Wedding
Yosemite Weddings
Planning a Destination Wedding in Yosemite
A destination wedding is a unique and memorable way to celebrate your love in a location that holds special meaning or offers a breathtaking backdrop. Unlike traditional weddings, which often take place in the couple’s hometown, destination weddings allow couples to exchange vows in beautiful, often far-flung locales. These weddings can be as intimate or grand as you desire, with the added benefit of turning your special day into a mini-vacation for you and your guests.
Yosemite National Park is one of the most enchanting locations for a destination wedding. With its majestic granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoias, Yosemite provides an awe-inspiring setting that perfectly complements the significance of a wedding ceremony. Couples who choose Yosemite for their destination wedding are drawn to its natural beauty, serene environment, and the opportunity to create unforgettable memories in one of the most iconic national parks in the worl
Top 10 Wedding Venues in Yosemite
What to Look for in a Wedding Venue
When selecting a wedding venue, consider the following factors:
- Scenery: Beautiful natural or architectural backdrops.
- Capacity: Suitable for the number of guests.
- Amenities: Availability of facilities such as dressing rooms, catering options, and parking.
- Accessibility: Ease of access for guests, especially those traveling from afar.
1. The Ahwahnee Hotel
- Description: This historic hotel, known for its stunning architecture and luxurious amenities, offers several indoor and outdoor venues, including the grand Ahwahnee Dining Room and the picturesque meadow with views of Half Dome.
- Address: 1 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1400
2. Yosemite Chapel
- Description: The charming Yosemite Chapel, built in 1879, is perfect for couples seeking a traditional ceremony with a rustic touch. The chapel is surrounded by breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley.
- Address: 9034 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-4831
3. Glacier Point
- Description: For an intimate ceremony with panoramic views, Glacier Point offers an unparalleled setting. Exchange vows with a backdrop of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra.
- Address: Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
4. Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
- Description: Located just outside the park’s south entrance, Tenaya Lodge offers a range of venues, including an elegant ballroom, a forested pavilion, and an outdoor terrace.
- Address: 1122 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
- Contact: (888) 514-2167
5. Wawona Hotel
- Description: This historic hotel offers a romantic setting with its Victorian-era charm. The manicured lawns and picturesque verandas make it an ideal location for outdoor ceremonies.
- Address: 8308 Wawona Rd, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 375-1425
6. Yosemite Valley Lodge
- Description: With stunning views of Yosemite Falls, this lodge offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings. The lawn area is particularly popular for its close proximity to the falls.
- Address: 9006 Yosemite Lodge Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1274
7. Evergreen Lodge
- Description: Nestled in the forest near Hetch Hetchy, Evergreen Lodge offers a rustic yet elegant setting. The meadow and forest areas are perfect for outdoor ceremonies, with charming cabins for guests.
- Address: 33160 Evergreen Rd, Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 379-2606
8. Rush Creek Lodge
- Description: This lodge offers a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. The hillside amphitheater and poolside terrace are popular choices for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
- Address: 34001 CA-120, Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 379-2373
9. Cathedral Beach
- Description: A serene location along the Merced River, Cathedral Beach offers a beautiful setting for a small, intimate wedding with views of El Capitan and the surrounding forest.
- Address: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
10. Redwoods in Yosemite
- Description: Located in the Wawona area, Redwoods in Yosemite offers private cabin rentals and a picturesque outdoor venue for weddings amidst towering trees.
- Address: 8038 Chilnualna Falls Rd, Wawona, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 375-6666
Top 10 Caterers in Yosemite
What to Look for in a Caterer
When selecting a caterer, consider the following:
- Menu Options: Variety and customization of menu offerings.
- Quality: Taste and presentation of food.
- Service: Professionalism and reliability of the catering staff.
- Experience: Experience in handling weddings and events.
1. The Ahwahnee Dining Services
- Food Offered: Gourmet cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients.
- Unique Features: Customizable menus, with options for elegant plated dinners or buffet-style meals.
- Address: 1 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1489
2. Tenaya Lodge Catering
- Food Offered: From casual BBQs to formal banquets, Tenaya Lodge offers a variety of menu options.
- Unique Features: Outdoor catering options available for forested venues.
- Address: 1122 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
- Contact: (888) 514-2167
3. Yosemite Valley Lodge Catering
- Food Offered: Traditional American cuisine with a focus on comfort foods and fresh, local ingredients.
- Unique Features: Perfect for receptions with views of Yosemite Falls.
- Address: 9006 Yosemite Lodge Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1274
4. Evergreen Lodge Catering
- Food Offered: Farm-to-table dishes with a rustic twist, including gourmet BBQ and seasonal menus.
- Unique Features: Custom menus to match the lodge’s rustic yet refined ambiance.
- Address: 33160 Evergreen Rd, Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 379-2606
5. Rush Creek Lodge Catering
- Food Offered: Creative, fresh, and locally sourced dishes with a focus on sustainability.
- Unique Features: Tailored menus for weddings in natural settings.
- Address: 34001 CA-120, Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 379-2373
6. Wawona Hotel Dining Services
- Food Offered: Classic American fare with options for elegant dining or casual meals.
- Unique Features: Victorian-style service with historic charm.
- Address: 8308 Wawona Rd, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 375-1425
7. The Redwoods in Yosemite Catering
- Food Offered: Customizable catering packages that can be tailored to your specific tastes and dietary needs.
- Unique Features: Catering services designed to complement outdoor weddings.
- Address: 8038 Chilnualna Falls Rd, Wawona, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 375-6666
8. The Mountain Room Restaurant
- Food Offered: American cuisine with a focus on hearty, comforting dishes.
- Unique Features: Stunning views of Yosemite Falls from the dining room.
- Address: 9006 Yosemite Lodge Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1281
9. South Gate Brewing Company
- Food Offered: Casual fare with a focus on craft beer pairings.
- Unique Features: Perfect for informal receptions or welcome dinners.
- Address: 40233 Enterprise Dr, Oakhurst, CA 93644
- Contact: (559) 692-2739
10. Yosemite Catering
- Food Offered: Full-service catering offering a range of cuisine styles from BBQ to gourmet dining.
- Unique Features: Personalized menus tailored to your wedding vision.
- Address: 5043 CA-140, Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 742-4844
Top 10 Wedding Photographers in Yosemite
What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer
When choosing a wedding photographer, consider:
- Style: Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision (e.g., candid, traditional, artistic).
- Portfolio: Review their past work to ensure consistency and quality.
- Experience: Experienced photographers can handle a variety of settings and lighting conditions.
- Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with, as they’ll be a big part of your day.
6. Christopher Cook Photography
- Work Quality: Known for his artistic approach to wedding photography, capturing both the grandeur of Yosemite and the intimacy of the wedding day.
- Unique Features: Extensive experience with Yosemite weddings.
- Address: Fresno, CA 93722
- Contact: (559) 977-6827
7. Kirsten Noel Photography
- Work Quality: Specializes in elopements and intimate weddings with a focus on natural light and emotional storytelling.
- Unique Features: Personalized service with a deep love for capturing Yosemite’s beauty.
- Address: Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 347-0089
8. JLH Photography
- Work Quality: Blends traditional and photojournalistic styles to create a comprehensive story of your wedding day.
- Unique Features: Custom packages tailored to the couple’s vision.
- Address: Oakhurst, CA 93644
- Contact: (559) 676-8154
9. Evynn LeValley Photography
- Work Quality: Focuses on natural, light-filled images that capture the spirit of the wedding day.
- Unique Features: Experience with outdoor weddings and Yosemite’s diverse landscapes.
- Address: Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 742-7466
10. Jessica Jaccarino Photography
- Work Quality: Known for her vibrant, timeless images that showcase both the couple and the surrounding landscape.
- Unique Features: Specializes in destination weddings in Yosemite.
- Address: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
Top 10 Florists in Yosemite
What to Look for in a Florist
When selecting a florist, consider:
- Design Style: Ensure their style matches your vision for the wedding.
- Experience: Look for florists with experience in wedding arrangements.
- Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
- Creativity: A good florist should be able to bring your ideas to life while offering their own creative input.
1. Sweet Dreams Weddings & Events
- Quality of Arrangements: Custom floral designs that reflect the natural beauty of Yosemite.
- Unique Features: Specializes in eco-friendly and locally sourced flowers.
- Address: Oakhurst, CA 93644
- Contact: (559) 683-8309
2. Mountain Laurel Florist
- Quality of Arrangements: Elegant and romantic designs with a focus on seasonal blooms.
- Unique Features: Personalized service with attention to detail.
- Address: 5028 CA-140, Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 966-5947
3. Evergreen Lodge Floral Services
- Quality of Arrangements: Rustic and natural floral designs that complement the lodge’s aesthetic.
- Unique Features: Specializes in woodland-themed arrangements.
- Address: 33160 Evergreen Rd, Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 379-2606
4. Yosemite Flower Company
- Quality of Arrangements: Artistic and creative floral designs that reflect the couple’s style and the natural surroundings.
- Unique Features: Experience with weddings in Yosemite’s varied landscapes.
- Address: Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 742-4056
5. Garden Party Floral Design
- Quality of Arrangements: Whimsical and romantic designs with a focus on texture and color.
- Unique Features: Specializes in weddings and events in natural settings.
- Address: Fresno, CA 93727
- Contact: (559) 435-1123
6. Wawona Hotel Floral Services
- Quality of Arrangements: Classic and timeless floral arrangements that reflect the historic charm of the Wawona Hotel.
- Unique Features: Personalized service for weddings at the hotel.
- Address: 8308 Wawona Rd, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 375-1425
7. Floral Design by Melanie
- Quality of Arrangements: Creative and personalized floral designs that cater to the couple’s vision.
- Unique Features: Specializes in destination weddings and elopements.
- Address: Oakhurst, CA 93644
- Contact: (559) 683-4370
8. The Redwoods in Yosemite Floral Services
- Quality of Arrangements: Rustic and natural designs that reflect the beauty of Yosemite’s flora.
- Unique Features: Tailored services for outdoor weddings.
- Address: 8038 Chilnualna Falls Rd, Wawona, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 375-6666
9. Bloom and Vine
- Quality of Arrangements: Vintage-inspired floral designs with a focus on elegance and romance.
- Unique Features: Personalized service with a deep understanding of Yosemite’s landscape.
- Address: Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 742-2020
10. The Enchanted Florist
- Quality of Arrangements: Exquisite floral designs with a focus on luxury and sophistication.
- Unique Features: Experience with large-scale weddings and events.
- Address: Fresno, CA 93722
- Contact: (559) 222-2442
Top 10 Wedding Planners in Yosemite
What to Look for in a Wedding Planner
When selecting a wedding planner, consider:
- Experience: Look for planners with experience in coordinating weddings.
- Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
- Services: Ensure they offer the services you need, from full planning to day-of coordination.
- Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision.
1. Meriwether Events
- Service Quality: Full-service wedding planning with a focus on personalized, detail-oriented events.
- Unique Features: Extensive experience with Yosemite weddings and elopements.
- Address: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
2. Mountain Thyme Events
- Service Quality: Specializes in rustic and elegant weddings with a deep understanding of the local area.
- Unique Features: Offers customizable packages to suit different budgets.
- Address: Oakhurst, CA 93644
- Contact: (559) 641-2261
3. Evergreen Lodge Wedding Planning
- Service Quality: On-site wedding planning services that cater to both large and intimate gatherings.
- Unique Features: Tailored services to fit the lodge’s rustic ambiance.
- Address: 33160 Evergreen Rd, Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 379-2606
4. Redwoods in Yosemite Wedding Planning
- Service Quality: Specializes in intimate weddings and elopements in natural settings.
- Unique Features: Experience with outdoor weddings in the Wawona area.
- Address: 8038 Chilnualna Falls Rd, Wawona, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 375-6666
5. Sweet Dreams Weddings & Events
- Service Quality: Comprehensive wedding planning services with a focus on creative and unique events.
- Unique Features: Customizable packages that cater to the couple’s vision.
- Address: Oakhurst, CA 93644
- Contact: (559) 683-8309
6. Tenaya Lodge Wedding Planning
- Service Quality: On-site planning services for weddings at Tenaya Lodge, offering a range of venues and packages.
- Unique Features: Full-service planning with options for indoor and outdoor ceremonies.
- Address: 1122 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
- Contact: (888) 514-2167
7. Yosemite National Park Weddings
- Service Quality: Expert planning services for weddings within Yosemite National Park.
- Unique Features: Assistance with permits, venue selection, and logistics.
- Address: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
8. Events by HollyHock
- Service Quality: Boutique wedding planning with a focus on personalized, elegant events.
- Unique Features: Tailored services for both large and small weddings.
- Address: Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 742-7614
9. Celebrations Party & Rentals
- Service Quality: Full-service event planning and rentals, specializing in weddings in the Yosemite area.
- Unique Features: Extensive inventory of rental items to complement any wedding theme.
- Address: 4951 Adeline Ct, Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 742-4021
10. Green Fox Events & Guest Services
- Service Quality: Wedding planning and coordination services with a focus on eco-friendly and sustainable events.
- Unique Features: Emphasis on local sourcing and environmentally conscious practices.
- Address: Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 962-1873
Where to Host the Welcome Reception
What to Consider in Selecting a Wedding Reception Venue
- Location: Proximity to the wedding venue and accommodations.
- Capacity: Ability to accommodate the number of guests.
- Ambiance: The atmosphere and style of the venue.
- Amenities: Availability of catering, parking, and entertainment options.
Hosting a welcome reception sets the tone for your wedding weekend. Here are some top venues in Yosemite:
1. The Ahwahnee Hotel
- Description: The Ahwahnee offers a sophisticated setting for a welcome reception, with options for indoor or outdoor spaces.
- Address: 1 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1400
2. Tenaya Lodge
- Description: Tenaya Lodge provides a range of reception venues, from elegant ballrooms to outdoor terraces.
- Address: 1122 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
- Contact: (888) 514-2167
3. Evergreen Lodge
- Description: Evergreen Lodge offers a rustic, charming setting for a casual reception with forest views.
- Address: 33160 Evergreen Rd, Groveland, CA 95321
- Contact: (209) 379-2606
Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
Yosemite offers a range of activities for memorable bachelor and bachelorette parties:
- For Adventure Seekers: Plan a guided hike to Half Dome, followed by a sunset picnic at Glacier Point.
- For Relaxation: Book a spa day at Tenaya Lodge, followed by wine tasting at a nearby vineyard.
- For Thrills: Organize a white-water rafting trip on the Merced River, or go rock climbing at El Capitan.
Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules
To get married in Yosemite, you’ll need to obtain a California marriage license. Here’s how:
- Where to Apply: Marriage licenses can be obtained at any County Clerk’s office in California. For Yosemite weddings, the closest offices are in Mariposa, Madera, and Fresno counties.
- Requirements: Both parties must be present and provide valid photo identification. No residency requirement or blood test is needed.
- Waiting Period: There is no waiting period; the license is valid immediately upon issuance.
- Cost: Marriage license fees range from $50 to $100, depending on the county.
- Additional Considerations: The license is valid for 90 days, and you must be married within this period. Officiants can be a priest, minister, rabbi, or any authorized individual.
