Why Central Oregon is the Perfect Destination for Your Wedding Weekend
- Caitlin McDonald
- Apr 8
- 4 min read
At Caitlin McDonald Events, we love helping couples craft unforgettable wedding weekends that go beyond the ceremony and reception. And when it comes to blending natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a variety of memorable experiences, Central Oregon offers everything you could possibly want for an extraordinary celebration. From breathtaking outdoor settings to lively pre-wedding events, here’s why Central Oregon is the ultimate destination for your wedding weekend—and how to make the most of it.
1. Scenic Beauty That Sets the Perfect Backdrop
Few places rival the stunning natural landscapes that Central Oregon has to offer. Whether you’re envisioning exchanging vows with the Sisters Mountains in the background or hosting a romantic reception under the stars in a Dark Sky Community, the region’s diverse landscapes allow you to create a wedding that feels uniquely you.
Top Venue Pick: For couples looking to combine elegance with outdoor charm, Brasada Ranch offers sweeping views of the high desert, while Juniper Preserve provides luxurious hotel style accommodations surrounded by panoramic mountain scenery. If you’re dreaming of a more intimate affair, Tetherow offers modern sophistication with unbeatable sunset views over the Deschutes National Forest.
2. Welcome Your Guests with an Epic Kickoff at Hawk & Huck
A wedding weekend in Central Oregon isn’t complete without a memorable welcome party to set the tone for the festivities ahead. Enter Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge, a newly established local gem that combines laid-back vibes with gourmet bites and craft cocktails. Located in the heart of Bend, Hawk & Huck’s relaxed ambiance and thoughtfully curated menu make it the ideal spot to gather your guests for an unforgettable pre-wedding celebration, not to mention the decor of the space is the perfect welcome party vibe for photos!
Why We Love It: Picture your loved ones mingling on the cozy patio, sipping on locally inspired cocktails, and enjoying delicious seasonal fare while soaking in the vibrant energy of Bend. Whether you opt for a casual outdoor gathering or an intimate dinner, Hawk & Huck creates the perfect space to kick off your wedding weekend in style.
3. Infuse Fun and Energy with a Concert at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Looking to add an unexpected twist to your wedding weekend itinerary? Treat your guests to an unforgettable night at Hayden Homes Amphitheater. Nestled along the Deschutes River in Bend’s lively Old Mill District, this iconic outdoor venue hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, making it a perfect option for a fun and lively evening before (or after) the wedding.
Pro Tip: Plan your wedding weekend around a concert that aligns with your guests’ tastes—imagine dancing to live music with your closest friends and family, creating memories that will last long after the weekend ends. We were able to do this a few years ago for clients that were big fans of The Lumineers! They were able to go to the concert for one of their favorite bands on Thursday, host a welcome party on Friday, and tie the knot on Saturday. It was the perfect kick-off to a big wedding weekend and for them, a sentimental start for a band they've both followed together for years.
4. Adventure Awaits: Explore the Outdoors
Central Oregon is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s the perfect destination to offer guests a taste of adventure during your wedding weekend. From paddleboarding on the Deschutes River to hiking through Smith Rock State Park, there’s no shortage of activities to keep your guests entertained before and after the big day.
Adventure Ideas:
Golf at Sunriver Resort – Ideal for a relaxing morning before the wedding.
Brewery Tour in Bend – Introduce your guests to the thriving craft beer scene with stops at local favorites like Deschutes Brewery and Crux Fermentation Project or go for a full Ale Trail experience with stops throughout Central Oregon
Floating or Kayaking on the Deschutes – A perfect way to cool off and unwind after a lively weekend. No float for the weekend packed? No problem! The Park and Float at Old Mill offers rentals for floats, life vests and land activities such as bike and trolley rentals!
Book Wanderlust Tours -- With options ranging from snowshoeing, to canoeing, to volcanic tours and sunset hikes, Wanderlust Tours offers guests a personalized experience for tons of different outdoor activities throughout Central Oregon
5. Elevate Your Reception with a Central Oregon Twist
Incorporating the essence of Central Oregon into your wedding reception is a surefire way to create a celebration that feels authentic and memorable. Think signature cocktails inspired by local flavors, farm-to-table menus featuring regional ingredients, and décor that reflects the natural beauty of the high desert.
Design Tip: Bring the outdoors in by incorporating earthy tones, natural wood accents, and fresh greenery into your tablescape. Consider including locally sourced favors—like small-batch jams or artisan candles—to give guests a taste of Central Oregon to take home. Some of our favorite candles come from Lark Mountain Modern Living and we absolutely love the Strawberry Rhubarb jam at Brasada Ranch.
So, as you can see there are a number of reasons why it's easy to fall in love with hosting a wedding in Central Oregon and this list barely scratches the surface! Each and every weekend we plan in the beautiful mountain towns of Sisters and Bend, OR. allows us to carefully curate a unique experience whether you're looking for a shoulder snow season to start your love story or really wanting to soak in the best that Central Oregon has to offer in the peak summertime. Reach out to us today to learn more about our planning packages and how we can create your once in a lifetime wedding weekend in Central Oregon!
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