Central Oregon Elopement: A Multi-Pitch Climb at Smith Rock
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Central Oregon Elopement: A Multi-Pitch Climb at Smith Rock
I’m currently sitting in my favorite sweatpants, drinking a latte that Drew made for me on our little espresso machine, and I’m asking myself, “How do I even begin to tell the story of Brenna and Zach’s epic central Oregon elopement at Smith Rock?”
Meet the Couple Eloping in Central Oregon
Now, if you’re reading this and you have no idea who Brenna and Zach are, pause and rewind back to read about their sunset elopement photos at Smith Rock the night before their wedding day. Then, come back and finish reading about their climbing elopement wedding day!
Did you read their story? Did you see Rowan, their Instafamous retriever? Did you see the detail shot of their wedding bands that Zach made himself with Monkey Face peeking through in the background? Love it! Now that we’re all on the same page about how incredibly epic Brenna and Zach are, we can dive into the story of their central Oregon elopement! Monkey Face in Smith Rock State Park was the first multi-pitch climb that Brenna and Zach did together. Because their love story developed through rock climbing, it just made sense to get married where it all began.
What is Multi-pitch Climbing?
Now, you know that Drew and I have dabbled in rock climbing, but we are still learning about the intricacies of this sport. So, you’re not alone if you’re ready through this story about a rock climbing central Oregon elopement and have no idea what a multi-pitch climb is! Basically, a multi-pitch climbing route is one that is split into two or more pitches. A pitch is the section of the climbing route between two belay points. And, finally, belaying is a variety of ways climbers can exert tension on a climbing rope to protect the climber from falling a far distance. You feeling like a professional climber? Yeah, me either, lol.
Brenna and Zach’s central Oregon elopement day began at sunrise as we hiked to the base of Monkey Face. They had all of their wedding attire in their Patagonia and Black Diamond climbing packs. My second shooters, Nate and Megan of Cedar & Pines (who are absolutely amazing; go follow them!), did the multi-pitch climb alongside Brenna, Zach and their officiant. I was on an overlook that was about 50 feet away from the top of Monkey Face in Smith Rock State Park with all of their family. Nate and Megan were up close to get the detail shots of their multi-pitch climb, while I was able to get the wider, full moments back from the overlook.
Once they climbed up to the top of Monkey Face, Brenna and Zach pulled out their wedding attire, got ready, and their central Oregon elopement ceremony began! Because the overlook was so close, their family was able to watch the elopement happen and even hear them say, “I do!” After the knot was tied, the newlyweds rappelled 200 feet from the top of Monkey Face to the high desert floor, wedding attire and all! How epic is that? Once everyone’s feet were back on the ground of Smith Rock State Park, we hiked out of the park with all of their gear, with signs that read, “Just married.”
After reading the story of Brenna and Zach’s adventurous central Oregon elopement, do you feel like you can conquer the world? Me, too! Keep reading to learn all of my elopement photographer tips for planning your own central Oregon elopement! Ready to start the planning process? Send me a message and let’s plan your central Oregon adventure!
Eloping in Central Oregon? Here are a few helpful tips!
Consider the time of year when planning your central Oregon elopement
Central Oregon experiences four distinct seasons. So, when you’re choosing the time of year you’ll be getting married in central Oregon, consider what weather patterns you’re hoping to experience. To review average weather patterns for areas near Portland, OR, click here.
Get an Oregon marriage license
You’ve got the incredible partner, the stunning dress, the dreamy flowers and the epic central Oregon elopement backdrop. But, you cannot forget one of the most important witnesses to your adventure-packed vows: your marriage license! Read about all the information you need to know about getting a marriage license for your central Oregon elopement by clicking here.
Know where to eat in Central Oregon
If you know me, you know I’m all about a great meal! So, I’ve made a list of my top central Oregon restaurants for you. Whether you’re hiking, rock climbing, or photographing central Oregon elopement photos, I’ve made sure you won’t go hungry!
Best Places to Eat in Bend, OR
Best Places to Stay in Central Oregon for your Elopement
When Drew and I travel, we love staying in Airbnbs. I've always loved the idea of a home-away-from-home over a hotel room. So, I stayed in the best Airbnb in Bend, Oregon during this trip; it was within walking distance to all the things! Here are some links to my other recommendations of places to stay for your central Oregon elopement:
Things to Do in Central Oregon: Adventurous Activities for Your Elopement Day
There is truly no lack for adventurous activities in central Oregon! There are places for rock climbing (like Brenna and Zach’s multi-pitch climb!), hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, skiing and snowshoeing. No matter how little or how much experience you have adventuring, I always recommend hiring a local central Oregon guide to accompany you on your elopement adventure. This way, you and your love can focus solely on getting eloped, while I focus on documenting your epic day! And, hiring local vendors is always a win because it supports the local community.
Central Oregon Vendors to Make your Elopement the Best Day Ever
Speaking of hiring local vendors, are the details to consider for an adventure elopement in central Oregon making you sweat a little bit? Girl, you do not need to stress! There are some amazing vendors who have helped plan and execute some amazing central Oregon elopements who will be some of the best teammates to make your dream day a reality. Here’s some of my favorite people to work with:
Cake: Foxtail Bakeshop
Florals: Petals. Flowers by Katie
Hair & Makeup: Edge Hair & Makeup | Cassidy Elise
Officiant: Rooted & Wild | Tapestry Event Co.
Planner: The Greatest Adventure Wed | Tapestry Event Co.
Photographer: Between the Pine (lol)
How to get to Central Oregon for your Adventure Elopement
Are you ready to start planning your central Oregon elopement? Let’s talk through some travel details! I’ve broken down some travel times to help you with your elopement planning process. Still have some questions about planning your elopement in central Oregon? Don’t hesitate to reach out; I’d love to help you!
Travel to Central Oregon by car
Portland, OR to Bend, OR - 3 hours and 10 minutes
Seattle, WA to Bend, OR - 6 hours and 15 minutes
Boise, ID to Bend, OR - 5 hours and 15 minutes
Travel to Central Oregon by plane
Fly in to Portland, OR (PDX-Portland International)
Fly in to Bend, OR (RDM-Redmond/Bend/Roberts Field)
ready to explore more elopements, weddings and adventures? wander away below!
Between the Pine is an adventure elopement and wedding photography brand created by Mollie Adams. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Mollie travels with her camera in hand to document “I dos” in epic landscapes including Washington, Oregon, California, and Hawaii.
There are so many incredible destinations to choose from when eloping, with some of the best places to elope in the US just at your fingertips, which is why I compiled this list of my all time favorite locations in the United States. Keep reading to find your dream location!