Our story began twenty-five years ago as inseparable high school friends, cruising the back roads of our small town in “The Beast” - Megan's dad's big red quad-cab pickup truck with a cap - snapping photos for VisCom class and hanging out at youth group events. We spent countless hours laughing, exploring, and unknowingly building a bond that would last for decades.
Life eventually pulled us in different directions. We both moved away to attend college, and we slowly lost touch. But somehow, we never really forgot about each other. Every year, Megan would find Ben's birthday marked on her calendar and she'd drift back to those simple, joy-filled days of youth.
Years later, fate stepped in. A message on Instagram led to a drink back in Southern York County during the holidays, and a spark was reignited. Over the next three years, we'd reconnect as adults, slowly realizing the feelings we once had had never truly faded.
Everything changed after Ben's life-shaping Pacific Crest Trail journey, and on a magical Christmas night, our love story officially began. Even a cross-country hike on the Appalachian Trail couldn't keep us apart; we made long-distance work, with Ben hiking from Virginia to Georgia to meet Megan where we were able to reconnect after months of being apart, proving that even distance only made our bond stronger.
Now, after building a life together in our cozy home in Philadelphia, we're ready for the next chapter. We're so excited to say “I do” in Sequoia National Park. A place that holds deep meaning for both of us. For Ben, it marks the end of a journey that reshaped his life; for Megan, the towering trees captured her heart in the same way Ben did.
Note: This a tentative timeline and will change in the coming months as plans begin to lock in place!
We are incredibly excited to celebrate our wedding with you in the majestic beauty of Sequoia National Park! To help you plan your journey, here's some essential information.
We're so excited to celebrate this special day with our closest family and friends! Due to the intimate nature of our ceremony and venue, we are limited to just 30 guests. Because of this, we kindly ask that you RSVP as soon as you receive your invitation and only if you're able to commit 100%. We truly wish we could invite everyone, but once we reach our guest limit, we won't be able to make any additions. Thank you so much for understanding - we can't wait to celebrate with you!
For those who aren't able to celebrate with us in California, we're planning a big celebration back home in Pennsylvania about a year later, where everyone will be invited. We can't wait to raise a glass with all of you there!
Our wedding events are nestled within Sequoia National Park. The closest gateway town is Three Rivers, California, located just outside the park's entrance.
Since Three Rivers does not have an airport, we highly recommend flying into Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT). From Fresno, Three Rivers is approximately a 1.5-hour drive, and the route is generally straightforward and scenic.
Important Note for Park Entry: There is an entrance fee to Sequoia National Park. We recommend visiting the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on entrance fees and pass options - especially if you plan to explore the park beyond the wedding day. To make your arrival smoother, we highly recommend purchasing your pass before flying to California.
As of this writing, the following pass options are available:
Given the location of the park and Three Rivers, a rental car is highly recommended for flexibility and ease of getting around. You can arrange car rentals directly from Fresno Yosemite International Airport.
Three Rivers offers a variety of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets, from cozy hotels and charming Airbnbs to scenic campgrounds. We encourage you to book your accommodations as early as possible as options can fill up quickly.
Some locations that have been recommended to us, or are popular choices, include:
Please note: We do not have room blocks reserved at any particular hotel, so please book directly.
May in Sequoia National Park can be quite variable. While daytime temperatures are generally mild, ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s, evenings can be chilly, dropping to the 40s. We recommend dressing in layers and being prepared for both sun and cooler temperatures.
Cell service can be spotty in and around Sequoia National Park, especially in more remote areas. We recommend downloading maps and important information ahead of time. Wi-Fi is available at some lodges and restaurants in Three Rivers, but it may not be reliable.
Three Rivers has several dining options, ranging from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. We recommend trying local favorites like Reimer's Candies and the Gateway Restaurant. For groceries or supplies, there are small markets in Three Rivers, but for larger shopping needs, Fresno is a better option.
Are you considering extending your trip to celebrate our wedding and turn it into a memorable vacation? We think that's a fantastic idea! The central California region, particularly around Sequoia National Park, offers an incredible array of activities and destinations, whether you're an avid outdoors enthusiast or prefer a more relaxed escape.
Beyond the majestic giant sequoias, here are a few key points of interest, both locally and within a few hours' drive, that could inspire your extended adventure:
For those looking to venture further, Central California is a perfect launching pad to some of the state's most famous attractions:
These are just a few of the countless possibilities that California has to offer in this diverse region! We hope this inspires you to extend your stay and create even more unforgettable memories during your visit for our wedding.
As our wedding day in Sequoia National Park draws closer, this is where we'll share any new information, important reminders, or last-minute details to help ensure your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Please check back periodically for the latest news as we finalize our plans. We can't wait to celebrate with you!
There are currently no updates
If you need to get in touch with us feel free to email us and we'll get back to you as soon possible.
ben.a.herold@gmail.com meganwaltemyer@gmail.com