Saying “I Do” is one of life’s greatest decisions. For most people, this is a turning point in their lives. And like most important events, the exchange of marriage vows requires careful planning.

The Yosemite National Park is home to some of nature’s supreme wonders. The scenic beauty of the place makes the perfect backdrop for any special event. Yosemite weddings have become more and more popular. Couples have discovered the perfect wedding setting amidst the magnificent company of nature.

For those who wish to have Yosemite weddings, the park requires couples to secure a Special Use Permit. The permit, which costs about $150.00, allows couples to hold their wedding ceremony in wedding areas within the Yosemite National Park.

The Yosemite Valley is home to several options: The Lower Yosemite Fall may be the venue of Yosemite weddings but can only accommodate certain group sizes. Another nice area for Yosemite weddings is the sandy beach, north of the Merced River. It can accommodate a maximum of twenty people, but is available everyday of the year. Couple who need a larger venue may opt for the Cathedral Beach Picnic Area, which can cater to fifty people the most. The area is closed in the late afternoons, and in the months of November until April. The Sentinel Beach Picnic Area is another Yosemite weddings venue that is a good choice for those who want space for 100 people. However, this area is closed from November till April and at dusk everyday. This is also not usually available in the rafting season which runs from late May to the middle of August. The Bridalveil Falls provides a splendid background fro Yosemite weddings. This location accommodates 50 people and is open all-year-round.

There are numerous other alternative venues for Yosemite weddings within the park. Wawona has about four areas that are great wedding sites as well. These are: Wawona Point, Mariposa Grove Museum Area, Glacier Point, and Chilnualna Falls Trailhead Parking Lot. The latter though, is the only one available throughout the year.

The Tuolumne Meadows has its own share of fine wedding locations. These are only available though at the end of May until October. The Soda Springs, Tenaya Beach, and Tuolumne Lodge Area are among your choices in the Tuolumne area.

The permit issued for Yosemite Weddings does not give you the freedom to ban other park guests from going to your wedding location. The site should be one that is not frequented by park visitors to avoid other groups from walking in on your wedding.

Yosemite weddings are not unpopular that is why the park allows couples to book a yea in advance and to finalize wedding plans at least 21 days before the actual date. That is, if you don’t want to end up having it somewhere else.