photography and planning for elopements and intimate weddings

Creating relaxed, meaningful wedding days that feel like the best date of your lives.

based in northern california serving lake tahoe & beyond

Lake Tahoe Elopement & intimate wedding Photographer

I’m Kristin, a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

Lake Tahoe & Yosemite elopement photography with personalized planning support.

Lake Tahoe Elopement Photographer

Creating relaxed, meaningful wedding days
that feel like the best date of your lives.

based in northern california serving lake tahoe & beyond

as seen on

Wedding days created from the heart.

Thoughtfully planned, personally guided, and created with genuine care from the first call to the final gallery.

Calm.
Present.
Unreal in the best way.

When nature shows up and it’s just the two of you thinking,
“I can’t believe this is ours.”

One of my couples kept saying this on their elopement day and I smiled because:

“That’s exactly how your wedding day should feel.”

That's the feeling.

“This entire day has felt like dream."

We can’t wait to come back and do it again!
Thank you SO MUCH for everything! 10000/10 experience!!!"

- tony and lauren eloped in lake tahoe

"Love love love !!!!!
Seriously the best time ever!

We can’t wait to come back and do it again! Thank you SO MUCH for everything! 10000/10 experience!!!"

And a story beautifully told from start to finish.

A wedding day that feels like the best date of your lives.

You're in the right place.

FOR COUPLES WHO WANT

Standing together in one of Lake Tahoe's most breathtaking locations, exchanging vows with mountains, forests, or crystal-clear water as your backdrop.

An elopement that feels adventurous, meaningful, and completely stress-free, so you can focus on each other instead of the logistics.

Just Imagine...

Meaningful & Authentic

That's how your wedding day should be.

MEET THE WOMAN BEHIND WEDDING EXPERIENCES

THAT FEEL

LIKE A FIRST DATE

Your Lake Tahoe elopement and intimate wedding photographer, helping you plan the day, keep everything running smoothly, fix your dress, and probably tear up behind the camera.

Your elopement should feel fun, real, and like you actually get to be in it, not stuck worrying about what’s next.

I want to know what lights you two up and what makes your connection yours, so we can create a day that feels like it was made just for you.

Beyond Lake Tahoe, some of my favorite California elopement locations include Mt. Shasta, San Francisco, Big Sur, Monterey, and Yosemite National Park.

Hey, I'm Kristin!

"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin

"Kristin we cannot thank you enough! It was truly just the most perfect day, thank you for all your hard work making everything come together. You made it so EASY and the ability to feel relaxed and just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift. We are so happy, thank you so much!"

"The ability to feel relaxed & just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift."

- cody & jaime eloped in lake tahoe

Epic Photography
Real emotion and those in-between moments you didn’t even realize were happening.

Full Planning & Design
Your entire day is thoughtfully planned so everything flows naturally from getting ready to sunset.

Faux Florals That Are Photo-Ready
Bouquets and boutonnières designed to match your colors and location.

Cake + Toast
Celebrate your “just married” moment with a styled cake cutting and toast.

Timeline Creation & Day-of Guidance
Every moment is intentional, but nothing feels rushed.

Permit Help + Vendor Recommendations
I guide you through permits and connect you with trusted vendors so everything feels easy.

I'm not just your photographer.

I’m your guide, planner, & your calm in the chaos.

Epic photos are just the beginning.

You also get real support, intentional planning, and a day that actually feels relaxed.

Real Moments.
Epic Views.
Elopements, Made Easy.

serving lake tahoe & northern california locations

Epic Photography & Planning Support

Planning & design is included.

No need to hire a separate planner for your wedding day.

Faux florals, Mini Cake, & Toast
are always included.

your story beautifully told in a chill way.

"It feels like you get a friend when you work with Kristin."

"Absolute best of the best. No need to look any further for the perfect photographer. She is super easy going, easy to work with, and her photos are beautiful. Honestly, it just feels like you get a friend when you hire Kristin. She helped us feel comfortable for our photos and helped coordinate our day- always going above and beyond.
Well worth the investment!"

- B and K eloped in california

Lake Tahoe offers something rare, mountains, crystal-clear water, and dramatic cliffs all in one place.

You can say your vows at sunrise over the lake, hike to a scenic overlook, or keep it simple with your toes in the sand.

From Sand Harbor to Emerald Bay and quiet forest trails, there’s no shortage of unforgettable backdrops.

With California and Nevada locations surrounding the lake, Lake Tahoe is one of the most versatile elopement destinations in the country.

If you’re looking for intentional elopement photography beyond just one location, learn more about the full elopement photography experience here.

Why Elope in Lake Tahoe?

And when you work with a local Lake Tahoe elopement photographer, you’ll know exactly where to go for the best light, privacy, and views.

Yes. You can legally elope in Lake Tahoe on both the California and Nevada sides of the lake. Depending on where you choose to get married, permit requirements and marriage license rules may vary, but there are incredible locations for everything from private ceremonies for two to intimate weddings with guests.

Can You Elope in Lake Tahoe?

how to elope in lake tahoe

The cost of a Lake Tahoe elopement depends on where you choose to get married, whether you're inviting guests, and the type of experience you want to create. Some couples keep things simple with a private ceremony, while others plan a full-day adventure with multiple locations, dinner, or unique activities.

Most couples budget for:

Marriage license
Ceremony permit (if required)
Photography
Hair and makeup
Florals
Lodging
Celebration dinner or picnic

Whether you're planning a simple ceremony or an all-day adventure around the lake, your elopement should reflect what matters most to you—not a traditional wedding timeline.

How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Lake Tahoe?

Planning doesn't have to feel overwhelming.

Eloping in Lake Tahoe should feel exciting, not overwhelming. I help couples every step of the way, from choosing your dream location to making sure permits, timelines, and every detail are handled with care. You’ll get expert guidance, personalized planning, and a laid-back day that actually feels like you. Once you book, you’ll get my exclusive planning guide to walk you through every step with ease.

How to Elope in Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay Elopement

Best for: Iconic lake views, dramatic cliffs, and adventurous ceremonies.

Explore Emerald Bay Elopement Details

Best for: Turquoise water, granite boulders, and unforgettable sunset portraits.

View the Sand Harbor Elopement Guide

Sand Harbor Elopement

Best Places to Elope in Lake Tahoe

I've put together a guide to my favorite Lake Tahoe Airbnbs for Elopements, that work beautifully for getting ready photos, private vows, and intimate celebrations.

Need a Place to Stay?

Donner Summit Elopement

Best for: Alpine lakes, granite peaks, wildflowers, and mountain scenery with fewer crowds than the lakefront.

Explore How to Elope in Lake Tahoe Details

What a Real Lake Tahoe Elopement Can Look Like

Every elopement and intimate wedding day I create is different.
Here are real Lake Tahoe weddings to show you what’s possible in every season.

Winter Elopement at Logan Shoals & Donner Summit

Summer Elopement at Sand Harbor

Adventure Elopement at Donner Summit & Emerald Bay

Adventure doesn’t always mean ‘crazy long hikes’ or jumping out of airplanes, it’s about what feels right for you.

Create a wedding day that is uniquely you!

Lake Tahoe Elopement Packages & Pricing

The Experience of Working in With Me

Elopement | Intimate Wedding Ideas & Activities

Adventure doesn't have to mean hiking for miles.

It can be as adventurous or as laid back as you want, because this isn't about checking off a list. It's about creating a wedding day you'll genuinely enjoy.

Hike to a scenic spot
Helicopter ride for two
Kayak or paddleboard on the lake
Explore waterfalls
Horseback riding
Snowboarding, skiiing, or snowshoeing in winter
Jump in the lake for a post-ceremony dip

Brewery, winery, or coffee shop stops
Share a picnic, cake cutting, or pop champagne (Included!)
Easy walk to an epic overlook
Watch sunrise or sunset
Bring your pup along
Dance on the beach

Adventurous elopement Ideas

"keep it simple" elopement ideas

Here are a few common questions couples ask while planning their Lake Tahoe elopement.

DO WE NEED TO CHOOSE A LAKE TAHOE LOCATION BEFORE REACHING OUT?

Not at all. Most couples start with a general vision, whether that's a lakeside ceremony, granite overlooks, mountain scenery, or a quiet forest. From there, I'll recommend Lake Tahoe locations based on the season, guest count, accessibility, and the experience you're hoping to have.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO ELOPE IN LAKE TAHOE?

Lake Tahoe is beautiful year-round, but every season offers something different. Summer brings warm weather and easy access to nearly every location, fall offers colorful aspens and fewer crowds, winter creates beautiful snowy landscapes, and spring can vary depending on snowfall. I'll help you choose the best location for your date.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD WE BOOK our tahoe elopement?

Popular Lake Tahoe locations and summer weekends book very quickly. I recommend reaching out 6–18 months in advance if you have a specific date in mind, but if you're planning something sooner, it's always worth asking about availability.

Can we bring guests to our lake tahoe elopement?

Absolutely. While many Lake Tahoe elopements are just the two of you, you're welcome to include your closest family and friends. I specialize in intimate celebrations with 15 guests or fewer so the experience stays relaxed and personal.

Couples with more than 25 guests will likely need a traditional wedding venue, as my focus is on intimate weddings and elopements.

DO WE HAVE TO HIKE TO ELOPE IN LAKE TAHOE?

Not at all! Some of Lake Tahoe's most beautiful ceremony locations are just a short walk from the parking area. If you're up for a hike, there are incredible overlooks available too. We'll choose a location that matches your comfort level and vision.

let's plan your day

DO YOU HELP PLAN LAKE TAHOE ELOPEMENTS?

Absolutely! From choosing the perfect Lake Tahoe location to creating your timeline, recommending trusted vendors, navigating permits, and planning meaningful activities, I'll guide you through the entire process so your day feels relaxed, organized, and centered around the two of you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Tahoe Elopements

Ready to start planning your perfect day?

I’ll walk you through every detail, answer any questions, and help shape your vision.

DO WE NEED PERMITS TO ELOPE IN LAKE TAHOE?

Many Lake Tahoe locations require permits for ceremonies, professional photography, or both. Requirements vary depending on whether you're getting married on the California or Nevada side of the lake. I'll help you understand what's required and guide you through the process.

SHOULD WE ELOPE ON THE CALIFORNIA OR NEVADA SIDE OF LAKE TAHOE?

Both sides are beautiful, but they offer different experiences. The California side is known for places like Emerald Bay and Donner Summit, while the Nevada side features Sand Harbor, Logan Shoals, and scenic overlooks with easier marriage license options. I'll help you decide which side is the best fit for your elopement.