Guest Author - Denise J. Hoffman

The Oregon coast offers ideal settings for a fun and memorable destination wedding because of the abundant natural beauty of its Pacific Ocean shoreline. Tie the knot at one end of the state and travel the length of the coast for your honeymoon.

Destination weddings, in my definition, are getaway locations away from home, which often includes the entire reception party. Many guests gladly pay the expense because the event is an excuse for a mini-vacation. At my wedding, we dragged 40 friends and relatives 250 miles over the state line, then across the Puget Sound on a ferry. Lots of work but a wonderful time.

Try to practice patience, flexibility and humor when planning a long distance event. Read the fine print on contracts, then clarify and confirm all details several times before your trip. It is very important (trust me on this one) to be able to assign members of the wedding party with tasks for clean up and logistics. For example, how and who is taking the wedding presents home?

Weather is often an uncertainty along the Pacific Ocean so include climate research in your plan. Fog and rain can be uninvited guests any time of the year. The most reliable months for sun are July through September, but no guarantees. Bring warmer clothes for the evening. And, the beaches can be very windy in the summer. Keep this in mind for the hairdo. A September wedding may bring warm weather, less traffic and off-season prices.

Many public areas are reserved months or a year ahead for weddings during the popular warmer months. Call ahead or research online. Wonderful weddings have occured at the following destinations:

Heceta Head Lighthouse, Oregon
Built in the late 1800's, this working lighthouse is north of Florence, Oregon, on the central Oregon coast. The panoramic views are inspiring. Couples can reserve the beach for an outdoor wedding or the Lightkeeper’s House which is now a Bed and Breakfast. It caters to indoor or covered receptions.

Shore Acres Park, Coos Bay, Oregon
The views of the sea coupled with the gorgeous formal gardens makes this one of my favorite stops heading south on the Oregon coast. Select from several different sites depending on the size of your party.

Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is the home of Haystack Rock. In my opinion, Haystack is probably the most photographed rock in the world. Thousands of people visit the area each year for its pounding surf and rocky cliffs. Several friends have been married on this site but the weather can be unpredictable. There are several facilities at Cannon Beach for a reception, or say your vows on the beach, next to the rock.

Oregon Coast Aquarium, Newport Oregon
Former home to Keiko, the famous Orca whale, this seaside aquarium is a perfect site for sea lovers. Enjoy a memorable day surrounded by thousands of marine life.