Happy Wedding Wednesday, y'all! I wanted to talk this week about where to get married during COVID. But keep in mind that the first step for most couples planning a COVID wedding is to decide about the type of wedding. Your type of wedding (elopement, minimony, or micro/small wedding) will inform your choice of venue. So today, we will focus on COVID elopement locations in the Seattle area so that you know some of the coolest spots to elope! Let's dive in!
Photo: Between the Pine
COVID ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
For elopements, typically you are looking at “venues” that are just out in the world, as opposed to a traditional wedding venue. However, you don't even have to travel to call it an elopement - you can elope in your backyard! Of course, picturesque settings are always a plus, so you will want to think about parks, trails, landmarks, and water. Here are some of our favorite elopement locations.
Discovery Park in Seattle
This is hands-down our favorite park in Seattle for elopements. It is within city limits, but has every habitat from evergreen hiking trails to grass-filled meadows and pebbled beaches. Oh, and did we mention there is also an incredibly picturesque lighthouse on the edge of the Puget Sound? What more could you ask for?! If you had to pick one place in Seattle, this is it. Keep in mind that you do technically need a permit to photograph or hold a ceremony in any Seattle park.
Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle
The Seattle Art Museum operates this park, which features grassy greens along the water. (And no, this image isn't stretched - the sculpture itself is just mind-bending!) This greenspace is peppered with gigantic sculptural works by some of the world’s best artists. The park offers amazing views of Eliott Bay and downtown Seattle, and it’s easy walking to a wide number of downtown bars, restaurants, and hotels. It’s also only a 15-minute walk to the iconic Pike Place Market sign, if you want to capture an iconic Seattle elopement scene! If you are art lovers like us, this is a great option for elopement. You will need to contact them for a quick approval, but it’s an easy yes if you are not setting anything up.
The Mountains
Feeling more adventurous? There are so many stunning places to elope in the mountains – and you do not have to go very far. We are surrounded by amazing mountains, rivers, lakes, and other natural features that we can enjoy year-round. Consider renting a cool A-frame cabin in the woods near Mt. Rainier, going up to Picture Lake, or experiencing the majesty of Snoqualmie Falls. We are so lucky to live in a place with so many amazing options for getting out into nature! And if you are unsure where you want to elope, our pro tip is to hire a photographer who specializes in elopements. They know all the best spots! I also wanted to share a great guide from our friends at Between the Pine on ADA-accessible elopement locations in the mountains. Such a wonderful resource! And please remember to pack out everything you pack in.
We hope this helps you find a stunning COVID elopement location! We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Next week, we will be talking about some of the small COVID wedding venues here in Seattle and the region - including some folks who are offering special packages right now. If you are ready to read more right now, you can head on over to the full COVID wedding guide for Seattle. You can also download a free PDF copy below.
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