Kaitlyn & Bryan's Cathedral Beach Yosemite Elopement & Ahwahnee Hotel Reception
This elopement is so near and dear to my heart because Kaitlyn and Bryan not only work in Yosemite National Park but also call it home! From the breathtaking first look at Glacier Point to their Cathedral Beach Yosemite ceremony, and finally, a stunning reception in the Mural Room at Ahwanhnee Hotel, every moment was pure perfection!
When I asked Kaitlyn and Bryan why they chose Yosemite, they shared that it had become their second home. Kaitlyn grew up visiting Yosemite and always dreamed of working there one day. That dream became reality when she and Bryan applied for jobs in the park together. They both got hired and spent an unforgettable summer living in Yosemite! To make their adventure even more memorable, they purchased a converted van to explore and experience the beauty of Yosemite together. It doesn’t get more magical than that!
Amazing Vendors:
Venue: Ahwahnee Hotel/Mural Room
Dress: BHLDN
Shoes: Tevas
Stationary: Minted
Photography: Julia Mina Photography
Videographer: Shana Garrett Films
Jewelry: Pam Beckham
First Looks & Private Vows at Glacier Point in Yosemite
Kaitlyn got ready for the day in one of the cozy cabins at the Ahwahnee Hotel, tucked away in the valley. Meanwhile, Bryan prepared at Glacier Point in their converted van, which felt so fitting for their adventurous spirit. Their day began with a breathtaking first look and private vows at sunrise at Glacier Point. Seeing your partner surrounded by such awe-inspiring beauty is always magical, and Bryan couldn’t take his eyes off Kaitlyn. It was so sweet to witness their excitement for the rest of their Yosemite elopement!
After their first look, they exchanged heartfelt vows in private. It was truly moving to watch them share their love and promises with each other in such a meaningful place before their Cathedral Beach Yosemite ceremony.
Yosemite Elopement Photos at Half Dome
We spent the rest of the morning taking in the stunning beauty of Half Dome from every angle before heading down to Yosemite Valley for more portraits. Along the way, we visited their favorite spot to view the lower Yosemite Falls. One thing is certain about Yosemite National Park—it never runs out of breathtaking backdrops!
An Intimate Cathedral Beach Yosemite Ceremony With Views of El Captain
After their photos at Half Dome, we then made our way over to Cathedral Beach in Yosemite which offers stunning views of El Captain. I just love how they made mimosas to celebrate their marriage and take it all in together! It was truly the perfect ceremony before heading off to their Ahwahnee Hotel wedding reception in the Mural Room.
An Ahwahnee Hotel Elopement Reception in The Mural Room
After their ceremony, we made our way to the Ahwahnee Hotel for their reception in the Mural Room. It was my first time seeing this beautiful, intimate space, and I was absolutely in awe of the décor. Kaitlyn spent two years curating one-of-a-kind glassware for their reception, and every detail reflected her thoughtful planning and creativity.
To top it all off, the dinner at the Ahwahnee Hotel was absolutely delicious—it was the perfect ending to a truly magical day!
Planning Your Cathedral Beach Yosemite Elopement or Ahwahnee Hotel Reception?
If you’re looking for a Yosemite National Park elopement photographer with experience in capturing elopements and intimate weddings here, I would love to hear from you! You can learn more about me here. If I sound like the Yosemite elopement photographer for you, then inquire with me! In the meantime, make sure to check out other elopements on the blog for inspiration. And you don’t want to miss my ‘Ultimate Guide to Elope in Yosemite National Park‘!
