How to Elope at Lake Tahoe in California
Lake Tahoe is a spectacular place to elope and become partners for a lifetime. I hope this blog post inspires your own Lake Tahoe Elopement. Check out these tips about planning your day here:
How to get to Lake Tahoe: Flying into the Reno, Sacramento or San Fransisco airport are your best options and then to rent a rental car.
The best time to go is Spring and Fall for less tourist in the area. Although, the Summer allows you for some great times on the lake! In the Winter the surrounding areas of Lake Tahoe offers skiing and snow sports, along with a Winter Wonderland view.
Where to elope at Lake Tahoe: one of of the beaches surrounding the lake, Emerald Bay State Park, on a boat in the water or along one of the many trails with stunning overlooks of the lake.
Where to stay: The town of Truckee is very charming with many Airbnbs offering privacy, tucked out of the city you could stay at Incline Village or if you want a place where you can relax in a spa check out Edgewood.
Do you need a permit? Yes! You will need a special use permit to hold a ceremony in the National Forest Land surrounding the lake. You can get a permit by calling the proper ranger district or applying online. Since a permit is required you want to apply at least 15 days in advance, but note that most forest service lands require 30 days to pull the proper paperwork.
Lake Tahoe is located in California so this means you will need a marriage license, an officiant and a witness.
Things to do near Lake Tahoe? The lake itself offers numerous things things to do from hiking, swimming, boating, dining, shopping and more. Nearby Lake Tahoe though is Yosemite National Park, Crater Lake National Park and the California coast.
Recently, I had the chance to do a mentorship with Ruthanne, a fellow elopement photographer, which brought me to the stunning views of Lake Tahoe! We took some time out of our grind on business talk to photograph this beautiful couple, Claire and Wilson! These two souls are madly in love with each other and prepping for their venture into Van Life. I could not get enough of their sweet giggles, admiration and that red hat!! I love their excitement to take photos together. I am always for couple’s pictures especially before any life change; who says you need to be engaged to enjoy each other and have beautiful images to show it!
These beautiful flowers were provided by Love & Lupines Floral Design who are also based in Lake Tahoe. I’m head over heels for this bridal look with the red hat and feather, the sexy jeweled dress, romantic floral arrangement and let’s not forget all of those pines! If you’re thinking of eloping I can ensure you that it will be an experience you will never forget and stunning images to last a lifetime!
