Portland Elopement in the Columbia River Gorge
Hidden Stone House — Courtney & Baxter’s Whimsical Oregon Elopement
As a Portland elopement photographer, I get to capture some of the most unique and heartfelt love stories, and Courtney and Baxter’s journey was nothing short of magical. Their love story began in high school, and after seven incredible years together, they chose to celebrate their marriage in a way that truly reflected their adventurous spirits.
Courtney and Baxter first made things official with a courthouse wedding in Texas, but they knew they wanted something more intimate and meaningful for their vows. That’s when they set their sights on Oregon and the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Courtney reached out to me with a vision—a hidden stone house tucked away in the lush forests of the Columbia River Gorge. She wanted a setting that felt like something out of a fairytale, a place where she and Baxter could share their vows surrounded by towering trees and the peaceful serenity of nature.
I was immediately intrigued and spent time researching and scouting locations to find the perfect spots for them. After some exploration, I found the hidden gem they had envisioned, nestled deep in the forest—a truly enchanting location for their Oregon elopement.
On the day of their elopement, we embraced the wild beauty of the PNW. The moss-covered stones, the whispering trees, and the soft glow of the afternoon light created the perfect backdrop for their heartfelt vows. It was an honor to witness their love unfold in such a raw and genuine way. After exchanging vows, we explored the area, capturing every joyful, adventurous, and intimate moment. We finished off the day at Bridal Veil falls, a fitting setting and name for this romantic day. The sun peaked through the forest as the couple danced and shared intimate moments in front of the stunning waterfall views.
What I love most about their story is how they made their experience uniquely theirs. They prioritized what truly mattered—each other. And after their dreamy forest elopement, they planned to celebrate with friends and family back home in Texas, blending both adventure and tradition.
I walked away from this day feeling incredibly grateful to have been part of their journey. This is why I love being a PNW wedding photographer—getting to document love stories that break the mold and embrace the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
If you’re dreaming of a Columbia River Gorge elopement or a forest elopement in Oregon, let’s create something magical together. Reach out, and let’s start planning your unforgettable adventure!
