This sweet Yosemite National Park wedding, captured by Bergreen Photography is a study in traditional mountain simplicity. Michelle wore her mother’s wedding gown, she used natural decor for her ceremony and reception, and the whole family chipped in to make it all happen. Michelle and Daniel wanted their guests to focus on the spectacular beauty of Yosemite’s granite walls. I think they succeeded beautifully!
Michelle + Daniel
Yosemite National Park
9/6/14
Why did you choose the Mountains for your wedding?
Daniel spent many summers hiking, backpacking, and rock climbing in Yosemite with his family during his childhood. We had several Yosemite hiking trips while we were dating as well. Plus, it’s one of the world’s most beautiful locations.
Wedding Day Weather
80 degrees
Number of guests that attended
95
What was your theme for your wedding?
Rustic, simple
Where did you find your inspiration?
Your budget
$24,000
Biggest Splurge
Reception location–Ahwahnee Hotel
Biggest Savings
Using mother’s wedding dress
How did you choose to personalize your wedding?
Michelle made decor for the reception using pinecones. Daniel and his father cut rounds from a redwood tree trunk for reception decor as well. Daniel’s mother styled hair for bride and bridesmaids. Michelle’s sister did her makeup. And, the personalized bobble head cake topper.
What was your favorite part of the reception?
The beautiful location, looking up at the granite walls in Yosemite. The food was great too.
What are three things you’re super glad you did?
- Flowers made from balsa wood
- Using/redesigning mother’s wedding dress (by Lynne Giovannetti)
- Using homemade, simple decorations to allow focus on the beautiful landscape
What was the biggest challenge in planning your mountain wedding and how did you overcome it?
No cell phone reception in or around the area. People unfamiliar with the area got very lost, but it all eventually worked out.
How did you find and choose your vendors?
We found our wonderful photographers by being referred from the photographers at our friend’s wedding. We found the creator of balsa wood flowers from a wedding message board. The DJ was recommended by the reception site. Catering was provided by the reception site.
What is your best piece of advice to other mountain brides who are planning their weddings?
Keep it simple. Let the location’s beauty be the focus.
Yosemite Wedding Vendors
Photographer: Bergreen Photography | Handmade Goods Designer: Accents and Petals | DJ: AMS Entertainment | Cake Designer: Head Bobble | Reception Venue: The Ahwahnee Hotel | Ceremony Location: Yosemite Chapel