Washington is the best state.
Alright, so maybe I’m biased, but it’s definitely my favorite, especially when you take into account the variety of spectacular climates and views Washington has. I’ve hiked through rainforests, to waterfalls, up mountains, on beaches and to fire lookouts. I’ve seen every corner of this beautiful state, so I know if you’re eloping in Washington, you have your pick of stunning locations.
The weather here in Washington is generally pretty mild, but we definitely have seasons. Because the land is so diverse, you need to think about your elopement location in the context of the season you’re hoping to elope. Here’s your ultimate guide to Washington elopements throughout the seasons.
Spring
I used to pass over this season, impatiently waiting for summer to come, but it’s become one of my favorites. Spring in Washington means the days are starting to get longer (which means more light and more time for outdoor adventures), but there’s still a lot of rain. An outdoor elopement in the PNW during spring is not for those who are afraid of getting wet. But if you’re down for an adventure, roaring waterfalls and stunning wildflowers would love to be the setting for your “I do”.
A Spring Washington elopement is great for:
Waterfall elopements and Olympic National Park elopements
A Spring Washington elopement is not great for:
Eloping in the mountains or at Washington overlooks
Summer
Easily my favorite season in Washington. The weather is generally sunny and not blisteringly hot. Mountain roads open up, there’s more wildflowers and wildlife, and the days are long. Summer in Washington is an ideal hiking destination. There are still locations that are easily accessible, but be prepared for these locations to be crowded. The summer is also fire season in the PNW, so last-minute adjustments in location are possible. We can have plan B, C, D and E ready just in case we have to change locations due to fires or smoke.
a Summer Washington elopement is great for:
Hiking elopements (see my favorite hikes here), Mt. Rainier elopements, Mt. Baker elopement, eloping on the Washington coast or in the North Cascades
a Summer Washington elopement is not great for:
Popular areas if you’re looking for seclusion, couples who are set on their specific location and aren’t open to changes in plans
Fall
A close second to summer, fall in Washington is just lovely. Fall foliage is easy to find (and fall is also larch season in the Cascades!), and make for some stunning photos. There is a higher risk of rain, and some hikes and mountain roads start to close as the first snow falls in the mountains, but the exact timing changes every year based on weather patterns. Having an expert in Washington locations is super important for planning a fall Washington elopement since conditions can change so quickly.
a Fall Washington elopement is great for:
San Juan Island elopements, eloping in the woods and certain mountain locations, Olympic National Park elopements
a Fall Washington elopement is not great for:
Waterfall elopements, Washington coastal elopements if you’re counting on staying dry
Winter
Rain, rain, rain! If you embrace it, it’s an absolute blast! Clouds hang low and hover over mountains, making for some seriously moody photos – hello Twilight vibes! Washington has super short days in the winter (I’m talking sunset at 4pm), so you have to plan to make the most of the light, and it doesn’t hurt to have a cozy indoor spot to extend your celebration. If you love the snow, you can head into the mountains and get your fill (and then some), but road conditions can be treacherous.
a Winter Washington elopement is great for:
Moody coast elopements, eloping in Hoh Rainforest, a cabin by a lake
a winter Washington elopement is not great for:
Eloping in the mountains or at Washington overlooks
It’s not too late to elope in 2024!
I still have openings for October through December, and as you get into those months, it’s really important to have an expert to guide you through the changing conditions to make sure your day is still as magical as you’ve been picturing. Learn more about my photography approach to making your elopement your greatest adventure.
