Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor: A Breathtaking Backdrop for Your Oregon Elopement

Imagine exchanging vows on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing against weathered rocks below and the possibility of exploring nearby majestic redwoods. This is the magic of an Oregon elopement at Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. As a photographer who’s had the privilege of capturing countless love stories in this breathtaking corner of the Pacific Northwest, I can tell you there’s something truly special about saying “I do” surrounded by nature’s grandeur.

Recently, I had the honor of documenting Hal and Liz’s elopement – a day that perfectly encapsulated the beauty and unpredictability of outdoor weddings. These two, with their unique blend of political activism and wilderness enthusiasm, chose this stunning location for its raw beauty and intimate atmosphere. Their day began with a first look in the nearby redwoods and culminated along the dramatic coastline of Samuel H. Boardman, creating a perfect blend of forest and sea.

In this blog, we’ll explore why Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is the perfect backdrop for couples looking to elope in Oregon. We’ll dive into the magic of the coastline, the allure of nearby redwoods, and how to plan your dream day in this spectacular setting. Whether you’re just starting to consider an Oregon elopement or you’re well into planning, this guide will help you envision the possibilities of a coastal wedding that can also incorporate the majesty of nearby redwood forests. Let’s embark on this journey together!

The Magnificent Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

A Paradise for Nature-Lovers

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a 12-mile stretch of coastline that will take your breath away. Located in southern Oregon, this scenic corridor offers a diverse landscape that seems almost too beautiful to be real. Imagine rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, dotted with secluded beaches, natural rock arches, and hidden coves that feel like your own private paradise.

For couples who love hiking, the Oregon Coast Trail winds through the park, offering stunning vistas at every turn. You might find yourself on a cliff edge, watching waves crash against sea stacks, or in a quiet forest glade surrounded by ferns and wildflowers. The park’s varied terrain means you can have multiple “venues” for your elopement day – perhaps exchanging vows on a windswept bluff and then celebrating with a picnic on a secluded beach.

What makes this park truly special is how it changes with the seasons and even throughout the day. Misty mornings give way to sun-drenched afternoons, and storm-tossed seas contrast with calm, reflective pools at low tide. This ever-changing backdrop ensures that your elopement photos will be uniquely yours, capturing a moment in time that can never be exactly replicated.

The Nearby Redwood Experience

Just a short drive south of Samuel H. Boardman, you’ll find yourself in the land of towering coastal redwoods. These ancient giants create a cathedral-like atmosphere, with sunlight filtering through the canopy and blanketing the forest floor in a soft, magical light. Many couples, like Hal and Liz, choose to incorporate both landscapes into their elopement day, perhaps starting with a first look or private vow reading among the redwoods before heading to the coast for their ceremony.

The proximity of these two distinct environments offers a unique opportunity to capture the diverse beauty of the Pacific Northwest in your elopement photos. The contrast between the intimate, sheltered feeling of the redwood groves and the wide-open vistas of Samuel H. Boardman creates a rich, varied backdrop for your special day.

Why Choose an Oregon Elopement at Samuel H. Boardman?

Intimacy and Natural Beauty

One of the biggest draws of eloping at Samuel H. Boardman is the intimate atmosphere it provides. Unlike traditional wedding venues, here you’re surrounded only by the sounds of nature – the crash of waves, the cry of seabirds, the whisper of wind through coastal pines. This setting allows couples to focus entirely on each other and the commitment they’re making.

The natural beauty of the park also means you don’t need elaborate decorations. Mother Nature has already provided the perfect backdrop. Whether you choose a rocky outcrop with the ocean spread out before you or a secluded beach nestled between cliffs, the scenery will take your breath away. And as Hal and Liz discovered, even unexpected weather can add to the magic. The rain that fell during their ceremony created a cozy, intimate atmosphere and resulted in some truly spectacular misty photos.

Unique Elopement Experience

No two elopements at Samuel H. Boardman are alike. The park offers so many diverse locations that you can craft an experience that’s uniquely yours. Want to say your vows at sunrise with the ocean stretching to the horizon? Or perhaps you’d prefer a sunset ceremony with the sky painted in vibrant colors? The choice is yours. This flexibility allows you to create a day that truly reflects your personality and relationship.

Planning Your Dream Oregon Elopement at Samuel H. Boardman

Securing Permits and Permissions

While the idea of spontaneously declaring your love in a beautiful natural setting is romantic, it’s important to do things by the book. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a protected area, and you’ll need to secure the proper permits for your elopement. This usually involves contacting the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Most of the state parks along the coast, including Samuel Boardman do not require a permit for your ceremony as long as your group size is under 50 people.

Remember to inquire about any restrictions on group size, specific locations within the park, and whether you’re allowed to bring in any decorations or furniture (like chairs for elderly guests). Being well-informed will help your day go smoothly.

Choosing the Perfect Ceremony Spot

Samuel H. Boardman offers numerous breathtaking locations for your ceremony. Popular spots include Natural Bridges, Secret Beach, and Indian Sands. Each offers its own unique charm. When choosing your spot, consider factors like accessibility (especially if you have guests with mobility issues), privacy, and the kind of backdrop you want for your photos.

If you’re interested in incorporating the redwoods into your day, consider starting in one of the nearby redwood groves before making your way to Samuel H. Boardman for the ceremony or celebration. This can add an extra layer of depth and meaning to your elopement experience.

Capturing Your Special Day

Hiring a Photographer

As a photographer who specializes in elopements, I can’t stress enough the importance of finding the right person to capture your day. Look for someone who not only takes beautiful photos but also understands the unique challenges and opportunities of shooting in Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor and potentially the nearby redwoods.

An experienced elopement photographer will know how to work with the changing light conditions on the coast and in the forest. They’ll be prepared for sudden weather changes (like the rain during Hal and Liz’s ceremony!) and will know the best spots for those jaw-dropping shots.

Moreover, your photographer often plays a larger role in an elopement than in a traditional wedding. They might help scout locations, assist with timeline planning, or even serve as a witness. Choose someone whose personality meshes well with yours – you’ll be spending a lot of time with them on a very important day!

Other Ways to Preserve Memories

While photos are a wonderful way to capture your day, consider other methods too. Many couples write letters to each other to read on future anniversaries. You might collect small mementos like unique stones or shells from your ceremony site. Some couples even choose to plant a tree at home as a growing reminder of their special day in nature.

Eloping at Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is more than just a beautiful backdrop for your wedding day – it’s an experience that connects you deeply with nature and with each other. From the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast to the possibility of incorporating the majesty of nearby redwoods, this location offers a uniquely intimate and awe-inspiring setting for beginning your married life together.

As I reflect on Hal and Liz’s magical day – the laughter echoing through the rain-soaked coastline, the tender moments as they spoke their vows not just to each other but to their blended family, the joyous dance on the beach as the clouds parted – I’m reminded of why I love photographing elopements in this spectacular place. Each couple’s story is unique, yet they’re all woven into the grand tapestry of this ancient landscape.

Remember, your Oregon elopement at Samuel H. Boardman is about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic to you. Whether that means a sunrise ceremony on a clifftop, a barefoot exchange of vows on a secluded beach, or a day that captures both the coastal and forest landscapes, this region offers endless possibilities.

So, to all the adventurous, nature-loving couples out there: consider the magic of a Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor elopement. It’s more than just a wedding – it’s the beginning of your greatest adventure together, set against one of the most beautiful backdrops nature has to offer. And trust me, as someone who’s witnessed many beginnings in this special place, there’s nothing quite like it.