Intimate Downtown Seattle Elopement with Arboretum Ceremony & Waterfront Portraits
If you’re dreaming of a relaxed and romantic way to get married in the city, this downtown Seattle elopement is full of inspiration. From a quiet ceremony in the Washington Park Arboretum to wedding portraits along the Seattle waterfront, this day was the perfect blend of nature, art, and city charm. As a Seattle elopement photographer, I love helping couples create intentional wedding days that are totally their own—and this one was magic from start to finish.
Elopement Ceremony at the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle
This couple began their wedding day tucked into one of Seattle’s most beautiful elopement locations: the Washington Park Arboretum. They chose a quiet spot near the lily pad pond and wooden deck for their ceremony—a peaceful, secluded setting surrounded by trees and still water. It was the kind of place that felt like a secret garden in the heart of the city.
Their Seattle elopement ceremony was short and heartfelt, with just their officiant and two mothers present as witnesses. No guests. No pressure. Just love and sunlight and the soft sounds of nature. It was a beautiful reminder that small weddings can still hold so much depth and meaning.
Wedding Portraits in the Arboretum
After the ceremony, we explored the Arboretum’s winding trails for wedding portraits. The dappled light filtering through the trees created a dreamy, almost fairytale atmosphere. As a Seattle wedding photographer, this is one of my favorite portrait spots for couples who want lush, green scenery without leaving the city.
From mossy footbridges to quiet pathways, every part of the Arboretum offered something unique. It’s one of the best places for elopement photos in Seattle if you want that magical forest vibe without driving hours into the mountains.
Downtown Seattle Elopement Photos at the Waterfront & Sculpture Park
Once we wrapped up in the Arboretum, we headed into downtown Seattle for a completely different vibe. The couple wanted their elopement day to include both nature and the urban energy of the city—and Seattle makes that combo easy. We stopped by the Olympic Sculpture Park for creative wedding portraits with art and architecture, then wandered down to the Seattle waterfront for soft, golden-hour photos by the water.
It was one of those rare clear Seattle days, with sunshine, blue skies, and the water sparkling behind us. Between the art, the views, and the joy of just walking through the city together, this part of their elopement felt playful and free.
Celebrating with Family After the Elopement
After photos, the couple met up with friends and extended family for a sit-down dinner to celebrate. It was the perfect way to keep their Seattle elopement intimate but still include the people they love. If you're considering a small wedding in Seattle, this approach—ceremony and portraits during the day, dinner celebration later—offers the best of both worlds.
Thinking About Eloping in Seattle?
Seattle is full of gorgeous elopement locations, from forested parks like the Arboretum to downtown gems like the Sculpture Park and waterfront. Whether you want a private ceremony in nature, stylish city portraits, or a bit of both, there are endless ways to craft a day that reflects who you are.
As a Seattle elopement and wedding photographer, I specialize in documenting laid-back, meaningful celebrations with artistic flair. I’ll help guide you through timelines, permits, and finding locations that feel just right—so you can focus on soaking it all in.
Planning a downtown Seattle elopement or small wedding?
Let’s chat! I’d love to help you create a day that’s stress-free, beautiful, and totally you.