January 7, 2026

The Griffin House is a 120-year-old historic home that blends timeless charm with breathtaking natural beauty. With sweeping views and unforgettable sunsets, it’s a stunning location for an intimate elopement in the Columbia River Gorge.
Hunter & I were honored to capture Shelby and Z’s elopement here on a warm August evening, surrounded by golden light and scenic river views.




The Griffin House is more than just a wedding venue—it’s a historic landmark that has stood strong through decades of wildfires and changing seasons in the Columbia River Gorge. For couples dreaming of an intimate wedding surrounded by the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest, this iconic home offers sweeping views, unforgettable sunsets, and a sense of raw, timeless romance.
A word to the wise: it can get very windy here. Brides planning to wear a veil should make sure it’s securely fastened—we lost one to a powerful gust about halfway through the day!



We were even able to capture moments like this without Shelby and Z seeing each other before the ceremony.







The Griffin House really shines during Golden Hour and Blue Hour. I highly recommend trying to time your day so that the wow factor comes in and allows this venue to really shine. As the sun dips below the horizon, it transforms the Gorge into a soft, glowing landscape with 270 degree views down the whole valley.
It means that during your ceremony, you get to exchange your vows backlit by golden rays in movie-quality lighting. These are the moments we wedding photographers would kill for!










Why the Griffin House is Perfect for Intimate Weddings
Before the ceremony, Z and Shelby tucked themselves away for private vows overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. They had a rare, quiet pause in the day—no timelines, no guests, just the two of them. It was a grounding moment filled with honest words, steady breaths, and the kind of connection that reminds you why this day matters. By the time they rejoined their guests, they felt centered, present, and ready to step into their ceremony together.








The ceremony itself was simple, intentional, and deeply felt. Thoughtful details framed the moment without distracting from it—soft florals moving in the breeze, the Columbia River Gorge stretching endlessly behind them, and their people gathered close. Nothing felt rushed or overdone. Every choice reflected who Z and Shelby are, allowing the focus to stay exactly where it belonged: on the promises they were making and the quiet, powerful emotion of the moment.
I will add that the videographer may have a bit of work cut out for them for the audio of their speeches, the wind was loud.

Closing Thought: This was probably the most beautiful scenery we’ve seen at a wedding venue so far. The florals done by Wildflower Hill Floral were gorgeous.









Are you getting married or eloping in the Columbia River Gorge? Reach out to us!!! We would LOVE to chat.
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