Sugar Bowl Resort is one of my favorite Lake Tahoe wedding venues. Tucked high up on Donner Summit, alpine beauty surrounds this historical gem. It’s perfect for couples who love being outdoors in the Sierra Nevada mountains. My family skis here in the winter, and I’ve photographed many weddings at the resort over the years. For this summer wedding at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, the couple hired me for full-day documentary coverage. This meant I could capture the entire story, from the getting-ready moments through the wild dance party late into the night.
This bride and groom are incredibly down-to-earth, and their celebration was all about being present with the people they love. During golden hour, we drove a short distance to one of my favorite overlooks. Views of Donner Lake and granite peaks stretched in every direction. The light was perfect, and we got some of my favorite portraits of the day.
Getting Ready in The Lodge at Sugar Bowl
The day began at the Sugar Bowl Lodge, right at the base of the mountain with views overlooking the ceremony lawn and the reception deck. With its alpine charm and convenient location, the Lodge is a natural hub for the entire wedding day. I started by introducing myself to the family and wedding party—something I always do to help everyone feel at ease and comfortable in front of the camera.
From there, I focused on documenting the morning as it unfolded. Hair and makeup were in full swing, but I was also looking for the meaningful moments in between. The bride’s sister painted her toenails.
Later, the bride’s mother helped with the dress and the bridesmaids lit up when they saw the bride fully ready.
This bride picked her favorite Teva sandals for the wedding—comfortable, true to her style, and ideal for celebrating in the mountains.
Next, we stepped outside for some relaxed portraits of the bride and her bridesmaids. The overcast sky softened the mountain light, creating beautiful conditions for a few fun photos near the Disney Express chairlift, where the summer wildflowers were still in bloom.
While the girls enjoyed lunch, I spent some time with the guys on the ground floor of The Lodge. Some couples choose this space for its more generous layout compared to the typically smaller hotel rooms. Especially if you have a large wedding party.
The atmosphere was lively as they helped each other put on ties and jackets. Once dressed, they raised a toast to the groom with a special shot of aged Micil Irish whiskey, a thoughtful gift from his father who brought it from Ireland.
Ceremony on the Lawn
One of the best things about a summer wedding at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort is the privacy. When you get married here, you get exclusive use of the entire venue. It’s a laid-back mountain setting with peaceful surroundings and spectacular views in every direction. The ceremony lawn, just steps from The Lodge, feels like center stage for a mountain wedding.
During the ceremony, I focused on capturing both the stunning scenery and the personal moments—vows, reactions from family, and the expressions of the couple and their wedding party. My goal is always to stay unobtrusive while documenting these real, unscripted moments as they unfold.
The partly cloudy skies kept me on my toes, constantly adjusting exposure as the light shifted. While many photographers use Aperture Priority mode, I prefer Manual Mode throughout the day. It gives me total control and allows for more intentional, consistent results—especially in fast-changing light like this.
As I move quietly to photograph the ceremony, I look for more than just the couple. I always pay attention to the parents. The bride’s father was especially joyful, clearly soaking in every moment.
As a cloud passed by overhead, the light softened and I found a great angle of the bride and groom with The Lodge and all their guests in the background.
Even though I captured their first kiss as a married couple, I kept my camera up and ready for that “second kiss” that sometimes happens during the recessional. I love this photo because it captures the friends and family of the couple as well, telling a more complete story.
Wedding Portraits on Donner Summit
Since it’s just minutes from Sugar Bowl, the mountain scenery around Donner Summit makes an incredible backdrop for wedding portraits. After the ceremony, the couple hopped in my car and we drove a short distance to one of my favorite overlooks.
By that point in the day, they were totally at ease with me and the camera. We didn’t need much time—maybe 30 minutes total including the drive—to capture a set of portraits that felt relaxed, natural, and beautiful. With golden hour light and sweeping Sierra views, everything came together effortlessly.
There’s something timeless about a dramatic silhouette. And when a Golden-tailed Hawk glides through the frame? That’s pure magic.
Reception at The Lodge
The couple went with a simple, elegant setup for their reception tables. Each one featured white floral centerpieces, burlap-wrapped napkins, and custom table cards with fun mountain adventure photos from their years together. The backdrop of Mt. Disney, Mt. Lincoln, and Crow’s Peak added to the relaxed, scenic vibe of this outdoor reception at The Lodge.
The celebration kicked off with the couple’s grand entrance!
Next, the groom’s father stood to give his heartfelt toast to the couple.
Next, the Maid of Honor gave her toast.
After each speech, I always keep my camera ready—some of the best hugs of the day happen in those moments.
Last but certainly not least, the father of the groom delivered a hilarious toast. He recounted the early days of the couples relationship from his perspective. Clearly comfortable with a mic in his hand, he had everyone laughing!
Reception on the Deck
By this point in the day, the party was ready to take off. The couple cut their cake and had a blast playing the shoe game. After that came the parent dances—first father and daughter, then mother and son. Once the formalities wrapped up, the dance floor filled fast. I stayed close to the action, moving with the energy and catching every great moment as the celebration hit full stride.
As the special dances began, golden sunlight streamed across the dance floor, creating a warm, cinematic glow. Because I shoot in Manual Mode, I was able to quickly adjust and take full advantage of this rare and beautiful lighting.
I’m always ready to go when the Shot Ski comes out. Check out the guy in the background!
Chris Werner Photography
Planning a wedding with an authentic alpine feel? A summer wedding at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort might be the perfect fit. Head over to my contact page to check availability—I’d love to hear more about your plans and share tips for making the most of this incredible mountain venue!
