Picture this: you’re standing beneath towering Karri trees that stretch 60 metres into the sky, their smooth, pale bark glowing in dappled sunlight as you exchange vows with your beloved. The forest floor beneath your feet is adorned with seasonal wildflowers, and the only sounds are native birds singing overhead and your heartfelt promises to each other. This is the magic of eloping in Boranup Forest.
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As a photographer who’s captured countless love stories here, I can tell you there’s something truly special about this place. An elopement here is just one of the ways you can have a magical elopement wedding in Margaret River.
Why Boranup Forest Is Your Perfect Elopement Destination
Boranup Forest holds a unique place in my heart, and I know it will in yours too. Located just a scenic 25-minute drive south of Margaret River town along Caves Road, this remarkable forest is home to the majestic Karri trees—a species of eucalyptus found only in the southwest of Western Australia.
What makes this location even more extraordinary is that it represents the westernmost point where these giants grow, making your ceremony truly one-of-a-kind. The forest you’ll see today tells a powerful story of resilience and renewal—this stunning landscape is predominantly 120-year-old regrowth forest, having been extensively logged in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
The Wadandi people, the Traditional Owners of this land, have deep cultural connections to Boranup, which means either “place of the native bush chilli” or “place of the male dingo.” Holding your ceremony here honours this ancient heritage and grounds your special moment in a place of profound significance.
What I love most about Boranup Forest for elopements is its incredible versatility. The towering trees create that cathedral-like atmosphere… you’re just minutes from the stunning coastline, giving you the best of both worlds in your wedding album. To learn about other incredible options, check out my complete guide to eloping in Margaret River.
The Practical Guide to Eloping in Boranup Forest: Permits & Requirements
I know navigating permits can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know. The most important thing to understand is that Boranup Forest is part of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, which means it’s managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA)—not the local Shire of Augusta Margaret River.
“Just wanted to say a massive thank you for organising our elopement…the reason we eloped was to have a stress free day and we couldn’t have asked for better. Your organisation was what made our day.” — Emily Wilson
Getting Your Special Activities Permit
Your elopement in the national park is considered a “Special Activity,” which requires a permit. Contact the Parks and Wildlife Service, Blackwood District office at (08) 9752 5555, located at 14 Queen St, Busselton.
You’ll need to apply at least 60 days before your ceremony date. For commercial events involving professional vendors like photographers, there’s a non-refundable application fee of $117. If you’re hiring a professional photographer or videographer, a separate film permit may also be required.
What You Can and Can’t Bring
The permit has specific guidelines designed to protect this precious ecosystem:
- Maximum of three hours total, including setup and pack-down
- Permitted items: Small shade structure (no larger than 10m²), one arch, up to 10 chairs, a small celebrant’s table, and a rug
- Strictly prohibited: Confetti of any kind, including flower petals
- Important note: No exclusive use can be granted—this is a shared public space
Legal Requirements for Your Marriage
Beyond the park permit, you’ll need to handle the legal aspects of your marriage. Your Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) must be filed with your celebrant at least one month before your wedding. You need two witnesses over 18—many local celebrants can provide these as part of their service.
Your Dream Team: Finding Local Experts Who Understand Boranup
After photographing over 600 weddings in the Margaret River region, I can tell you that working with local professionals who truly understand this unique environment makes all the difference. While this guide focuses on the magic of Boranup Forest, for a complete overview of all the unique options available to you, read my guide on how to plan a luxury elopement in Margaret River.
Your Photographer: Capturing Your Story
As your local photographer, I bring intimate knowledge of Boranup Forest’s hidden secrets. I know exactly where the light falls most beautifully through the Karri trees, which spots offer the most stunning backdrops, and how to work with the forest’s unique, dappled lighting.
What I hear time and again from couples is how important it feels to have a relaxed, easy-going photographer who helps them feel comfortable and natural. My documentary style focuses on capturing genuine moments and real emotions rather than awkward poses—perfect for an authentic forest elopement.
“John did such an amazing job…he managed to get the most awkward couple when it comes to photos to smile, laugh, relax and have fun in the moment.” — Shannyn Freeman
Your Celebrant: Creating Your Perfect Ceremony
Your celebrant is truly the heart of your ceremony. Local experts like Married By Sinead specialise in elopements with a light-hearted, modern approach that keeps things simple and stress-free. What makes local celebrants so valuable is their ability to provide the two required witnesses for your ceremony, making your intimate celebration truly possible.
Your Florist: Complementing Nature’s Beauty
When it comes to flowers for your Boranup Forest elopement, less is definitely more. I always recommend working with local florists who understand how to complement rather than compete with the forest’s natural beauty.
Local florists like Raw Habitat use farm-fresh lush foliage and native flowers from their organic micro flower farm in Karridale, creating arrangements that feel perfectly at home in the forest setting. Wild Art Floral also specialises in seasonal blooms that work beautifully with the natural environment. Honeybloom Florals brings three generations of passion to their bespoke designs, ensuring your florals enhance rather than overwhelm the stunning natural backdrop.
Timing Is Everything: Weather, Seasons, and Light
One of the questions I’m asked most often is when is the best time for a Boranup Forest elopement. The beauty of this location is that it’s stunning year-round, but each season offers its own unique magic.
The Perfect Seasons for Your Forest Ceremony
Spring (September to November) is truly magical time in Boranup Forest. The forest floor comes alive with a stunning display of wildflowers that typically peak in early October. Temperatures are pleasantly mild at 17-22°C, making it comfortable for your ceremony and portraits.
Autumn (March to May) offers perfect temperatures in the low 20s, and the lighting has that beautiful, soft quality that makes for incredible photographs. March and April are particularly lovely, with mild evenings perfect for celebrating afterward.
Summer (December to February) can be absolutely beautiful with proper planning. The key is timing your ceremony for earlier in the day when temperatures are more comfortable. Winter (June to August) offers plenty of crisp, sunny days that are perfect for forest ceremonies, creating incredibly romantic and dramatic photographs.
The Magic of Golden Hour
As a photographer, I can’t emphasise enough how important timing is for your ceremony. The “golden hour”—about an hour before sunset—is when the forest truly comes alive. The warm, soft light filtering through the towering Karri trees creates the perfect backdrop for your post-ceremony portraits.
I also love shooting on overcast days in the forest, as the clouds act as a natural softbox, creating beautifully even, romantic lighting that flatters everyone.
A Photographer’s Weather Wisdom
Here’s something important to keep in mind: the Margaret River region is typically about 5°C cooler than Perth, so make sure you and your guests pack accordingly. I always suggest having a light jacket or wrap on hand, especially for those golden hour photos when the temperature can drop as the sun sets.
Testimonial: “John provided stunning photos… His knowledge of the local area made it such a relaxing and magical experience.”
Making Your Day Complete: Accommodation and Celebration
Your elopement is more than just a ceremony—it’s the beginning of a romantic adventure together. The Margaret River region offers incredible options for every style and budget.
Where to Stay for Your Forest Elopement
For the minimalist adventure, Boranup Campground offers small, secluded sites where you can truly immerse yourselves in the forest experience. With only seven small sites, it’s intimate and peaceful, though facilities are basic.
For luxury and comfort, I often recommend venues like La Foret Enchantee, which offers stunning luxury accommodation with beautifully landscaped grounds perfect for intimate gatherings. Wildwood Eco Retreat offers adults-only luxury glamping with safari tents, each with private bathrooms and outdoor baths—perfect for a romantic post-ceremony retreat.
For something unique, consider Kookaburra Retreat, built with mud brick and jarrah, offering a serene sanctuary on seven acres of native bushland.
Celebrating After Your Vows
The Margaret River region is a fantastic destination for foodies, and there are so many wonderful ways to celebrate after your ceremony. You might choose a private champagne picnic in the forest, a romantic dinner at one of the region’s renowned wineries, or even hire a private chef to create an intimate meal at your accommodation.
Many couples love visiting the Boranup Lookout after their ceremony, which offers sweeping views across both the forest and the turquoise waters of Hamelin Bay—perfect for a few more romantic portraits as the day winds down.
Professional Tips for Your Perfect Day
Let me share some insights I’ve gathered from photographing hundreds of elopements in this beautiful region.
Choosing Your Attire
While you want to look stunning for your photos, comfort and practicality are key for a forest elopement. Choose fabrics like silk or flowing materials that move beautifully and won’t snag on the forest floor. For footwear, I always recommend closed shoes with good grip—RM Williams boots, stylish sneakers, or Doc Martens are both practical and photogenic choices for the forest terrain.
Embracing the Natural Experience
One thing I love about Boranup Forest elopements is how they encourage couples to truly connect with nature and each other. Don’t worry about getting a little dirt on your dress or shoes—some of the most beautiful, authentic moments happen when couples embrace the natural environment around them.
Writing Personal Vows
In the intimate setting of a forest elopement, personal vows become incredibly powerful. Without the pressure of a large audience, you can speak directly from your heart, creating truly romantic and authentic moments.
Planning Your Timeline: A Photographer’s Perspective
Based on my experience, here’s what I recommend for your perfect day:
Testimonial: “Just wanted to say a massive thank you for organising our elopement… we couldn’t have asked for better. Your organisation was what made our day.”
6+ months out: Book your photographer and celebrant. Mid-week elopements offer better vendor availability and a more private forest experience.
3+ months out: Submit your permit application to the DBCA. This gives you plenty of time to ensure everything is approved.
1+ month out: File your NOIM with your celebrant and finalise all legal paperwork.
Day of your elopement: Simply arrive and enjoy every moment, knowing that all the details have been taken care of.
Your Unforgettable Adventure Under the Karri Trees
A Boranup Forest elopement offers something truly special: the chance to begin your married life in one of nature’s most magnificent cathedrals, surrounded only by the people who matter most. The combination of the forest’s natural grandeur, rich history, and deep cultural significance creates a backdrop that’s both visually stunning and profoundly meaningful.
What makes these elopements so successful is the careful planning and collaboration with local experts who understand both the environment and the regulations. By securing your permits early, choosing vendors who know the forest intimately, and timing your day around the seasons and the light, you can create an elopement that’s not just beautiful, but completely stress-free.
Standing under those magnificent Karri trees with your beloved, exchanging vows in the soft, dappled light, you’ll understand why so many couples choose this place for their most important moment. It’s not just a ceremony—it’s the beginning of your greatest adventure together.