Deception Pass Elopement Guide

Deception Pass State Park offers jaw-dropping ocean views, a dense old-growth forest, 30+ miles of hiking trails, and stunning sunsets. It is no wonder Deception Pass is one of the most visited state parks in Washington. For couples looking for those quintessential Pacific Northwest coast vibes on their elopement, this is the spot. This is why I’ve created my Deception Pass Elopement guide. To teach you, how to elope in Deception Pass State Park.

How to Elope in Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass Elopement Guide

1. Choose your elopement date or preferred season. If you’re not familiar with the PNW, you should be aware that it rains here A LOT. From winter to early spring, you can expect to see a lot of rainfall. You’ll want to elope between May and October. I recommend checking the weather report from the past to get an idea of what you can expect on your date.
2. Decide on the type of scenery you’d like to elope in! The park is full of epic backdrops for your big day. From a rugged coastline to a dense forest, there’s something for everybody here. If you’re not sure where the heck to elope in the park of 3,800+ acres and 77,000 feet of shoreline, don’t worry. I love helping clients find a location that’s perfect for them. It would be an honor to do the same for you. 
3. Hire your elopement vendors. Teamwork makes the dream work, which is why hiring a team of vendors you trust and get along with is essential. Outside hiring your Washington elopement photographer, you’ll need an officiant to marry you legally. Other vendors to consider are florists or Hair and Makeup.
4. Obtain your legal documents. Aside from finding an officiant, you’ll need to apply for a special use permit to legally marry in Deception Pass State Park.
5. Plan your Deception Pass State Park elopement adventure. Similar to the scenery, Deception Pass offers various activities the adventures favor. You could kayak or canoe across the lake. Spend the morning exploring one of the many trail routes. You could even embrace your adventurous side, and spend the night in the forest! In short, you can choose your own adventure!

Your Deception Pass Elopement Photographer

When you first start to plan out your big day, you generally know what type of vibe you’d like as well as how you would like to feel and the kind of scenery you’d like to be surrounded by. However, it tends to be a little more challenging when nailing down the exact spot to say I do.

Luckily, that’s where I come in! As your Washington elopement and wedding photographer, I have tons of tools at my disposal to help you select the PERFECT place for your day. I also generally love to travel and have a great appreciation for the great outdoors, so you can feel confident about my recommendations!

Whether you’re searching for a challenging hike, a quiet beach, magical forest vibes, or just epic views, I’m here to help guide you and recommend locations that fit your vision. 

I’ll also help figure out permits and any limitations some locations may have (and there are many at times) so that you can take it off your plate.

Location scouting and selection assistance are some of the most valuable services I offer for the couples that hire me. If you’re worried about finding the perfect location for your day, don’t be. 

Instead, contact me, and let me know how I can help.

Deception Pass Elopement Inspiration 

This intimate location is a short hour and a half jaunt north of Seattle.⁣

Do you want badass and unique nighttime shots from your elopement day? Say no more, I’m your guy. After Quinn and JeAnna’s intimate elopement ceremony, we fit in some quality snuggle time by lantern light once the sun had begun to set. Not your average wedding day photographs, my friends.⁣

Not 100% sold on a Deception Pass elopement? I encourage you to check out my Washington Elopement Guide, which lists the best places to elope in Washington.