How to Get Married in Oregon, According to Local Experts

The question isn't so much why or how to get married in Oregon, but rather, why not? "Oregon offers breathtaking views and diverse landscapes at every turn, making it a stunning backdrop for any wedding," says Shauna Karver, owner and founder of Oregon-based J29 Events. "From the coastlines and lush forests to the towering mountains and vineyards, our natural beauty here is unmatched. Oregon is also known for its exceptional food and wine scene, with locally sourced ingredients and world-class wines that elevate any celebration."

She and other vendors, including photographer Rithy Tamba of RT Faith Photography, are seeing more and more couples coming from out of state to get married in this scenic place. "Whether you're envisioning a coastal elopement, a vineyard soiree or a rustic-chic mountain wedding, Oregon's versatility ensures any couple's day will be as unique as their love story," Tamba says.

And there's another bonus: "Compared to other West Coast regions, the cost of weddings in Oregon tends to be more affordable, offering couples great value for their investment," Karver says. "With a longer wedding season from late spring through fall, Oregon provides flexibility and variety for couples seeking everything from intimate outdoor ceremonies to grand celebrations in scenic venues."

In this article:

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• How to Get a Marriage License in Oregon
• Notable Wedding Locations in Oregon
• How to Plan a Wedding in Oregon Step-by-Step

How to Get a Marriage License in Oregon

Getting married in Oregon is a straightforward process, Karver says, but it may require some advance planning. "Start by choosing the county where you'd like to apply—this can be any county in Oregon, regardless of where you're getting married," she says. (Check out a list of counties—and connect to their individual websites for more information—here.) "When selecting a county, consider convenience factors like proximity to your wedding venue or the airport," Karver continues. "You can fill out the marriage license application ahead of time online or in person, but both parties must appear in person at the county clerk's office to submit the application and provide valid photo identification."

A few logistics to note: The license must be obtained within 60 days of your wedding. Also, "Oregon marriage laws require a three-day waiting period before your license becomes valid, though you can waive this waiting period for a $5 fee if you need the license immediately," Karver explains. (Note that that's on top of the initial fee to get a marriage license in Oregon, which varies slightly by county). "After your wedding, you'll have 10 days to return the signed marriage license to the county clerk's office either in person or by mail. Once it's processed, you can request an official marriage certificate." Note that even with your Oregon wedding license in hand, you'll need two witnesses over 18 at the ceremony to make it official.

Notable Wedding Locations in Oregon

"Oregon is truly a magical place for weddings, and it's no surprise that so many of my couples travel from out of state to celebrate here," Tamba says. "What sets Oregon apart is its incredible diversity: It offers a little bit of everything for nature lovers, foodies and those seeking a unique wedding experience." And it's not just the regions that offer something for everyone; Oregon wedding venues are diverse too, from pretty lodge hotels to outdoor escapes to eclectic modern spaces. Here are a few areas to explore.

Central Oregon

"Central Oregon stands out for couples seeking a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities," Karver says. The area, right in the center of the state, is made up of Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook counties and includes scenic cities like popular Bend, Oregon. "From modern mountain resorts to unique ranch settings, there's a venue for every style, whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration. Plus, it's easily accessible with a regional airport offering direct flights to many major hubs, making it convenient for guests."

Tamba agrees, especially from a photography perspective. "I love how the venues in the area incorporate nature into their aesthetic," she says. A few of her favorite Central Oregon venues to photograph? Black Butte Ranch, Tetherow Resort, Brasada Ranch and House on Metolius.

Willamette Valley

The area stretching from Portland south to Eugene is known as the Willamette Valley and makes up what is considered Oregon Wine Country; there are more than 500 wineries in the region. "For those drawn to rolling hills and serene settings, Oregon's wine country offers not only stunning vineyard views but also some of the finest wines to elevate your celebration," Tamba says. It's a great place to get married, and it offers convenient access to Portland for guests traveling in.

Hood River

Nestled on the northern border of the state—the region's eponymous river serves as a boundary between Oregon and Washington—Hood River is another scenic and serene locale for a state of Oregon marriage. "In Hood River and the Columbia River Gorge, nature lovers and foodies can rejoice," Karver says. Tamba loves the natural landscape for epic wedding portraits. "If you're drawn to mountainous beauty, the Columbia River Gorge and Hood River provide unforgettable backdrops featuring Mt. Hood, lush forests and cascading waterfalls," she says. Make sure your vendors are willing to travel to venues that are more remote, and that you're aware of any rental travel fees (more on that below).

Oregon Coast

It's not exactly a sunny beach state, but the Oregon Coast has its own incredible charm. "For couples drawn to dramatic coastal views, the Southern Oregon coast offers spectacular scenery and easy access to the majestic Redwood Forest," Karver says. Further north, Cannon Beach is having a moment and gaining its own roster of wedding vendors. North or south, "the Oregon Coast, with its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking landscapes, is perfect for couples dreaming of a romantic seaside ceremony," Tamba says.

Portland

The state is rife with natural beauty, and many of the most popular wedding regions highlight it. But if you're looking for a more urban feel for your wedding, Portland is a cool and convenient setting. "Portland is ideal for couples seeking a city vibe with a twist," Tamba says. "The venues here are refreshingly unique, often embracing an eclectic charm or modern aesthetic—definitely a departure from traditional ballroom settings."

How to Plan a Wedding in Oregon Step-by-Step

What do you need to get married in Oregon? Besides the marriage license, of course, there are a few top considerations to keep in mind when planning a wedding in the state. Here, we break them down.

1. Set a Budget

"An average budget for a Portland wedding hovers between $50,000 and $70,000," Karver says. "Depending on location, average budgets outside of Portland increase to $80,000-plus." Some estimates put the average cost slightly lower (and note that Karver plans higher-end weddings), but it's best to have some padding, especially when rental travel fees come into play. The Knot Budget Advisor is a great place to start: Here, to-be-weds can learn more about wedding costs in their location based on data from real couples. If the budget is a stressor, Oregon is also a stunning and magical place for an intimate elopement—just remember, you need at least two witnesses at the ceremony to be legally wed in Oregon.

2. Know Your Seasons

The best time of year to get married in Oregon is typically May through mid-October, both Karver and Tamba say. "Like many regions, Oregon experiences both a high and low season for weddings," Karver says. "The high season, which spans the summer months, tends to be more expensive due to increased demand, while weddings during the off-season (fall and winter) can be more budget-friendly. If you're planning a wedding during peak months, be prepared for higher costs, but you'll enjoy ideal weather and stunning landscapes." Adds Tamba, "Thanks to our wet climate, nature shines its brightest during spring and summer, which means you can have an outdoor wedding and enjoy a longer sunset." If you want to take advantage of off-season pricing, there are still plenty of options for a beautiful winter wedding in Oregon.

3. Book Early—and Don't Forget Beauty

Especially for peak wedding season—May through October—vendors book 12 to 18 months in advance in Oregon, Karver says. "However, beauty vendors tend to operate a bit differently: They often don't open their booking calendars until the beginning of the year in which you're getting married," she adds. "That said, experienced wedding planners with strong vendor relationships may have an inside track, allowing them to secure your preferred beauty professionals by requesting a first right of refusal or getting your date penciled in early." Explore Oregon wedding venues, florists, planners and more on The Knot Vendor Marketplace.

4. Plan for Travel

While one of the pros of an Oregon wedding is the stunning landscapes and off-the-beaten-path locales that showcase nature in all its glory, this can also make things tricky for guests. "The location of your venue can significantly impact travel logistics for your guests," Karver says. "Depending on where you're hosting your wedding, transportation from the nearest airport, shuttle services and overall travel time can vary greatly, so it's essential to factor in how accessible the venue is for your guests."

And it isn't just about the guests getting there—everything else has to get there, too. Karver advises checking the travel fees for rentals (tables, chairs, etc.) and other vendors. "While Oregon boasts many beautiful, remote venues, some may require rentals to travel long distances, which can increase costs unexpectedly," she says. "Many couples assume rentals are either included or that vendors are close by, but in more secluded locations, transportation fees for these services can add up quickly." Confirm with all vendors in advance that they are able to travel.

5. Make Sure Your Venue and Vision Align

"When planning a wedding in Oregon, couples should think beyond just the time of year and consider how their venue and overall aesthetic align with the photography style they desire," Tamba says. While this is a rule that generally applies everywhere, it's especially important in Oregon, where natural light is the star of many outdoor venues. "Many couples who reach out to me are drawn to the timeless, romantic vibe of film photography. Film thrives in environments with ample natural light, soft tones and open spaces. If your venue is predominantly dark, heavily shaded or has a moody and closed-off feel, achieving the signature look of film becomes more challenging."

There are ways to adapt, she adds, but it is best to plan ahead. "My advice to couples is to take a step back and review the overall vision for your wedding, especially how you want it to be captured. If you're drawn to the classic, romantic aesthetic of film (or a particular photography style), choose a venue that enhances those qualities. Look for places with plenty of natural light, neutral or light-toned surroundings and open layouts. When your venue naturally complements your desired photography style, it makes it easier to achieve the look and feel you're dreaming of, allowing your photographer to truly work their magic."