Manzanita Coastal Cliffs Oregon Elopement - R & D

Elopements

Jul 17

Imagine exchanging vows with the gentle sound of waves in the background and the golden sunset casting a warm glow. The Oregon coast offers an enchanting blend of rugged cliffs, serene beaches, and lush forests, providing the perfect, picturesque setting for capturing the intimate and timeless beauty of your elopement. I personally love the Oregon Coast for this very reason and would continuously photograph here time and time again.

As we made our way to the ceremony site, the coastal cliffs of the Oregon Coast provided such a breathtaking backdrop. The dramatic scenery, with its rugged rocks and sweeping ocean views, created a sense of awe and wonder. The weather was perfect, with the sun peeking through the clouds and a gentle breeze carrying the salty scent of the sea.

As if orchestrated by nature itself, we encountered a herd of elk grazing near the cliffs. When the elks of the Oregon Coast are your only witnesses for your elopement you feel eternally graced by Mother Nature’s approval for the promises being made on your special day. The sight was surreal, adding an unexpected layer of beauty to the day. R and D were mesmerized, their faces lighting up with childlike wonder at the sight of these majestic creatures but also with caution (as we always should when encountering wild animals). It felt like a blessing, a sign from the universe that their union was meant to be.

The elks lingered the entire time, as if giving their silent approval to the couple’s vows. I took this opportunity to capture some candid shots of R and D while transcribing their vows into their vow books. The presence of the elks added a sense of enchantment to the already magical setting, making their elopement feel like a scene from a fairytale. This was one of the most touching moments of the day. They had each written personal love letters, filled with promises and expressions of love, which they wanted to immortalize in their books. I captured the quiet concentration on their faces as they carefully copied their words, the soft scratching of pen on paper blending with the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore. This simple yet profound act of transcribing their vows is something they could hold onto and revisit in the years to come. It was a poignant reminder of the significance of their commitment and the journey they were embarking on together.

Instead of getting ready at a separate location, R and D both decided to change into their elopement attire on the Oregon coast cliffs. This decision was made to ensure that their attire is fresh and pristine. Another perk is that it adds an element of spontaneity and adventure to an already fun filled day.

The ceremony took place on a secluded cliff overlooking the ocean, the sound of the waves providing a natural soundtrack to their vows. The setting was intimate and perfect. R and D stood hand in hand, their eyes locked in a gaze of unwavering love and commitment. As they exchanged their vows, their voices carried by the wind, there was a palpable sense of connection and sincerity. The emotion in their words was evident, each promise a testament to their deep bond and shared dreams.

I captured every moment, from the tears that glistened in R’s eyes to the tender smile on D’s face. The raw emotion of their vows, set against the backdrop of the coastal cliffs, created a powerful and unforgettable scene.