Emotional Intimate Wedding in Lake Tahoe

Documenting a wedding in Lake Tahoe has always been on Chuck’s and my bucket list. Although we are a photo and film team currently based in Colorado Springs, there’s no place we won’t travel to for love. Capturing Dana and Garet’s emotional intimate wedding in Lake Tahoe was a dream come true. Not only were we in complete awe of the stunning blue water against the Sierra Nevada’s, but we were smitten with the intentionality of Dana and Garet’s wedding day. 

Intimate wedding in Lake Tahoe

These Minnesota lovers traveled to South Lake Tahoe, accompanied by a small group of family and friends, to say “I do” at The Arch at Lakeside Beach. Dana and Garet spent their wedding morning getting ready separately at Station House Inn before their first look. Dana shared a first look with her dad before seeing Garet, and it was such an emotional, special moment to witness. You could just tell she’s always been a daddy’s girl by the way her dad beamed when he saw her. 

After wiping away happy tears, Dana made her way to her Garet, who was patiently waiting among the towering pines overlooking the lake. The warm sun peeked through the trees as Dana strolled down the trail. As soon as Garet turned around, they were both giddy with excitement. The love between them is so very true and apparent, which makes my job that much easier. 

After the first looks were wrapped up, we spent a bit of time taking bridal portraits among the trees. Dana and Garet looked so stunning together. Garet (and his groomsmen) wore a classic tan suit, white undershirt, and brown loafers. He opted out of a tie, which added such a fun, casual vibe to the clean look. Dana’s boho fit-and-flare gown with crocheted lace and illusion open-back was the perfect gown for a lakefront wedding. Her colorful wildflower bouquet effortlessly pulled it all together. 

Lake Tahoe Elopement | Chuck & Shiloh

Once we wrapped up bridal portraits, Dana and Garet’s hype bridal party joined in on the fun. The groomsmen sported the same classic look as Garet, while the ladies wore a gorgeous forest green color in different silhouettes. Dana made the bridesmaids’ bouquets (as well as her own), and I couldn’t stop swooning over the vibrant colors and how well they complemented the gowns. Dana and Garet’s crew kept the energy levels high before the intimate wedding ceremony began. 

The Arch at Lakeside Beach made for the perfect backdrop for Dana and Garet to say “I do”. The cobalt blue lake was glistening with bright sunshine, soft ripples kissing the shore as guests got situated on the sand. Garet’s big smile shined brightly as he watched his bride walk down the aisle on her dad’s arm. There couldn’t have been a more picture-perfect day for Dana and Garet’s emotional intimate wedding in Lake Tahoe. A bittersweet feeling filled the air — the spirit of Garet’s late father seemingly floating in the breeze. 

Following heartfelt vows and joyful applause, the party migrated to the Toulouse Restaurant for cocktail hour and dinner. The beautiful, vibrant blooms carried over to the tables and signage. The seating chart was titled “our best buds”, which was just darling! Shelves of champagne were plucked, while guests mingled on the patio. Of the 72 guests that traveled to California to celebrate alongside them, there were FIFTEEN babies! So you can imagine just how joyful the entire celebration was.

Lake Tahoe Wedding and Elopement Photographer

As the sun began to descend beyond the trees, dinner and speeches began inside the restaurant. Chuck and I were able to snag the newlyweds away for more romantics beneath the cotton-candy skies and twinkle lights. Once back inside, they cut the cake before first dances began. There wasn’t a dry eye among the guests as Garet danced with his mom (I was weeping as well — no surprise.) Garet and his groomsmen sipped on Bud Lights throughout the night, keeping his dad’s memory alive and well. 

Live music was a must for Dana and Garet which made for such a fun wedding reception. The dance floor was bopping as guests stormed the dance floor to dance the night away. It was the best way to end an emotional intimate wedding in Lake Tahoe.

Intimate Wedding Inspiration | South Lake Tahoe Wedding

Narrowing down images for Dana and Garet’s blog proved to be way more difficult than I could’ve anticipated. Their day was every bit as magical as it sounds. I can’t believe just how blessed Chuck and I are to be honored with documenting so many couples’ love stories. 

Searching for more cutie couples to swoon over? Head over to the blog. And for sneak peeks and the adventures of Chuck & Shiloh (and Hoka), be sure to follow us over on the ‘Gram (@chuckandshiloh). Thanks for being here, friend. You’re a real one.

Lake Tahoe Wedding Vendors

Photography + Videography: Chuck & Shiloh
Ceremony Venue: The Arch at Lakeside Tahoe
Accommodations: Station House Inn
Venue: Toulouse
Live Band: Reckless Envy (Virginia Bowman)
Hair + Makeup: The Cru Salon (Bailey Valente)