Nevada Weddings

Combine classic style with an amazing, lakeside venue for one effortlessly beautiful wedding captured by Clane Gessel Photography. For the tented reception, the Bride chose to decorate with deep greens and whites, highlighting the natural beauty of the private estate. But our absolute favorite detail is the ceremony arch, which was covered in lush greenery and pretty white florals, framing the picturesque Lake Tahoe in the background.

From Clane Gessel Photography… A twist on black tie, this traditional wedding took place in South Lake Tahoe at a private estate. The Bride chose neutral colors and lots of greenery to showcase the amazing outdoor venue. The Bridesmaids were all dressed in black, and the mother of the bride in green. The groom and groomsmen were dressed sharp, in black and white tuxes with delicate paisley gray ties.

The ceremony took place looking over beautiful Lake Tahoe under a stunning flower arch. The reception took place just outside the private estate, which was lightly decorated with elegant, white linens, gold rimmed glasses, greenery on every table, and big white centerpieces to top it all off. This brought a very elegant, clean touch of beauty to this lakeside wedding.

The couple met in high school and have stuck by each other’s side since day one. A mutual friend introduced them after Talia commented on Brock being pretty cute. The proposal was very intimate, just between the two of them in their living room on their eighth anniversary.

Photography: Clane Gessel Photography | Cinematography: Justin Woodcock | Event Planning: Merrily Wed | Floral Design: BandB Designs | Wedding Dress: Katie May | Invitations: Fine Stationery | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Rings: Rocky Mountain Jewelers | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Light In The Box | Catering: As You Wish Catering | Makeup: Megann Guerrero | Band: Chuck Wansley After Hours | Transportation: North Star Transport | Venue: The Carousel House | Bridal Boutique: a&be bridal shop | Cake and Cupcakes: Sugar Pine Cakery | Hair Accessories: Twigs & Honey

Can we talk about this Bride’s chignon for a sec? It was this first capture from Elisabeth Millay that pulled me into this classic soiree and still has me completely captivated. What is it about a perfect hair-do that gets us girls so crazy excited?! And don’t even get me started on her Vera Wang dress. Dying. I might suggest that you head on over to the full gallery to indulge a bit more—sooo worth it.

From the beautiful Bride…Chris and I were married in a place very special to both of us. We got married at my family’s vacation getaway in Glenbrook, Lake Tahoe. I have spent 30 summers growing up in Glenbrook, and introduced Chris to “Glenbrook heaven” when we first starting dating. It was the first place he told me he loved me, and where we’ve had countless family celebrations, such as my grandfather’s 90th birthday and my brother’s wedding. There is a magical serenity about this hidden cove of Lake Tahoe, and it was the ideal setting to launch our adventure together.

I wanted to take advantage of the rustic nature of Lake Tahoe but also bring in classic elegance to the venue. The ceremony took place on a grassy spot overlooking the Lake, with a string trio welcoming our guests as they mingled over lemonade and enjoyed the views. It was a a warm, breezy, perfect September Lake Tahoe day.

We tented the front deck of the clubhouse and strung cafe lights, creating a romantic and elegant ambiance among the Tahoe pine trees. I incorporated pine cones throughout the reception decor; since I was a little girl, the moment we’d drive into the gates of Glenbrook I’d open the car window to smell the fresh pine air, so it was special to incorporate what exemplifies Tahoe to me. Leading up to the wedding, I spent hours collecting pine cones around the lake. We used them as table number holders and escort card holders.

In contrast to the rustic pine cones, we had soft almond linens, ivory striped runners on farm tables, and the head and cake tables were adorned with blush sequin runners. Candles throughout the reception imbued a romantic and cozy vibe. Classic calligraphy elements were displayed throughout the ceremony, from escort and place cards, to handwritten menus and signs. I surprised Chris (a Notre Dame alum and Irish football fanatic) with a Notre Dame-themed groom’s carrot cake, which paired beautifully with our “celebration” funfetti and banana peanut butter cakes simply adorned with ruffled frosting and garden roses. I will never forget that special moment cutting the cake with my mother’s heirloom silver cake cutter, taking in the energy and love from our friends and family in the room. Our flowers were an exquisite pink and blush mix of garden roses, roses, hydrangeas, dahlias, ranunculus, anemones and greenery.

Our signature cocktails included a “Ritz 100” which we toasted with after we were engaged in London at The Ritz, and a Rob Roy which is Chris and his father’s special drink. Fresh and local dishes included an appetizer of truffle risotto, entrees of wild salmon and new york steak, paired with heirloom tomatoes, late summer succotash and roasted baby potatoes.

After the pink and pearl confetti toss sending us off on our decorated golf cart, guests departed armed with french macaron favors which my bridesmaids and I spent hours lovingly packaging the day before with pink ribbons over glasses of rose.

From day one, Chris and I simply wanted an amazing party celebrating with our family and closest friends. We had an incredible band, everyone danced the night away, and it was an evening exuding love and friendship, with many memorable moments. Our fairytale wedding!

Photography: Millay & Young Photography | Wedding Planner: Summit Soiree | Floral Design: BandB Designs | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Mark Estee | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Mark Estee | Hair: Laura Seegmiller | Calligraphy: Forget Me Not | Band: The Crocodiles | Venue: The Glenbrook Club | Groom's Cake: Delicious Designs | Linens: Roundabout Catering & Party Rentals | Rentals: Camelot Party Rentals Nevada

Take everything you thought about your typical Tahoe wedding and be prepared to turn it inside out and upside down. Why? Because this lakeside beauty is an unexpected take on an outdoorsy affair with formality and tradition woven throughout. Merrily Wed designed a day around the prettiest pink, gold and champagne color scheme, and I kind of want to spend all afternoon tucked away in the gallery of Jonathan Young’s stunning photos. Join me right here.

From Merrily Wed…Karen and Cyrus were no strangers to frequent flier miles as they lived apart, she in Los Angeles and he in San Francisco.  Upon their engagement in fall 2011, plans were made for her move north to San Francisco. Karen’s family has a second home in Tahoe and she grew up visiting during the summers and winters.  As busy working professionals, it was naturally a special place that Cyrus and her could retreat and feel peaceful and complete.  They wanted a formal black tie wedding and wondered if they could pull it off outside on the beautiful shores of Lake Tahoe.  We think they did!

This past September 8th, 2012 they wed at a private lakefront estate on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe.  Cyrus and his groomsmen arrived for the ceremony aboard an Italian water taxi to the delight of their unsuspecting guests. Peony pink, ivory, gold and touches of champagne comprised the color palette of this classically elegant wedding.  Heavy draping reminiscent of Karen’s stunning gown’s details graced the main arch that guests walked through as well as the wedding processional.  Karen wore her mother’s cathedral veil that both of her sisters also wore at their own weddings.

Gold detailed embellishments could be found through-out the reception including the vintage lounge.  Crystal chandeliers and clear tents allowed the towering pines overhead to not be forgotten and blended the classic indoors with the Tahoe outdoors.  Gold logs anchored the ticket style escort cards.  Karen and Cyrus selected table names after their favorite worldwide locations. Vintage etched champagne glasses welcomed guests pre ceremony filled with bubbly.  Gold rimmed plates, gold votives and a gold runner added the rich feel to the tablescape.  Beautiful blush, deeper pink and ivory floral centerpieces brought a romantic feeling to the tables.

From  the ceremony opening with a tenor and string quartet to the 8 piece band from Los Angeles for the reception, guests’ ears were treated to notes from Frank Sinatra and the rat pack days.  The checkerboard dance floor was the perfect touch to the stylish feel complete with the overhead simple string lighting. After sunset, the lighting on the pier, from string lighting to lanterns, beckoned guests to come closer to the best vantage point for soaking up the Jewel of the Sierras.  Just to ensure no one left hungry, warm chocolate chip cookies and sliders were passed as the dancing winded down.

[dotted]

Photography: Jonathan Young Photography  | Wedding Design + Planning: Merrily Wed | Ceremony + Reception Location: Private Lake Tahoe Estate via Merrily Wed | Floral Design: Art In Bloom | Ceremony Music: The String Beings | Band: Jay Sterling Band | Rentals: Celebrations Party Rentals + Archive Vintage Rentals | Linens: La Tavola | Invitations + Paper Goods: Gigi Press | Wedding Gown + Bridesmaids Dresses: Monique L’huillier

 

 

This film from Velare Imaginarium has left me nothing short of breathless. Adding cinematography to a wedding allows you to hang onto every syllable during the vows, and to pause at your favorite parts that you never ever want to end. And oh, Lake Tahoe, with it’s effortless blend of sandy beaches and snowy mountain peaks, it truly is heaven on earth. This gorgeous affair is the perfect addition to this day of wedding bliss, and don’t mind me…I will be over in the gallery getting lost in all that is pretty.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/49894970?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=ffffff 600 338]

From Summit Soiree… This couple was from Colorado who wanted a destination wedding in Lake Tahoe for their guests to enjoy a weekend of fun and frolic on the beaches of Incline Village, Nv.  They had their wedding on a Monday so all their travelling guests could enjoy a summer weekend in Lake Tahoe ending with their wedding celebration! 

Their theme and style was a mix between vintage and retro-modern accents. They wanted an organic outdoor wedding celebration among the towering pine trees and Lake Tahoe sandy beaches.  They embraced all their senses with lemons, eucalyptus, succulents and other California classics. Lots of bright lemon/citrus yellow and whites, along with touches of grey/aluminum.  Large classic daisies with white and yellow spider mums were incorporated throughout the wedding.  Vintage umbrellas in lemon yellow, white and grey hung above the dance floor and dining area with a candy table with every kind of yellow and white candy imaginable.

Wedding Photography: Steve Stanton Photography / Wedding Cinematography: Velare Imaginarium / Wedding Venue: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, Nevada / Wedding Planning: Heather Spear of Summit Soiree / Floral Design: Sweetpeas of Tahoe / Ceremony Pianist: Tim Callicrate / Reception Band: The Cheeseballs / Wedding Stationery: Cards of Wood / Calligraphy: Calligraphy by Tammi / Lighting: Celebrations / Sound: PSAV / Linens: La Tavola Fine Linen Rental / Lawn Games: Crux Events / Wood Signs: Raymond Kent / Wedding Dress: Tara Keely via Blue Bridal Boutique / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew / Hair: Kori Walker of Kolor by Kori / Makeup: Jennifer Ergut Makeup / Suits: Kenneth Cole + Macy’s

Seersucker and navy. Stripes and boats. Driftwood hearts and polka dot cakes. Sounds like the makings of a fabulous nautical affair. But what really struck my fancy with this Lake Tahoe wedding was the romantic element added by Merrily Wed. Alongside the boat shoes and the color blocked maids’ were parasols and bright blooms from Bellissima Floral. Both the bride and the groom were ever present in the deets from the day, perfectly captured by both Jay Reilley Photography + Courtney Aaron Photography, and that is something we love to get on board with. Click here for more!

Click here to see the full wedding in the gallery!

From Merrily Wed … We had a lot of fun incorporating their personalities into the wedding! Abby is a teacher so we used chalkboards for the table numbers and she also had a ton of wine corks. I gave her the idea to glue the wine corks around the table number frames and create the bar menu frame backings which we simply pinned the bar menu to as well. We also stacked tons of corks in vases (along with white dendrobiums and limes) at the bar.

Abby also loves mason jars so we used these to serve her signature drink, to showcase family photos at the guest book table and to also suspend orange pillars from shepherd hooks around the property. She found some stemmed mason jars that we brought to them for their quick spin on the Lake after the ceremony.  She had some old shutters which we used to present the guests’ escort cards on and embellished them with a few floral blooms. They love riding their beach cruisers so this was stamped on their escort cards and dining menus too.

Abby has a very fun, playful personality and this is seen everywhere with the vibrant orange touches from the parasols to the sashes on her bridesmaid dresses to the flowers in the bridesmaids’ hair to punches of color throughout the reception. We played up Nic and his groomsmen seersucker suits by using navy pinstripe napkins at dinner and using navy pinstripe ribbon for subtle details throughout the reception.

We were striving for an overall casually elegant with a natural, warm inviting feel. Abby wanted to use their initials somewhere so Bellissima Floral created giant initials that we hung around the necks of giant seagrass urns at the aisle entrance and reused these at the entrance to the reception tent later on. We used burlap runners on the dining tables over Tuscany eggshell knobby linen – both very appropriate for Lake Tahoe. The walnut wood dining chairs complimented the walnut wood charger. The centerpieces were a mix of clear pedestal vases and ceramic white pitchers with single stems in white and clear glass bottles – a Tahoe rustic garden elegance feel. Key tables (guest book, lemonade and cake tables) were graced with Tuscany spice knobby linen for bursts of color.

Photography: Jay Reilly Photography + Courtney Aaron Photography / Wedding Planning + Design: Merrily Wed / Ceremony + Reception Venue: Private Estate, Sunnyside Estate / Florals: Bellissima Floral / Catering: As You Wish Catering / Cake: Sugar Pine Cakery / Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier / Bridesmaids Dresses: LulaKate / String Music: Accent Music / DJ: We Ain’t Saints / Rentals: Celebrations Party Rentals

Well, I don’t think this Lake Tahoe wedding by Matt Edge Wedding Photography can get any prettier. Actually I know it can’t. Is it just me, or is Lake Tahoe the land of lovely where gorgeous is the norm? Because this elegance meets the outdoors wedding is knocking my socks off this morning with all of its gorgeousness! It’s sure to do the same to you, and don’t forget you can get lost a bit more in the land of lovely by stopping by the full gallery of images!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…Joe and I both grew up in Danville, CA and went to rival high schools, but it took Spring Break in Maui for us to meet. I was 16 and a sophomore in high school, and Joe was 18 and a senior in high school. Both of our families were traveling with family friends – who happened to know each other. So all of the kids got together one night and hung out. Joe asked for my number and called me when we got back home. Our first phone conversation lasted 4 hours, and the rest was history! 10 years later, we decided to tie the knot!

Joe and I decided on Tahoe for our wedding location because it’s place we love to go together and spend as much time as possible. Since it would be too difficult to have all of our family join us in Hawaii (Amanda’s dream), Tahoe was the easy compromise to get a destination wedding that was still close enough to home – not to mention it’s a beautiful place to begin with. The Hyatt in Incline was the perfect venue because of their lakefront location and accommodations.

We wanted to keep our decor simple since Tahoe is already a gorgeous backdrop. We went with a wood and crystal theme, and kept all our color palate as different shades of white. The wood balanced out the “bling” of the crystal to give it a natural yet glamorous feel. As you can see from my shoes and head piece – I really like “bling,” but wanted to be sure it was done tastefully.

We worked really hard to make our wedding as personal as possible, which in many aspects just meant making it fun and classy, but with a twist. We scripted our entire ceremony with our officiant, and family friend, which was one of the most rewarding aspects of our wedding. It was short and sweet, but very meaningful and very “us.” We wanted to attend cocktail hour with our guests so immediately after our ceremony we met our guests at the bar and were serenaded by a steel drum band – which was something Joe wanted from the very beginning.

The meal was also a very big part of our wedding. We were able to customize our menu to be a delicious 3 course, Mexican-inspired meal: tortilla soup, salad, and tostadas. We both don’t eat a lot of cake, so we decided to go with our favorite dessert, chocolate malts. And if that wasn’t enough, a frozen yogurt machine and topping bar opened up a bit later on in the evening. The one thing I always said growing up was that I would have a frozen yogurt machine at my wedding – and my wish came true! For those who made it to the end of the evening and worked up an appetite (again), we provided late-night food of hot pretzels and dipping sauces in to-go boxes.

Lastly, and perhaps one of the most personal touches of our wedding was our favors. Joe is a hot sauce connoisseur, so he wanted to create his own and bottle it for each of our guests. He called it: “Joe and Amanda’s burning fire of love,” which definitely brings out sense of humor. To balance out the spicy with a little sweet, we also included “Ball” jars (Amanda’s maiden name was Ball) of raspberry freezer jam, which is a family recipe passed down from Joe’s grandma. We are still getting requests for refills of both.

It was a magical day and all of our vendors made it happen. Now if only we could just relive it!

Venue: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe / Wedding Planner: Julie Briggs Dunn of JBD Events / Floral Design:  panacea event floral design / DJ + Lighting: Exquisite Entertainment / Rentals: Celedon Events / Wedding Photography: Matt Edge Wedding Photography / Wedding Videography: Rose Street Studios / Hair + Make-up: Jane Kim, The Glamourist / Frozen Yogurt: Raff’s Tropical Frozen Beverages / Steel Drum Band: Bay Music and Entertainment / Wedding Dress: Priscilla of Boston / Head Piece: Priscilla of Boston / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Bridesmaids Dresses: Ann Taylor

It’s official, Lake Tahoe produces some of the prettiest of pretty weddings for us to enjoy, and this earth-friendly fête by Heidi Huber Photography is yet another beauty to add to that long list of lovelies. I just adore this handsome couple’s take on a sustainable wedding (love that trend, btw), and you can see all the reasons why in the full gallery of images!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…Adam and I envisioned our wedding to be modern and natural (sustainable). Adam and I are both in the industry of Landscape Architecture, and the whole idea of sustainability was something that truly mattered to us. Aesthetically we’ve always been attracted to modern designs that have a sense of comfort. Simple and elegance was our goal. Not over designing. We envisioned our day to have yellow and peuter as our main colors. We used the two colors all throughout our wedding invitation, cupcakes, programs, and stationery. We didn’t want to overdo the yellow, so we mixed in some shades of green or grey greens with the use of our plant materials. Adam and I love succulents, and we thought it was the perfect material and color palette to go with our color theme.

In going along with the theme of sustainability, we made sure that our succulent centerpieces were a “living” centerpiece, that our guest could bring home. We designed the planter boxes and the cake stand and had Adam’s best man build all the custom pieces. To reduce the amount of paper used, our “Save the Dates” we’re all sent out electronically and viewed on our website.  We continued this theme of reducing paper by designing our invitations that fold into it’s own envelope.  We didn’t use envelopes for  the reply cards and thank you cards because we designed them as postcards.  We selected four different wedding favors that we felt would not be wasteful (re-useable bags, a blend of our favorite tea, our favorite bath bombs, and two different types of “grow-your-own” herbs).  We designed our own website, wedding programs, table callouts, cake/cupcake layout as well as the guest place cards.

We chose Lake Tahoe because we wanted a destination wedding that was near the water and would provide our guests with lots of activities throughout the weekend.  Edgewood provided the perfect location for us because the ceremony and reception room look out towards the beautiful lake.  Also, the contemporary architecture of the building was perfect for our theme because of the natural wood beams and modern floor to ceiling windows.Since we were doing a destination wedding we chose our wedding vendors by reading reviews online and then calling each one of them to get a feel for how it would be to work with them.  Once we spoke to them and felt they had a good understanding for what we wanted and made us feel comfortable we decided to hire them.  We felt that the wedding photography was the most important part of our wedding.  So when it came to that decision we searched for someone who would capture candid moments throughout our big day. We found Heidi Huber while searching online and instantly fell in love with her photography and knew she would be perfect for us.

We went shopping for our wedding bands on a whim and picked them out in about an hour and couldn’t be happier with them.  Adam’s is a modern white gold band, while Camille’s diamond band has a timeless style that compliments her vintage engagement ring. The wedding gown and bridesmaid’s dresses where all custom designed by Camille’s maid of honor, Hallie Vy.  Camille showed Hallie a few aspects of gowns that she liked; simple, modern, textural and elegant.  Hallie took those concepts and designed the gown that was perfect for her. For the bridesmaids gowns, we went to downtown LA garment district and found the perfect material and design. Camille wanted the gowns not to look too “bridal”, a simple design that would allow the girls to use their dresses again.

We chose a charcoal grey suit for him and his groomsmen that compliment the color theme.  The slim cut jackets and flat legged pants helped keep the guys a part of the modern theme. We decided that the groomsmen wouldn’t wear a tie, and just had a yellow handkerchief in their pockets to keep the look less formal and make Adam’s outfit a little bit more formal and unique from his party, since he was the only one who wore a tie (pale yellow and grey in color).

Venue, Catering + Coordination: Edgewood Tahoe / Wedding Photography: Heidi Huber Photography / DJ: Ryan Palmer of Lake Tahoe DJ / Wedding Cake: Katie Cakes / Floral Design: Thran’s Flowers / Wedding Dress: Hallie Vy Design / Bridesmaid Dresses: Hallie Vy Design / Hair + Makeup: Marianna Lucido / Groom + Groomsmen Attire: 3-Day Suit Broker / Groom’s Shoes: Steve Madden / Invitations: The Bride + Groom / Wedding Rings: Robbin’s Brothers / Engagement Ring: McClave Jewelers

Lake Tahoe ranks high on my list of the world’s most beautiful places, so it should come as no surprise that I am 100% head over heels for every last amazing detail of this charming lakeside affair.  Boasting a lovely gray, blue and pink color palette, majestic mountain views and a bride rockin’ a stunning gown (plus a cute as can be cardigan), this rustic chic meets elegant soiree is all sorts of gorgeous… And all sorts of awesome.  And when you add to the mix each and every breathtaking image captured by Aravaggio Photography, well, it just doesn’t get much better than this.  So, join me in the gallery for every last ounce of pretty and then stay tuned for even more fabulous from Rose Street Studio below!

Click here to see the entire wedding gallery!

And, of course, we couldn’t wrap up the day without leaving you with even more gorgeous from Rose Street Studio!  Enjoy!

From the Bride… I have a “life list” of all of the things I want to do in my lifetime, and Myles takes great pride in helping me cross things off. During a trip to Las Vegas, he told me he had a surprise for me. We were picked up by a driver and taken to a small airport where there was a helicopter waiting. The helicopter took us over the Grand Canyon and we landed on an inside ledge on an Indian reservation for lunch. I was so excited to have crossed 2 things off of my life list (Grand Canyon and helicopter ride) that I had no idea what was coming next!! We were sitting on the side of a cliff and he asked me to marry him. I still cannot remember any of the words he said, because everything got very cloudy, but I did manage to say yes!

Myles’ favorite baseball player is Ryne Sandberg, a Hall of Fame player that played for the Cubs when he was little. He used to watch him play with his Dad, who passed away 2 years ago from complications of lung cancer. I knew how special he was to the two of them, and I needed a way to honor and remember the man who is responsible for making Myles the man and father he is today. I started calling, emailing, and sending letters a year before the wedding in an attempt to get in touch with Ryne. I found out he had just been hired as the manager of a minor league team in Philadelphia. I sent him a letter and a wedding invitation to the new ballpark (just in case!).  To my surprise, I came home one day to find a large box from Ryne himself, with an autographed gift to give my sweet groom on our wedding day. It meant and means the world to him, and I hope it made his Dad smile, too.  My wedding day gift was a beautiful charm bracelet. He told me that for each anniversary he will buy a charm to represent something special we did or experienced that year.

Since we were planning from out of town, we actually scouted our “First Look” location while on a ski trip in February. The ground was covered in snow, but the trees were tall and beautiful and everything we wanted. When we arrived for pictures, we were amused to find out we had actually picked a popular frisbee golf course!! We were dodging frisbees through the bridesmaid and groomsmen photos. Luckily, my cousin Jessica has quick reflexes, because she dodged a close one that could have left her with a large bruise across her forehead just minutes before the ceremony!

The sash I wore was made by my mother. She used flowers from a bridal hair comb and stitched them to the sash. The hair piece is actually an upside down blusher. I loved the look of it originally, but after wearing it for my hair trial.. I decided to flip it because it bothered me being in my face for such a long period of time.

I made the aisle chair decor by folding strips of scrapbook paper like a fan and gluing it together with hot glue! Myles hand stamped/varnished/bowed all of the bridesmaid hangars! I made the boutonnieres from some faux succulents and blueberries from the local craft store. I made the Happily Ever After sign using the lid to an old planter from our backyard. I traced the letters onto it with stencils, and then used a woodburning pen to fill it in. It was my first time to use the pen, and it was really easy! We had handkerchiefs hand embroidered for my mother, Myles’ mother, and my Grandmother.

Wedding Photography: Aravaggio Photography / Cinematography: Rose Street Studio / Event Planning & Design: The Bride / Flowers: Tina Hoy-Barnwell of Lavish Floral / Wedding Ceremony Location: Round Hill Pines Beach / Wedding Reception Location: Tahoe Bleu Wave / Casino Location: Harvey’s Lake Tahoe / Catering and Cakes: The Cork and More / Wedding Invitations and Water Bottle Labels: Two Yellow Shoes / Wedding Dress: White Collection by Vera Wang via David’s Bridal / Harp Music: Anne Roos / Exit Confetti: Rice Butterflies / Makeup: Natalie Cusson / Hair: Sessions Salon / Hair Piece: David’s Bridal / Lightening Bolt Patches: Stitches Aplenty / Cake Flower: DK Designs Hawaii / Bridesmaid Necklaces: Charming Charlie / Ring Bearer Bowl: Paloma’s Nest / Guest Book Tree: Bleudetoi / Handkerchiefs: Sherri Angel Creations

If Napa and Tahoe had a wedding baby, this, my dears would be it. It’s one part rustic one part romantic and all sorts of fabulousness. The bride’s dress and veil are simply beyond beautiful and I’m loving how all her gold accents are repeated in the sophisticated tablescapes complete with gold rimmed wine glasses and plates. Oh, and that tent! If that’s not the prettiest, most breeziest and beautiful tent ever, then I don’t know what is. I just want to sit under it all day and watch it blow in the breeze as I sip champagne from a fabulous gold rimmed glass. And I bet that’s just what these lucky guests did. Designed and planned perfectly by Merrily Wed and captured to perfection by Kate Webber Photography, this wedding is just to die for. Click here for more and for even more gorgeous California weddings, check out our SMP California blog here!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Merrily Wed…Mutual friends tried to set Alison and Jeremy up but Alison wouldn’t have anything to do with it for two years. Then they actually started talking and a bi-coastal relationship began. Fast forward to living as a couple in San Francisco when Jeremy proposed to Alison on a San Francisco rooftop surrounded by 10,000 lights – literally, and the lighted Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop. They didn’t have a dream of how to finish their fairytale love story… Little did they know it would end up on a magnificent sprawling lawn on the shores of Lake Tahoe with the help of Merrily Wed.

The ceremony was held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church (seen in the Godfather II) and the reception site was kept a well hidden secret from their 165 guests. Upon arriving at the palatial, luminous lakefront estate, guests were treated to a champagne cocktail and twinkling music by a string quartet. Wine barrels doubled as cocktail tables and this look was carried over to the majestic main bar overflowing with soft, white flowers.

Alison wanted a vintage, romantic look but with a twist of sophistication. The color palette was neutral with ivories, creams and natural tones but with a fresh punch of color from the flowers. To add a bit of glamour to her wedding day, we wove touches of gold throughout: from Alison’s couture French Chantilly lace dress with gold metallic accents, to her intricately detailed place setting to the gold-rimmed glassware to the gold lace on the hanging mason jar lanterns. Her place card table was an old farm table with layers of antique lace wrapped around it. The place cards were woven into the lace. Two giant floral arrangements on wine barrels framed the entrance into her dreamy summer night tent – a clear top canopy with sheer ivory swagging which allowed the just right amount of light, towering trees and twinkling stars to peek through. The antique rustic chandeliers created a dramatic focal point at each end of the tent and a natural spot to gather the draped swagging.

Napa French-slotted wooden chairs complimented the natural style of the eggshell Tuscany linen on the dining tables. Alison used colorful gold-rimmed china reminiscent of her Grandma’s on top of a rustic embossed charger. The details were in the rich patterns of each. Gold-rimmed glassware picked up the gold in the ornate floral band of the Diana china. Tables were named after locations that had sentimental meaning to Alison & Jeremy as well as the guests matched at each. These were attached to twigs and incorporated in the loosely arranged centerpieces. The wedding cake cannot go unmentioned – it was a very special family recipe by Aunt Allie. Served in her memory, Aunt Allie is Alison’s namesake and July 31st is not only their wedding date but Aunt Allie’s birthday. Pride & Joy, a 10 piece band, kicked off the dancing under the summer night’s dream of a reception tent. Their energy and costume changes kept the guests dancing.

Event Design + Planning: Merrily Wed / Wedding Photography: Kate Webber Photography / Caterer: As You Wish / Flowers: Stems by Diana / String Music: The String Beings / Band: Pride & Joy / Ceremony Venue: Corpus Christi Catholic Church / Reception Venue: Private West Shore Lakefront Estate / Invitation Designer: Hello!Lucky / Wedding Dress: Atelier des Modistes / Wedding Videography: Stanislav Basovich / Cake Designer: Sugar Pine Cakery / Equipment Rentals: Celebrations Party Rentals + Classic Party Rentals / Linen Rental: La Tavola Linen / Make-up Artist: Yvette Beebe / Hair Stylist: Jarr Von Samuel

As far as we’re concerned, Lake Tahoe has so many fabulous weddings we have a hard time keeping up! Luckily, we have the best of the best sending us the amazing Tahoe affairs. Like this Thunderbird Lodge wedding. For you water-loving brides, we’ve got the piercing blue lake. For you mountain-loving brides, seriously, check out that view. And to top it all off, the wedding itself, seen through the lens of Catherine Hall Studio, is stunning enough to measure up to the scenery – and maybe even surpass it! There was not one detail forgotten, and we capital LOVE them all. You’ll need to spend more time with this wedding – we couldn’t do it justice here – so click here for Catherine’s blog!

There’s more in the gallery!

We wanted to have the wedding in Lake Tahoe because it’s such a beautiful spot.  I usually spend a few weeks of the summer there, and Dan and I have spent time there together too.  Thunderbird Lodge was the ideal location because it is right on the water and perfect for the small intimate wedding that we were going for.  We just wanted a mellow wedding in a beautiful spot with a small group of friends and family, and that was just what we got.  The weather couldn’t have been more gorgeous and everything went exactly as we had hoped for the day of our wedding, if not better!  I just wish the day didn’t fly by so quickly, but we tried to enjoy and remember each moment.

In terms of our wedding cake, a friend of ours who is a baker, made a tier of cupcakes with little chocolate pine cones on each, incorporating the surrounding pine cone trees into the decorations.  I kept the jewelry simple, since the Monique Lhullier dress did not need much else to accompany it. I wore my engagement ring and new wedding band and my grandmother’s earrings.

Photography: Catherine Hall Studios / Second Photographer: Melissa Slater / Coordinator: Summit Soiree / Ceremony Venue: Thunderbird Lodge / Reception Venue: Thunderbird Lodge / Dress Designer: Monique Lhuillier / Florist: Thran’s Flowers / Caterer: Moody’s Bistro & Lounge / Makeup: Jennifer Ergut / Hair: Laura Seegmiller

Hello Wednesday and hello seven (yes, seven!) SMP weddings to inspire. For those of you new to SMP, here’s a little refresher – we use Wednesday to pretty up the mid week by showing snip-its of several gorgeous soirees. But have no fear, simply click on the full gallery of images to get the entire fete in full. Now that’s a day I am ready to start!

And start we will – with this beautiful blending of cultural traditions by Merrily Wed. This lovely lakeside affair is filled to the brim with beautiful traditions, and its sophisticated, yet rustic style is definitely a good way to kick off this day of pretty. And there is so much more pretty to be had in the full gallery.

Click here for the entire wedding gallery!

From Merrily Wed… Natasha and Ali said their “I Do’s” amidst a beautiful garden lakefront estate on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe.  Their 80 guests witnessed a stunning Persian ceremony, known as the Aghd, of which the details were new to some and quite familiar to others.

During the Aghd, Natasha and Alia were seated before a spread of traditional items, called the Sofreh. A Sofreh specialist from Los Angeles was brought in to make this moment truly authentic.  On the Sofreh facing them was a mirror, illuminated by candles on either side.  Many other items were also placed on the Sofreh and each had its own symbolism with regard to prosperity that it may bring.  The married women in the family held above the couple a canopy of fine fabric and ground two cones of sugar over Natasha and Ali’s heads, to hope for a sweet life.  Tasting honey with their fingers was another ritual within the Aghd.

When it came time to say “I Do,” the Persian tradition is more elaborate than Western tradition and entices the bride to agree to marry the groom.  When the officiant asks for the bride’s hand on behalf of the groom, the bride does not speak at first; instead she remains silent, which represents the pursuit of the bride by the groom.  The third time that she is asked the bride speaks up and gives the affirmative response of “baleh!” (yes).  The officiant then directs the question to the groom, who answers yes without hesitation.  This was exciting to watch Natasha and Ali enact this.

By using natural, neutral tones and organic elements along with hints of copper and gold, Natasha’s wedding style was a sophisticated edge to the rustic side of Tahoe.  Her bridal bouquet of lisianthus, peonies and garden roses was accented with grasses, gold skeleton leaves and bleached peacock feathers while a cocoa copper chiffon ribbon tied the luscious arrangement together.  The gold skeleton leaves also graced the aisle sides and the lily floral stringers comprising the birch altar behind the sofreh.  Bleached peacock feathers were used throughout the reception from embellishing the wooden wedding sign to bar arrangements to an element in the unique tablescapes.

For Natasha and Ali’s cocktail style reception, we varied the table sizes to give an on-going party feel and draped luxurious Moire toffee linen over all.  Wooden trivets on each table anchored the detailed centerpieces – each a slight variant combo of lisianthus stems in a bud vase, hurricanes, gold sand, mini pine cones, feather flower clips and pine cone candles.  They served a variety of food and dedicated one station to authentic Persian food made lovingly by Ali’s family.

Natasha and Ali’s wedding day was pure magic and a marriage between a man and a woman as well as a blending of two cultures.

Wedding Design and Planning: Merrily Wed / Wedding Photography: Dave Getzschman of Ben Chrisman Photographers / Wedding Flowers: Bellissima Floral Creations / Wedding Venue: Private Lakefront Estate / Catering: As You Wish Catering / Wedding Cake: Josef’s Vienna Bakery / Music: We Ain’t Saints / Linens: La Tavola Linen / Wedding Dress: Romona Keveza / Sofreh: Elegant Sofreh Design / Hair: Laura Seegmiller / Wedding Invitations: Paper Monkey Press

Amy Kuschel and Coren Moore gowns, vibrant splashes of purple, pink and tangerine orange ~ a segway to the festive Lake Tahoe wedding of Ginger and Brannan from Merrily Wed and Ben Chrisman Photography!

Hear all about it on Merrily’s blog!

Click here to see all the stunning images from Ben Chrisman Photography!

Photography – Ben Chrisman Photography / Wedding Design & Planning – Merrily Wed / Florals – Bellissima Floral / Wedding Gown – Amy Kuschel / Bridesmaids Dresses – Coren Moore / Catering – Moody’s Catering /  Wedding Cake & Cupcakes – Sugar Pine Cakery / Venue – Private North Shore Estate / Rentals – Celebrations Party Rentals / Linen – La Tavola Linen

Jessica and Gavin met in England.  Little did they know that their romance would end up with a glorious Fall wedding on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe at Jessica’s family’s lakefront home. Little Black Book wedding designer and planner, Merrily Charles Rocco and her fabulous team at Merrily Wed helped them choreograph a beautiful celebration filled with stunning colors and picture perfect details!

Lights and candles were everywhere creating an incredible intimate and romantic home wedding … from candle hurricanes on the gorgeous green and burgundy cocktail table linen ~ to the glass and rustic lanterns hung on shepherd hooks through-out the property ~ to the Italian string lights suspended high over the dance floor ~ to the hanging glass votives with crystals in the trees (which themselves were wrapped with more string lights)! Floating candles with submerged purple orchids were in the glass lanterns while pale green pillar candles surrounded by moss were in the rustic lanterns. Giant floral letters made of green santini mums hung on the home’s back doors.

Lavender was introduced at each guest’s place setting neatly tucked in their napkin with the dinner menu.

The front yard was transformed for an elegant plated dinner for 120 guests in 3 connected white tents.

A touch of English flavor was present in the popular British drink called Pimms which the couple served as their signature drink along with champagne garnished with purple lavender. The bride’s mother even put out an American and a British flag at the front of the driveway to symbolize the pending union.  With guests from both sides of the ‘pond’, we were challenged with making space in the multi-leveled backyard and front yard for the festivities. The ceremony was held on the rock beach as close to the water as possible, on top of a platform.

A musical string quartet entertained guests before, during and after the ceremony into the cocktail hour. A hip DJ spun tunes which had the dance floor packed. Guests were treated to a fun photo booth with double prints – one print went home with the guest and the other print landed in the guest book beneath the guests’ well wishes.

All in all – gorgeous wedding, gorgeous (and fun) details and gorgeous couple!

Submitted by Merrily Wed ~ Wedding Designer/Coordinator, Lake Tahoe

Photographer: Jennifer Baciocco Photography, Caterer: As U Wish Catering, Florals: Diana’s Floral Design, Wedding Dress: Jin Wang, String Quartet: The String Beings, DJ: We Ain’t Saints, Wedding Cake: The Tahoe House, Linen: La Tavola Linen, Rentals: Camelot Party Rentals, Videographer: Video Quest Productions, Photo Booth: Red Cheese Photobooths