From our very first phone call, I was absolutely ecstatic about Danielle and Wes’s elopement. Their plans were simple and sweet. They wanted the sand beneath their feet and the sounds of the Pacific Ocean waves as they said their vows. There is an amazing opportunity with eloping couples who start with those kinds of intentions – they get to feel every emotion and moment that the experience brings because they aren’t concerned with much else besides being with their favorite person and getting married. And that leaves space for so much goodness. I couldn’t wait to help these two get there. 

First thing I did was set off on a location scouting trip to the Oregon Coast. My boyfriend, my dog Zuko, and I explored a handful of locations between Lincoln City and Newport. I reported back to Danielle with the locations, and we landed on the amazing Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area. 

The day itself flowed seamlessly and naturally, like the waves on the sand. We started at their hotel room where they finished getting ready and pre-gamed with Margaritas. After that, we set up a first look moment on their balcony. Once we got to their location and scoped out the scene, Melissa from Bliss and Energy Weddings officiated their ceremony. They shared private, hand-written vows to the sounds of the ocean, had their first dance to a little bluetooth speaker I brought, and celebrated their officially officailness with shots of tequila (you bet I took one too). 

We followed that up with walks around the beach, taking in the scenery and those fresh “just married” feels. They cut their adorable cake together and opened up some champagne. And then, after all was said and done and the sun was about to set, we ended the evening with a little more dancing and some heartfelt hugs and goodbyes. 

Why elope at Devil’s Punchbowl 

1. Unique Geology

   This was the first thing I noticed when we got down to the beach was the stunning orange and red rock formations. There’s a perfect little cove amidst the colorful display that’s not far from the waves. This is where Danielle and Wes would end up saying their vows. Though we did not end up going into the actual “Punch Bowl” (can be dangerous depending on tide levels) the beach itself is a beautiful place to explore.
   

2. Accessibility

   For couples looking for a convenient and beautiful coastal location with no hiking required, this is a great option. It’s right off highway 101, in between Lincoln City and Newport along the central Oregon Coast. Note: There are a few flights of stairs down to the beach.
   

3. Driving Time

   From Portland - 2 hours 30 minutes
   From Salem - 1 hour 35 minutes
   From Bend - 3 hours 50 minutes
   

4. Privacy

   Danielle and Wes got eloped on a sunny Saturday in August. Though the beach was far from empty, people were very considerate and we had tons of space and privacy during their vows. Once the sun had set, we had the whole corner of the beach to ourselves. I imagine a weekday elopement, or a sunrise elopement would provide an almost empty beach.