Shilpa and Drew chose Neskowin for their coastal elopement, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Drew spent a lot of time in this area as a child, so it held sentimental value for them both. They’d also made a tradition of visiting the Oregon Coast every October, which made this location feel like home.

Located just north of Lincoln City, Neskowin is a charming coastal village filled with quaint local boutiques, cozy breweries, and great seafood. It’s the perfect spot for an elopement or intimate wedding. The stunning landscapes like Proposal Rock and the Ghost Forest really make for the most unforgettable ceremony locations. We planned Shilpa and Drew’s day to take full advantage of everything this area has to offer.

Shilpa and Drew’s Coastal Elopement Adventures

We started their day before sunrise on the beach at Proposal Rock, meeting at the trailhead to Neskowin Beach with their two dogs and witnesses. The soft glow of lanterns lit the way as Shilpa and Drew walked to Proposal Rock for their ceremony.

Miss Lady, their beloved senior dog, needed a little help getting down to the beach, but having her there meant the world to Shilpa. She’d had Miss Lady since she was a teenager, and these photos now hold extra meaning for them. Their other dog, Nimbus, brought his rambunctious energy to the morning, keeping everyone laughing as they exchanged vows by the ocean.

After the ceremony, we wandered along the beach, capturing the soft, dreamy light of sunrise. Then it was back to their Airbnb, where they signed their marriage license, shared macaroons (a Jewish custom for a sweet life together), and left Miss Lady to rest up while we continued their adventure.

Our next stop was the Rainforest Trail on the skirts of Neskowin so they could share private vows away from everyone (except Nimbus).

Exploring the Ghost Forest

Later in the day, as the tide receded, we returned to Proposal Rock to explore the Ghost Forest. While the tide wasn’t low enough to reveal much of the ancient stumps, we soaked up the sunshine and the nice weather. The beach was peaceful and picturesque! Midday, we paused for a well-deserved break. Back at the Airbnb, Shilpa and Drew enjoyed an incredible spread of food and rested before the evening’s adventures.

Personal Touches

What made Shilpa and Drew’s elopement truly special was how they infused it with their cultures and personal touches. They blended Jewish and Hindu traditions beautifully, from sharing macaroons and breaking glasses after their vows to circling a ceremonial fire seven times in the evening. Shilpa’s pink gown paid homage to her Hindu heritage, adding a stunning pop of color against the coastal backdrop.

Drew also brewed a special mead for them to share on their wedding day. Their hair and makeup person, who is also Shilpa’s friend, set up a nice charcuterie spread and tablescape at their Airbnb for them to enjoy during their mid-day break.

Shilpa and Drew’s Oregon Elopement Package

Shilpa and Drew originally booked my 4-hour package, but once we started planning, they decided to upgrade to my 8-hour split-coverage package—and it was absolutely the best choice for their vision. This package gave them the flexibility to enjoy both a sunrise ceremony and a breathtaking sunset adventure, with plenty of time to soak in every moment in between.

Planning their day was a dream. I worked closely with them to craft a personalized experience, complete with a planning guide, a custom location list, and a timeline that felt just right. I scouted their locations the day before to make sure everything was perfect. From start to finish, their day was intentional and heartfelt.

If you’re wondering how much coverage you need for your elopement day, this blog will tell you why it deserves more than just a few hours!

Why Choose a Split Day Coverage for Your Coastal Elopement

If you’re dreaming of a coastal elopement like Shilpa and Drew’s, split-day coverage is a wonderful option. The Oregon Coast offers such a variety of stunning landscapes, and having time to experience both sunrise and sunset ensures you get the best of everything – soft morning light, a relaxing mid-day break, and that golden hour glow. Plus, splitting the day allows for meaningful moments without feeling rushed.

And if you’re looking for a PNW elopement photographer who’s ready to help you plan every detail, scout amazing locations, and capture the day from start to finish, let’s chat! Be sure to check out my elopement packages and reach out via my inquiry form here!

If you read this blog, you may also like: How to Plan an Oregon Coast Elopement and How to Plan a Dog Friendly Elopement.

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Vendors:

Suit | Indochino

Shoes | Birkenstock

Dress | Rue de Seine & The Dress Theory

Florals | Solabee Flowers & Botanicals

HMUA | Visit Skin & Nail Studio