An Oregon Coast Elopement Full of Love, Adventure, and Seagulls

There’s something so special about an Oregon Coast elopement. The salty air, the sound of crashing waves, and the way the fog hugs the cliffs all set the scene for a day that feels a little wild and completely unforgettable. This elopement wasn’t about following traditions or checking boxes. It was about creating a day that felt true to who they are.

They didn’t want a big crowd or a packed schedule. They wanted nature, quiet moments, and time to focus on what really mattered. From the very start, it was clear this would be a day full of meaning. You could feel it in the way they laughed with their friends, in the stillness of the ocean, and in the calm, steady love they shared.

We’re Maggie and Amber, the best friend team behind Kindred Light Studios. As Cincinnati wedding photographers with over a decade of experience, we’ve had the joy of documenting love stories across the globe. Whether it’s an elegant estate wedding or an adventurous Oregon Coast elopement like this one, our approach stays the same. We focus on genuine connection and thoughtful, editorial storytelling.

If you’re planning a celebration that truly reflects you, we would be honored to be a part of it. Reach out here to check availability, learn more about our process, or explore more love stories captured with care, creativity, and heart.

A Playful Cannon Beach Morning to Start Their Oregon Coast Elopement

Things kicked off with a casual shoot at Cannon Beach. The couple showed up in jeans and bare feet, ready to explore and have fun. That first part of the day felt light and free, and we just let the energy guide us. There was no pressure, just play. They ran through the sand, hugged under the soft gray sky, and laughed as flocks of seagulls took over the beach. (Seriously, so many seagulls. We couldn’t stop laughing and tried to get them into as many photos as we could.)

This quiet beach morning was the perfect way to start. It allowed them to settle in, breathe deeply, and connect before the real adventure began. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments are the simplest ones, and this part of the day was filled with them.

Planning to take your elopement a little further? Whether it’s the Oregon Coast or somewhere across the globe, we’re always up for the adventure. Take a look at this stunning elopement in Greece for more inspiration.

Couple running barefoot through seagulls during their Oregon Coast elopement, with Haystack Rock ahead.

A Slow Afternoon at the Beach House

After our time at the beach, we made our way back to their cozy Airbnb near the water. It was the perfect little spot to pause and recharge before the next part of their Oregon Coast elopement. The home had large windows that filled the room with soft light, and a calm, peaceful feeling enveloped us as soon as we walked in.

They ordered pizza, kicked off their shoes, and just relaxed for a while with their two closest friends. This quiet time gave everyone a chance to settle in and enjoy the slower pace of the day. One of our favorite aspects of any Oregon Coast elopement is that the day never feels rushed. There’s room to breathe, laugh, and be fully present.

When it was time to change into their wedding outfits, the mood shifted in the sweetest way. Naomi put on her custom-made dress, which was inspired by her Chinese heritage. The dress was elegant, meaningful, and fit her perfectly. Ricky got into his suit, with their friends nearby helping with little details and offering encouragement. The entire space felt filled with love and excitement.

Being able to take your time in a place that feels comfortable and calm is one of the biggest benefits of choosing an Oregon Coast elopement. You’re not stuck in a timeline. You’re just living in the moment, surrounded by people who mean the most to you.

For the adventurous couple: Did you know we offer destination wedding photography? Eloping in Europe or planning a faraway “I do”? We’re always up for the adventure. You bring the love, we’ll bring the cameras.

An Oregon Coast Elopement with Cliffside Vows and a Private First Dance

As evening came, we headed to the trailhead for the most meaningful part of their Oregon Coast elopement. The hike was peaceful, winding through trees until we reached a cliff that overlooked the ocean. Even with light rain and wind, the view was stunning and felt exactly right for them.

At the edge of the cliff, they read a Bible verse, exchanged vows, and held hands as the waves crashed below. It was quiet, personal, and full of love. No distractions, just the two of them and the beauty of the Oregon Coast.

Then, something extra special. They had taken private dance lessons and saved their first dance for this very spot. With wind in their hair and the ocean behind them, they danced on the cliffside. It was sweet, playful, and completely them.

Dreaming of an engagement session that’s a little more you? Whether it’s exploring a new city or soaking up the sun in a beautiful place, we love capturing love stories in unforgettable settings.

A smiling couple poses together on a cliffside with the ocean behind them. The bride holds a bright coral peony bouquet and wears a lace dress, while the groom wears a brown plaid suit and blue tie.

Why We’ll Never Forget This Oregon Coast Elopement

From beginning to end, this Oregon Coast elopement was filled with the kind of magic that stays with you. Every part of the day felt thoughtful and authentic to who they are. The quiet beach walk, the cliffside vows, and their sweet first dance by the ocean all came together to create something unforgettable. It was simple, emotional, and completely centered on their love.

What made it even more special was how they wove in their cultural backgrounds. Naomi’s custom dress was a beautiful nod to her Chinese heritage, and Ricky carried his Vietnamese roots with quiet pride. These small, meaningful touches added so much depth to their Oregon Coast elopement, making the day feel even more personal.

This is the kind of day that reminds us why we love photographing elopements. They’re not about following rules or timelines. They’re about slowing down, being present, and creating space for real moments to unfold. An Oregon Coast elopement gives you the freedom to do just that.

A bride stands on a rocky cliffside with the ocean behind her, holding a bouquet of coral peonies in her lace wedding dress.
A couple embraces on a winding trail surrounded by lush green hills and dense forest, with the bride in white and the groom in a suit.

A Day That Felt Like Them

This Oregon Coast elopement was everything we love about photographing love stories. It was personal, peaceful, and full of intention. From the seagulls at sunrise to the quiet vows on the cliff, every part of the day felt like a true reflection of who they are. These are the kinds of moments that stay with you. The simple, honest ones that remind us why this work means so much.

If you’re dreaming of an elopement that feels like your own little corner of the world, the Oregon Coast is a beautiful place to begin. And when you’re ready, we’ll be here, camera in hand, excited to help you tell your story.

At Kindred Light Studios, we specialize in capturing love in a way that feels both natural and artful. Our work blends honest, documentary moments with a timeless editorial eye. If you’re planning an Oregon Coast elopement, or any celebration where meaning matters more than tradition, we’d be honored to be part of it.

Let’s create something lasting together. Reach out to inquire about your date, learn about our process, or stop by to say hello on Instagram.

MEET MAGGIE AND AMBER

We began our photography journey when we were 16 years old and have been documenting love stories ever since.

With over 15 years of photography experience and over 11 in the wedding industry, what sets us apart is our commitment to making you feel completely at ease in front of the camera. Whether you're seeking a photographer who seamlessly blends into the background, alleviates any nervousness, or brings a sense of fun to your wedding planning journey, we are dedicated to providing a personalized and unique photography experience.

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