How to Plan a Leavenworth Elopement: 2025 Guide

The cozy Bavarian-styled village of Leavenworth is nestled in the forests of the Cascade Mountains, offering visitors countless options for enjoying stunning nature alongside fancy architecture and unique cultural events. Not many places in rural Washington State can give you both beautiful human-made sights and natural treasures at the same time. In this post, I want to share my experience as a Leavenworth elopement photographer who also helps couples with planning. Use this as a guide to create your own unforgettable experience.

For a visual treat, here are a few sessions and elopements that took place in Leavenworth.

Table of contents

1. Why Leavenworth is a Great Place for an Elopement
2. What You Need to Know to Plan Your Ideal Elopement in Leavenworth
3. Top Activities for Your Leavenworth Elopement
4. Six Steps to Plan Your Leavenworth Elopement
5. Leavenworth Elopement Packages
6. Leavenworth Elopement Photographer

Why Leavenworth is a Great Place for an Elopement

If you've ever visited this charming town, especially during one of its famous events, you probably know why it's a one-of-a-kind spot for an elopement. 

Leavenworth hasn't always been an Alpine-style village — it was actually developed as a tourist destination in the 1960s. This means the town has everything you need to relax, enjoy yourself, and have fun. Some people might think it would be better if it had a rich historical background, but as a tourist, it's actually better when a place is created with your needs in mind. As an experienced traveler, I've visited many beautiful and cozy places where you can't play music loudly or take pictures wherever you want because locals are trying to preserve their heritage. Leavenworth is different.

People visit this place to have fun, and the town is constantly evolving and developing to create more options for visitors. Here are five reasons why you should choose this place for your elopement (whether it's just the two of you, a small group of friends, or your family, including elderly members):

1. It's a beautiful town with its own unique vibe

Just look at the pictures to feel the spirit of Leavenworth. The town is cozy, warm, and bright in any season. With sloping roofs of Alpine chalets, timber-framed houses, and old-style signs, this town was crafted with incredible attention to detail. It's modern but can also transport you to another time - and it's only about two hours from Seattle!

2. It's surrounded by natural treasures

You don't need to leave Leavenworth to take memorable wedding photographs. The town is surrounded by pine forests and mountains with snow-capped peaks. But if you want to make your special day more diverse, you have plenty of options. There are trailheads near the town, mountain peaks, caves, waterfalls, and lakes. During summer, you'll find Alpine meadows bursting with colorful blooms.

3. It offers various accommodation options

Since Leavenworth was developed as an all-season resort, it has great options for any budget, time of year, and group size. Choose from a variety of charming B&Bs, cabin rentals, lodges, campgrounds, and high-end hotels. Keep in mind that you'll need to book early for peak dates, but even if your elopement is last-minute, you still have options. Book a call with me to discuss them.

4. It's a good place for foodies

Food is likely a big part of your elopement experience. At minimum, you'll need a cake, some snacks, and one meal if you're having a short ceremony and photo session. I recommend my couples add a bar tour or a dinner at a restaurant as part of their special day — it's worth every penny! In Leavenworth, you'll find excellent European cuisine along with local wineries and breweries.

5. It has fun activities for every season

Christmas is definitely the most festive time in Leavenworth. People from all over the state come to enjoy the Christmas lights and atmosphere, plus skiing and other winter activities. However, this time can be crowded, so if you want a more private experience, you might want to visit during a different season. Year-round, you can take wine tours, go horseback riding, visit spas, take yoga classes, or simply stroll around enjoying the atmosphere.

Christmas in Leavenworth

What You Need to Know to Plan Your Ideal Elopement in Leavenworth

After reading everything above, are you excited about having your elopement in Leavenworth? Have you already started checking hotel and Airbnb availability? If so, read this carefully before booking. There are some important things you need to know to prepare for your elopement without any unwanted surprises.

1. Choose your date and time carefully

As mentioned earlier, finding parking and restaurant space during peak dates can be challenging. Oktoberfest and Christmas are the most popular times to visit. Make sure you're comfortable with crowds during these periods — if not, choose different dates. Check the event calendar to learn more.

2. Plan your travel time

While Leavenworth is about two hours from Seattle, winter travel times can be much longer, especially on Sunday evenings when people are returning home from the ski resort. Often, two highways that lead to Leavenworth are closed due to avalanche risk.

3. Layer up

Leavenworth is at a high elevation, and the nearby mountains are even higher. This means that even if your elopement is in the summer, you'll need extra layers because it can be much colder in the mountains. During fall, while Seattle might still be warm, Leavenworth can be gloomy and cold.

4. Bring comfortable shoes

Leavenworth is small and very walkable. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the town on foot, even if you don't plan to hike. It's worth it!

5. Get your marriage license

To get married in Leavenworth, you need to follow Washington State rules. You must be at least 18, have two witnesses (don't worry if you're planning an elopement for just two – we can find witnesses), and apply for a marriage license at least three days before your special date. To learn more, click here.

6. Secure all necessary permits

You may need permits to elope near Leavenworth, depending on your ceremony location. This might include a Special Use Permit for national forests or a Special Activities Permit for Lake Wenatchee State Park. To get the last one, you are better off applying for it at least six weeks before your chosen date. It costs $45. If you plan a last-minute elopement, you can still apply for it, but you need to call a ranger beforehand.

You'll need a Special Use Permit for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which surrounds Leavenworth. If you have less than 75 people attending your wedding, the permit will more than likely be free. You still need to apply for the permit, though, as not doing so will result in fines. Book a call with me, and I'll advise you on which permits you actually need.

7. Clarify which parking permit you need

If you elope at Lake Wenatchee State Park or Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, you need different parking permits.

For Lake Wenatchee State Park:

• From April 1 until November 30, you need a local annual Discovery Pass or daily pass, which you can buy on-site.

• From December 1 until March 31, you need a Snow Park Permit.

For Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest:

• You need a local Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass.

Wenatchee Lake

Top Activities for Your Leavenworth Elopement

Leavenworth and its surroundings are stunning and will be a perfect backdrop for your elopement. If you're planning to stay and enjoy the place while celebrating your new status, here are some of my favorite activities:

To relax

• Stay in one of the cozy Bavarian-style cabins with a private hot tub, like NW Comfy Cabins Vacation Rentals or Mountain Springs Lodge.

• Treat yourself to a spa day at Aspen Leaf Day Spa or Alpine Spa.

• Take a wine or beer tour to experience European drink culture.

• Join an Alpine Hot Yoga session.

• Enjoy dinner at one of the excellent German or Italian restaurants, many featuring live music to enhance the mood of your getaway.

To have fun

• In winter, enjoy seasonal activities like sleigh rides, snowmobile rides, or skiing.

• Visit the Reindeer Farm to feed reindeers and learn about these magnificent creatures.

• Plan your elopement during special events like Christmas, Maifest, or Oktoberfest.

• Explore the local shops.

• Play a round of golf at Kahler Glen Golf and Ski Resort.

• Discover natural treasures like the Scenic Hot Springs, where you can take a relaxing soak.

To get adrenaline

• Try classic climbing routes in Leavenworth for bouldering or roped climbing.

• Explore spectacular local trailheads.

• Experience rafting and kayaking.

• Go paddleboarding on the Wenatchee River or Icicle River.

Wenatchee Lake

Six Steps to Plan Your Leavenworth Elopement

If you're still reading this post, you're probably serious about having your elopement in Leavenworth. I won't talk you out of it - I'm sure you'll love the experience! 

Here's a simple guide to help you start planning your Leavenworth elopement:

1. Choose your season or month

Everything depends on the season and weather, so choose your timing carefully. Christmas time can be crowded, but you'll enjoy skiing and hot tubs. Summer is perfect for active elopements. The off-season is great for moody photos without crowds. When planning your elopement, it's better to have flexible dates — this gives you more options for finding vendors and booking accommodations.

2. Book an initial call with me

Once you've decided to elope in Leavenworth, please fill out the form to schedule a call. It's free, and we can discuss available dates in my schedule. I open bookings for the next year when the current year begins, so some popular dates may already be taken. During the call, we'll discuss your options, and I can advise you on required permits, activities, and places to stay.

3. Book your accommodation

Don't wait to book your lodge or cabin — do it as soon as possible. Leavenworth is a popular weekend destination for families and fills up completely during festivals. 

4. Plan activities

Some activities need to be booked in advance. Once you know your dates in Leavenworth, start booking services like rafting or golf. Restaurant reservations are important too. You don't need to book a year ahead, but don't wait until the last minute.

5. Book other vendor services

You'll likely need flowers, cake/dessert makers a makeup and hair, catering, or a charcuterie board. It's better to book early than late. During our initial call, I can recommend the best options, or you can do your own research.

6. Stay in touch with me

After we sign the contract, we'll have lots to discuss. I'll create your personal elopement timeline to make the most of our time, so keep in touch with me to create the best experience for the two of you.

Leavenworth Elopement Packages

As an elopement photographer, I offer 4 options. These packages vary based on time — 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or two-day elopements.

All my packages include:

• Planning assistance: location scouting, vendor recommendations, guidance with permits, building of a timeline

• Coverage ranging from four hours to two full days

• Edited, full-resolution photos

• Password-protected online gallery with unlimited downloads

• A sneak peek within one week of your elopement day

• Personal printing rights

• Complimentary ordination service

A pleasant surprise: travel fees are included! I'll meet you in Leavenworth at no extra cost to you.

You'll also receive my Ultimate Elopement Guide (100+ pages covering everything you need to know about planning an elopement). I'll help you plan your perfect elopement and advise you on what permits you and your guests will need.

Based on your vision, I'll create your unique elopement timeline.

To learn more about my photography style, read about my approach and visit my portfolio page.

Leavenworth Elopement Photographer

If you've read this far, you're probably ready to start planning your Leavenworth elopement. So it's time to meet me — the girl behind the camera.

Here are a few facts about me that will help you make your choice:

1. My name is Valerie Lisuk, but you can call me Val. I'm a local photographer based in Seattle, shooting elopements throughout the Pacific Northwest. I know this region well, not just from years of professional experience but also because my husband and I love to hike and travel. We spend the year visiting locations for scouting, and we're experienced with Leavenworth elopements. So you can count on me to find the perfect spots to capture your special day.

2. Being local means I can recommend the best service options based on your needs and budget. I know the top elopement vendors and accommodation options and can help you create your ideal elopement — even if you're planning last minute.

3. My husband Pasha assists me with photo sessions and is also ordained. His officiating service is free for my clients. So, when you book me, you also get an officiant for your elopement or intimate wedding.

4. There's no travel fee for Leavenworth elopements.

5. Since unexpected things can happen, I always create a backup plan for all my clients. If weather, road conditions, or forest fires prevent us from following our original plan, I'll help you have an amazing experience anyway.

6. The last step toward your ideal Leavenworth elopement is booking an initial call with me. Click the button below, fill out the form, and I'll contact you within 48 business hours.