How To Get Married in Lake Tahoe

So, you want to get married in Lake Tahoe? We don’t blame you! Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful and sought-after wedding destinations in the world. And we love helping couples plan the most spectacular celebrations in the area. If you’re considering Tahoe as your wedding destination, you’re probably wondering how to get married in Lake Tahoe. Well, we’ve got answers for you! Here are six super important steps to bring your dream Lake Tahoe wedding to life.

1. Hire a Lake Tahoe Wedding Planner

The easiest way to get married in Lake Tahoe? Hire a wedding planner! It’ll save you time and money. Tahoe is a very popular wedding destination, and many venues actually require couples to work with a planner. Why? Because a local planner knows the ins and outs of the area, from vendor recommendations to navigating logistics like transportation and weather.

For a destination wedding, this step is especially important. A full-service wedding planning company like Epic Thyme will handle everything — from the big-ticket items to the tiniest details — so you can focus on enjoying the process. Trust us, having a planner by your side makes all the difference. (Here’s an inside look at what we do!)

2. Determine Your Tahoe Wedding Budget

Let’s talk numbers. A Lake Tahoe wedding budget isn’t your average California or Nevada wedding budget. Tahoe is a luxury destination, which means weddings here often come with a luxury price tag. Most of the couples we work with have a budget of around $100,000, but don’t let that scare you!

Here’s the good news:

• We know where to save without sacrificing your vision.

• We pass along industry discounts from our trusted local vendors.

• We’ll help you prioritize what matters most to you.

With a clear budget in place, you’ll feel confident making decisions about your wedding day.

3. Choose a Date and Time

Tahoe is stunning in every season, but the time of year you choose will shape your wedding experience. Summer offers pristine lake views and warm weather, but it’s also the busiest time for tourists. Winter weddings are magical, with snow-covered mountains and cozy vibes, but you’ll need to plan for cold temperatures and potential travel delays.

If you’re looking to save money, consider an off-season wedding (November through March) or a weekday celebration. And don’t forget to check past weather trends to avoid surprises on your big day.

4. Select Your Dream Lake Tahoe Wedding Venue

Now comes the fun part… choosing your Lake Tahoe wedding venue! Lake Tahoe is home to a wide variety of stunning wedding venues, from lakeside estates to mountain lodges. Whether you’re drawn to the California or Nevada side, there’s a venue that’s perfect for your vision.

Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered with the top Lake Tahoe wedding locations for inspiration, or let us guide you through the options. With so many incredible venues to choose from, you’re sure to find one that feels just right, no matter your season or theme!

5. Get a Marriage License

This step depends on whether you’re getting married on the California or Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. Here’s what you need to know:

California Marriage License

• Set an appointment at the County Clerk’s Office.

• Both parties must be present with a valid photo ID.

• No waiting period — your license is valid immediately and for 90 days.

Nevada Marriage License

• No appointment needed (though it’s recommended).

• Both parties must be present with a valid photo ID.

• Licenses are valid for one year, which is great for destination couples.

One thing to keep in mind: officiants. In California, anyone can officiate your wedding as long as they’re ordained (which is super easy to do online). In Nevada, officiants must be authorized by the state, so it’s a bit trickier for friends or family members to perform the ceremony. If that’s your plan, start the process early!

6. Plan and Then Plan Some More

…with the help of Epic Thyme, of course! Knowing how to get married in Lake Tahoe is one thing. Actually planning the Tahoe wedding of your dreams takes hours of detailed planning. At Epic Thyme, we know how to bring your wedding vision to life and have a darn good time doing it. Our Lake Tahoe wedding planning services include full-service design and coordination from start to finish.

You Know How To Get Married in Lake Tahoe… Let’s Make It Happen

Getting married in Lake Tahoe is an incredible experience, but it takes careful planning to pull off the wedding of your dreams. From hiring a planner to choosing your venue and navigating marriage license requirements, every step is important. At Epic Thyme, we’re here to make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea of a Tahoe wedding or you’re ready to dive into the details, we’d love to help. Contact us today, and let’s start planning your epic Lake Tahoe wedding!