A Rainy, Romantic Yosemite National Park Elopement
Shannon and Preston’s wedding at Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite National Park was one of those days that reminds you why this place is so special. Full of feeling, nature, and unexpected beauty, their wedding felt more like an intentional experience than a traditional event. From emotional first glances to rain kissed portraits across the valley, their day was magic in motion.
If you’ve been dreaming about yosemite national park elopements and want your wedding to feel deeply personal, this story is the perfect inspiration. And if you’re still deciding on a ceremony location, don’t miss my full guide to the Best Places to Elope in Yosemite National Park or my Bridalveil Fall Elopement Guide for more ceremony tips, photos, and planning advice.
Why Choose Yosemite National Park for Your Wedding?
Iconic Backdrops in Every Direction
Yosemite is one of those rare places where you don’t have to choose between beauty and accessibility. From the towering cliffs of El Capitan to misty waterfalls and sunlit meadows, every part of the park offers something unique. Shannon and Preston exchanged vows beneath Bridalveil Fall and then explored El Capitan Meadow, Valley View, and Tunnel View for portraits. Each location gave us a different energy and backdrop, all in one afternoon.
Easy to Reach Ceremony Spots with Big Impact
One of the best parts about Yosemite elopements is how easy it is to reach breathtaking ceremony spots without a long hike. Bridalveil Fall is just a short walk from the parking lot, which made it perfect for Shannon and Preston’s micro wedding with family and friends. They were able to focus fully on the moment without the logistics taking over.
Perfect for Couples Who Want Adventure Without Stress
After their ceremony, they celebrated with a simple picnic in the parking lot surrounded by laughter, snacks, and champagne. Then we headed out just the three of us for portraits. And when the rain rolled in? They embraced it. We kept shooting through El Capitan Meadow and Tunnel View, with soft light and mist making their photos even more romantic. They danced, kissed, and soaked it all in and the results are unforgettable.
Bridalveil Fall Ceremony Location
If you’re considering yosemite national park elopements, Bridalveil Fall is a must see. With roaring water, surrounding cliffs, and light catching mist, it feels powerful and intimate at once.
For Shannon and Preston, it was the perfect place to anchor their day. They didn’t do a first look. Instead, they saw each other for the first time as Shannon walked down the path with her dad, surrounded by towering trees and the sound of the waterfall behind them. The moment was raw and beautiful. You could feel the emotion ripple through everyone there.
If you’re curious about how to plan your own ceremony here, check out my Bridalveil Fall Elopement Guide for ceremony details, permit tips, and photo inspiration.
Yosemite National Park Wedding Photos
After the ceremony and their picnic style celebration, we explored a few of the park’s most iconic photo spots:
• El Capitan Meadow - golden grasses and wide open views, framed by Yosemite’s most famous cliff
• Valley View - lush riverbanks, granite walls, and perfect for wide angle drama
• Tunnel View - an overlook that captures the full sweep of Yosemite Valley, made even more magical by soft rain and mist
Even as the weather changed, Shannon and Preston leaned in with total joy. Their portraits in the rain feel cinematic and timeless. You can see their connection in every frame.
Yosemite National Park Wedding Cost
A Yosemite wedding permit typically starts at 150 dollars.
Your total cost will depend on group size, location, and whether you’re working with vendors like a planner or photographer. For the most up to date details, visit the National Park Service wedding permit page.
If you’re looking for more pricing breakdowns and location comparisons, head to my guide to eloping in Yosemite.
Yosemite National Park Wedding Photographer
Hi, I’m Kelsey, a destination wedding photographer who documents yosemite national park elopements all throughout the year. My style is timeless and candid, and my goal is to make your experience feel as natural and stress free as possible.
I’m here to guide you through the process whether that means helping you pick the perfect location, applying for your permit, or making your guests feel comfortable in front of the camera. Shannon and Preston trusted me to document every part of their day, and I’d love to do the same for you.
Yosemite Wedding Photography Packages
My Yosemite wedding photography packages are designed for couples who want an intentional experience, not just pretty pictures. Coverage starts at 4,800 dollars and includes:
• Planning assistance and timeline support
• Permit guidance and location scouting
• Sneak peeks within 72 hours
• Full gallery delivery in 4 to 6 weeks
You can view full pricing details here or reach out via my contact form. I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up.
FAQ About Yosemite National Park Elopements
Can you get married in Yosemite National Park?
Yes, you’ll need to apply for a special use permit in advance and choose an approved ceremony site.
When is the best time to get married in Yosemite?
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons. Shannon and Preston’s May wedding had ideal temps, soft light, and lush greenery.
How many guests can we bring?
Most Yosemite elopement spots allow up to 25 guests, but each site has different capacity rules. I can help you figure out the best fit.
Do we need a permit for wedding photos in Yosemite?
Yes. A separate photography permit is required. I’ll help you navigate the process so everything is squared away.
Where can I find the best Yosemite elopement locations?
Start with my roundup of Best Places to Elope in Yosemite National Park. It covers the top ceremony spots with photos, pros and cons, and planning tips.
Let’s Tell Your Story!
If Shannon and Preston’s day spoke to you, I’d love to help you create a Yosemite wedding that’s just as meaningful and personal. Whether you want to hike into the mountains or keep things simple and heartfelt, I’m here to help you bring it all to life.
Contact me to start planning your Yosemite elopement or wedding.
