Sandy, Oregon Elopement Videography and Photography at the Woodlands House

Sandy, Oregon Elopement Videography and Photography at the Woodlands House

Sandy, Oregon Elopement at the Woodlands House 

James + Veronica are serving allll the wedding inspo at this styled Sandy, Oregon Elopement at the Woodlands House — they were so sweet with each other and it was a blast getting to know them in their engagement season. This day was EVERYTHING an Oregon wedding should be — drizzling moody rain, deep greens, a cozy cabin, a greenhouse ceremony, lavender florals, a curated tablescape. If you’re planning a PNW micro-wedding or elopement then you’re going to want to keep reading. 

Rainy + Moody Oregon Elopement Photography and Videography at the Woodlands House

Getting ready together at the Woodlands House in Sandy, Oregon

James and Veronica got ready together in the Woodlands house in Sandy, Oregon — V’s hair and makeup was done by the incredibly talented Shantel of Shantilly Artistry, who put a twist on a clean and classic makeup look by adding a statement bold eyeliner. It was such a lovely quiet time with these two getting ready with the rain pattering against the windows in the Woodlands House, and I love that J zipped up V’s dress for her! So freaking sweet!! 

Ceremony in a greenhouse in the woods

The Woodlands House has a little greenhouse on-site in the woods on the property, and it’s such a charming way to combine indoor and outdoor elements for a wedding day. I’ve seen some couples use the greenhouse to host a small dinner party/reception after their vows, but I LOVED seeing it set up as a ceremony space. Curated Mess Co and Novella Theory Floral went ALL OUT decorating this space for J + V to read their love letters — it was so dreamy. 

Oregon forest adventure session

J + V are reserved, but warm, souls — I know sooo many introverts worry about what it’s going to be like in front of the camera on their wedding day, but these two are a perfect example of what it looks like when two people just melt into each other. When you interact as you truly are and don’t worry too much about posing, we can make magic! Obviously, I provide a ton of direction for the posed shots we take, but it’s also important to just be intentional about experiencing the moment you’re in — we were in a gorgeous Oregon forest where J + V could just take in the beauty around them and walk together through the woods. Fun tip from the session: If we’ll be shooting after dark, let’s include some lanterns to light your path! 

Intimate candle-lit dinner on the deck

This tablescape curated by Curated Mess Co with florals from Novella Theory Floral was the star of the show — having an intimate elopement or micro-wedding doesn’t mean you can’t have stunning details like J + V! In fact, I’d argue that it just gives you more wiggle room in your budget to make sure every detail reflects you and your personal style, and helps you craft an experience that you’ll look fondly back on forever. 

Planning an intimate elopement at an Airbnb

Planning an elopement at an Airbnb can be a great way to have an intimate and unique wedding while simplifying the logistics. First, you'll need to find an Airbnb that suits your needs and preferences for the ceremony and any post-wedding festivities. Look for a place that has a beautiful outdoor area or a cozy indoor space, depending on the season and your personal style. Once you've found the perfect Airbnb, be sure to check their policies on hosting events and the number of guests allowed. You’ll need to communicate with the host about your plans and ensure they are comfortable with your elopement taking place on their property. You may need to obtain any necessary permits or licenses depending on the location and the specific requirements of the local government. 

Working with an elopement or micro-wedding planner

It’s always so fun working with elopement and micro-wedding planners, especially ridiculously talented ones like Megan of Curated Mess Co. Megan crafts such stunning, intentional designs for her couples and the intention behind every decision comes through in the photos + videos. I highly, highly, highly recommend investing in a planner + designer like Megan — she will make the planning process an absolute breeze. 

J + V’s Outfit Details

I’m obsessedddd with the classic, clean silhouettes of J + V’s outfits — Veronica’s dress is a silky a-line gown from The Bespoke Bride and she absolutely rocked it, and James opted for a mismatched but neutral fit of black slacks with a gray suit jacket. 

Sandy, Oregon wedding flowers and decor

The lavender and purple floral accents designed by Novella Theory Floral Co. were a beautiful, delicate contrast to the lush greenery surrounding the Woodlands House. Megan from Curated Mess Co. pulled everything together beautifully with her tablescape and ceremony designs, complete with rentals from Party Place PDX. The flatlay Megan curated featured stationery design by Honest Calligraphy. 

Including pets in your wedding day

Sooo you can’t imagine getting hitched without your pet — I totallyyyy get it and support you! We just have to plan some extra logistical stuff when it comes to your pet, and finding an Airbnb or VRBO that allows pets is a great way to make SURE they can be a part of your day even if they aren’t allowed on the extra hike, activity, or destination you pick. 

All about eloping at the Woodlands House in Sandy, Oregon

The Woodlands House is nestled in the heart of Sandy, Oregon's lush forest. The house features two bedrooms, a cozy living room with a wood-burning stove, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a lovely outdoor space with a hot tub and a fire pit. The Woodlands House is located just minutes away from local attractions, including hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Sandy, Oregon is stunningggg and is also super close to Mt. Hood, so the Woodlands would be a great place to stay if you have activities or your wedding planned there. 

How to get to Sandy, Oregon: 

Plane — Closest Airport:

Portland International Airport: 34 min (25.3 mi) via US-26 E

Closest Major Towns/Cities:

Portland, Oregon: 37 min (28.6 mi) via I-84 E and US-26 E

Oregon City, Oregon: 33 min (22.3 mi) via OR-224 W and OR-211 N

Mt. Hood Village, Oregon: 14 min (15.5 mi) via US-26 W

Offline Maps + Cell Service in Sandy, Oregon

Cell service can vary in this area, especially if your route has you coming from Mt. Hood — Sandy itself has cell service, but you should definitely download your maps when you know for certain you have coverage! 

Weather info + best time of year to elope in Sandy, Oregon

Sandy, Oregon gets all four seasons and is likely to have snow from late November to early March. If your priority is hiking, I’d recommend avoiding the winter months, but with Mt. Hood Ski Bowl so close by there is plenty of recreation! A cozy cabin like the Woodlands is a great option at any time of year, it’s just a matter of planning around your interests. 

Getting hitched in Oregon: Permits, passes, & legalities

Oregon Special Use/Activity Permits 

Oregon National Parks Elopement Permits

Oregon only has one National Park, Crater Lake National Park, and it’s stunninggggg. You will need your National Park pass and a special use permit, which you can click here to fill out. There is a $50 processing fee associated with this permit!

Oregon State Parks Elopement Permits

You will need a special use permit to elope in State parks in Oregon, which you can click here to fill out! There is a $100 processing fee. 

Oregon Public Lands Elopement Permit

Other public lands, like National Forests and locations on the coast, only require a special use permit for groups over 75 people!

Oregon State marriage laws/license info

The process of getting married in Oregon is pretty simple! Just head to the courthouse website for the county that you’ll be getting married in and apply online. The day of your appointment at the courthouse, both parties need to be present with your required docs/ID, and a $60 fee. After the license becomes effective, you have 60 days to have a ceremony performed anywhere in Oregon. You will provide the marriage license to your officiant, who will return it signed back to the county. If you’re planning a Sandy, Oregon wedding or elopement, click here for Clackamas County marriage license info. 

Oregon elopement videographer and photographer

Heyyy, I’m Shay, your destination elopement + wedding photographer and videographer for the adventurous and laid-back! As a frequent traveler, outdoor lover, and granola-lite Patagonia fraggle, I obviously loveeee the PNW for all of its beauty. I’m originally from Oregon, moved to North Idaho as a kid, and ended up in Montana as a teenager — ya girl has only lived in stunning places. I am a story-driven photographer and videographer, meaning we structure your day around activities that sound fun and reflect you as a couple, and reverence for nature. I serve *everyone* and tell *all* kinds of love stories — sooo no matter who you are or what you look like, you can click here to learn more about my experience + pricing, and let’s go on an adventure. 

SANDY, OREGON WEDDING VENDORS

PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY BY MONTANA DIARIES

Photography + Videography: Montana Diaries

Hosts: Curated Mess Co + Dawn Photo

Style + Design: Curated Mess Co

Florist: Novella Theory Floral

Dress: The Bespoke Bride

Paper: Honest Calligraphy 

Venue: The Woodlands House

MUA: Shantilly Artistry

Rentals: Party Place PDX