Oakland California Temple Wedding Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Sealing
Bride + Groom Exit
I had the opportunity to photograph a wedding here in late May 2026, and after experiencing the temple grounds firsthand, I wanted to create the guide I wish every bride had before her sealing day! Whether you're local to Northern California or planning a destination wedding, here's everything you need to know before saying "I do" for eternity.
First of all—congratulations! There are few places as iconic for an LDS temple wedding as the Oakland California Temple. Perched on a hillside overlooking the San Francisco Bay, this temple combines beautiful architecture, peaceful gardens, and one of the most unique features of any temple I've photographed: a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
Why Choose the Oakland California Temple?
Oakland California Temple is one of the most recognizable temples in the Church. Dedicated in 1964, it sits high on a hill overlooking the San Francisco Bay, making it feel tucked away from the city while still being close to everything Central California has to offer.
One of the things I loved most during my visit was how much variety the temple grounds offer. You have classic temple-front portraits, beautiful gardens, fountains, sweeping Bay views, and—my favorite—the rooftop terrace. It creates a wedding gallery with so much visual variety without ever leaving the temple grounds.
If you're dreaming of a destination temple wedding that combines sacred moments with unforgettable scenery, Oakland is an incredible choice.
Where Is the Oakland California Temple?
The temple is located in the Oakland Hills, just east of San Francisco.
For couples flying in, both Oakland International Airport and San Francisco International Airport are convenient options, making the temple easily accessible for guests traveling from across the country.
One of the best parts about its location is how easy it is to turn your wedding into a memorable weekend. Within a short drive, you can explore San Francisco, the California coast, towering redwood forests, Napa Valley, and charming towns throughout wine country.
Their backyard reception
My Experience Photographing an Oakland Temple Wedding
I photographed a wedding here at the end of May, and it quickly became one of my favorite temple experiences. It was my first time visiting the San Fran and Oakland area and I will making plans to come back!
The weather was beautiful. The skies above the temple were clear, while a soft layer of fog lingered over the Bay in the distance—a classic California view that added so much atmosphere without covering the temple.
Because it was a Saturday, the grounds were lively with wedding celebrations. Throughout the afternoon, I noticed couples exiting the temple regularly, creating such a joyful atmosphere. Most were younger couples going through for their live sealing, but 30 minutes after my couple came out of the temple, there was a family with a few smaller children getting sealed. It was so sweet seeing everybody in their white!
One thing I appreciated was how organized everything felt. There is a designated bride and groom exit on the left side of the temple where family and friends gather to celebrate as newlyweds come outside.
From what I observed during my visit, each wedding party had time to enjoy congratulations, family hugs, and portraits before the next group exited the temple. Even on a busy Saturday, it never felt chaotic—it simply felt like a place full of joyful celebrations.
Don't Miss the Rooftop
View on the rooftop
Of all the temples I've visited, the Oakland California Temple has one feature that completely sets it apart.
The rooftop.
It was easily my favorite place to photograph the couple.
Not only was it much quieter than the front of the temple, but it also offered incredible views overlooking the San Francisco Bay. It gave the gallery a completely different look while still keeping the temple as part of the story.
If you're planning your wedding here, I highly recommend making time for portraits on the rooftop. It's one of the most unique temple photography locations I've experienced and adds so much variety to your wedding gallery.
What About Family Members Who Can't Attend the Sealing?
One thoughtful feature of the Oakland Temple is its visitors' center.
For loved ones who aren't able to attend the sealing ordinance, it's a peaceful place to wait, learn more about the temple, and still feel included in your wedding day.
Many couples also choose to hold a ring ceremony or reception afterward so all family and friends can celebrate together.
Make It a Destination Wedding Weekend
Golden Gate Bridge
One of the reasons I love photographing Oakland Temple weddings is everything that's nearby.
Before the wedding I photographed, we spent time at the Golden Gate Bridge, taking in one of California's most iconic views.
The following day, the celebration continued with a beautiful backyard reception in Santa Rosa, surrounded by family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can non-members attend the sealing?
Only guests with a current temple recommend may attend the sealing. Many couples include all loved ones by hosting a ring ceremony or reception afterward.
Is the temple busy on Saturdays?
In my experience photographing there, Saturdays are very popular for weddings. Planning a little extra flexibility into your timeline allows you to fully enjoy the day without feeling rushed.
Are there plenty of places for photos?
Absolutely. Between the temple entrance, gardens, fountains, Bay views, and rooftop terrace, there are countless beautiful portrait locations.
Why I Love Photographing Destination LDS Weddings
One of the reasons I became a destination LDS wedding photographer is because I love helping couples create an experience—not just beautiful images.
Whether you're planning a temple sealing in California, Switzerland, Canada, or anywhere else, I help couples think through timelines, portrait locations, travel logistics, and the little details that make the day feel peaceful instead of stressful.
My goal isn't simply to photograph your wedding.
It's to help you slow down, soak in every meaningful moment, and preserve your story in a way that feels timeless.
Planning Your Oakland California Temple Wedding?
If you're dreaming of an Oakland California Temple wedding, I'd love to help document your story.
Whether you're local to Northern California or planning a destination temple wedding, I'll help you create a photography experience that's relaxed, intentional, and centered on what matters most.
If you think we'd be a good fit, I'd love to hear about your plans. You can inquire through my contact page, and together we'll create photographs that help you relive your wedding day for years to come.
Sources
Information in this guide was verified using the following official resources:
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Oakland California Temple.https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/temples/details/oakland-california-temple
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Oakland Temple Visitors' Center.https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/learn/oakland-temple-visitors-center
