Yosemite Valley Chapel Wedding Guide
Yosemite Valley Chapel Wedding
A Yosemite Valley Chapel wedding is one of the most timeless ways to experience a wedding in Yosemite National Park. This unique chapel is right in the heart of Yosemite Valley. Surrounded by granite cliffs, open meadows, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in California. We know it as a historical gem in Yosemite Valley!
Whether you are choosing to get married inside Yosemite National Park, or you want wedding portraits after your wedding day is over, don't forget to add Yosemite Valley Chapel to your list.
That’s exactly what Brenton and Courteney did. They had an intimate wedding in their hometown with family and friends, but still wanted to have beautiful Yosemite wedding photos. Prior to their wedding they knew that they wanted photos in Yosemite so a few weeks after their wedding, they put their wedding attire back on and we created beautiful images in different locations in the valley.
If you're considering Yosemite Valley Chapel wedding or planning wedding portraits in Yosemite National Park, this guide will help you plan your Yosemite experience!
The History of the Yosemite Valley Chapel
Built in 1879, the Yosemite Valley Chapel is one of the most historic buildings in Yosemite National Park. It is the oldest structure still standing in Yosemite Valley.
Located right in the heart of Yosemite Valley, this iconic Chapel is surrounded by towering pine trees, and gorgeous granite cliffs that make Yosemite so famous. It's classic setting and architect make it a beautiful place for adventurous couples to get married!
A Yosemite Valley Chapel wedding is perfect for couples who want the feeling of a traditional ceremony while still experiencing the beauty of Yosemite National Park. The chapel offers an intimate setting that allows couples to celebrate with their closest family and friends before heading out into Yosemite Valley for unforgettable wedding portraits among the nearby mountains, meadows, and waterfalls.
Spring Yosemite Wedding Portraits
Brenton and Courtney had already celebrated their wedding back home, but they knew that they wanted Yosemite wedding portraits and knew Yosemite Valley was the perfect place.
When we met in Yosemite on a spring afternoon, the light was soft, the weather was cool, and the valley had that calm feeling Yosemite is known for. We started their portraits near the chapel before exploring different parts of Yosemite Valley together.
One of the amazing things about photographing couples in Yosemite is how quickly the landscape changes. You can stand in one spot and just turn around and you'll have a completely different backdrop. When you step into the valley, the landscape is so mesmerizing that it slows everything down. It stops filling like a photo shoot and starts to feel like you're exploring with your favorite person.
Yosemite just has this feeling. If you've ever felt it, you'd understand…and if you haven't felt it, I'd love to experience the park with you for the first time!
Best photo locations near Yosemite Valley Chapel
One of the best things about having a Yosemite Valley Chapel wedding is that so many iconic Yosemite photo locations are within a walk away.
Couples often combine their ceremony, followed by portrait throughout Yosemite Valley.
Some nearby photo spots include:
Even though the locations are close together, each one offers such a different Yosemite backdrop.
Yosemite Falls is dramatic in the spring when the waterfall is strong.
Sentinel Bridge provides beautiful views of half dome reflecting in the river.
El Cap Meadow offers wide valley views that showcase El Capitan.
Cooks Meadow Loop offers 360 vies of Half Dome, El Cap, Waterfalls, and open meadows.
Because these locations are so close together, couples can explore different areas without feeling rushed during their Yosemite wedding photos.
Tips for Planning a Yosemite Valley Chapel Wedding
Planning a Yosemite Valley Wedding at the chapel is simple, but here are a few tips to help make it better!
Reserve the chapel early since this historic Yosemite Chapel wedding can book up quickly during busy seasons.
Plan time to explore throughout Yosemite Valley once your ceremony Is over Yosemite Wedding Portraits are best during sunrise or sunset!
Weekday ceremonies are a great option if you want privacy. Yosemite can be busy during peak season and weekends.
MOST IMPORTANT TIP: Allow yourself the time to enjoy your day. Yosemite has a way of making every wedding magical. Make sure to give yourself enough time to feel the magic.
FAQ About Yosemite Valley Chapel Weddings
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The Yosemite Valley Chapel rental fee is $1,200.
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There is a $500 fee for an ordained minster. You can also have your own minister marry you as well. There will be an additional $125 attendant fee to help with access during the ceremony.
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There is
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The chapel is a popular place to get married. The sooner the better!
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125 guest!
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Yosemite is gorgeous all year round, but spring, early summer, and fall are the best times because of the weather and waterfalls. If you are dreaming of a winter wonderland, then planter winter!
Planning Your Yosemite Valley Chapel Wedding
If you are dreaming of a wedding surrounded by granite cliffs, forrest, and the magic of Yosemite, a Yosemite Valley Chapel Wedding is a magical way to being your next chapter together. Ready to plan your Yosemite National Park Wedding and want timeless photos that capture your day, I’d love to help document it. As a local photographer who spends so much time photographing love in this beautiful park, I’d love to help you plan and photograph your big day!
