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This week's topics: destination weddings, destination wedding planning, destination wedding venues, Oregon wedding venues, Oregon Coast weddings, outdoor wedding, outdoor wedding planning, wedding weather backup plan, wedding planners, day-of coordinators, wedding venue tips, wedding weekend experience, luxury destination weddings, Crook Point, Kathleen Crook-O'Donnell, Oregon Wedding Day
In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media Owner Sonja Babich sits down with Kathleen Crook-O'Donnell, president and owner of Crook Point, a breathtaking wedding destination nestled along Oregon's southern coastline. With more than two miles of private coastline, multiple oceanfront ceremony locations and overnight accommodations spread throughout the property, Crook Point has become a sought-after destination for couples dreaming of an immersive wedding weekend. Kathleen shares how the venue's remarkable setting, paired with generations of family history, creates an unforgettable backdrop for celebrations of every size.
The conversation begins with the story behind the land itself. Kathleen explains that Crook Point has remained in her family for seven generations after her third great-grandfather traveled the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800s before settling in southern Oregon. Over time, the family expanded into hospitality by opening vacation homes for guests, laying the foundation for what would eventually become a thriving wedding venue. While weddings initially happened through word-of-mouth recommendations, Kathleen found herself unexpectedly leading the business after a family loss, transforming what began as a side project alongside her corporate career into a full-time passion.
As destination weddings continue to grow in popularity, Kathleen explains how Crook Point naturally lends itself to the experience couples are seeking. Rather than simply booking a ceremony site, guests can rent one or several homes throughout the property, gather for welcome parties and farewell brunches, and create an entire weekend centered around time together. Whether hosting an intimate elopement overlooking the ocean or a celebration of nearly 300 guests, the venue's flexibility allows every wedding to reflect each couple's unique vision while embracing the dramatic beauty of the Oregon coast.
Kathleen also offers an honest look behind the scenes of planning weddings in such a remote and scenic location. Because Crook Point sits between the coastal communities of Gold Beach and Brookings, she emphasizes the importance of working with experienced local vendors and requiring at least a day-of coordinator familiar with the property. She discusses preparing for Oregon's ever-changing coastal weather, developing contingency plans when rain is in the forecast and collaborating closely with trusted rental partners to ensure couples can enjoy their day regardless of what Mother Nature brings.
Beyond logistics, Kathleen reflects on the personal connection she feels to the property. Many of the venue's gathering spaces hold cherished childhood memories, including the site where her grandmother's home once stood and where countless family celebrations took place. She believes those shared experiences have helped shape Crook Point into more than just a beautiful venue—it has become a place where new memories naturally unfold. That sense of history and belonging, she says, is something guests often feel the moment they arrive.
The episode concludes with Kathleen sharing what it takes to maintain both a large-scale hospitality business and a working ranch, from caring for thousands of acres and year-round lodging to leading a dedicated team that grows during wedding season. She credits the success of Crook Point to every member of the staff, emphasizing that creating exceptional guest experiences is truly a team effort. Through its extraordinary scenery, rich family legacy and thoughtful approach to hospitality, Crook Point continues to offer couples a wedding destination unlike anywhere else on the Oregon coast.
This episode is powered by Dan Riggs Films, Crook Point and Oregon Wedding Day.
Photos by Flora Gibson Photography
