Weddings

Nathan & Cassie’s Intimate Wedding in Yosemite National Park

Eloping in a national park brings such a sense of calm and presence and Nathan & Cassie’s wedding day in Yosemite was the perfect example of that. From a quiet first look to an emotional ceremony at a waterfall, their day was full of intentional, heartfelt moments that reflected their love and the family they’re building together!

A man in a shirt and suspenders gently touches the face of a woman in a white dress while sitting outdoors on a sunlit forested hillside.

Sunrise First Look at Tunnel View

We began the day at Tunnel View, just before sunrise. Nathan and Cassie shared a first look as the sun slowly rose over the valley. It was quiet, full of emotion, and one of the most moving first looks I’ve witnessed! They read private vows to each other while soft morning light filtered through the trees. Afterward, they shared coffee and pastries on a log nearby, a simple, thoughtful way to slow down and enjoy the moment. Personal touches like that make elopements so special! As the light shifted, we explored Yosemite for portraits. These two were so easy to photograph because they were simply present with each other, and that love came through in every frame. I hardly had to do any posing!

A couple dressed in wedding attire stands on a rocky ledge overlooking a forested valley with mountains and a distant waterfall.

Wedding Ceremony at Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite National Park

Later in the afternoon, we met back up at their Airbnb where they got ready surrounded by family. Nathan and Cassie each have children, and documenting the moments of this new family coming together felt incredibly meaningful. During their getting ready time, I shared a short video from their morning, and it brought tears all around!

Their ceremony took place at Bridalveil Fall, with their closest friends and family standing nearby. Cassie and Nathan included their children in their vows, exchanging gifts and promises. It was deeply emotional, heartfelt, raw, and full of love! After the ceremony and family photos, we gathered at Swinging Bridge for a casual picnic. From there, Nathan, Cassie, and their immediate family continued to explore Yosemite together! We visited Yosemite Chapel, Yosemite Falls, Cooks Meadow, and El Cap Meadow. At Cooks Meadow, Nathan and Cassie shared their first dance with the Merced River and Yosemite Falls in the distance. It was simple, serene, and incredibly meaningful!

A couple stands facing each other holding hands during an outdoor wedding ceremony, with a waterfall and forest in the background. An officiant stands behind them for a wedding in yosemite national park

Words from the Couple

Ready for your own Intimate Wedding in Yosemite National Park? Book me as your Yosemite Elopement Photographer

If you’re dreaming of a day that’s centered on connection, nature, and doing things your way Yosemite is calling! Whether it’s a sunrise first look, a ceremony by the falls, or exploring the valley with your closest people, as a Yosemite elopement photographer, I’m here to help you plan a day that’s as intentional as it is beautiful. From timeline guidance to finding the perfect ceremony spot, I’ll be by your side every step of the way! Ready to start planning? Let’s do this! See more of my work on the blog and contact me here!