6 Tips for Planning a Summer Wedding in the Pacific Northwest

6 Tips for Planning a Summer Wedding in the Pacific Northwest

Planning a summer wedding in the Pacific Northwest is a dream for many couples. With its stunning mountain backdrops, lush forests, and breathtaking coastal views, this region offers endless possibilities for a romantic and scenic celebration. However, summer weddings in the PNW also come with unique considerations, from unpredictable weather to the best timing for golden-hour photos. As a Pacific Northwest wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all! Here are six essential tips to help you plan a perfect summer wedding in the PNW.

1. Choose the Right Venue for Your Summer Wedding

The Pacific Northwest is home to a variety of stunning venues, from coastal cliffs to alpine lodges. Some of the most popular summer wedding venues include:

• Snoqualmie Falls & Salish Lodge (WA): A breathtaking waterfall backdrop with luxury accommodations.

• Cannon Beach (OR): Perfect for couples dreaming of a coastal wedding with iconic Haystack Rock as a backdrop.

• Crystal Mountain Resort (WA): A high-elevation wedding venue with stunning views of Mount Rainier.

• Lake Crescent Lodge (WA): A dreamy lakeside venue in Olympic National Park, ideal for a nature-inspired wedding.

• Willamette Valley Vineyards (OR): Ideal for couples who love the idea of a vineyard wedding with rolling hills and sweeping views.

When choosing your venue, consider accessibility, guest comfort, and how the summer heat or potential wildfire season might impact your plans.

2. Plan for Unpredictable Weather

While summer in the Pacific Northwest is generally warm and dry, you should always prepare for the unexpected. Afternoon rain showers and heat waves can surprise even the best planners. Here’s how to stay prepared:

• Have a backup plan for rain. Consider venues with covered outdoor spaces or the option to move indoors if needed.

• Rent tents or umbrellas. If your wedding is fully outdoors, renting tents can provide shade and shelter for guests.

• Time your ceremony and photos wisely. Midday sun can be harsh, so plan your ceremony for later in the afternoon to take advantage of golden-hour lighting.

• Check historical weather patterns. Look up past weather trends for your chosen wedding date to get an idea of what to expect.

Eli and Katie opted for a sunset ceremony for best lighting and weather

3. Pick the Best Time of Day for Photos

As a Pacific Northwest wedding photographer, I always recommend couples take advantage of the region’s stunning natural light. Here’s how to make the most of your wedding photos:

• Golden hour is key. Plan your portraits just before sunset for that dreamy, soft glow.

• Avoid harsh midday lighting. If possible, schedule your ceremony in the late afternoon to ensure better lighting for photography.

• Scout shaded areas. If your ceremony is at noon, find shaded spots for portraits to avoid harsh shadows.

• Consider a first look. This allows you to take portraits earlier in the day while ensuring you still have time for golden-hour couples' shots later.

4. Be Mindful of Wildfire Season

Summer in the PNW also means wildfire season. While this doesn’t always affect weddings, it’s something to be aware of, especially for outdoor mountain or forest weddings. Here’s how to prepare:

• Have an alternative indoor option. If smoke levels are high, your guests may not be comfortable outside.

• Stay updated on fire conditions. Check the Washington and Oregon wildfire reports leading up to your wedding day.

• Consider air quality. Provide guests with N95 masks if necessary and have indoor cooling spaces available.

• Purchase wedding insurance. In case of extreme conditions that force you to reschedule, wedding insurance can help protect your investment.

5. Keep Guests Comfortable

Whether your wedding is by the coast, in the mountains, or in the city, guest comfort is key. Here are a few ways to ensure a great experience for everyone:

• Provide water stations. Hydration is essential on hot days, especially for outdoor ceremonies.

• Offer sunscreen and bug spray. Mosquitoes and sunburns can put a damper on outdoor celebrations.

• Use shaded areas for seating. If your ceremony is in direct sunlight, make sure guests have shaded seating options.

• Consider evening entertainment. Since summer evenings are warm, a bonfire, outdoor games, or even a late-night s’mores station can be fun additions.

6. Work with an Experienced Pacific Northwest Wedding Photographer

Hiring a Pacific Northwest wedding photographer who understands the region’s unique lighting, weather, and landscapes can make all the difference in capturing your special day beautifully. When choosing a photographer:

• Look for experience in outdoor weddings. They should be familiar with shooting in varied lighting and terrain.

• Ask about backup plans. An experienced photographer will have strategies for dealing with rain, wildfire smoke, and shifting timelines.

• Review their portfolio. Look for photographers who showcase the PNW’s natural beauty and can adapt to different outdoor settings.

• Schedule an engagement session. This helps you get comfortable in front of the camera and allows your photographer to scout locations ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Planning a summer wedding in the Pacific Northwest is an incredible experience, but it does require some extra considerations to ensure everything runs smoothly. From selecting the perfect venue to preparing for unpredictable weather and wildfire season, these tips will help you create a stunning and stress-free wedding day.

If you're looking for a Pacific Northwest wedding photographer who knows the best spots, lighting tricks, and how to navigate the region’s unique challenges, I’d love to chat! Let’s capture your love story against the backdrop of the PNW’s breathtaking landscapes.