How To Elope in Washington State

You have made the decision to elope…CONGRATS! But now you may be wondering where you want to say your “I dos”. While eloping has so much less planning than a traditional wedding, there are still some not-so-glamorous factors to consider. But first, let me tell you why Washington is the best state to elope.

FIVE REASONS TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON STATE

1. Washington has so much diversity in its landscapes. We have the desert, we have the ocean, we have the mountains and even a rainforest! The versatility alone should make it an easy decision. 
2. The weather makes for some epic shots. Whether its a blustery, rainy day, or a clear evening in early fall, you’re bound to captures some gorgeously moody moments.
3. Speaking of weather…the climate here is quite mild. For the most part, you won’t be enduring extreme temperatures like you might in other parts of the country. 
4. Theres an outdoor space for everybody! If you’re a seasoned hiker or want something more relaxed, trust that there is somewhere that will perfectly suit you. 
5. No matter where you are (mostly), you’re going to be within no more than a few hours drive of a city to provide you with all the amenities you might still want.

Now for some of the less romantic stuff. Here are some key points to keep in mind when we’re planning your elopement:

• Depending on where you want to elope, there will be permits involved. It varies from park to park, but just plan on allowing plenty of time for the permits to go through and set aside some extra cash for them as well.
• In the sate of Washington, it is required by law that you acquire your marriage license no less than THREE days before you plan to say ‘I do’. 

           Here is a link with more info!
https://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office/marriage-licensing

• On top of the marriage license, you will also need TWO witnesses to make it official. I am more than happy to be one of those two witnesses. The other one can be a guest you plan to bring, or even a friendly stranger we meet on the trail. 

• A licensed officiant is required to make it official in the state of Washington. There are a lot of options for officiants out there…you can even have a friend do it!

• Last, but perhaps most importantly, it is vital that we follow the Leave no Trace Principles. Being prepared is one of those principles and I will help ensure that we are indeed prepared. But we also must respect the sacred spaces that we are inhabiting by limiting our impact as much as humanly possible.  There are plenty of resources out the regarding these principles, but here is my favorite: 

https://www.nps.gov/articles/leave-no-trace-seven-principles.htm