This summer PlumpJack Lake Tahoe wedding took place on a warm day in Olympic Valley. PlumpJack Inn is one of the more intimate wedding venues in the area, and it’s where I photographed one of my first Lake Tahoe weddings many years ago!
This was a destination wedding, with the couple and their families traveling in from out of state. Only family was present, including parents, siblings, and a few young kids. Their 4-year-old son was with them throughout the entire day, which became an important part of the story.
They chose a custom wedding photography package and hired me for 6 hours of coverage. That gave me enough time to document some getting ready moments through sunset photos in the meadow.
Getting Ready at PlumpJack Inn
When I arrived, I headed to the large suite on the third floor of PlumpJack Inn to photograph the groom and his son. This larger two-room suite is often where the couple will stay, and it’s common for one side of the wedding party to use it for getting ready.
The groom spent the morning with his son, which led to some of my favorite moments of the day. I photographed him getting dressed while his son watched closely.
Then, he helped him put on his own suit and tie. After that, they shared a quick fist bump once they were both ready. I have young kids myself, so this was a dynamic I know well.
Next, I headed downstairs where the bride was getting ready in another Plumpjack Inn room. Her mom helped with final details, including her necklace.
There was a quiet moment where they embraced, and I captured her mom’s expression as she hugged her daughter. When I see a hug coming, I move quickly to catch it.
I used window light and one of my go-to shaded spots at PlumpJack Inn for a few clean, natural portraits.
Most couples get ready around midday, and this is often when a first look happens. It helps to know a few good spots around PlumpJack Inn that photograph well under these types of conditions.
First Look at a PlumpJack Lake Tahoe Wedding
Next up was a first look outside along the side of the building, near a small grove of aspen trees. Unless it is cloudy, midday sun in Lake Tahoe can be very bright during summer. This backlit location works really well in challenging lighting conditions like this.
The groom waited while the bride walked out from the lobby and approached from behind. When she tapped him on the shoulder, his reaction said everything.
When I photograph a couple’s first look, I always reassure them that this is their time of the day to enjoy some time alone and take it all in. My job is simply to capture the moments that happen next.
First Look with Their Son
The bride and groom specifically wanted a first look with their son. I have photographed other weddings that included a young son or daughter and it always adds a fun dimension to the wedding day story.
He hugged both of them and stayed close as they smiled and talked with him. There can be a lot of emotions for little kids when they get to see their parents get married and I love photographing a family experiencing this together.
Ceremony on the Creekside Patio
Next up was their ceremony on the Creekside Patio. As long as weather permits, this is where most people get married at PlumpJack Inn. The lighting can be a bit bright as everyone walks in during the processional. But looking towards the altar during the ceremony, the backlighting and greenery make for a nice backdrop.
The groom stood at the front with their son, who carried a small suitcase labeled “ring security.”
I love this moment of the two of them watching the bride walk down the aisle.
Family members gave readings, and the couple exchanged vows while their son stood right beside them. Whenever there are kids at the altar with the couple, there are more special moments for me to capture.
As the bride read her vows, their son gave her a sweet kiss on the hand.
And when it was the groom’s turn to share his vows, their son switched sides and hugged his dad.
When it was time to exchange wedding rings, the son opened his “Ring Security” suitcase and handed them over. If you have a young ring bearer, this is a great way to give them an added sense of responsibility. It also helps keep your rings safe!
Later, during the first kiss, he stood between them looking up. It was a small detail, but it added a lot to the story.
After the ceremony, the three of them walked back down the aisle together. Then we spent a few minutes taking portraits nearby in the aspen grove.
Reception on the Upper Pool Patio
After the ceremony, guests gathered for a reception on the Upper Pool Patio for cocktail hour and dinner. For a smaller, more intimate wedding, this setup is relatively simple and works well for a smaller group.
While everyone enjoyed cocktails, I spent a few minutes photographing the details.
One of my favorite things about photographing small Lake Tahoe weddings like this is my ability to capture meaningful, candid moments.
After cocktails, everyone took a seat under the Aspen trees and dinner was served family-style.
One of the highlights of the evening was an emotional champagne toast from the bride’s sister.
Sunset Photos in Olympic Valley Meadow
Later in the evening, we stepped away for sunset photos in a nearby meadow. The bride and groom asked me during the booking process if I thought leaving the reception for 20-30 minutes would be worth it. I assured them it would be worth it.
This is something I often recommend for a PlumpJack Lake Tahoe wedding. Within a few minutes, you can reach open space with mountain views and softer light. While the PlumpJack Inn’s location adds to its secluded feel, you won’t get any of these views from the venue itself.
I know the best spots for sunset photos in Olympic Valley, and they change depending on the season. The bride and groom jumped in my car and we drove a few minutes to get there.
We photographed along the edge of the meadow near a wooden fence, with the mountains of Olympic Valley in the background. The couple brought a bottle of champagne and took a few minutes to enjoy it together.
Although I frequently photograph first looks and couples portraits in the meadows earlier in the day, the light around sunset is always great for photos.
It also gives couples a chance to slow down and be present, away from the group for a moment.
Since this was a destination wedding, the landscape and scenery was really important to the couple and I made sure we captured the views in these wedding photos!
PlumpJack Lake Tahoe Wedding Photos
A PlumpJack Lake Tahoe wedding is a great option for couples who want something smaller and more personal. It’s a great year-round venue and a solid option if you want to get married in Lake Tahoe, especially if you love skiing.
If you are planning a PlumpJack Lake Tahoe wedding, I am always happy to share insight on timing, locations, and how to make the most of the setting. If you are looking for a photographer who focuses on real moments and natural interactions, feel free to reach out through my contact page.
You can also check out more photos from this beautiful area on my Olympic Valley weddings page.
