If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding or elopement that blends stunning mountain views, peaceful lakesides, and a cozy lodge tucked among Oregon’s beautiful pines and aspens, Black Butte Ranch is the place to make it happen! Whether you’re planning a small intimate ceremony, a romantic elopement, or a cozy weekend wedding, Black Butte Ranch has something to offer you! 

As a local Oregon elopement photographer who has captured several intimate weddings at this incredible venue, I can confidently say that Black Butte Ranch is the perfect spot for couples looking to celebrate their love in a breathtaking, laid-back setting.

If you’re considering getting married here as well, here’s everything you need to know about planning your Black Butte Ranch wedding!

Why Black Butte Ranch?

Black Butte Ranch’s new Lodge is freaking gorgeous! It’s got both indoor and outdoor spaces that can cater to intimate gatherings, elopements, and even larger weddings of up to 175 people if you decide to expand your guest list just a bit.

You can say your vows outdoors with the mountains as your backdrop, or opt for a cozy indoor ceremony at the lodge, especially if you’re planning a winter wedding. The views of the Cascade Mountains and the beautiful little lake are seriously the perfect backdrop for your ceremony! 

Plus, they offer weekday and off-season rates that are ideal for couples looking to keep their wedding smaller and more intimate. 

On Site-Lodging

One of the biggest perks of choosing Black Butte Ranch is the on-site lodging! Whether you’re planning to host just a few family members or a small group of close friends, there’s something for every budget and style. You and your guests can stay in charming condo rentals or splurge a bit more on luxurious homes that fit the whole wedding party. 

Having everyone nearby makes the wedding day (and the entire weekend!) more relaxed and enjoyable, and you don’t need to worry about getting people home or their hotels at the end of your reception. 

Activities at Black Butte Ranch

I LOVE when my couples want to incorporate adventure into their wedding day, and Black Butte Ranch gives you SO many ways to do that! Think golf, horseback riding, and miles of beautiful trails for hiking or biking. It’s really a great choice if you’re looking for a location that offers most of what you want in one location. 

If you’re looking to go a bit beyond the ranch, Black Butte is close to so many amazing spots in Central Oregon! It’s close to the charming town of Sisters, where you’ll find cute boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.

Consider heading over to the Metolius River for some epic fly fishing (and amazing photos, of course!), or even hitting the slopes for a winter wedding at the nearby Hoodoo Ski Area. And if you’re up for more excitement, Central Oregon’s famous waterfalls, whitewater rafting, and endless hiking trails are all within reach. Whatever your vibe, there’s no shortage of activities to make your wedding day totally you!

When to Get Married in Black Butte Ranch?

Black Butte Ranch is a year-round wedding destination, but your experience will change depending on the season you choose. Central Oregon weather can vary quite a bit, but there’s no wrong time to plan your wedding or elopement here. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide the best time of year for your big day!

Spring

From March to May, temperatures begin to rise, with daily highs reaching the 60s. Mornings and evenings are still cool, so packing layers is a must! Spring is a wonderful time to enjoy the blooming flowers, crisp mountain air, and nearby activities like hiking in the Deschutes National Forest or casting a line at one of the local fishing spots.

Summer

This is peak wedding season for a reason. The weather is warm with temperatures averaging in the high 70s, the skies are clear, and the mountain views are simply stunning. It’s perfect for outdoor ceremonies and sunset photos! This is a great time to also enjoy most of the activities out there, like hiking, golfing, horseback riding, and more!

Fall

September to November brings cooler temperatures dropping into the 40s, and more and more rain by the end of the season. Fall at Black Butte Ranch means stunning golden foliage and crisp, clear air, which is beautiful for an outdoor ceremony or gorgeous elopement photos!

Winter

For couples who love the cold and the beauty of a snow-covered landscape, winter at Black Butte Ranch transforms the area into a winter wonderland. If you love the idea of a romantic, snowy, wintery vibe, the lodge provides the perfect cozy indoor setting while still offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. And if you’re up for adventures, you’re just a short drive away from skiing at Mt. Bachelor or snowshoeing in the wilderness!

How to Get to Black Butte Ranch?

You can travel to Black Butte Ranch by car or by plane, depending on where you’re coming from. If you’d like specific options or directions, check out their site here!

Local Vendors I Recommend for Your Black Butte Ranch Wedding

Black Butte Ranch offers not only a stunning location for your intimate wedding or elopement but also access to an incredible range of local vendors to make your day truly special. From florists to bakers, hair and makeup artists to musicians, these vendors have experience working in Central Oregon and can help bring your wedding vision to life.

For flowers, consider beautiful arrangements from Woodland Floral, The Posie Shoppe, Summer Robbins Flowers, or Porter Floral.

When it comes to wedding attire, Suitsupply, David’s Bridal, Watters, and Men’s Wearhouse have you covered.

For your music and entertainment, consider Flip Flop Sounds for DJ services, or live performances by Eric Leadbetter Music or Honey Don’t. If you’re after a string quartet or more classical music, check out Bend Oregon Wedding Music.

For hair and makeup, look no further than Edge Hair and Makeup, Makeup Mafia, or Artistry by Kate—each offering services that will help you look and feel your best on your wedding day.

And let’s not forget the desserts! Ida’s Cupcake Café, Crumb Central Oregon, and Dreamin’ Desserts are ready to create stunning cakes and desserts that taste just as good as they look.

Last but not least, for officiants, check out Wendy Duncan Ministries, Officiant Jimmie, Rev. Chris Lewis, or Weddings with Heart to ensure your ceremony is personalized and meaningful.

Ready to Plan Your Black Butte Ranch Wedding?!

I hope this blog has been helpful when it comes to planning your Black Butte Ranch wedding! And if you’re looking into Oregon wedding venues, you may also be looking for your Oregon elopement photographer. If so – hi, I’m Erica and I’m here to document an experience you and your partner will remember forever! Be sure to check out my elopement packages and reach out via my inquiry form here!

If you’re looking for more inspiration for your Black Butte Ranch intimate wedding or elopement, you should check out Melina & Michael’s and Andrea & Greg’s big days!