, when planning a wedding, things happen… most times, actually. Even when planning an elopement with just family, the universe may have other plans for you.

Tara & Eric are two such recipients of these universal lessons. They actually live in Bend, my home base, but were planning on eloping at their favorite spot in the world– a family house in Tahoe.

One of the things I remember the most about meeting these two in person for the first time was how much I loved their home decor… they invited me over for a planning session and I immediately noticed their assortment of perfectly round river rocks, arranged in descending size order… absolutely perfect. I knew we were going to get along great after seeing that. Ha!

Originally, we were going to wake up early, hike Eagle Rock at sunrise, then have an intimate ceremony on the beach, and then (my favorite part) they were going to jump in the lake from the dock.

Unfortunately, family circumstances changed and that was really a possibility anymore, so they pivoted. Molding their plans to something that still fit their original vision as much as possible, but was able to accommodate their new situation.

Early Morning River Dip — a brilliant way to start an elopement day

In keeping with the spirit of Tara & Eric’s original plans, we planned some adventure time as a part of the new plan.

As previously stated, T & E wanted to do a sunrise hike and a jump into the lake. So we combined the essences of those two things with a sunrise dip in the beautiful Deschutes River.

The Deschutes River runs through the town of Bend, OR, and has many amazing opportunities for recreation– and for elopement adventures. Paddleboarding, tubing, kayaking, rafting… From the snowy springs of the Central Cascade Mountains to the powerful Columbia River, opportunity abounds along the Deschutes.

Upriver of the town of Bend, the Deschutes has the designation of “Wild and Scenic River.” You may have heard of National Parks and National Forests, but have you heard of National Wild and Scenic Rivers? In the 60s, legislation was passed to preserve rivers of the US with particular scenic or recreational value. Oregon happens to have 34 Wild and Scenic Rivers, which protects over 1,000 miles of waterways!

At a calm spot, just outside of town, along the Cascade lakes Highway, Tara & Eric met me just before sunrise. They brought along they’re two adorable pups.

As the soft light brightened on the river, Tara & Eric soaked in the morning. Starting out by playing fetch with the doggos, then joining them in the river with a cold plunge. The dogs were very excited to have their people in the water with them.

As the sun hit the banks, the two warmed up in the early sunshine. To help them warm up, I brought along my french press and JetBoil to make them some coffee before heading out to catch Eric’s tee time. (Honestly, not the best coffee I’ve made… I felt a little rushed and it haunts me to this day…)

Backyard Ceremony

Tara & Eric still decided to keep the ceremony small, as they had planned for their Tahoe elopement. They invited just their family and close friends.

I started by visiting the Groom and his guys at a house across town. The scene was jovial and sentimental, as they steamed suits and sipped on some good whiskey.

At Tara & Eric’s house, folks were hanging out, chatting and just having a simple, relaxing time as things were being set up and the bride was getting ready.

The house was festively decorated with jars of flowers, with white lace and tulle fabric draped on chairs and tables.

Before the ceremony started, T & E opted to meet, but not look at each other. We called it their Not-Quite-First-Look. They chatted around the corner from one another, holding hands, Eric tearing up like the freakin’ cutie he is! I also spotted him taking a moment to practice his vows… so adorable.

Really, all the moments between folks leading up to the ceremony were full of emotion of joy. Look at this cute interaction between Eric and his sister 🙂

The star of ceremony decor was this stunning floral installation by Summer Robbins Flowers in front of their gorgeous vintage shed. It really gave a bespoke Old West vibe, in the best way.

The ceremony musicians arrived and people took their seats. The processional was traditional and beautiful, leading to the moment when Eric saw his bride for the first time. Donning a gorgeous two piece lace dress, with a splendid floral crown, Tara looked simply perfect.

An emotional, vulnerable, beautiful ceremony, with personal vows written by T & E. The ring bearer was their young pup. He ran up the aisle with the ring clipped in with a carabiner.

Their first kiss as husband and wife was followed by a shower of lavender and flower petals.

Toasts & Speeches

One of the more stressful parts of this micro wedding was Eric’s debacle with their caterer… they ghosted him.

Luckily, T & E are blessed with extremely talented friends, so they had someone close to them who could step in and prepare a stunning gourmet meal.

Following a cocktail hour, their dinner was punctuated by sentimental toasts from their loved ones.

Backyard Wedding Reception

The main benefit that came from pivoting their plans (aside from being able to include their whole family), was getting to invite a larger crew to their party. In Tahoe, they were planning to end their night with their catered dinner and toasts, but in Bend, they were able to invite more of their friends to celebrate. A major bonus!

At the beginning of their reception, as folks started to arrive, T & E took a fun victory lap on their scooter. They had it decorated with streamers, and it was just such a fun way to celebrate! This is why I love elopements and micro weddings– you can include so many personal touches that reflect your relationship!

Obviously, when this perfect light hit the backyard, I had to get these pet portraits. 😀

First dances, babies, yard games galore 🙂 Tara & Eric’s micro wedding reception was a perfect party.

Change in plans is not the end of the world

So, know that even if you have a solid vision in your head of what you want, but the world has other ideas, you can still build a beautiful day that feels right. There’s no single correct way to have an elopement.

Oregon Micro Wedding Photographer

If you’re planning an elopement or a micro wedding in Oregon or the greater PNW, I’d be honored to be considered as a part of your plan.

While my specialty is nature-inspired elopements, so they usually take place slightly farther afield than a neighborhood in midtown Bend, I am happy with any intentional, authentic expression of love. Whether it’s just the two of you, or a gathering of 20 close folks.

My background in outdoor education and guiding has equipped me with a knack for both logistics and flexibility, which can both play big parts of an adventure elopement in the PNW.

Get in touch here to start planning your dream PNW micro wedding!