I’m not even sure where to start with this one… but it is a literal dream come true. My love for photography really took off in Yosemite in 2010 – that’s the reason Half Dome is in my logo. This valley has always been my refuge, the place where my creative soul could fly. It’s where I learned to paint, found a deep respect for nature and its majesty. It has been where I could draw closer to Jesus, to my family, to my friends who have camped there with me sharing stories by the fire. Basically, this place has my heart. Every last piece of it. So when the idea of an intimate wedding in the Yosemite Valley came up, I was the most excited I have ever been. 

If you’ve ever dreamed of having your wedding somewhere focused on nature, adventurous, wild, and totally free, you should really consider Yosemite. The backdrop alone is so stunning and the memories you’ll have will be surrounded with excitement! It’s such a perfect venue, especially if you’re looking for something outside the box and a little unconventional. Any national park wedding is really priceless and just SO cool. So do it! You’ll be my hero. 

Anyway, I give you Dani + Steve… two people who share such an authentic love that it rivals the tallest waterfalls and the biggest granite faces the park has to offer. (And there’s a surprise at the end)!

The day began at The Majestic Yosemite Hotel. This gorgeous hotel opened its doors in 1927, so the cottage where the couple got ready had a vintage charm inspired by the history of the park.

The invitations were inspired by the tones and textures of the valley in the early spring season, incorporating earthy notes inspired by agate.

Dani’s dress and details embodied a vintage bohemian bridal style perfect for the rugged backdrop of Yosemite. 

The floral details were completely perfect in every way. The bouquet and flower crown flirt the line between winter and spring, reflecting the beauty of Yosemite as it thaws out from the colder seasons and begins to bloom. 

Steve’s style was such a complement to the ruggedness of the valley – and man, can he rock a floral tie! He spent some time brushing up on John Muir’s Wilderness Essays as he waited to get a first look at his beautiful bride. He also took a moment to write to her. 

 

 

 

Dani’s style was so natural and feminine, a perfect balance of the two. She spent quiet moments that morning getting ready and writing to her groom as well.

She’s seriously a stunning boho bride in a gown that looks like it was made for her. The two decided to share their first look in front of the cottage.

After an emotional first look, we headed over to Cook’s Meadow for portraits in the presence of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. 

And can we talk about this ring? It’s seriously one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen.

The groom’s details were pretty fantastic as well.

After admiring the falls, we made our way over to one of the park’s very best views… with Half Dome in the distance, how could you not feel small in the world?

From Half Dome, we moved on to Yosemite Falls. It was time for Dani + Steve to exchange vows beneath the beauty of the most iconic waterfall in the park. 

After exchanging vows, it was time to enjoy a little celebration with coffee, cake, and champagne. It’s so perfect to keep things simple when you’re in such an epic setting! Enjoy the view and a bite of something yummy without having to go for a five course meal with a lot of tradition. My biggest piece of advice is not to worry about tradition, but instead, do what makes the two of you happy and best suits you as a couple! 

After enjoying their own version of a picnic, the couple decided to take in the sunset at Yosemite’s iconic Tunnel View. It really was nothing short of epic.

See this day in motion! This video by The Santos & Co. captures the day beautifully.

Vendor List:

Stylist/Coordinator: Randi Kreckman / Primary Photographer: Randi Kreckman Photography / Second Photographer: Melissa Rey Photo / Videography: The Santos & Co. / Makeup & Hair: Makeup Artistry by Mariya / Florals: The Flower Method / Gown: Chantel Lauren / Ring: Trumpet & Horn / Robe & Bridal Details: BHLDN / Calligraphy: Erin Howard / Macrame Wrap: Knotty Rope Collection / Cake: Sweet Crumb Cakery / Rentals: Archive Rentals