Shannon and Ian met at the local hardware store where they both worked. From co-workers to friends, and eventually partners – they shared a special connection. A connection so special they decided to tie the knot and make things official a few years later.

Putting their heads together during the planning process, the pair knew from the beginning they wanted to have a destination wedding. Something small, intimate and adventurous that captured the beauty of the outdoors around them.

“We both have an adventurous spirit, and nothing really met my standards in our home state. I always wanted to get married in the woods,” Shannon says.

Yosemite National Park encompassed all of that. Famed for its enormous Sequoia trees, majestic wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls, its location was far too picuresque to pass up.

When it came to organizing the details of the special day, the pair looked to their wedding planner for advice.

“We used a wedding planner from back home who was extremely helpful with getting our marriage license squared away. She also made sure I got everything done smoothly and quickly,” the couple says.

Bridesmaids dressed in sage green gowns, carrying bouquets with live greenery and bright red flowers that captured the eye. Groomsmen suited up in navy blue with sage green ties to match. The bride wore a lovely long-sleeved lace gown tied together with a flower crown. The vibe was earthy and natural – to compliment the lovely backdrop that surrounded them.

All wedding guests stayed at the same Airbnb, arriving a few days early to get situated before the big day.

“We were super thankful that all of our close friends were able to come out, and share our special day with us making every penny spent worth it,” the couple says.

Smiling cheek to cheek, the couple was thrilled with the way their special day went. They knew they had made the best decision having it in Yosemite versus back home.

“I don’t think that I would’ve been as happy with the location of the wedding, I would’ve felt as though I was settling for something out of convenience. I would do it all over again a thousand times,” Ian says.

Wanting to pay it forward and offer future couples advice, the pair says:

“My advice would be to do what makes you happy no matter what others say or try to tell you. Your special day is yours and your spouse’s alone. Looking back you will wish you hadn’t listened to them.”

Vendors: Photographer: Abbott Photo & Film; Ceremony: Yosemite National Park; Florist: In Full Bloom; Stationery: The Knot; Cake: Frosted Cakery; Gown Designer: Essense of Australia; Gown Store: The White Dress of Lexington; Men’s Clothing Designer: Men’s Wearhouse; Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie