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Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Staci and Mark
September 28, 2011
| Elopements | Weddings
The day before they were to be married in Yosemite, this obviously athletic and in love couple peeked into my studio in Mariposa. I had no idea who they were upon first sight and assumed that they were tourists looking for nature and landscape images of Yosemite. It wasn't until she introduced herself with an enthusiastic smile as the bride I would be photographing tomorrow that I discover who they were.

In the early morning light with just their parents to share the moment with them, Staci and Mark stood in a clearing just behind the Yosemite Valley Chapel to marry each other. It was both incredibly simple and emotional. Somehow, even with their parents standing just next to them and Rev. Carol Dewey officiating the ceremony, it was only Staci and Mark there alone in the meadow.

Just after the ceremony I asked them if they had any ideas of where they wanted to go in the park for their photographs. They told me they trusted me entirely; wherever I wanted to take them was the perfect place for wedding portraits. In truth, I really didn't have any one place in mind - that was until they told me that they were not able to make it up to Sentinel Dome the day before. Instantly I knew exactly where we had to go.

A few days earlier they had hiked from from Cloud's Rest down to the valley floor, with a stop over at Half Dome. So they had already been pre qualified as hikers, but hiking in a wedding dress is a completely different story. Not that I have done it, but it doesn't seem exactly easy. I love the looks of awe from tourists that are struggling to climb Sentinel Dome themselves, only to see a bride in a full length dress charge right up the granite face.

Once on top of the dome, we had views stretching in every direction. They could see their previous course from Cloud's Rest to Half Dome, they could see El Capitan standing beneath us, they could see the valley floor far below where they were just married. The world was open before them. And so I present Staci and Mark to you; standing at the top of the world with everything in front of them.

Photographer: Patrick Pike Studios
Hair and Makeup: Bellissimo
Officiant: Rev. Carol Dewey

Wedding on Sentinel Dome in Yosemite.jpg



Comments
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Gennett says: Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Patrick, these pictures look fake. totally unreal. incredible!!! you are THE best!
Mollie Lemon says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

These photos are incredible! I know Staci and Mark and you captured them beautifully. Especially love the black and white and the landscape/sky photos.
Linda says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

These are the most amazing wedding photos ever. Thank you for capturing the day, so we could share in Staci and Mark's wedding while stuck here in D.C.

Kristina says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Staci these pictures are amazing. Now I know why you wanted to get married in Yosemite. Best wishes, Love ya
Brenda Gatica says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Staci and Mark, thank you for letting us come to your wedding. It is something we will always remember and cherish. You both look so beautiful and Patrick did an amazing job on the photos. Best pictures I have ever seen. Love you both very much! Mom and Dad
Natalie says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Beautiful!
jeff ambrose says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

i'm going to have to stop looking at your blog. i can't take all this awesome-ness.
Elissa says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Patrick, all of your work is just incredible. I want to live inside your photos.
sheri says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

you know I am a huge fan of your work and I have to say it's because I am always inspired when I see your new stuff! This set is blowing me away, the ceremony photos are so lovely and dang! That convertible shot is incredible!
Felicia M. says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

These pictures are so beautiful! Congrats Staci and Mark! Love you guys!
Caroline Tolbert says: Friday, September 30, 2011

These pictures are AMAZING congratulations Mark and Staci! You two look great and could not have picked a better spot.

JP Ward says: Friday, September 30, 2011

Congratz Mark & Staci! These images are amazing!!!

patty says: Friday, September 30, 2011

Simply lovely. Congrats!
Matt C says: Friday, September 30, 2011

These shots are stunning. Mark, you are the man. I'm super happy for you both.
Ty says: Friday, September 30, 2011

those pictures are so amazing it looks fake! wow thats amazing
Kathy Kamionek says: Friday, September 30, 2011

Mark and Staci - congratulations again!!! what amazing spectacular photos. have never seen ones like it before...truly vibrant...makes the viewer feel like they're in Yosemite as well. What a memorable trip!!
Heather K says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Gorgeous couple, gorgeous photographs! Congrats Mark and Staci!
Terri Slack says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

These pictures are amazing.
They capture the moment and your intense love.
I could feel it looking at them.
Many congratulations,
Terri
Debbie says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Beautiful pictures of a beautiful couple. They are so different from the norm but done with taste and elegance. The sky and scenes look unreal. Some the the best pictures I have ever seen. Have fun picking out the best ones.
Arthur says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Congrats Mark and Staci, great pictures. Beautiful settings and totally you. The outdoor couple for sure.
Rebecca Buning says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

These pictures are stunning! Mark & Staci picked the perfect spot for their wedding, and you captured the love they have for each other in a way that I have never seen before. You are extremely talented!
Leanne says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Breathtaking, These are the most unique and personal wedding pictures I have ever seen. Congratulations Mark and Staci.
Stacy Groggel says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

WOW!! These photos are gorgeous! One of my favorites is the one in which Staci and Mark are reflected in the water...and the ones where they are just surrounded by sky and clouds are unbelievable!

Congrats Mark and Staci...so very happy for you!
Liz says: Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Beautiful pictures... beautiful wedding...

Yaidi says: Wednesday, October 5, 2011

OMG!!! stunning pics, very lovely couple! Staci, bellisima! Lots of blessings for both of you!
Gary Guerra says: Monday, December 19, 2011

You two look so happy! Amazing photographs! Congratulations!
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223
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Amber and David
September 23, 2011
| Elopements | Weddings
They are one of the most relaxed couples I have ever met and that was exactly how they wanted it.

Amber and David did not want all of the stress that is wrapped up in a traditional wedding, so instead they planned a very small wedding in Yosemite for just their closest friends and family. Everyone gathered together at Glacier Point as the sun was setting for their ceremony. It was perfect standing there, watching the sun's last rays slip over Half Dome and listening to Amber and David share their love. It just felt right.

Of course, before that happened we had to actually drive up to Glacier Point from the Ahwahnee where they were staying. We drove together in my car, stopping in meadows and at lookouts together creating dramatic works wherever we went. Talking with them as we traveled was wonderful; they told me all about their relationship together and their dreams for the future. I've said it again and again, but I really treasure these time and learning what love means to each individual couple.

And so there we were, standing on the edge of a mountain, high above the world with breath taking views in in front of us all, and a new life time in front of Amber and David. Their ceremony was wonderfully intimate and light natured, just the way it should be. With smiles all around, everyone embraced the newlyweds with in real love and shared a toast.

When the ceremony was over, we walked around Glacier Point together soaking in the twilight glow. From a photgraphic standpoint, I love the wide range of wedding photographs that we were able to create; from the dreamy portraits in the meadows of Yosemite Valley to the starlit magical scene at Glacier Point. The day was like a creative playground for me. And throughout everything and in every place, Amber and David have each other.


yosemite elopement.jpg
glacier point elopement under stars.jpg

Comments
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jeff ambrose says: Friday, September 23, 2011

so good patrick, such a gorgeous backdrop.
Michelle Edgington says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Gorgeous!!! From day to night in Yosemite...what an amazing experience, amazing backdrop, amazing couple! Love you guys & love the photos!
Morgan says: Friday, September 23, 2011

These are amazing! Like, National Geographic amazing! I'm so happy for you kids!

Katie Bofenkamp says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Congratulations Amber and David! The setting is so perfect. Absolutely stunning pictures!
Fer says: Friday, September 23, 2011

These are the MOST beautiful wedding pictures I've EVER seen!!!
Lori Baum Ross says: Friday, September 23, 2011

It was a magical setting for a magical couple. Love and blessings for each day of each moment.
Love,
Lori and Harold
Patti Larsen says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Oh My God! Amazing Pictures. To be treasured for a lifetime.
ted says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Awesome in a box!
Terri (from TRP) says: Friday, September 23, 2011

AMAZING! You both look beautiful, and so in love....Congratulations!

Terri (from TRP) says: Friday, September 23, 2011

AMAZING!!! You both look so beautiful and in love...Congratulations!
Meredith Coulibaly says: Sunday, September 25, 2011

Beautiful couple and beautiful photos! Congratulations!
Kim Hulen says: Sunday, September 25, 2011

I am so happy for the both of you...The pictures are amazing!!! You have both traveled so far and will continue on a great journey...Congrats =)
Rene Urbanovich says: Monday, September 26, 2011

Dear Patrick and Amber,
This is it. You nailed it. I have never seen a ceremony with so much beauty that exemplified the sacredness of marriage and the wonder of romance .,..what a challenge. These pictures are UTTER MAGIC. Your photographer is a cut above the rest. WOW. I am stunned. Thanks for making me cry!
Sarah says: Monday, September 26, 2011

These are amazing! Makes me want to have another wedding ;-)
Geoff says: Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Well....just look at the magic this photographer came up with considering the subjects. Just kidding, these are really nice photos. You picked a really skilled photographer. Best of luck to you both. Geoff
Ellen Cafferata says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

What beautiful pictures of a beautiful couple. Best wishes to you both always.
Congratulations!
Barbara( Schminke) Vlach and Doug Parsen says: Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Very classy choices! We love the intimacy of your small wedding in one of the most gorgeous places on earth,(energetically sacred too!) Let this beautiful energy be the kickoff to a long and wonder filled life together!
The last photo with the sky writing is exquisite....never seen anything like it.

Love, Barbara and Doug
Maurine Ruano says: Wednesday, October 5, 2011

The pictures are so beautiful. Can't wait to see the rest of them.
Just amazing!
David and Laura says: Friday, October 7, 2011

Beautiful photos! We can't wait to see you all at Myles' wedding!

David and Laura
Sherry and Cash Rest says: Friday, October 7, 2011

What a beautiful setting for your wedding! We're so happy for you!

Much love,
Aunt Sherry and Uncle Cash
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222
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Jessica and Ricky
September 15, 2011
| Weddings
It had been a few months since I had last seen Jessica and Ricky when I photographed them for their engagement. Back then we spent an afternoon hiking around cliffs and tide pools, but this time it was for their wedding. I learned quickly that day that they were ready for any adventure, so long as they took it on together. They are incredibly sweet and honest people that compliment each other perfectly.

On their wedding day, I met up with them at their hotel as they were getting ready. Jessica and her bridesmaids were taking care of last minute details like jewelry and finishing makeup. Laughter and stories from the past covered the room as they savored their time together.

Once Jessica and Ricky were both dressed and ready, we stepped outside of the hotel and into the summer heat of Fresno for a few quick photographs before we headed to the church. It was great to see everyone like this; two groups of friends coming together to support their loved ones in love. In the midst of this were Jessica and Ricky, almost in amazement that this day had finally come.

As she walked down the with her father, Jessica's eyes became wet when they saw her groom. It was an incredibly special moment for them when they held each other at the alter. You could see it in their eyes; they had made it this far as two individuals and the rest of their lives as one was so close they could taste it.

Just after their wedding ceremony Jessica changed into her traditional dress for the tea ceremony. The tea ceremony was incredibly intimate; their lifelong friends and relatives were served tea in exchange for wisdom and blessing for the marriage. Every time I take part in a tea ceremony, I can't help but ask why more weddings do not embrace this tradition in some way. 

Their reception was at Fresno's Imperial Garden where they had a traditional chinese banquet. Course after course (I think there were at least twelve in all) of delicious food was served for all to enjoy. Meanwhile, toasts were shared and good memories created. There were no dances. but there was plenty of time of Jessica and Ricky to visit with each and every guest in the room - just they way they wanted it.

After all of this and nearly ten hours since I first met up with them, somehow they still had enough energy to hit the streets for a little bit. We drove up towards Riverpark to take advantage of the nighttime sky. It was very cool to share that time with them, wedding and reception behind and the rest of their lives to come. Not to mention some killer photographs that just wouldn't be possible in the middle of the day!

Before I left them for the night, I shared with them that I had never before been to a wedding with so many embraces. All throughout the wedding day, everyone and anyone was sharing an embrace of happiness and joy over their marriage. It was all so honest, so real, so Jessica and Ricky.

Hotel: La Quinta Inn
Reception: Imperial Garden



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221
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Kim and David
September 8, 2011
| Weddings
Today I introduce you to Kim and David, two of the most kind hearted people I have had the chance to work with. They are both incredibly honest, real, and warm-loving people. And that was in the midst of their wedding day, with nerves flying and stress levels high.

Kim and her bridesmaids were in their own cottage at Paradise Springs, just outside of Yosemite, as they prepared for the wedding. She was a bit nervous before the ceremony; lots of little details required her attention and some were not working out as smoothly as planned. But in this, Kim embraced her friends and they stood together and supported each other. Seeing their friendship in action spoke volumes about Kim.

Meanwhile in his own cabin a short walk away, David was surrounded by his friends and family as they prepared for the wedding. When I first visited with him on the wedding day, he had just returned from the E.R. because he had developed tonsillitis. Yes. On his wedding day. Or so he told me, because honestly it didn't seem to effect him at all on the outside. On the outside he was counting down the time until he could be with his bride.

In the late afternoon their guests began to gather by the lake. As the violin began to play, Kim and her father made their way along the lakeside path to the ceremony where she eventually came to David. The ceremony was filled with good humor as the officiant began with a solid reenactment of this famous scene from The Princess Bride leaving everyone in stitches. That one gesture quickly removed any sense of nerves and put everyone at ease, letting Kim and David focus on what really mattered - each other.

With the ceremony behind us, I went on a short walk with Kim and David to take in the scenery at Paradise Springs. The golden afternoon light was filtering through the pines bathing them in dreamy light. Seeing them together, as they stepped outside of the spotlight where they could just hold each other as husband and wife was amazing. They were instantly at home.

Set in a clearing amid tall pine trees, colorful paper lanterns were hung to mark the reception. The theme of pink decorations continued through for amazingly colorful tables. A delicious meal was served for everyone to enjoy as the sky turned from light blue to deep purple. Kim and David shard a slideshow of photographs detailing their childhood and dating life together.

After dinner Kim and David took to the dance floor to share their first dance together. You could see it in their eyes; suddenly this had all become real. Following in their lead, everyone hit the dance floor when Joey from Party DJ Party started to rock the party and turned it into an active celebration.

It was an amazing day for everyone; a day that did not come easily, but judging by the look on Kim and David's faces you'd never know. And isn't that what life is all about? Loving each other and working through the things that seem like problems while we focus on what's really important.


Wedding Planner: UDreamz Events
Ceremony and Reception: Paradise Springs
Flowers: Sweet Dreams


Comments
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danielle says: Friday, September 9, 2011

perfectly amazing just as expected.

Lisa Ebright says: Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Great Wedding!! We had a lovely time!!! Congrats David and Kim! I LOVE your pictures!! XO
Samantha Glasser says: Monday, September 19, 2011

These are beautiful and you looked amazing as always - we love you!
Mary Ann McCormick (MOG) says: Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Patrick, thank you for such beautiful pictures.
It was a great weekend. Your calmness on the wedding
day was very much appreciated. :) Looking forward to
seeing all the pictures!!!

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218
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Emily and Justin
August 22, 2011
| Weddings
It really is amazing to me how someone can create a wedding so perfectly their own if they want to. Emily made it a priority to have as much creative control of her wedding as possible. They made their priorities to enjoy themselves and share time with their loved ones Yosemite.

I met up with Emily in the morning of her wedding day. She was preparing in a room at the Ahwahnee with details for her wedding spread across the room. Nearly everything here had a specific purpose and meaning, from her grandmother's jewelry which had been repurposed to the hand made wedding bibs. I was instantly blown away by the detail of her bouquet. She made the flowers. And when I say she made the flowers, I do not mean that she arranged individual flowers into attractive groupings to form bouquets. She started with bare thread and crocheted her own arrangements, creating bouquets one stitch at a time.

Emily got ready for the wedding in a flash, not wanting to delay the moment when she would see Justin any longer than possible. As soon as she was in her dress, we headed downstairs to meet with Justin. With Justin walking just outside of his room, Emily surprised him in a hallway. Catching his first glimpse of his bride, he nearly tripped over his own two feet. One moment he was walking directly to the elevator, the next he was wrapped up in the arms of his bride.

We scheduled tons of time before the ceremony to photograph Emily and Justin all across Yosemite, but I had no specific in mind. So when I asked Emily and Justin where they wanted to go and they responded with the high country, I knew exactly where we were going to go. We jumped in my car and headed straight to Olmstead Point. The sparse granite landscape with trees breaking through is magical.

As I showed earlier, we traveled to Tenaya Lake where Emily was actually able to get into the lake on her wedding day. I suggested that they might be able to stand on some rocks just above the waterline, a place that they could get to by walking on rock to rock as stepping stones. Emily took one look at the location and knew that she just had to get into the lake on her wedding day, because that's just who she is.

Just as the sun took sight of the horizon, Emily and her father walked down an aisle toward Justin in the Ahwahnee's wedding lawn. The sunlight was peeking through the trees, casting a wonderful glow across them as the exchanged their vows. It was a small intimate ceremony, matching perfectly with the setting. I've gotten to know them quite well over the past year and it was really beautiful to witness these two wonderful people declare their love for each other.

As the sun set behind the oak trees, Emily and Justin joined their guests for a reception on the Ahwahnee's West Portico. The weather that summer afternoon was perfectly comfortable and mixed together to create this wonderful and classy backyard wedding feel. In order to help create a sense of community and conversation, their were no centerpieces to isolate one side of the table from the other. Instead everyone was able to visit with each other and enjoy the outdoor setting. The Ahwahnee served a perfect summertime dinner complete with BBQ ribs and chicken, grilled veggies, and my favorite jalapeno cornbread.

There were no formal toasts. There were no formal first dances. There was no bouquet toss. But there was lots and lots of love. Emily and Justin were free to spend the night visiting with their loved ones, spending time doing exactly what they wanted to do. Of course, just because dinner ended it didn't mean that the party ended. Keeping with that same sense of friendship and love, the party continued over the the Ahwahnee Bar and out onto the back patio under the stars. It was there that I left Emily and Justin for the night; with their friends gathered around them, the moon shinning through the trees, and smiles all around.

Ahwahnee Hotel Wedding in Yosemite.jpg


Comments
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Emily says: Monday, August 22, 2011

I love these! Thank you Patrick for making our day better than we could imagine.

Dan says: Monday, August 22, 2011

Very cool photos
Beckie says: Monday, August 22, 2011

Great pictures!!! It was a very special day for all!! Congratulations you two!!!

mike (dad) says: Monday, August 22, 2011

very cool pictures. it was a wonderful day and it is captured here. it still doesn't look real.
Tammi TerAvest says: Monday, August 22, 2011

Love, love, love them all!
Adrian says: Monday, August 22, 2011

oh myyyyy
what a beautiful place to have a wedding!
you look great, emily!!!!
congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Amber A says: Monday, August 22, 2011

Awesome photos Emily! They are very you! I love your dress. It is not what I imagined from the vague bits of info you dropped during planning. So cute! I wish you and Justin much happiness in life!

tia Bonnie says: Monday, August 22, 2011

Beautiful wedding, beautiful pictures
Amber says: Monday, August 22, 2011

Your pictures look awesome. What a perfect day!
Brian says: Monday, August 22, 2011

The ones in the outdoors like like something from a magazine.
Ari Berman says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

I think you must have taken the shot of the beers just for me. :) Seriously, Emily, you look beautiful, and you both look really happy. Everything looks perfect for you two. Huge congratulations!
Lindsay says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Love them all! Was such a great day and the pictures do an amazing job of capturing so much of it! So happy for you both!
Suzi Stoall says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

This is a very original and magical wedding.

Jeremiah Carlin says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Great shots of a beautiful wedding. My compliments (and congrats?) all around.
Michaela says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Wow!! Even more beautiful than real life! ;)
Michaela says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Wow!! Even more beautiful than real life! ;)
Nancy says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Absolutely awesome photos! It was a wonderful day and the pictures bring it back to life. Congratulations, you two! Love you!
Bob (Emily's dad) says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

These are great pictures that capture the magic of the day. This is going to cost me a bundle and I will be glad to pay. I hope these pictures document the start of a long and happy marriage.
Dakota says: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Wow Auntie Emily you sure look purdy in that dress!!! Great pictures of you & uncle Justin
Ben says: Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Looks like a great wedding! Sorry we couldn't make it. Especially like the pic of you two on the rocks and the sky in the background. Nice shoes, where'd you get them???
ted says: Thursday, August 25, 2011

Microbrews at the wedding?! Love!!!
Sandy says: Thursday, August 25, 2011

These pictures are AMAZING. I love the ones of you two in sunglasses especially!
Leah Halpert says: Thursday, August 25, 2011

Beautiful! Not only was the day captured perfectly, but so was Emily & Justin's love for each other. Gorgeous pics!
Matt (the coal miner in WY) says: Friday, August 26, 2011

Congrats Emily and Justin!!! Looks like you had a great time in a wonderful place. The pictures are amazing. Now comes the real work, and the real joy! Godspeed in your new life together!!
spi says: Monday, August 29, 2011

Congratulations Emily and Justin! Looks like it was an amazing day and a wonderful location! Yosemite is so beautiful.
Terri says: Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Beautiful pictures
Stephanie says: Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Beautiful Pictures!

Jonas Seaan says: Thursday, September 8, 2011

Amazing! Those mountain portraits are epic!!
Mike "Tooch" Tuciarone says: Monday, September 12, 2011

While speaking at the ceremony, I noticed this guy skulking around the trees in the background. I wondered who the secret agent was. I didn't realize he was creating some of the most beautiful and personal photos I've seen in any setting, not to mention a wedding. They capture Emily and Justin's spirit perfectly. Bravo, well done, and congratulations to the couple. Thanks for sharing all of this with you two, and Patrick, thanks for sharing the pictures.

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