When L+J started dreaming up their Airbnb elopement, they didn’t just pick a random spot on the map—they followed their hearts (and a bit of Oregon wanderlust) to Mount Hood. Although they call California home, the Sandy River has been a meaningful place in their story. It’s one of those spots that just feels like them—quiet, grounding, and full of memories. So when it came time to exchange vows, it wasn’t even a question.
They found the perfect little riverside Airbnb tucked in the trees—private, cozy, and full of charm. (And yes, it had a sauna. 10/10, no notes.) With the water rushing by and the forest all around, it felt less like a photoshoot location and more like a love letter to their relationship. This was the setting of their story.
Finding the Perfect Airbnb for Their Elopement
This Airbnb was a total elopement jackpot. L+J found the coziest little riverside gem tucked away in the forest. It was private, peaceful, and just rustic enough to feel like an escape without sacrificing comfort.
This spot quickly became the heart of their celebration. It was where they got ready, saw each other for the first time that day, said their vows with the sound of the Sandy River behind them, and toasted with two of their close friends.
Tips for Choosing the Right Airbnb for Your Elopement
If you’re thinking of going the Airbnb elopement route (which—highly recommend), here are a few things to keep in mind while you scroll through listings:
- Talk to the Host – Not all Airbnbs allow events, even tiny ones, so always message the host to ask if an elopement is okay. Transparency is key (and makes you a good human).
- Think About Location – Do you want to be near your favorite hikes? Waterfalls? Restaurants for a post-ceremony dinner? Ensure the Airbnb’s location elevates the experience, not just the aesthetic.
- Pay Attention to the Vibe – Will the inside look cute in your getting-ready photos? Does the outside match the vision for your ceremony or portraits? If you’re investing in great photos, let’s give them a dreamy setting to live in.
- Bonus Points for Amenities – Hot tubs, fire pits, cozy blankets, and good coffee setups are not “extras”—they’re little luxuries that make your elopement feel like a retreat.
- Ask Yourself: Will I Want to be Here? – Between the quiet moments and the celebration, make sure your space feels like somewhere you can actually relax. The best Airbnb elopements feel like home… just with better scenery.
A Laid-Back, Intentional Timeline
One of the best parts of L+J’s day was the pace. It wasn’t a chaotic, minute-by-minute kind of thing—it was slow, intentional, and so beautifully calm. We started the afternoon with getting ready photos as light streamed through the windows. Their first look was right by the river—just the two of them. It was a quiet, emotional moment to take each other in before everything began. The ceremony followed, with the sound of the river in the background, it felt so special and intimate. After they made it official, they shared a toast and cut into the cutest little cake—just good company, laughter, and sweet bites. Starflower and TumTum were dream vendors to work with for this elopement, and they do incredible creations. If you’re still looking for floral or cake vendors, I highly recommend them!
Then golden hour rolled in. L+J walked along the river while we captured some of the dreamiest portraits. And because everything happened in one place, it all flowed effortlessly. It was a day designed around what they wanted, and that’s the real magic of eloping this way.
Don’t Take My Word for It…
“Mattie is incredible to work with! We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer for our elopement. From start to finish, she was incredibly communicative and professional, making the whole process smooth and stress-free. She was so easy to work with and helped us feel comfortable and at ease in front of the camera, which made such a difference on a day full of emotions. Mattie has a friendly and knowledgeable approach. She came prepared with fun, creative ideas that made our photos feel uniquely us. They turned out absolutely gorgeous, and we’re so impressed with the quality! We also really appreciated the quick turnaround on sneak peeks, which let us relive the magic just days after the ceremony. Highly recommend Mattie for your next photoshoot.”
Mount Hood Elopement Photographer | Ready to Plan Your Airbnb Elopement?
If you’re daydreaming about a cozy elopement that feels more like a weekend getaway—same. Whether it’s riverside vows, forest trails, or a cabin with a sauna and no cell service, your elopement can be whatever you want it to be (and yes, it can include dessert before noon).
If Mount Hood is calling your name, I’ve got you. Check out my Mt Hood Elopement Guide for all the inspo, planning tips, and location gems to get started.
When you’re ready to start dreaming it up together, say hey here. I’d love to help you create a day that’s relaxed and intentional.
Vendors
Florals | Starflower
Airbnb | Arched Cabin on the Sandy River
Cake | TumTum
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