Top 5: Best Places to Elope in Washington State
With the average wedding cost coming in around $30,000, it’s no wonder the popularity of elopements has also skyrocketed. More and more couples are realizing that a big wedding is not for them. They’d prefer to commit themselves to one another in a more intimate (and cost efficient!) manner. The answer: an elopement!
But where to do it… Here in the Pacific Northwest, the options are literally infinite. We have filmed countless elopements over the past few years and the destinations have varied so much. Whether it is in the snow-covered mountains, the peaceful forest, or right in someone’s backyard. Elopements have a genuine intimacy that gets overshadowed during a larger wedding, and they allow for a bit more adventure!
If you’re looking for a location for your upcoming elopement, check out five of our favorite spots below:
1. North Cascades National Park
The North Cascades National Park is one of the most popular places to elope. The majestic scenery and endless viewpoints keep it at the top of the list. One great thing about the North Cascades National Park is that there are scenic areas that are super accessible which is important for couples wanting to avoid heavy hiking. That said, there are also a number of amazing locations that require some definite hiking to get to – but trust me, it’s worth it when you reach the top!
2. Olympic National Park
If you’ve ever had the opportunity to venture out to the Olympic Peninsula and visit the Olympic National Park, then you’ll understand the beauty that surrounds this place. There are so many different scenes to choose from. The mountain peaks of Hurricane Ridge create a setting that is literally right out of Sound of Music. Or, the serenity of Lake Crescent makes for a moody/intimate feel. Going more south, the greenness of the Hoh Rainforest simply cannot be beat. There is a backdrop for everyone at Olympic National Park. It’s a bit of a drive from the city, but completely worth it!
3. TreeHouse Point
This past year we had the opportunity to film a ton of intimate elopements at TreeHouse Point in Fall City, WA. If you are planning your elopement and you haven’t yet heard of this venue, you should definitely take a look. Made famous from the popular Animal Planet show, TreeHouse Masters, this venue consists of a number of elegant TreeHouses made by Pete Nelson (the master himself!). Tucked away in a serene forest setting, this location cannot be beat. It is located in the heart of Snoqualmie Valley with tons of surrounding trees and a flowing river along one side of the property. The scenery is straight out of a fairy tale and perfect for a nature-themed elopement or wedding.
4. Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island provides you with the destination feel, but really just a short ferry ride from the city. This island has a small town feel with lots of local shops and eateries, and of course some truly inspiring views. Fort Ebey State Park in particular is an epic location to say your ‘I Do’s’ and elope. Not only do you get the picturesque cliffside, but there are also a number of wooded trails around the state park so you can get that forest feel too!
5. Snohomish (in a Hot Air Balloon)
For the adventurous couples looking for something truly unique, Balloon Depot in Snohomish, WA offers packages to couples wanting to get married in the sky. Just about an hour drive from the city, you can take a magical ride across Snohomish County in a giant hot air balloon. They even have one that holds up to 10 people! The only risk is planning the day, as balloon rides are frequently cancelled due to fog or rain. Whether you choose this for your elopement or not, you should definitely add the experience to your bucket list!
For more information on our elopement videography, or locations in general, feel free to contact us! You can find more info at www.emeraldmediaseattle.com