Lake Tahoe is a stunning wedding destination. The beautiful blue waters, dramatic landscapes, breathtaking views, and pristine mountain atmosphere create an ideal backdrop for your special day. It’s also a fantastic location for a destination wedding, offering a variety of enjoyable activities for you and your guests. Whether you're planning a large gathering or eloping with your beloved, choosing Lake Tahoe for your wedding is a wonderful decision.
Wedding Venues in Lake Tahoe
There are many excellent wedding venues in Lake Tahoe. From small to large and from mountaintop to lakeside, Tahoe has it all! With such a variety of locations, you’ll undoubtedly find the perfect place to say “I do.” Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Gar Woods Grill & Pier – North Shore – This sophisticated lakefront restaurant provides catering as well as a picturesque location for your celebration.
- North Tahoe Event Center – North Shore – This event center is situated directly on the lake, providing space for up to 300 people and offering a gorgeous backdrop for exchanging vows.
- Homewood Mountain Resort – West Shore – Homewood Mountain Resort offers a beautiful lake and mountaintop setting, featuring stunning views and excellent catering.
- Zephyr Lodge – Truckee - Exchange vows in a magnificent mountain setting, and have the reception in a chic and modern lodge! They offer catering, as well.
- Austin Ridge – Truckee – Austin Ridge is a boutique event space with a sweeping mountain view, perfect for your special day.
- Tahoe Church – Truckee – Tahoe Church is a peaceful event space that offers the option of getting married in an amphitheater, an auditorium, or by the river.
Officiants and Elopements in Lake Tahoe
Of course, to get married, you need someone to seal the deal! Officiants lead the wedding and handle the paperwork — signing and sometimes even filing your marriage license. Who you choose is up to you. Your officiant can be a religious clergy member, a government or legal official, or a friend or family member who has been ordained.
Not planning a big to-do? Many of these officiants also assist with elopement ceremonies, in case you want your wedding to be an intimate affair, affordable, on short notice, or all of the above.
Caterers in Lake Tahoe
Let the festivities begin! One of the best parts of a wedding is the food, and these excellent caterers will ensure that you have a wonderful menu. Whether you envision a multi-course dinner, a casual buffet, or a creative cocktail hour with gourmet bites, these catering professionals are ready to make your celebration memorable. They will provide entrees and appetizers tailored to your tastes, dietary preferences, and event style, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. You and your guests will savor each bite. Bon Appétit!
Marriage Licenses in Lake Tahoe
To get married, you need a marriage license. You can obtain your license at the El Dorado County Clerk’s office or at any county courthouse in California. Both parties must be at least 18 years old and present, and have valid identification. An added perk of getting married in North Lake Tahoe? There is no waiting period in California. Once you have your license, you’re one step closer to your big day!
El Dorado County Clerk’s Office
- By appointment only
- Location: 3368 South Lake Tahoe Blvd. #108, South Lake Tahoe, CA
- Contact: (530) 621-5490 or recorderclerk@edcgov.us
Activities in Lake Tahoe
One of the best reasons to get married in Lake Tahoe is that it makes an excellent destination for all your guests! There are numerous enjoyable activities available throughout the year. In the spring, summer, and fall, you can go hiking and biking. When the weather is warm, you can enjoy water activities on our gorgeous and sparkling blue lake. When winter arrives, Tahoe transforms into a wonderland for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. No matter the season, there is always something for everyone to experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weddings in Tahoe
How much does a Tahoe wedding cost?
This depends! If you’re considering a small elopement package, hiring an officiant can cost as little as a few hundred dollars. If you’re looking for an average sized wedding with around 100-150 guests, it can range anywhere from $50,000 to $60,000. Bigger or more luxurious weddings typically cost between $80,000 to $100,000. Factors that can influence your wedding’s cost include the season and day you get married: summertime and Saturdays are the most expensive. Different venues and vendors also charge different rates, so it’s important to shop around.
Can you get married the same day that you get a license in Lake Tahoe?
Yes! As long as you have your valid marriage license and an officiant, you can get married the same day in Lake Tahoe. There is no waiting period in California. Please keep in mind that in El Dorado County, marriage licenses are issued by appointment only. There is a local office in South Tahoe, if you want to pick up your license nearby. If you drive to the county courthouse in Placerville, about 1.5 to 2 hours away, you can get married in the courthouse for $40.
Will my outdoor wedding get canceled due to rain? How much does it rain in Lake Tahoe?
We can’t predict what will happen on your wedding day, but it doesn’t rain very much in Lake Tahoe. We get 300 days of sunshine a year! Most of the precipitation in our area comes from snowfall. So, if you’re getting married in the winter, plan for snow.
What is the best time to get married in Lake Tahoe?
Let’s break down the temperatures by season.
Summer: 70s°F to 90s°F
Fall: 30s°F to 70s°F
Winter: 20s°F to 40s°F
Spring: 20s°F to 70s°F
As you might expect, summer is the most popular - and expensive - time to get married in Lake Tahoe.
Stay with Tahoe Rental Company
Now that you’ve begun planning the perfect Tahoe wedding, it’s time to book a place to stay. That’s where Tahoe Rental Company comes in! We offer the perfect homes for your romantic getaway. Many of our homes are lakefront, as well, offering you a wonderful view and access to shimmering and splendid Lake Tahoe. If you have friends and family traveling for your wedding, we have properties that sleep up to 12 guests. Perfect for a large gathering!
Want to find a group of rentals that are all in the same neighborhood and close to your venue? Contact us, we'll be able to assist you.
No matter which property you choose, we know you’ll love your time here.
Book your stay with Tahoe Rental Company!
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