Thunderbird Lodge sits on a gorgeous peninsula along the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. In addition to being a historic landmark, it is a beautiful place to get married. This incredible venue combines heavenly lake views with a romantic mansion and a fascinating chapter in history. During the day, your guests can learn about the unique background of this property and visualize the opulent history of a bygone era. As the photographer at this wedding, I used my skillful documentary approach to capture a combination of both candid photos and scenic portraits.
Bride Getting Ready
At Thunderbird Lodge, there are several places where a bride or groom can get ready before the wedding. Generally, the bride and her bridesmaids usually start the day in a large room which overlooks Lake Tahoe and the ceremony site. It features large windows and beautiful views of the lake. This makes it a great place for wedding hair and makeup.
With plenty of excitement and anticipation in the air, I always enjoy photographing this part of the day. I use my artistic eye to capture the fun moments as everyone helps the bride get ready for the ceremony. If you and your fiancé are planning a first look, that comes next. Otherwise, everyone heads to the ceremony!
Groom Preparations
At this wedding, the groom and his groomsmen started at a nearby hotel in Incline Village. So, instead of driving to Thunderbird Lodge, the groom and the groomsmen arrived by boat! No matter where you are, my approach as your photographer will be consistent. I document each part of the wedding day unobtrusively. This allows you to be yourself, take it all in, and enjoy every moment.
Wedding Ceremony
The lawn at Thunderbird Lodge is one of the most scenic places to get married in Lake Tahoe. As you exchange vows, you can hear the water splashing against the rocks. It is hard to find a more picturesque backdrop for a wedding!
I photograph Thunderbird Lodge weddings as I do at any other Lake Tahoe venue. Most importantly, I move around the ceremony quietly. While all eyes are on you, I shoot from a variety of angles and anticipate all the important moments. And I always take a few photos from the balcony so you can remember the clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe.
Wedding Reception
While I photograph family portraits, your guests can enjoy cocktail hour. At the same time, your team of vendors will transform the ceremony site into a reception and dining area. This couple chose the second story balcony for their grand entrance!
Sunset is a great time for us to step away from your reception and capture some bride and groom portraits by the lake. There are numerous locations for wedding photos at Thunderbird Lodge. So, we can spend as much time as you like exploring the venue before heading back for speeches and dancing.
Wedding Speeches and Dancing
Wedding speeches are one of my favorite parts of a wedding day. For better or worse, this is when your closest friends and family take the microphone to share a story or two about you as a couple. As a photographer, I love documenting the laughter and smiles that come from these toasts. As soon as the dance floor opens, I follow the action and continue shooting throughout the night.
Chris Werner Photography
Are you getting married at Thunderbird Lodge? I would love to photograph your wedding! Visit my contact page to send me a message and check availability. To see more photos from this venue, check out my Thunderbird Lodge wedding photography page. Or, head over to my main portfolio.
