Forest Archives

Intimate Forest Wedding in Santa Cruz

March 16, 2021 by Ellie Abrahamson Leave a Comment

A romantic and whimsical Redwood wedding

Kaver and Sam’s intimate forest wedding in Santa Cruz highlighted the beauty of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. This romantic wedding was filled with whimsical and personal touches that created a magical atmosphere for their ceremony.

Kaver and Sam met at a mutual friend’s wedding in 2016, and sparks flew instantly. However, the timing wasn’t right, as Kaver was about to move to Spain to teach English. The two relied on technology to build a long distance relationship. After a summer in Texas together, they finally closed the 5,000 mile gap between them.

Surrounded by natural beauty, Kaver and Sam celebrated their next chapter alongside their favorite people.

Morning preparation in Santa Cruz

I started the morning with Sam and his family, at their charming AirBnb in downtown Santa Cruz. It was a beautiful, craftsman style home complete with mid-century furnishings, funky wallpaper, and a view of the ocean. His dad helped him into his dark purple Indochino suit and suspenders, then his mom stepped in to pin his boutonniere.

Afterward, I made my way over to Kaver. She got ready with her family at a separate AirBnB closer to the redwoods in Felton. Her mom helped her into her romantic and ethereal Willowby by Watters gown. After she was dressed, Kaver shared an emotional first look with her dad and gifted their long time family friend, Mary Jo, a special corsage.

Intimate First Look in Henry Cowell Redwoods

Kaver and I drove together to meet Sam at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. I walked ahead of her and set Sam up in a private area near their ceremony grove. The moment Sam turned to see Kaver, his face lit up with complete joy. All of their eager anticipation suddenly dissipated as soon as they embraced.

While their families set up chairs for the ceremony, we took a walk around the grove together for some extra portrait time.

Intimate Forest Wedding in Santa Cruz

When it was time for the ceremony, we were graced with beautiful, warm light that poured through the trees. Alexis Party Rental set up a few rows of crossback wood chairs for their guests, decorated with handmade floral hoops. The forest backdrop didn’t need much else.

Kaver and her dad hid behind a redwood tree while everyone took their seats. As the two walked down the aisle, Sam couldn’t help but smile. His love for her was (and is) so tangible.

To add more depth to their ceremony, Kaver and Sam exchange personal vows while their long-time family friend, Mary Jo, officiated for them. Once it was official, everyone was giddy, embracing the newlyweds and each other. Kaver and Sam opened a celebratory bottle of champagne and passed it around.

Whimsical Forest Wedding Portraits

After finishing family photos, all of their guests headed to Casa Nostra to set up for dinner. The three of us wandered deeper into the forest to take advantage of the magical golden hour light.

We walked to a few of my favorite hidden gems in Henry Cowell Redwoods, and I captured them in their sweetest candid moments. We kicked up some dust in just the right places for some extra photographic magic.

When we finally made our way to the parking lot, we discovered their families decked out their getaway car with a cute banner and cans tied to the bumper. (Note: we removed the cans before leaving the parking lot- please respect the wildlife and other visitors of the park)!

Intimate Wedding Dinner at Casa Nostra

Kaver and Sam rented the Casa Nostra Ristorante redwood circle patio in Ben Lomond for their reception. The space, surrounded by redwood trees and dressed in string lights, set the perfect intimate atmosphere for their dinner. As a DIY project for the day, Kaver strung gold paper straws together in geometric shapes to hang from the ceiling.

Music from their personal Spotify playlist filled the air as everyone shared a delicious, family-style Italian meal together. As a surprise for their parents, Kaver and Sam invited them all to join in on their first dance.

After speeches, the group continued to smile and laugh together on the dance floor, marking the sweetest ending to this intimate forest wedding in Santa Cruz.

Their Vendor Team

Accommodations/Getting Ready: Airbnb // Dessert: Ben Lomond Baking Company (La Placa Family Bakery) // Invites: Zola // Florist: UCSC Farm and Garden // Make Up: Faust Salon // Photography: Paige Nelson Photography // Rentals: Alexis Party Rental // Restaurant: Ristorante Casa Nostra // Suit: Indochino // Dress: Willowby by Watters

If you enjoyed this intimate forest wedding in Santa Cruz, I recommend checking out Hannah and Rocky’s Intimate Wedding at Henry Cowell Redwoods.

Rachel & Alex

Big Sur Bakery and Glen Oaks Wedding

Big Sur, CA

October 4, 2019 by Amy Leyenaar Leave a Comment

A quintessential wedding in Big Sur

Rachel and Alex’s intimate ceremony at Glen Oaks and reception at Big Sur Bakery highlighted the best of Big Sur. This California-coast inspired wedding was incredibly romantic, with so many simple and sweet touches.

Rachel said Big Sur epitomizes everything her and Alex love most about California. Alex is from Sonoma county and Rachel lived in Southern California for 15 years. With a looming big move to the east coast, it felt fitting for them to plan their day in a place that means so much to them.

Rachel and Alex were even more excited to share Big Sur with their friends and family, most of whom live out of state and have never seen the gorgeous California coast. Together with 30 of their closest people, they celebrated their upcoming 10 year relationship milestone in the best kind of way.

Bridal Preparation at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn

Rachel finished getting ready at the whimsical Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn with her mom, sister, and best friends. Her room, the Antique Apartment, operated as the Inn’s antique store in the 1950’s.

Deetjen’s is undeniably one of my favorite preparation locations for couples in Big Sur. Each room in the historic cabin hotel has its own personality, decorated with minimal, yet charming, antique furniture. The atmosphere feels straight out of a fairytale.

Intimate Redwood Ceremony at Glen Oaks

When Rachel was dressed, we headed to Glen Oaks for their private ceremony in the redwoods. Rachel and Alex opted to skip a first look to savor that sweet moment of seeing each other down the aisle for the first time.

Right before the ceremony, Rachel shared a moving first look with her father. It was touching to watch his joyful and tear-filled reaction to seeing her in her ethereal BHLDN dress.

We were graced with beautiful, warm light in the forest that afternoon. Aside from the rustic wooden chairs and a champagne station for guests, the backdrop didn’t need much else. Alex greeted Rachel with a smile and paused to help pick redwood bark out of her dress. Rachel’s brother-in-law officiated, making it all the more memorable.

Romantic Couple Portraits in the Redwoods

After a toast and family photos, guests were invited to make their way to cocktail hour at Big Sur Bakery.

Rachel, Alex, and I explored the beautiful grounds of Glen Oaks for their couple portraits. This is always the time when a true feeling of peace settles over my couples, after all the excitement and nerves have dissipated. You can simply just be in the moment together.

Golden Hour at Loma Vista Gardens

After soaking up all of the golden light at Glen Oaks, we made our way to Big Sur Bakery. While we waited for cocktail hour to wrap up, we wandered around Loma Vista Gardens to capture a few more portraits. The gardens offer a breathtaking view of Mt. Manuel, and are ripe with oversized cacti, native succulents, and unique flowers.

Intimate Reception at Big Sur Bakery

Rachel and Alex rented the entire Big Sur Bakery and Restaurant for their reception. The enclosed patio space with market lighting creates a wonderful, intimate atmosphere for smaller groups. Simple burlap runners and garlands of greenery from Big Sur Flowers complimented the long, rustic tables.

Rachel and Alex’s entrance led straight into their first dance. Afterward, everyone moved to the patio to enjoy a family-style dinner. This kind of meal always initiates the best kind of dinner conversations.

Once everyone took their seat, Rachel’s mom blessed the meal. After dinner, we played a game of “guess who” and witnessed Alex drop cake down Rachel’s dress. But my personal favorite part of the evening was when Rachel’s dad surprised us all by tossing his jacket and started to boogie in the middle of the father/daughter dance. 🙂

Their Vendor Team

Catering & Reception: Big Sur Bakery // Ceremony: Glen Oaks Big Sur // Dress: BHLDN // Florist: Kate Healey at Big Sur Flowers // Accommodations: Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn // Hair Stylist: Frenchie at Spa Bella Monterey // Photography: Paige Nelson Photography // Ring: The SlyFox // Suit: Ryan Seacrest Distinction

If you loved this wedding, I recommend checking out Hannah and Rocky’s intimate Henry Cowell wedding or Maria and Darren’s redwood engagement in Big Sur.

Maria & Darren

Redwood Forest Engagement in Big Sur

Big Sur, CA

October 31, 2018 by Paige Nelson 3 Comments

Maria and Darren met me in Big Sur for an incredible day exploring the redwood forest and golden beaches of the Central Coast. It makes my heart so happy when my couples travel the extra mile and turn their engagement session into an experience they’ll never forget. Big Sur never fails to impress me or my couples with its magic atmosphere.

GOLDEN HOUR IN THE REDWOOD FOREST

After a scenic drive down Highway 1, we made it to one of my favorite redwood groves in time for golden hour. The winding trail led us to a grassy meadow, full of colorful blooming flowers and berries. We frolicked in the soft grass, then made our way down to the Big Sur River. Maria and Darren picked stones from the riverbed, laughing as they skipped across the water.

As the light waned, we chased rays of light poking their angel fingers through the forest canopy. We eventually came to a dirt path with a stunning background of redwoods. Maria and Darren were slightly ahead of me, unknowingly kicking up dust as they walked. The dust rose and subtly illuminated the rays, then disappeared in an instant. I beamed with excitement when I saw this.

I encouraged them to run up and down the trail together, kicking up as much dust as possible. My plan worked and the most magnificent rays I’ve ever seen lingered over our heads. We ended our forest exploration on a high note and headed for the coast.

THE MAGIC OF HIGHWAY 1 & BIXBY BRIDGE

We piled back into the car and headed north on Highway 1. I can personally attest that no turnout is a “bad” turnout on this drive. You’re greeted with something to “ooh” and “ahh” over around every turn. Maria and Darren changed outfits in the car, then we stopped at a random turn out with a great view of the Point Sur Lighthouse.

The wind was insane compared to the calm in the forest. It ripped at our hair and our clothes as we stood at the edge of the cliff overlooking the water. We grabbed some scenic shots, then sprinted back across the road to the safety of the car.

Since Maria and Darren were newbies to Big Sur, I thought a stop at Bixby Bridge seemed appropriate. The iconic bridge is always crowded with tourists in the summer time and the lot was overflowing. A gut impulse beckoned me to keep driving down the dirt road. The narrow mountain road came to a turn and gave us a beautiful view of Bixby from a distance. It might even be my new favorite way to experience this landmark.

SUNSET ALONG THE CALIFORNIA COAST

By now, the light was peaking along the coast. Our last stop of the evening was the hidden lily valley and sandy beach of Garrapata. The sunset light cast a warm orange hue over the coastline and rolling waves. Maria’s white dress billowed behind her as we ran up and down the sandy beach. We had the entire place to ourselves.

We were giddy over the beautiful landscapes and perfect weather for their session. It was hard to leave the beach as the light faded, but grumbling bellies and tired legs finally pulled us away.

Reflecting back on this day makes me so happy. I am over the moon to photograph Maria & Darren’s wedding in just a few short days! Congrats you two, can’t wait to create more magic together!

If you loved this session, check out Jessica & Paul’s intimate wedding in Big Sur or Julianne & Mason’s Point Lobos engagement in Carmel!

Hannah & Nick

Intimate Wedding in the San Francisco Muir Woods

Muir Woods National Monument, CA

March 12, 2018 by Paige Nelson 8 Comments

Last fall, I traveled to San Francisco to document Hannah & Nick’s intimate wedding in the Muir Woods. These two came all the way from Missouri to exchange vows under the towering California redwoods. With only 13 of their closest family members and friends in attendance, it was a day to remember.

Muir Beach Preparation

Hannah and Nick rented two Airbnbs along Muir Beach to host everyone. That morning, the skies were overcast and a thick marine layer hung over the ocean. Hannah and Nick prepared for the day in separate houses, anticipating their private (and epic) first look by the coast.

Nick arrived at Muir Beach Overlook first and waited for Hannah at the furthest point. The wind pulled at Hannah’s hair and billowed out her dress as she made her way down the steps to Nick. He lost it as soon as she tapped him on the shoulder. Behind them, you can make out the etched words “Grateful for Everything” carved into the fence post (nailed it). We took a few more intimate portraits along the bluffs, then headed into the woods.

Intimate Muir Woods Ceremony

As we walked up to the entrance of the Muir Woods, Hannah and Nick’s family greeted us enthusiastically. Their officiant, Rick, led us down the winding wood path into the Cathedral Grove. We chose the most magnificent hollowed-out redwood to be their altar. With all of us circled around them and the giant redwoods looming above us, Hannah and Nick were wed.

After the ceremony, we took a few group shots before excusing everyone to cocktail hour. We spent the next hour wandering into the depths of the woods for their couple portraits. Hannah and Nick passed a heart-shaped flask to each other full of vodka to settle their nerves. They couldn’t stop giggling whenever they caught the other’s eyes.

Everyone clapped when Hannah and Nick made their entrance back at the beach house. We all grabbed a drink and headed down to Muir Beach to share a toast in the fading light. In lieu of a sunset, the sky slowly transitioned from grey to blue. Despite the moody atmosphere, this day was light-hearted and chalk full of joyful moments.

Hannah & Nick, thank you for welcoming me and Andrew into your tribe. We are so happy for you and honored we got to be a part of this day!

Their Vendor Team

Dress Designer: Chiffon A Line Gown, Lillian West // Dress Boutique: White Traditions Bridal House // Florals: DIY (Bride) // Hair & Make Up Artist: Salon 171 , Mill Valley// Officiate: Rick Kaplowitz, Bay Area Ceremonies // Shoes (Bride): Nine West // Venue (s): Muir Woods National Monument & Muir Beach, San Francisco

If you loved this redwood wedding, I recommend browsing through Kaitlyn & Matt’s Big Sur wedding or Hannah & Rocky’s Henry Cowell wedding.

Haley & Andy

Intimate Lakeside Elopement in Big Bear

Big Bear Lake, CA

September 2, 2017 by Paige Nelson 2 Comments

Haley and Andy reached out to me a few weeks before their lakeside elopement in Big Bear. These two crazy kids met on a motorcycle ride with friends. Everyone except Haley had a fast bike and she struggled to keep up with the pack. Andy hung back to make sure she didn’t get lost…the rest is history. Instead of spending their money on a big wedding, they opted to buy new motorcycles instead. A few days after the elopement, they rode their bikes up the coast to Vancouver to celebrate their honeymoon.

Elopement in the Mountains of Big Bear

It drizzled in the mountains that afternoon during my drive. Haley prepped for the day with help from her mom and aunt in the Enchanted Forest suite of Castle Wood Cottages. This quirky room is complete with an indoor oak tree, twinkle lights, a grotto, and an elves’ house; a nod to Haley and Andy’s shared sense of humor. All jokes aside, this room is beautiful in its own unique way.

Haley’s monarch butterfly crown was one of the most unique accessories I’ve ever seen a bride wear. The structured bodice and floral lace of her bohemian Rue de Seine gown tied her look together. She fit right in with the Enchanted Forest and played the role of princess bride perfectly.

Lakeside Elopement Ceremony

Andy caught his first glimpse of Haley in a secluded meadow by the lake. They shared a private moment together before Heidi, their officiant, met us in the clearing. She started their ceremony with the Celtic hand fasting tradition. With arms extended, Heidi led them through the steps of tying the ribbon without letting go. Tears flowed freely when they exchanged vows. A few onlookers watched from a distance, but Haley and Andy were in their own bubble.

Epic sunset over Big Bear lake

When the light left the meadow, we all hopped in the car to scout a new photo location. We stopped when we came across a rocky outcrop that partially extended into the lake. The lake reflected every color of the vibrant sunset that evening and the moon danced across the water. To wrap up a perfect lakeside elopement, Haley and Andy shared a private meal under the twinkle lights at Evergreen.

Last month they hosted a small reception for their family and friends at Booze Brothers in San Diego. They are such a fun couple and I know we will remain good friends.

Thanks again for allowing me to be a part of your special day and congrats again!

Their Vendor Team

Accommodations: Enchanted Forest Suite, Castle Wood Cottages (Bride), The Lodge at Big Bear Lake (Groom) // Butterfly Crown: Wild & Free Jewelry // Dress Boutique: The Dress Theory, San Diego // Dress Designer: Fox Gown by Rue De Seine //Florist: The Little Green House, Big Bear // Make Up Artist: Ariana Beagle // Officiant: Heidi Merrigan, Love Story Vows // Photography: Paige Nelson // Rings (Wedding Bands): Lawson // Restaurant: Evergreen, Big Bear // Groom’s Suite: Top Man, Top Shop (San Diego)

If you love this lakeside elopement, I recommend checking out Brenda & Krista’s Big Sur elopement or this bohemian styled elopement in Red Rock Canyon.

Hannah & Rocky

Intimate Wedding at Henry Cowell Redwoods

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, CA

August 8, 2017 by Paige Nelson 17 Comments

Hannah and Rocky’s intimate wedding at Henry Cowell Redwoods is one of my all time favorites. Their wedding focused on intimacy, simplicity, and the true meaning of marriage.

In the early stages of planning a big wedding, Hannah and Rocky stumbled across Kaitlyn and Matt’s intimate Big Sur wedding. After browsing through the images, they fell in love with the raw intimacy surrounding a smaller celebration. They tabled their original idea and decided to have an intimate wedding instead.

We started planning their day in Big Sur, but Mother Nature threw a wrench in our plans. The landslides and bridge closure forced us to relocate with less than two months away. I sent them an alternative list of forests in Santa Cruz and they settled on Henry Cowell Redwoods. It didn’t matter where they got married, as long as they were surrounded by beauty and loving company.

DAY BEFORE

I met Hannah and Rocky the day before their wedding to tour the forest together. They showed me some of their favorite scenic spots off the trails, as well as the special clearing they chose for their ceremony. We spent the rest of the afternoon lost in the trees trying to track down the elusive Garden of Eden. After more than an hour of searching, we finally found the way down to the watering hole.

Later that evening, we met up again at Allegro in the Carmel Barnyard for their rehearsal dinner. Hannah and Rocky’s family charmed my socks off, warmly welcoming me into their group with open arms. We enjoyed wine on the balcony, listened to some heart warming speeches and feasted on delicious Italian food.

INTIMATE WEDDING DAY

On the day of the wedding, I made a pit stop at Rocky’s family home in Carmel where the guys were getting ready. When I arrived, they shared some heartfelt words around the table and a prayer over breakfast. Rocky opened Hannah’s letter and gift- a beautiful watch to go with his suit. His reaction was so sweet, I think everyone let out an audible “awe” all at once.

The girls were in a charming barn-like Airbnb in Aptos, close to Henry Cowell. Hannah opened Rocky’s gift- a dainty pearl necklace that complimented her dress perfectly. The girls huddled around Hannah afterward and prayed over her…I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room.

This wedding is also featured on Intimate Weddings- check it out!

Henry Cowell Intimate Redwood Wedding

We met up a few hours later at a clearing in the park for their first look, one of Hannah and Rocky’s most anticipated moments of the day. The guests waited for us at the main park entrance and we all walked to the ceremony site together. Rocky’s mom pinned on boutonnieres while their friends scattered petals to line the aisle.

With her brother softly strumming the guitar, Hannah and her dad made their way up to the altar. In the middle of exchanging vows, a nearby giant split from its roots and came crashing down. The sound of it was like thunder ripping through the sky- an incredible sound I won’t be forgetting soon.

We temporarily parted ways with their guests after the ceremony to soak up the sparkly forest light for portraits. My favorite moment of the day was when we spotted these finger-like rays of light beaming from around the trees. I put on Iron and Wine’s cover of “Time after Time” while Hannah and Rocky practiced their first dance. On the way back to the entrance, a deer came charging through the brush and leaped over the wooden fence just feet away from us.

Ben Lomond Wedding Reception at Casa Nostra

After the sun had set, we made our way over to the reception dinner at Casa Nostra. The rest of the night was filled with laughter, the best Italian food, and dancing. I couldn’t imagine this day ending any more perfectly. Congrats Hannah and Rocky!

“We loved being able to spend our day with each other and the closest people in our lives. There is something magical about walking through the woods on your wedding day that we really can’t explain. We ended up hosting receptions for both of our families after we got back from our honeymoon. This allowed us to spend quality time with even more people we love than we could have on our actual wedding day. If you’re thinking about having an intimate wedding, we highly recommend it.”

Their Vendor Team

Ceremony location: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park (Santa Cruz, CA) // Dress Designer: BHLDN // Dessert: Ferrell’s Donuts, Santa Cruz // Groom’s Attire: H&M // Officiant: Chris Comstock // Florist: Joely Clarke, Rooted Florals // MUAH: Valerie, Last Resort Salon// Photography: Paige Nelson // Reception Venue: Casa Nostra Ristorante & Bar (Ben Lomond)

Did you love this wedding? I recommend browsing Jessica & Paul’s intimate Big Sur wedding or Sarah and Alex’s intimate Santa Cruz wedding!

Sarah & Alex

Intimate Wedding in Forest of Nisene Marks

Forest of Nisene Marks, CA

May 7, 2017 by Paige Nelson 8 Comments

Sarah and Alex’s intimate wedding in Forest of Nisene Marks turned out to be the greatest back up plan of all time.

These two originally dreamed of exchanging vows in the enchanting forest of Limekiln State Park where Alex proposed. They booked camping spots 6 months ahead of time for their 10 closest friends and family to join them. But a month before their date, Pfieffer Bridge collapsed with the landslides. We soon realized Highway 1 wouldn’t be re-opening to the public any time soon.

Plan B in Santa Cruz

At first it was disheartening to give up Big Sur, but everything kept falling into place. I researched look-alike forests and recommended Nisene Marks in Santa Cruz. Sarah found an amazing yurt set above the beautiful vineyards in Salinas. She also found an incredible hair and make up artist willing to make the last-minute drive.

Intimate Wedding Day Preparations

A few days before the wedding, Sarah and Alex scouted a secluded grove for their ceremony. Instead of having one officiant, Sarah asked all of their guests to be an equally important part of the readings. She asked them to share a piece of themselves by offering a blessing, joke, poem, song, or dance.

The day of the ceremony was so relaxed. I arrived to the yurt in the late morning to capture the quiet ritual of preparation. In a secluded grove away from guests, Sarah and Alex shared a moment of meditation following their first look. Then we all caravanned our way up to the redwood giants in Aptos.

This wedding is featured on Intimate Weddings! Check it out here!

Secluded ceremony grove in Forest of Nisene Marks

Alex and Sarah brought incense, a metal singing bowl, crystals, and a few gifted items to decorate the forest floor. As everyone filed in, Sarah and Alex asked them to form a circle. The ceremony began with a sage purification ritual and anointment of each guest with frankincense.

Alex opened with a prayer to the four directions. Then, the floor was open to anyone who wanted to share their words. Sarah’s mom read a poem from Alex’s parents and surprised them by serenading them with a song.

After Alex and Sarah exchanged vows, they passed out homemade medicine bags. Sarah invited each guest to select a few of the crystals from the altar to add to their bag. Finally, they sealed the ceremony with a group hug and sang Longtime Sun (a kundalini closing).

Redwood Portraits & Twilight at the Beach

We spent the rest of the daylight frolicking around the forest for their couple portraits. We made it to the coast just in time to soak up the last of the sun and play in the twilight.Later that evening, we rejoined everyone back at the yurt for homemade food, cake, and festivities.

“I couldn’t have ask for anything more. It was only loosely planned and perfect. Leaving things open and going with the flow helped us to stay relaxed and in the moment. We were so wrapped up in our ceremony, we decided to drop our plan to do portraits in Carmel. We literally pulled over at the first coast we could find.

It was a very different look and we had to hop some fences (thanks, Andrew!) but we got incredible unplanned photos! I would not trade the feeling and memory of our our day for anything in the world! It was everything I could have hoped for, and almost nothing I had planned.”

Their Vendor Team

Hair and Make up: Cara Hopkins, Face Forward Bridal // Florist: Christine Cater Wedding and Event Floral Design // Dress: Rue de Seine // Photography: Paige Nelson // Venue: The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

Nixie & Mike

Winter Yosemite Engagement

Yosemite National Park, CA

May 2, 2017 by Paige Nelson 1 Comment

I can’t believe it took me 25 years to finally make it to Yosemite. When they say it’s one of those places you need to see with your own eyes, they mean it. This park exceeded all of my wildest waterfall and redwood dreams. Andrew and I arrived a few days early to soak it all in and do some location scouting before my session with Nixie and Mike.

First Glimpse of Yosemite Valley in Winter

It was off season, at the tail end of winter, so the park was pleasantly quiet. As we drove through the gates, we couldn’t keep our jaws from hanging open. All the snow on the valley floor already melted away, but the massive peaks were dusted with white. There was a slight chill to the air and every so often, you could hear a massive crack, then a loud crash, as ice broke away from the falls and plummeted to the rocks below. Clouds swiftly passed over the sun, casting beautiful light over the surreal landscape before us.

A few months earlier, Andrew introduced me to the firefall phenomenon that happens for 10 days in mid-February. When the sun hits Horsetail Fall just right and conditions are perfect, it glows bright orange like lava. We thought the chances of us witnessing it in person were slim, but we decided to see if we could catch it anyway. We waited at the base of the falls for two hours with nearly 150 other spectators. Ten minutes before sundown…it happened. The firefall is an unbelievable spectacle of nature, like nothing I have ever seen before. And just like that, this park made an imprint on my heart forever.

Portaits at Tunnel View & Bridal Veil Falls

Andrew and I were up to watch sunrise over Tunnel View and squeeze the most out of our last day. Nixie and Mike met us by Bridalveil falls that afternoon. They are from the Bay area, also first timers to Yosemite. I think it made the experience of exploring together even sweeter.

We wandered through the redwoods as the sun danced in between trees. The icy ground and cold shower of water kept us at the bottom of the waterfall trail, but the mist blowing through the trees shimmered in the golden light. We headed back up to Tunnel View, certain it was a vantage point of the valley Nixie and Mike couldn’t miss.

Our last stop was the viewpoint of Lower Yosemite Fall from the valley floor and the small red chapel nearby. The sky started to look stormy and the wind picked up, prickling our skin with goosebumps and blowing away Nixie’s hat. Amazingly, we could see the effects of the firefall happening again from where we stood. Horsetail fall wasn’t visible this time, but the peaks around us glowed orange, then blue in the twilight.