The 20+ Best Micro Wedding Locations in Oregon

Micro wedding locations are where epic scenery, intentional moments, and honest connection meet.

There’s something deeply beautiful about choosing to celebrate your love with just your closest people, or even just the two of you. Micro weddings are not just a trend; they’re a return to what matters most. You, your partner, the vows you make, and the setting that holds it all together.

As an Oregon-based photographer, I’ve had the honor of documenting micro weddings in places that feel more like sacred spaces than traditional venues. These aren’t ballrooms with chandeliers — they’re windswept cliffs, moss-covered forests, and intimate corners of the state that hold space for your story to unfold.

If you’re dreaming of a micro wedding in Oregon that’s meaningful, naturally beautiful, and grounded in your love for the outdoors, this list is for you.

Why I Love Photographing Micro Weddings in Oregon

I don’t just photograph micro weddings — I live for them. They’re stripped down in the best way: no pressure to perform, no rigid timelines, no crowd of 200 watching your every move. Just space to breathe, to laugh, to cry, and to soak in what’s really happening.

Oregon makes that easy. We’re lucky to have such wildly diverse landscapes: misty forests, dramatic coastlines, desert blooms, alpine lakes, vineyard hills, and mossy waterfalls — all within a few hours of each other.

I’ve handpicked each location on this list based on lighting, accessibility, visual variety, and that feeling you get when you’re somewhere that lets you be fully present.

A Note on Leave No Trace

Before we dive in, a gentle but important reminder: many of these locations are protected natural spaces. We’re guests in these environments, and it’s our responsibility to leave them as we found them or better. I always follow Leave No Trace principles and educate my couples on how to enjoy these spaces respectfully. (You can learn more at lnt.org.)

I’m happy to help you plan around seasonal closures, permits, and best practices for any of these spots.

Best Micro Wedding Locations in Oregon

Here are 20+ stunning micro wedding locations — some wild, some curated — all deeply meaningful.

1. Hug Point, Oregon Coast

Eloping next to a waterfall on the beach? Yes, please. Hug Point is a jaw-dropping mix of cliffs, tidepools, and forest trails — perfect for a moody, coastal micro wedding. Low tide is your best friend here.

Best for: Sunrise ceremonies, tide-dependent elopements, portraits in caves

2. Painted Hills

This alien-looking desert wonderland is an otherworldly spot for a micro wedding. The colors shift with the light, and sunset is downright surreal. Limit group size and stay on trails, this land is fragile and sacred.

Best for: Earthy, artful couples who want something totally different

3. Latourell Falls

Tucked just 45 minutes outside of Portland, this waterfall is a dream for couples who love moody forest vibes and easy access. The mist, the moss, the drama — it’s all here.

Best for: PNW lovers, no-hike elopements, midweek micro weddings

4. Crater Lake National Park

Yes, it’s popular, but for good reason. The deep blue water, the cliffs, the feeling of being surrounded by something ancient and vast — this place adds weight to your vows.

Best for: Epic backdrops, winter weddings with snow, late-summer alpine glow

5. Skamania Stone House

Also called the “Witch’s Castle,” this moss-covered ruin in the forest feels straight out of a fairytale. Located just outside of Portland, it’s a perfect blend of accessible and whimsical.

Best for: Forest fairytale lovers, foggy morning ceremonies

6. Sparks Lake

With a view of South Sister reflected in the water, Sparks Lake feels serene and cinematic. Sunrise or sunset both deliver insane light. You can even canoe in your wedding attire, and it’s magical.

Best for: High desert lovers, summer weddings, elopements with a splash

7. Cape Kiwanda

One of the most dramatic sections of the Oregon Coast. Wind, rock formations, and sunset cliffs — this spot screams cinematic. It’s also right next to Pelican Brewing if you want to toast post-ceremony.

Best for: Windy veil moments, golden hour cliffs, beach bonfire vibes

8. Smith Rock State Park

Golden canyons, desert trails, and the kind of light that makes everything glow. Smith Rock is iconic, and for couples who want grandeur without the altitude.

Best for: Fall elopements, hiking couples, sunset ceremonies

9. Trillium Lake

A classic for a reason. That mirrored view of Mount Hood is breathtaking. Go at sunrise for still water and that mountain glow  or opt for a weekday to skip the crowds.

Best for: Classic Oregon views, lakefront vows, calm and quiet mornings

10. Abiqua Falls

This waterfall is no joke — it’s remote, wild, and worth every step of the tricky drive and steep hike. The basalt column walls feel ancient, and when you’re standing in front of that powerful cascade, it feels like time pauses.

Best for: Adventurous couples who want a secret spot that feels sacred
Pro tip: 4WD recommended, and waterproof footwear is a must

More Beautiful Micro Wedding Spots

Here are 20 more gems from my personal and professional wishlist — many of which are not listed on this blog so check out this free planning guide.

Continued Micro Wedding Spots

11. Cannon Beach

12. Silver Falls State Park

13. Timberline Lodge

14. Cape Lookout

15. Marys Peak

16. Columbia River Gorge Overlooks

17. God’s Thumb (Lincoln City)

18. Mount Ashland

19. Lost Lake Resort

20. The Oregon Dunes

Each of these offers a different flavor of Oregon beauty — from dramatic and daring to quiet and tucked away. I’ve scouted many of them myself and would love to help you decide which one feels right for your story.

Things to Consider When Planning a Micro Wedding

Just because micro weddings are smaller doesn’t mean they’re any less meaningful, or detailed. In fact, because you’re narrowing the focus to just a few elements, every decision becomes more personal and intentional. Here are a few things to think about as you start dreaming up your day:

Florals

You don’t need an elaborate floral install to make your ceremony feel special. A thoughtfully designed bouquet and boutonnière can go a long way, especially when the landscape already does so much of the visual storytelling for you. I love working with local florists who specialize in wild, foraged, or seasonal blooms that feel like they belong in the environment, not like they were flown in from somewhere else.
Whether you’re carrying a single statement stem or a full bouquet that mirrors the colors of the coast or forest, we can find something that fits your vibe. Dried elements and minimal greenery also travel well if you’re eloping somewhere remote.

A Picnic or Private Dinner

Instead of a traditional reception, many of my couples opt for something simple and intentional  like a post-ceremony picnic in the forest or a private dinner at their Airbnb with candlelight and music. It’s a beautiful way to unwind, reflect, and connect with each other or a small group of guests.
Pack your favorite snacks and drinks, bring a blanket, and maybe order a petite cake from a local bakery. Bonus points if your Airbnb has a beautiful deck, firepit, or long wooden table you can style with florals and taper candles for that moody, cozy dinner party vibe.

Officiant (or Not)

In Oregon, you have the freedom to get legally married with an ordained friend, a private officiant, or even by a judge at the courthouse ahead of time. Some couples choose to make it official on paper beforehand and focus entirely on the ceremony experience during their micro wedding or elopement.
I’ve seen everything from a teary-eyed best friend officiating on a cliffside to a completely private vow exchange with no officiant at all — just the couple, the wind, and the words they’ve written for each other. There’s no wrong way to do it.

Attire

Comfort and movement are everything — especially if we’re hiking, changing locations, or working with weather. Choose fabrics that breathe and flow, like linen, silk, or cotton. For brides, I often suggest dresses with movement (think: trains, open skirts, or long veils that catch the wind beautifully on camera).
For grooms or partners, layers work great — a jacket you can remove, shoes that feel good to walk in, and colors that blend well with natural surroundings. And always, always bring comfortable walking shoes. You can change into your dressy shoes when we get to the ceremony spot, but you’ll thank yourself for having hiking boots or sandals during the walk.

Consider Hiring a Planner

Even for micro weddings, a planner can be an incredible asset — especially if you’re not local to Oregon. A good planner will help you coordinate logistics, secure permits, communicate with vendors, manage the timeline, and take stress off your plate so you can focus on being present.
There are planners who specialize in intimate and outdoor weddings (I’m happy to recommend my favorites!) who understand how to work in natural environments and support couples in creating meaningful, beautiful experiences without the overwhelm.

Want the Full List With Photos, Tips & Links?

I’ve created a free, in-depth guide with even more micro wedding location ideas — plus tips for choosing the right spot, what to pack, and vendor suggestions.

Click here to download the guide
(You’ll get my top 20 recommendations, plus photos and notes on timing, permits, and more.)

Let’s Capture Your Love Story

This season in your life is worth capturing and remembering. With love that feels honest, pure, and raw. With a background setting that reflects your love just as it is: wild, free, radiant, real.

Whether your vows unfold along the edge of a coastal cliff, beneath the hush of redwood trees, or in the middle of a sunlit wildflower meadow, I’m here to hold space for it all — to document it with care, intention, and heart.

What’s Included in a Micro Wedding Experience with Emily Noelle Photography

Every couple and wedding is different, so your package should reflect that. Whether you’re eloping just the two of you or planning a small celebration with close friends and family, I offer a range of photography collections designed to support whatever you’re dreaming up.

Packages range from simple alignment sessions (think: four-hour weekday coverage for private vow exchanges or intimate forest ceremonies) to all-inclusive storytelling collections. Those larger packages can include everything from:

• Full-day photo and video coverage
• Film photography add-ons
• Rehearsal dinner documentation
• Ceremony and speeches
• Documentary-style highlight video
• Engagement session

You can build a custom package that fits your vision. I’m always happy to walk you through the options and help you create something meaningful, intentional, and tailored to you.

If you’re ready to start planning, I’d be honored to walk alongside you on your special day.

Book your micro wedding photography here!

Or reach out if you just want to talk through ideas, I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming of.