Thinking about ditching the whole big wedding hoopla and going for an adventurous, intimate elopement instead? Imagine doing it in one of the most beautiful places in California—possibly even the world. Here are my top 5 reasons why you should elope in Yosemite!

Stunning Scenery

First, can we talk about the views? Yosemite is home to some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes on the planet. There are the granite cliffs of El Capitan, cascading waterfalls, lush meadows, and giant sequoias—wherever you choose, the backdrop for your special day will be nothing short of stunning. I might be a bit biased as a photographer, but Yosemite is a dream come true for capturing epic wedding photos. 

It’s Beautiful to Elope in Yosemite Throughout The Year

Yosemite is a stunning location to elope, no matter the season. In spring, the park comes alive with wildflowers and roaring waterfalls, while fall brings colorful foliage. Winter is beautiful in its peacefulness. Yosemite gets plenty of snow, and the snow-covered cliffs are just incredible!

As with most outdoor elopements, you must be prepared for the weather! There might be road closures due to heavy snowing or mudding, and overall have a plans B & C in case of too adverse weather, which can happen any season.

You can stay up-to-date on the weather and current road conditions, here on their website.

Intimate, Personal Experience

One of the best things about eloping in Yosemite is the ability to have an intimate and private ceremony. The park is massive, with so many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations. You can find a secluded spot to exchange your vows, away from the crowds, and make the moment all about the two of you. You might want to avoid July & August to get the most chance for privacy, though.

All The Adventures

If you’d like to include some adventure in your Yosemite elopement, there are so many opportunities here to explore and have fun. You could go on a sunrise hike, have a cozy picnic, and even get a bit wet! There are many waterfalls to check out and loads of swimming holes and water activities here, as well!

Here are some more adventure elopement ideas! 

Less Stress & More Joy

If you’re eloping, you might have tried planning a more traditional wedding and decided it’s not for you. Because, let’s face it, planning a wedding can be SO stressful. Guest lists, seating charts, vendor coordination, and menu planning, among other things – it’s a lot! 

When you choose to elope in Yosemite or wherever for that matter, you can focus way more on actually enjoying your day. Especially when you hire an elopement photographer who doubles as an elopement planner (like me!). You can focus on the joy of the moment without getting bogged down by details. Just imagine a day filled with love, laughter, and incredible memories without the stress. Sounds perfect, right?

Yosemite Elopement Resources

• How to Plan Your Yosemite Elopement Timeline
• Top 5 Reasons to Elope in Yosemite
• Yosemite Elopement Guide
• Yosemite Elopement Photographer

Yosemite Elopement Galleries

• Taft Point at Sunset
• Glacier Point at Sunrise

My Yosemite Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina! Documenting love in the great outdoors and helping my couples create an unforgettable, meaningful experience is my everything! That is what this is all about! I’m here to celebrate you and get to know what is most important to you so we can make it happen! Eloping in Yosemite is truly an amazing way to celebrate the future you are building together.

My elopement packages offer a half, full or multi-day experience. I’m here to help you design the celebration of your dreams! If you can dream it, we can make it happen. To learn more, head over to my pricing page or if you are ready for next steps, fill out my contact form and we can get together on a call! I can’t wait to make your day so special!

Offered throughout every elopement package:

• Help you hand pick a location
• Provide resources and custom location guides on lodging, activities and the best places to indulge in delicious foods
• Scout locations with boots on the ground to find the best places and lighting for your ceremony and photos
• Secure the right location permits to make sure your wedding is legal!
• Recommend vetted vendors to help make your dream of a day come true. 
• Create your custom timeline (2-3 options to choose from!) with room to breathe and enjoy your day.
• Deliver a joyful experience along with swoon worthy photos in your own online gallery!
• Have a backup plan for it all!
• Deliver sneak peaks within 72 hours and a full wedding gallery within 6 weeks! 
• Provide a Fine Art Wedding Album design for you to print and hold onto your photos to thumb through for years to come.