How to Elope in Washington
The Complete Washington Elopement Guide
Dreaming of an adventurous Elopement in Washington?
If you're idea of an epic elopement involves sharing your vows in a wild, surreal destination- Washington will go above and beyond!
As elopement experts, we have done a ton of research on eloping all over the world, and created in-depth guides for adventurous couples just like you!
How to obtain a marriage license in Washington:
Requirements to Apply for a Marriage License in Washington:
- Both parties must have a valid photo ID, a driver's license, passport, etc., to confirm identity and show proof of age
- You do not have to be a resident of Washington to get married there
- There is a 3 day waiting period in Washington
- There is no blood test required in Washington
Pick Up a Washington Marriage License
You can apply for your Marriage License online, or go to a county clerk office. There is a 3 day waiting period, and then you will have 60 days once the license is valid to have it filed.
Step
One
Have your Officiant Return your Signed Marriage License.
Your two witnesses and your officiant will sign the license, and then the officiant will file your marriage license within 30 days after your ceremony.
Step
TWO
You're Legally Married in Washington!
Once your Marriage License is filed, you are married in the state of Washington!
Step
Three
If you know you want your wedding day to be filled with laughter, adventure, and love- eloping is going to be the best decision you ever make!
If you want a team of elopement experts who fully understand and support your wildest dreams of having an epic wedding day, we are here to help with the entire experience!
We not only love elopements to our core, but we also know how to plan a badass wedding day in surreal destinations!
You know you deserve a wedding day that is intentional and memorable, so you're ready for the next step!
Your Washington elopement Photographer who is ready for a
While we try to keep information about elopement locations updated as frequently as possible, things are always changing!
It's important to always do research and contact the national/ state parks well in advance, to ensure there are no new guidelines, requirements, or restrictions!
When we help you design your epic elopement experience, I will always provide the most recent information regarding permits and guidelines for locations!
Be sure to leave no trace when visiting beautiful outdoor locations- it is crucial for the health and longevity of the environment.
A reminder for choosing your elopement location
The Best Places to Elope in Washington:
Olympic National Park
Mount Rainier National Park
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Deception Pass State Park
North Cascades National Park
While we 100% believe in transparency, as elopement experts we have dedicated a lot of time searching far and wide for hidden gem locations that are less crowded, and more surreal!
While we recommend general areas, gorgeous state and national parks, and other popular locations- we have a personal database of thousands of locations across the United States! When you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you find locations that perfectly suit your unique elopement.
Ready to start planning your epic elopement?
The best time of year to elope in Washington:
July - October
The PNW is stunning during the fall, and Washington is the perfect state to witness whimsical autumn weather and colors! The state has vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it an amazing time of year to elope!
Fall
If you want to witness this surreal state come to life with lush forests, wildflowers, and warm weather- summer time is the perfect time to elope!
You also have less chances of rain, making it more possible to have a warm and sunny elopement!
Summer
Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in Washington
"Do I need permits to elope in Washington?"
Q:
A:
Some locations, such as national parks and state parks, typically require a special use permit or a wedding ceremony permit when you are having a ceremony within the park. Some parks only require a permit if the wedding/ elopement will have 75 guests or more. If you are just enjoying the park and having photos done, you may not need a permit for your elopement, but a photo/ film permit may be necessary for your photographer or videographer.
Be sure to check each location's regulations and requirements to ensure your elopement day goes as smooth as possible!
If you book your elopement experience with me, I will help you with all of the logistics and legalities of your elopement day!
"Can we have our friends and family present for our elopement?"
Q:
A:
Of course! Typically, intimate weddings and elopements have less than 30 guests! Lots of couples dream of having an epic elopement, but would like to have their beloved family and friends join them for part of the day!
If you dream of celebrating with more of your friends and family, you can plan a post-elopement party! Click here to learn more about how to plan a post-elopement party!
Your elopement can be:
- Just the two of you!
- The two of you + an officiant & witnesses
- Up to 30 of your closest friends & family!
"If I am coming to Washington to elope from another state, will I need to file a marriage license in Washington?"
Q:
A:
I always recommend filing for your marriage license in the state/ county in which you are eloping in! However, if you have already went to the courthouse and filed your marriage license in your home state, or want to deal with the paperwork later on down the road, you will have a "commitment ceremony," which isn't legally binding.
Choosing to file your marriage license before or after you elope is completely fine, what really matters is when you and your partner commit your lives to each other! Just keep in mind that you are not legally recognized as married until a marriage certificate is obtained.
Washington ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
Photo and Photo + Video Packages Available.
What Every Washington Elopement Experience Includes:
From 4 Hours to Multiple Days of Coverage that Preserves your Epic Day
In-Depth Planning to create your Personalized Elopement Experience
No Added Fees- All Travel Costs for the Whole Crew are Covered
