If you’re dreaming of a whimsical, adventure-filled elopement with coastal magic, mossy forests, and epic sand dunes, a Hobbit Beach Oregon Coast elopement might just be your perfect match! Harley & Clarence knew they wanted their wedding day to feel carefree, fun, and totally them, so we made sure it was exactly that, and it was freaking amazing!

How They Met & Their Proposal

Harley and Clarence first connected through online dating. They chatted for a couple of weeks before deciding to meet up in person at a local Mexican restaurant. Harley’s friend Lacey came along for the date and sat at another table just to make sure Clarence checked out!

Fast forward to their annual friends-and-family aka “Framily” trip to Maine in 2023 when Clarence had planned the sweetest surprise proposal. Harley had some suspicions since Clarence was adorably nervous and even playfully teased him on whether he was going to do it or not. He finally popped the question during sunrise. Of course, she said yes!

Sunrise Getting Ready at Mercer Lake

The adventure began bright and early at their cozy vacation rental on Mercer Lake in Florence, Oregon. Harley, Clarence, and their closest friends started their morning with delicious bagels, pastries, and tons of hot coffee (essential fuel for an early morning!). They laughed, relaxed and enjoyed every moment while their amazing HMUA Meaghan of Black Fern Beauty Co worked her magic on hair and makeup.

After they got ready separately, we organized the sweetest first look overlooking the lake near the boat dock. The peaceful water and serene lake views were the perfect backdrop for this intimate moment and set the vibe for the day ahead.

Romantic Sunrise Ceremony at Hobbit Beach, Oregon

Then it was off to the main event! The group took a little hike and headed over to Hobbit Beach for their sunrise elopement ceremony. With its moss-covered trees, lush greenery, and rocky shoreline, Hobbit Beach provided exactly the fairy tale, moody-romantic vibe Harley & Clarence envisioned. 

The incredible Officiant Jimmie crafted a ceremony filled with fun Lord of the Rings references and ended it with his signature “seal it with a shot” toast, complete with ring pops for everyone! 

After the ceremony, we wandered the shoreline, capturing intimate, romantic portraits in the soft morning light. Hobbit Beach truly delivered all the magic for this couple’s special moment.

Luxury Picnic at Heceta Head Lighthouse

Next, we headed down to the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse, where Rogue Picnics had set up a dreamy luxury beach picnic. Harley, Clarence, and friends soaked up the late Oregon sunshine, indulging in good food and laughter before exploring the picturesque creek beneath the nearby bridge for more stunning portraits. These moments were everything that I believe your elopement should be about!

Sandboarding on Oregon Dunes

In our conversations, Harley mentioned wanting to do something unique for their elopement day, an experience they couldn’t get back home in Tennessee. So, after doing some careful research, I suggested sandboarding on the Oregon sand dunes, and they were all in!

Everyone had an absolute blast sliding down the sandy slopes. According to the staff, Harley & Clarence were the first wedding couple they’d hosted, making the experience even more special and unforgettable!

And if you’re wondering whether you should have a full-day elopement like Harley & Clarence and what to do, you should check out this blog!

Kind Words from the Couple

“Erica was a gift from the universe or from the Google algorithm. Either way, after rolling our D20 and landing on the Oregon coast we were excited to find a photographer that could help us with every step of the way. If adventure elopement were a test, Erica would pass with flying colors. Technically she did pass the test of my now husband, who has also professionally photographed. From the get-go Erica communicated quickly and clearly. She was a happy face in what could have been a stressful time if not for her help! She gave excellent vendor suggestions, a few we chose to be a part of our day. I hope we have the opportunity to work with her again!”

Planning Your Own Hobbit Beach Oregon Coast Elopement?

Ready to create your own dreamy elopement like Harley & Clarence’s unforgettable Hobbit Beach adventure in the Oregon coast? I’m here for you every step of the way! When you book an elopement with me, you’re not just getting stunning photos—you’re getting a full adventure planning partner. I’ll help you scout incredible locations, connect with awesome local vendors, plan a seamless timeline, find the perfect activities to make your day truly you and unique, and provide fun styling props (think cozy lanterns, blankets and more!).

My goal is to make your elopement totally stress-free, epic, and authentically you. If you’re still looking for your Oregon elopement photographer, I’d LOVE to meet you. Be sure to check out my Oregon elopement packages and reach out to me via my inquiry form here!

If you’re looking for more ideas for your big day on the coast, check out my blog on planning an Oregon Coast elopement!

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Vendors:

Hair and Make up: Meaghan Whalen of Black Fern Beauty Co

Officiant: Officiant Jimmie

Picnic: Rogue Picnics

Dress Shop: Vow’d Weddings, Nashville

Suit: State & Liberty

Flowers: Truck Full of Posies

Shoes: Merrell

Sandboarding: Sand Master Park