September 22, 2021
When COVID got in the way of their destination wedding plans, they turned around and planned an incredible beach elopement at Cape Kiwanda, Oregon. Not a bad backup plan, right?
Sydney + Nick’s Cape Kiwanda Elopement
How COVID led to their beach elopement
I photographed Sydney and Nick’s engagement session in 2019. Then when it didn’t work out for me to photograph their destination wedding in Mexico in 2020, I was bummed.
Welllll then 2020 rolled around as we all know, and COVID forced them to ditch their Mexico plans. So they emailed me andd asked if I would photograph an elopement for them – safe to say that was a quick yes!
We planned their elopement in just a few months. Yes, months – and I’m convinced we could’ve done it in a few weeks if we had to!
The week of their elopement rolled around and of course, the forecast looked as rainy as ever. Thanks, Oregon Coast! So to avoid the rain, we ended up switching the day of their elopement at the last minute. (This is one of the reasons I absolutely love super small, lowkey elopements – your plans are able to change if needed!)
The Oregon elopement day
And thankfully, the day came and we had the most perfect, overcast beautiful light and no rain in sight!
Sydney and Nick got ready together before we headed to the beach, where they exchanged their vows on top of one of the orange rock formations that Cape Kiwanda is famous for.
You truly couldn’t ask for a more beautiful backdrop with the Pacific Ocean rolling in behind you, overlooking the Oregon Coast as you read your vows.
These two were full of smiles all day, and so was I. We were all so stoked all day, especially at such a beautiful, epic location.
About Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City, Oregon
If you’re looking for an epic location for a beach adventure elopement, Cape Kiwanda is definitely a place to consider!
It’s located in Pacific City, Oregon, about 95 miles from Portland and 65 miles down the coast from Cannon Beach.
Kiwanda is a super easy location to access, which makes it pretty simple to have an adventure elopement there. You park in the parking lot next to the beach, and you’re right there – all you gotta do is walk along the beach, climb the rocks, and find the spots you love most.
And there are a TON of beautiful spots to choose from: tidepools, massive orange rock formations, driftwood, & more. Truly some of the most beautiful views of the Oregon Coast that you could ask for.
More Beach Elopement Inspiration
Want some more inspiration for your own beach wedding or elopement? Check out the galleries below!