Yosemite is a pretty incredible place to say your vows almost anywhere in the park, but why not go big and have a Taft Point elopement? Who doesn’t love a wedding with a view, right?? We sure do at Scenic Vows!
When we first met Sierra and Alex we were blown away by how badass they are. They both work in Yosemite National Park as park rangers and are avid rock climbers, adventurers, and musicians. We knew instantly that we would all become friends and get along really really well. We went to work doing what we do best…planning! First, we would need an amazing location that made them feel alive and was 100% them.
They started describing their dream location for their wedding: killer views of Yosemite Valley, a wooded area to walk through, an epic sunset spot. We immediately knew that Taft Point would be the perfect spot for their elopement. We also provide suggestions for wedding vendors and Sierra was so excited to have the help. She loved how knowledgeable Susan at Sweet Lilac Studios was about which flowers are native to Yosemite and which are not. And her elopement bouquet was absolutely stunning!
Taft Point Elopement
For those of you who have never been, let us set the scene for you. Taft Point is a short hike located off of Glacier Point Road in Yosemite National Park. The trail begins as a beautiful meadow and quickly leads you into a forest with giant Pine trees surrounding you. The trail was a little muddy from a recent thunderstorm and everything was a vibrant green color. As we walked along, Sierra and Alex stopped to point out different ferns and centipedes we passed. The Taft Point trail is perfect for an elopement because it is very diverse. There is so much to see along the short hike in.
Saying “I Do” on the edge of the World
When we reached the clearing at the end of the trail we all stopped to take in the views that surrounded us. There are crazy fissures everywhere (aka huge vertical gashes in the valley walls). The drop goes on for what seems like forever! Alex changed into his blue suit and cracked a beer while he waited on Sierra to get ready. She had found her dream dress at The Bridal Vault in Sonora and couldn’t wait to show Alex.
We made our way to the ceremony spot we had decided on just as the sun was setting behind us. Alex and Sierra wanted a very simple intimate ceremony for their elopement and to exchange rings. They did so on the edge of a cliff overlooking Yosemite Valley.
Capturing those iconic Yosemite photos
After exchanging their vows, the Wilds made their way over to the official Taft Point. It’s a flat ledge that overlooks the Yosemite Valley. They stopped and shared a special moment as the last few colors of the day started to slip away. These intimate moments between you and your partner are our favorite. Taft Point elopements are stunning at any time of the day because there’s 360 degree views wherever you.
A Different Type of First Dance
Alex and Sierra brought along their ukulele and banjo to play together for their “first dance”. What we love the most about elopements is this. You can choose to include wedding traditions or you can alter them to suit you. These two wanted to create music together after getting married so that exactly what they did! As the sun dipped behind the mountains, they sang and played their hearts out, stopping only to do a little “just married” boogey.