How to Elope at Capella by the Sea: The Ultimate Guide for Couples
If you're dreaming of an intimate wedding surrounded by towering trees, ocean views, and stunning architecture, it's hard to imagine a more beautiful place to elope than Capella by the Sea in Brookings, Oregon.
Nestled above the Chetco River on the Southern Oregon Coast, this iconic glass-and-timber chapel offers everything couples love about elopements: breathtaking scenery, a peaceful atmosphere, and a setting that feels both adventurous and deeply romantic. Whether you're planning a just-us-two celebration or bringing along a handful of your closest family and friends, here's everything you need to know about eloping at Capella by the Sea.
Why Couples Love Capella by the Sea
Capella by the Sea is unlike any other wedding venue on the Oregon Coast. The chapel's dramatic A-frame design, soaring wood beams, and expansive windows create an atmosphere that feels connected to nature while still providing shelter from the elements. Perched above the river and surrounded by lush greenery, it offers incredible views in every direction.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Capella by the Sea for your elopement is the combination of convenience and natural beauty. You get the intimacy and simplicity of an elopement without sacrificing the experience of having a meaningful ceremony location.
Where Is Capella by the Sea?
Capella by the Sea is located in Brookings, Oregon, on the state's southern coastline near the California border. The area is known for its dramatic ocean cliffs, secluded beaches, redwood forests, and year-round mild weather.
Because of its location, couples often turn their elopement into a full weekend adventure. You can exchange vows at the chapel, explore the Oregon Coast for portraits, and even venture into the nearby California Redwoods for an unforgettable experience.
How Many Guests Can You Have?
One of the reasons Capella by the Sea is so popular for intimate weddings is its size. The chapel comfortably accommodates small gatherings, making it ideal for elopements and micro weddings. The venue is designed for couples who want a meaningful experience without the pressure of hosting a large event.
Whether you're inviting no guests at all or bringing a few loved ones, the space feels intimate and personal.
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Brookings?
One of the biggest advantages of eloping in Brookings is that you can create an incredible wedding experience without the cost of a traditional wedding. Between your marriage license, accommodations, attire, and vendors, most couples have far more flexibility to invest in the parts of the day that matter most to them.
For photography, my most popular Brookings elopement package is The Half Day Package for 4 hours of coverage. This is the perfect amount of time for couples who want to document the most meaningful parts of their day without feeling like they're spending the entire day in front of a camera.
A typical 4-hour elopement might include:
A first look
Your ceremony
Family portraits (if guests are attending)
Couples portraits at one or two locations
Sunset photos along the coast
Many of my couples choose to split their time between a ceremony location and a nearby portrait location such as Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, Secret Beach, or the redwoods just across the California border.
The goal is to create a relaxed experience that allows you to be fully present while still walking away with a complete story of your day.
Many couples find they can create an incredible wedding experience here for a fraction of the cost of a traditional wedding.
The Best Time of Year to Elope
One of the advantages of the Southern Oregon Coast is that elopements can happen year-round. Every season offers something unique:
Spring
Wildflowers begin blooming, temperatures are mild, and the coastline is lush and green.
Summer
Long days and warmer temperatures make summer ideal for exploring beaches and nearby viewpoints after your ceremony.
Fall
Fall offers fewer crowds, beautiful light, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor portraits.
Winter
Moody skies, dramatic ocean scenery, and cozy chapel vibes create a uniquely romantic atmosphere.
Many photographers recommend planning your portraits around sunset for the most beautiful light and coastal views.
Building Your Perfect Elopement Day
One of the best things about eloping is that there are no rules. Your wedding day can be as simple or as adventurous as you want it to be.
A typical Capella by the Sea elopement timeline might look like this:
Getting ready at a nearby oceanfront hotel or vacation rental
First look along the coast
Ceremony at Capella by the Sea
Family photos
Sunset portraits at the beach
Private dinner or celebration
Bonfire or champagne toast to end the evening
Many couples also add an adventure session in the nearby redwood forests, creating an incredible variety of images from a single wedding day.
Nearby Locations for Portraits
One of the biggest benefits of eloping in Brookings is the incredible variety of scenery available within a short drive.
Some favorite locations include:
Secret Beach
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
Harris Beach State Park
Natural Bridges
California Redwoods
These locations offer dramatic cliffs, ocean views, secluded beaches, and towering forests that perfectly complement the intimate feel of a Capella by the Sea ceremony.
Tips for Planning Your Capella by the Sea Elopement
Book Early
Although it's a small venue, Capella by the Sea is incredibly popular with couples looking for intimate weddings.
Plan for Coastal Weather
The Oregon Coast is beautiful year-round, but weather can change quickly. Bring layers and embrace whatever conditions nature gives you.
Leave Extra Time for Photos
The surrounding area offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Building extra time into your schedule allows you to fully enjoy the experience.
Focus on the Experience
The most memorable elopements aren't about decorations or timelines. They're about creating a day that feels authentic to your relationship.
Final Thoughts
If you're planning a Brookings elopement and are looking for photography coverage, my most popular package is $3,000 for 4 hours. You can learn more about my pricing, what's included, and the experience I offer on my packages page.
Ready to start planning? Contact me here.
