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Yosemite, it’s one of the most visited National Parks in the world, and for good reason. It’s incredibly captivating, the views cannot be beat, and the diversity of the region and amazing photo spots make it an elopement or small wedding location dream. When you're considering it for your small wedding day or elopement, there's a few factors to consider to make sure getting married in Yosemite is the right choice for you.

I’m Joleen the photographer at Love Wildly. I’ve been a wedding photographer for about 14 years. I’ve seen some truly wonderful moments, but I’ve also seen everything behind the scenes that you don’t see in the glossy finished photos and videos. Believe it or not, there is an incredible amount of pressure that comes with hosting a big wedding day. It’s definitely not for everyone! After many years of being behind the curtain on close to 500 weddings, I have seen and heard A LOT. I can say with certainty that none of what you are about to read is speculation. All of this information is based on first-hand experience. A quick note - I’m in no way knocking big weddings! Many couples love the attention, pace, and excitement of a big wedding day. But on the flip side, I have seen many a bride or groom realize while in the midst of their big wedding day, they may have preferred something smaller, slower, with a little less attention on them. Beginning with pre-wedding review about a month out, it is not uncommon for me to hear: The most common things I hear are … “I just want to skip the wedding and go straight to the honeymoon.” “I want this to be over so I can go back to regular life.” “You know when you study for a test and then forget it all as soon as it’s over? That’s what I’m going to do with this wedding!” It’s not that these couples didn’t want to get married or have a wedding! Big weddings tend to take on a life of their own and can get out of control, fast. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of planning and the pros and cons. Here's what we'll cover: How many hair and makeup artists will you need to hire and how long will it take? How this will affect cost. Where will you get ready? And how your numbers and ceremony location impact the day. How the needs of your bridesmaids will affect your morning (especially in a place unfamiliar to them). You may unintentionally play the role of wedding planner (even if you have one) Last-minute details creep up during moments that should be quiet. Is a big wedding day environmentally friendly? A feeling of obligation to include people in parts of your day that you would rather have in privacy. First look or no first look (and why compromising on this can make me sad for you). Including activities that are special to you, and that you wouldn’t get to do at a big wedding. The pace and timeline of a big wedding day Choosing a location based on numbers and the convenience of your guests (not to mention the cost). Can you include your dogs? Saying vows in front of an audience, and the feeling of putting on a show. What happens immediately following the ceremony (after that surreal walk back down the aisle). What will your photos look like? What will the picture-taking process “feel” like? The amount of time it takes to have a “meaningful conversation with all your guests” in real numbers. One final thought to consider - the clean-up.

Makena & Colby's elopement experience was a few days. We starting our wedding day In Twain Harte, where I got ready at my parents house, and Colby got ready at our home. We had a champagne toast and first look with family, then headed up Sonora Pass, to venture to one of our favorite camping spots. We then said our vows at sunset at a gorgeous outlook on the pass, then headed to Mammoth. The following day was Colby's birthday, which we kicked off with an amazing sunrise photo session. The following days were spent hiking, relaxing, enjoying Eastern CA's beautiful fall colors, and enjoying good eats and brews.

Kelsey & Matt traveled to Mammoth Lakes for their adventurous and low key multi day elopement celebration. Together we explored the Crowley Columns by way of 4wd, the top of the Minarets and ended at a local park with family, followed by dinner and bowling.

Here's 16 tips to keep you comfy and adventuring during your winter elopement. I am so proud of you for planning a winter elopement adventure! I'm going to state the obvious, winter might come with a few extra "challenges" but if you're prepared, you will have a beautiful, adventurous, and comfortable experience. And as a bonus, there will be often be less crowds at some of the world's most iconic locations. How amazing would it be to have Yosemite Valley all to yourselves?!

For couples hosting a wedding in or near Yosemite National Park. The Yosemite wedding experience doesn't need to fit into one day. When you take a few days to enjoy the park AND the wedding day festivities, you walk away with a wedding week experience that feels like you didn't miss out on anything. The whole goal is to keep you present, not stressed and not rushed! This post is about getting the most out of the entire wedding week experience, and enjoy Yosemite.

News that you're eloping may not be well received by everyone close to you. But don't worry, there's ways to include them so they know they're important to you! Here's some way to make everyone feel valued, and to help you decide if you want to include guests at your elopement.

Can you pee in your dress? Is it heavy? Is it comfortable? Some helpful tips on how to choose a dress for your adventure elopement, and probably some you didn't think of!

Taft Point is popular and it's no wonder why. I want you to get the most out of your Taft Point experience. Here's some planning tips for you to enjoy this iconic location, stay safe, and get some incredible photos.