Patty & Evan
To Patty and Evan, Yosemite is a happy place. So naturally, it was in this majestic location they choose to say their vows! Scroll down to see some highlights of their beautiful Yosemite Valley wedding, or scroll down to read their story.
A Natural Choice
Patty and Evan live in The City (San Francisco to anyone outside of NorCal). They met there. They fell in love there. And they will start their life together there.
But despite being city dwellers, they are nature lovers at heart. Rock climbing and camping is one of the things that brought these two friends together. It’s something they’ll keep doing well throughout their life as a married couple!
To celebrate their love and their love of nature, Patty and Evan brought their friends and family on a fun hike in the valley the day before. It was so great to see an original take on the ‘day before’ activities; everyone was relaxed and happy to be enjoying the fresh air. Plus, we got to shoot some pretty epic day before shots on the trail!
Chapel Bells
If you’ve ever been to Yosemite Valley, you’ll have no doubt passed by the small chapel near the main road. (and if you HAVEN’T been to Yosemite Valley…what are you waiting for?!). This steeple-topped little wooden church is at the base of some of the most amazing natural rock formations in the world. The contrast is striking and simple at the same time. During my many trips to this park, I’d always wondered what it was like inside. And for Patty and Evan’s ceremony, I got the chance to check it out!
Evan’s family has had a home near Yosemite, so the couple often visits the area. And with all the hiking, climbing and natural beauty, it is one of their favorite places to be together. It only made sense that they would promise to spend the rest of their lives together in this exact spot. And the little church was the perfect intimate size for them to stand up in front of their friends and family and take their vows.
Yosemite Valley Wedding
I’ve had the privilege of shooting many weddings and sessions in Yosemite. Although it’s nearly impossible for me to choose my top places in NorCal (see this list for some of my favorites), I have to say that Yosemite is always pretty near the top.
For those who have never been – Yosemite is enormous! And beautiful! And majestic! But there are SO many places to go, see, climb, hike, walk, wander, shoot, and relax. This is one of the amazing times where I actually got to shoot a wedding in Yosemite Valley (arguably the most awe-inspiring part of the park). And I’m so glad to have done it with the energy, love and commitment that Patty and Evan brought to their wedding day. Thanks guys!
Photographer: Sebastien Bicard
Ceremony Location: Yosemite Chapel
Reception Venue: The Redwoods In Yosemite
Bride’s Wedding Dress: Willowby
Makeup Artist: Mindy Boni
Hair Stylist: Kendall Shira
Wedding Coordinator: Sheena Columbus
Caterer: Mattie’s Pizza
Florist: Sweet Dreams Flowers
DJ: Wild Hare Live
Sebastien Bicard is a wedding and portrait photographer based in California. He specializes in international travel and intimate weddings worldwide.