Amanda & John’s Dreamy Oregon Coast Elopement with Family

Amanda and John’s Oregon Coast elopement was truly a dream in every way imaginable. When they first reached out, they weren’t entirely sure where they wanted to elope, only that they wanted an adventure. One that included their two adorable boys, a handful of close friends and family, and a backdrop that felt wild and beautiful.

During our initial consultation, we brainstormed all sorts of possibilities before finally landing on the Oregon Coast as the perfect fit. John’s sister had lived there for a while, so it felt meaningful and familiar, plus, it offered exactly what they were envisioning: sweeping ocean views paired with lush forest trails. With her help, we found the perfect spot that brought all those elements together.

When the time finally came, we all traveled from Minnesota out to Oregon. and somehow, the weather gods were completely on our side. The Oregon Coast is known for its foggy, moody, and rainy days, especially in October, but Amanda and John’s elopement was pure sunshine and calm skies from start to finish.

That morning, I met up with them at their cozy Airbnb, which they shared with their best friends. The vibe was relaxed and full of excitement as they got ready and shared quiet moments before the day began. From there, we headed to the trailhead where the rest of their loved ones waited, ready to make the short hike to their ceremony spot. Their morning ceremony took place on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, with the sound of waves crashing below. John’s sister officiated, surrounded by their closest people—everyone standing in a circle of love and joy as Amanda and John exchanged their heartfelt vows. John’s parents weren’t able to travel, but they joined in via FaceTime, which made the moment even more touching. There were tears, laughter, and a deep sense of connection that filled the air.

After the ceremony, we explored the surrounding trails for portraits before meeting everyone for a celebratory lunch at a brewery in Cannon Beach. There were toasts, happy tears, and so many smiles—it was the perfect way to mark the start of this new chapter for Amanda and John and their family.

Later that evening, after a little downtime, I met back up with just the two of them for their sunset portraits. The beach was completely empty, bathed in that golden glow that photographers dream about. Amanda and John ran barefoot in the sand, laughed freely, and simply soaked in the quiet magic of being together. After ten years together, this day felt like a reflection of everything they’ve built—a beautiful family, a deep love, and a shared spirit of adventure. Watching them celebrate that on the cliffs of the Oregon Coast was pure magic.

Real Review

“Look no further if you’re in need of an amazing elopement style photographer. I feel so lucky I stumbled upon Joy Wander Photography by pure luck. Hillary went above & beyond by making sure we had an amazing experience & our needs were met even down to even the smallest little details. Her sweet personality made it easy and effortless. Our photos turned out beautifully. I’m so pleased!!”

Amanda