What if your Lake Tahoe wedding weekend could show everyone some of the best parts of Tahoe? A relaxing tour of the lake? A tram ride up the side of a mountain? Julie and Chip’s Heavenly Lakeview Lodge wedding took on this fun challenge. They met while in the Peace Corps in Moldova. So, their idea of a Tahoe wedding weekend may be more adventurous than some. The day before the wedding, we all climbed aboard the Safari Rose for an Emerald Bay sunset cruise. If you are looking for a scenic alternative to a traditional sit-down rehearsal dinner, this is surely it. The Safari Rose is an 80′ yacht with a dining room, a sun deck, a full bar, and a fireplace. Appetizer, drinks, and an informative tour around Fanette Island in Emerald Bay made for an awesome evening on the water.
The next day, Julie and Chip met in an Aspen grove in South Lake Tahoe for a pre-wedding first look. Are you worried that you might be feeling a little overwhelmed on the day-of? A first look is a great way to see one another before the ceremony. It always seems to calm nerves and help everyone remember what the day is really all about. After that we headed to Heavenly’s aerial tram to catch a mile-long ride on the aerial tram to 8,200′ elevation. The Lakeview Lodge may have one of the best views of Lake Tahoe in the basin. You can see the entire lake from east to west and from south to north. For Lake Tahoe wedding photographers, this ceremony site is incredible!
A Tahoe Wedding Photographer’s Perspective
During 10 years as a Lake Tahoe wedding photographer, I can recognize the unique aspects of all the different wedding venues. From rocky vista points perfect for elopements to luxurious lakeside resorts, there is a huge variety of Lake Tahoe wedding venues to choose from. Julie and Chip’s Heavenly wedding was a success in large part thanks to Sandy Stringer at Strings and Champagne Events. Weddings at Heavenly ski resort do include some event coordination and guidance. However, a dedicated Lake Tahoe wedding planner can really help with pre-wedding logistics. Especially since helping guests get up the mountain, managing your hair/makeup timeline, and sorting out post-wedding details can be a little more complex. Not to mention the planning that goes into a welcome dinner get-together, or a Sunday brunch the day after.
Although a wedding at the Lakeview Lodge has a lot of moving parts, it is absolutely worth it. After all, how many weddings have this view as a backdrop?! Similarly, your wedding guests will never forget their ride up the tram to witness your exchange of vows. As a Tahoe wedding photographer, I highly recommend you look into a wedding at the Lakeview Lodge. Please contact me for more details about this amazing venue!
