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An Intimate Wedding Among the Redwoods
Tucked away in the heart of Portland, Andrea & Dan celebrated their wedding at the stunning Hoyt Arboretum, surrounded by towering trees and golden light. From their intimate ceremony at the Redwood Deck to dreamy portraits along the Wildwood Trail, every moment of this wedding was so intentional and romantic.
Their day was filled with joy, adventure, and heartfelt moments, perfectly reflecting their love for nature and each other.
Having recently moved from Austin, TX, to the PNW, they were so excited to make the wedding all about celebrating with their closest & being able to share their new home in Portland. Keep scrolling to see their breathtaking wedding photos and find out why Hoyt Arboretum is one of the best wedding locations in Portland!
Vendors for this Hoyt Arboretum Wedding
Photographer: Naba Zabih Planner: Kamea Events Florist: Kristine Ae Jin
Hair & Makeup Artist: Kayla Nicole Beauty Officiant: Melissa Coe Ceremonies
Private Chef: Les Saisons NW Cake: Lux Sucre Rentals: Arden Event Collective
Planning Your Hoyt Arboretum Wedding: Best Tips & Locations
Why a Hoyt Arboretum Wedding is a Dream Come True
Tucked away in the heart of Portland, Oregon, Hoyt Arboretum offers a breathtakingly lush, forested setting perfect for couples looking for an intimate and nature-inspired wedding. With towering redwoods, scenic trails, and seasonal blooms, I can completely understand why so many of my couples choose this location to tie the knot. Whether you’re planning an elopement or a full wedding celebration, this guide will walk you through the best photo spots, tips for planning, and what to expect from a wedding at Hoyt Arboretum.
Best Ceremony & Photo Locations at Hoyt Arboretum
One of the standout features of Hoyt Arboretum is the variety of stunning backdrops it offers. Here are some of my personal favorite spots for ceremonies and wedding photos:
1. Redwood Deck
💍 Best for: Intimate ceremonies & elopements
📸 Photo Vibes: Towering redwoods, romantic & secluded atmosphere
Nestled among giant redwood trees, this deck offers a magical, woodland-inspired ceremony space. It’s perfect for couples who want a private, intimate setting with natural light filtering through the trees. Just make sure that you contact the park for a permit if you want to section this spot off for your ceremony!
2. Magnolia Grove
💍 Best for: Portraits & first looks
📸 Photo Vibes: Soft, dreamy light with seasonal blooms
Magnolia Grove is ideal for spring weddings, when the trees are in full bloom. The filtered light and lush greenery creates such a stunning backdrop for photos!
3. Fir Trail & Wildwood Trail
💍 Best for: Romantic walks & couple portraits
📸 Photo Vibes: Lush greenery, rustic trails, adventure feel
These trails offer a variety of gorgeous wooded backdrops for wedding photos. They are perfect for capturing authentic, candid moments as you walk through the serene forest. I love that this also gives my couples a quiet moment to themselves!
4. Arboretum Visitor Center
💍 Best for: Larger Family Photos
📸 Photo Vibes: The visitor center provides a modern touch to your wedding day, offering a structured yet natural look for a few couple or group shots.
Wedding Photography Tips for Hoyt Arboretum
Capturing the beauty of Hoyt Arboretum requires some planning to get the best light and scenery. Here are some of my favorite photography tips:
📅 Best Time for Photos: Mid-day to Golden hour (just before sunset) provides the most flattering, soft light. Early mornings can also work well for a more peaceful atmosphere. Just make sure to check the weather that day! Being in a forest, sometimes overcast weather might make it too dark if we start too early or too late in the day!
🍂 Seasonal Considerations: Spring offers vibrant flowers, summer has lush greenery, fall brings golden foliage, and winter provides a foggy forest aesthetic.
☀️ Lighting Tips: Most days work great for soft, even lighting since we are in a dense forest. Just be conscious of the time of year and if there will be enough light!! Often with my winter weddings I recommend we start earlier than later!
How to Plan Your Hoyt Arboretum Wedding
A wedding at Hoyt Arboretum comes with some logistics to consider. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Permits & Fees
To host a wedding at Hoyt Arboretum, you’ll need a permit from Portland Parks & Recreation. Prices vary based on guest count and event type, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
2. Guest Comfort & Accessibility
Parking is available but can be limited on weekends. Encourage guests to carpool or use rideshare services.
Many ceremony spots require a short walk through trails, so advise guests to wear comfortable footwear.
3. Nearby Reception Venues
Looking for a place to celebrate after your ceremony? Consider these nearby venues:
The Forestry Center – A rustic, indoor venue just minutes away.
Coopers Hall – A modern winery & taproom perfect for intimate receptions.
The Evergreen – A chic, industrial event space in Portland.