Rachel and Ryan met in high school and continued to date throughout college. So this special day was a long time coming, as they say. Their Kirkwood wedding captures some of my favorite things about a small, outdoor Lake Tahoe wedding. In particular, a sublime natural setting, a peaceful and quiet reception venue, and beautiful evening light as the sun set behind the mountains.
In a decade as a Lake Tahoe wedding photographer, this was my first Kirkwood wedding. Some spots are elusive that way! This was a perfect introduction to this awesome ski resort wedding venue. After a snowy winter, the ski slopes at Kirkwood still hold snow into the summer. If you schedule cocktails and dinner outside, the snow-covered mountains are a stunning backdrop. Rachel and Ryan set aside some extra time at sunset for photos. As a result, we made photos at the perfect time of day. I love the photos of them in the meadow during the last rays of sunlight. Especially with Rachel’s long, flow veil.
After returning to their guests we heard speeches from the wedding party. Although some wedding toasts feel more formal, this was not the case at Rachel and Ryan’s reception. Their closest friends spoke from the heart, sharing stories and well-wishes. When the bride and groom feel surrounded by the love and support of their friends and family, it is a photographer’s dream. I love capturing the authentic smiles, laughter, and tears in images that I know my couples will cherish more as the years go by.
Are you looking for a Lake Tahoe ski resort wedding venue? For more inspiration, check out photos from this Resort at Squaw Creek wedding. I also recommend exploring this Heavenly Lakeview Lodge wedding.
