Elise and Dan’s elopement in Lake Tahoe was so much fun and beyond perfect! We such a great time with them!
We started the day by taking a 2 mile roundtrip hike to some Tahoe turquoise blues. It was a HOT 90 degree day for Lake Tahoe, so Elise and Dan decided to take a dip to cool off for the hike back, which was a brilliant idea and made for some truly amazing photos. Two piece wedding dress from @lulus for the win for this reason! Elopements are about these spontaneous moments, that’s where you will get the best photos!
Once we got back, before heading to the next location, the couple tailgated and enjoyed some cocktails and charcuterie snacks. The chocolate covered espresso beans were AMAZING!
It was time to switch things up and hang in the shade after being in the sun. Talk about a difference in temperatures! 😂
After the foresty vibe location, we headed to dinner at @moodysbistrobarbeats where the couple was greeted with celebratory champagne on the house. Yes, when I made the reservation I MADE SURE they knew it was a very special occasion!
Let’s go to the ceremony location! It was time to head to the summit for cake and more champagne!
After eating some yummy cake and popping champagne, it was ceremony time. Sunset was happening and Elise and Dan went straight into their first dance after saying “I do.” As the lighting got more moody, of course, I brought out my lanterns for that final touch of telling their story!
Elise and Dan’s elopement in Lake Tahoe was such a memorable day!
Why Choose an Elopement in Lake Tahoe?
An elopement in Lake Tahoe is perfect for couples who want a mix of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a laid-back vibe. With crystal-clear water, towering pines, and mountain backdrops, Tahoe offers so many options for your ceremony and portraits. Whether you’re dreaming of a lakeside ceremony or a short hike to panoramic views, there’s a perfect spot here for everyone.
The best part? Your day can be as relaxed or adventurous as you want it to be. Elise and Dan’s day included a hike, a refreshing swim, dinner at a local favorite, and a stunning mountaintop ceremony—all in one day. That’s the beauty of eloping in Lake Tahoe: you get to design a day that feels exactly like you.
Best Time of Year for Eloping
If you’re planning an elopement in Lake Tahoe, the time of year matters. Summer offers warm weather and those famous turquoise blues, but it can be busy around popular spots. Spring and fall bring fewer crowds and cooler temps, while winter transforms Tahoe into a snow-filled wonderland (perfect for cozy, adventurous couples).
Pro tip: Sunrise and sunset are magical times for photos here, and a weekday elopement can mean having your dream spot almost to yourselves.
Tips for Planning Your Elopement
- Pick the right location. Do you want lakeside views, forest vibes, or mountaintop overlooks? Tahoe has it all.
- Get the right permits. Many locations around Tahoe require special use permits for ceremonies and photography.
- Plan for weather. Tahoe weather can shift quickly—having backup plans (or locations) is always smart.
- Add personal touches. Bring your favorite snacks, a champagne toast, or a cozy blanket for sunset.
- Work with a photographer who knows the area. I help couples find hidden gems that aren’t crowded and are perfect for those “just us” moments.
Ready to Plan Your Lake Tahoe Elopement?
Elopements in Lake Tahoe are about crafting a day that’s 100% yours. Whether that’s hiking to a secret viewpoint, enjoying cocktails by the lake, or saying your vows with the mountains as your backdrop.
If Elise and Dan’s adventure sounds like your kind of day, let’s start planning your dream elopement in Lake Tahoe!
Hey I’m Kristin!
I’m a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner who knows all the best locations to elope in. I will help you with location scouting, planning, navigating permits, timeline creation, and of course, epic photography!
Ready to make the most of your elopement in Tahoe?
Let’s plan something unforgettable.
Helpful Lake Tahoe Elopement Resources
How to Elope in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe Elopement Guide
Elopement Planning Checklist
How to Include Your Dog in Your Elopement
Elopements – What Shots to Expect from Me
