Matt and Marie wanted something a little different for their wedding day. Instead of following tradition, they created an experience that was completely their own, starting with a waterfall elopement and ending the day at a winery surrounded by their closest friends and family. Every part of their day reflected what mattered most to them from private adventures to celebrating with their people. Keep reading to learn all about their one-of-a-kind celebration below.
Matt and Marie’s Waterfall Elopement and Winery Micro-Wedding in the Columbia River Gorge
Matt and Marie’s wedding day unfolded with two different kinds of experiences. They wanted to start their day in an intimate, meaningful way, so we all headed out to a waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge for their elopement. There, I got to capture the two of them sharing their vows surrounded by the sounds of rushing water and the soft mist in the air. Afterward, we spent time exploring the area and soaking in the natural beauty all around us. One of the reasons I absolutely love the Columbia River Gorge is because the scenery here is breathtaking (not mention it’s only a short drive from Portland) so eloping here truly gives you the best of both worlds.
Once we wrapped up at the waterfall, we made our way to Analemma Wines in Hood River, where about 25 of their closest friends and family were waiting. With its sweeping vineyard views and warm, sunlit fields, it was the perfect ending to their celebration surrounded by good company. The whole day felt intentional and full of joy, and was an experience I was so grateful to photograph.
How Breaking Tradition Gives You More Flexibility and Freedom
After spending the morning in nature and the evening surrounded by their people, Matt and Marie’s day became one of my favorite examples of how breaking tradition can give you both intimacy and community. Your wedding day is about celebrating your love, and you get to design it exactly how you want. A multi-event day gives you the freedom and flexibility to combine the best parts of an elopement and a traditional wedding. You can include as much (or as little) of each as feels right for you.
For Matt and Marie, that meant starting with an intimate waterfall elopement, then gathering later at a winery with loved ones to celebrate. By splitting their day into two parts, they got the quiet, personal moments and the chance to share the experience with their people.
If you’re dreaming up something similar, here are a few blog posts to help you start planning:
How to Plan a Gorgeous Micro Wedding
6 Steps to Help You Plan Your Oregon Elopement
Why the Columbia River Gorge Is Perfect For a Multi-Event Celebration
The Columbia River Gorge is one of my favorite places in the Pacific Northwest, in part because it pairs wild, natural beauty with charming towns and inviting spots for celebration. If you’re dreaming of a day that blends adventure with connection, the Gorge is the perfect backdrop.
You can exchange vows beside a waterfall or in a quiet forest grove, then take a short drive to Hood River or Cascade Locks for a cozy dinner or a winery reception with friends and family. It is truly the best of both worlds, with scenic landscapes and welcoming spaces where you can celebrate with the people who matter most.
How I Helped Craft a Waterfall Elopement and Winery Micro-Wedding
Planning a multi-event celebration takes a little bit of thoughtful planning, but it’s also one of the best ways to include what matters most to you. When Matt and Marie began planning their day, I helped them brainstorm locations that would match their vision. We explored several options, built in backups just in case, and worked out the logistics to make the day feel seamless.
On the wedding day, we stayed flexible and went with the flow. Rather than adhering to a strict timeline, we kept it relaxed and built in buffer time so Matt and Marie could enjoy their day in whatever way felt right in the moment. That balance of thoughtful planning and spontaneous moments kept the day natural, easygoing, and completely stress-free.
Waterfall Elopement Vendors
Photographer: Taylor Denton Photography
Reception Venue: Analemma Wines
Florist: Wildflower Portland
Hair + Makeup: Marina Haynes
Wedding Dress and Veil: Grace Loves Lace
Suit: Duchess Clothier
Bride’s Ring: Kinn Studio
Matt and Marie’s waterfall elopement and winery-micro wedding were a beautiful reminder that your wedding day can look however you want it to. If you’re feeling inspired by their day and want to plan your own multi-event celebration, click on the link below to inquire!
