Proxy Falls Elopement

Stephanie and Dan’s Proxy Falls elopement was the kind of day that reminds you why intimate weddings in nature feel so meaningful. Traveling to Oregon with their closest family, they spent time researching locations that would balance adventure and accessibility. And this is how they settled on picking Proxy Falls, it felt both adventurous and grounded, a place where they could be fully present with each other, surrounded by an unforgettable landscape.

It was a warm summer day, the sort that makes a forest hike feel easy and a perfect setting to begin your new chapter. We began the hike all together, making sure everyone was enjoying their hike. When we arrived at the base of the waterfall, everything felt calm and quiet. We had the place to ourselves. Stephanie and Dan changed into their wedding outfits once we arrived, separately, with the help of their families. Their ceremony was short and sweet, led by a family member, which made it even more personal. It was simple in the best way, with no distractions, just the people who mattered most in a place that felt almost sacred.

After their ceremony, their family headed back to the trailhead. It was just the four of us exploring Proxy Fall for portraits. We walked more of the trails, found spots where the sunlight filtered through the trees, and stopped wherever the scenery felt right. And this is when they decided to exchange their own vows privately.

Elopements like this, relaxed and focused on nature, let couples truly enjoy the moment. If you want your day to feel personal, you can add special touches like writing your own vows, exchanging letters, or reading letters from your family, or just bringing a meaningful item or family heirloom for the ceremony or photos.  We finished the day with more hiking, a quick couple of steps in the freezing water, and enjoying the summer light and the peaceful forest.

Stephanie and Dan’s day felt easy and natural from beginning to end, with the perfect mix of adventure and meaning. It was everything an elopement should be.

Carter did an amazing job capturing their day on video. Go check their elopement video here too : https://youtu.be/NBzr4lJamDY

About Proxy Falls

Proxy Falls is one of Oregon’s most beautiful waterfalls. ( And one of my personal favorites!) It’s located in the Willamette National Forest along the McKenzie Pass, and the hike is about 1.5 mile to 2 miles loop, depending on your route. Its’s about 50 min to 1hr from Sisters, Oregon, and about 1hr15min from Eugene. This makes it easy to reach but still feels like an adventure.  The trail goes through lava fields and thick forest before opening up to Proxy Falls, where the water flows over mossy rocks instead of dropping straight down, creating the most dreamy look.

The best time to visit or plan your elopement is from June to Ocotber, when the trail is clear of snow and the road opens up! The path to the fall itself can be a challenge but totally worth it! Be also ready for uneven spots and roots so plan accordingly for your shoes. If you’re planning a ceremony here, its important to be aware that permits or reservations may be required by the forest service, especially for groups or any set up beyond a small gathering. Checking current rules will help avoid surprises and make your planning easier. For couples looking to elope near a waterfall in Oregon, Proxy Falls is definitely an amazing option, as it is absolutely stunning, easy to reach and feel private without a long hike.

If you’re looking to elope in Oregon, make sure to also check these two locations out here!