Lake Tahoe is known for its pristine lakes, breathtaking mountain vistas, and stunning sunsets, which make it the perfect destination for couples looking to tie the knot. If you're planning a wedding in the summer, then you're in luck! Lake Tahoe has no shortage of picturesque venues to choose from, and you can incorporate various themes that will perfectly highlight the beauty of the area. Dive into this post for summer wedding theme ideas and matching venues in Lake Tahoe!
Are Summer Weddings More Expensive?
Absolutely, summer weddings can definitely be pricier. You see, summer, especially June and September, is like the Super Bowl season of weddings––everybody wants their big day in the glorious sunshine! This high demand means that venues and services often hike their prices. So, while you may be dreaming of saying “I do” under the warm summer sun, just remember it might come with a heftier price tag. But hey, every season has its own charm, and there are certainly ways to throw a fabulous wedding without breaking the bank, no matter when you choose to tie the knot. Check out our recent article to learn more about how much a Lake Tahoe wedding costs.
What’s South Lake Tahoe in the Summer Like?
South Lake Tahoe in the summer is truly a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. As the snow melts away, the area transforms into a vibrant playground under the warm California sun. The lake, with its crystal clear blue waters, becomes a hub for various water activities such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. The surrounding mountains offer fantastic hiking and biking trails, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and lush greenery.
The summer weather in South Lake Tahoe is typically warm and dry during the day, with cooler temperatures in the evenings, making it ideal for a wedding reception under the stars. There's also a rich calendar of summer events, including music festivals, farmers markets, and art shows. However, while it’s true that South Lake Tahoe in the summer offers an unforgettable experience, especially for a wedding, it’s important to note it’s typically crowded with tourists.
What’s North Lake Tahoe in the Summer Like?
North Lake Tahoe in the summer is a serene retreat that offers a more laid-back vibe compared to its southern counterpart. Its vast, glittering lake and towering mountainscapes provide a tranquil backdrop for an array of summer activities. You can explore its stunning beauty by kayaking along the North Shore, which many regard as having some of the best areas for this activity.
The region's clear, dry air filled with the aroma of pine and daytime temperatures typically in the 80s make it an ideal location for outdoor pursuits. Some of the most popular activities include Sand Harbor State Park & Beach, riding the iconic Lake Tahoe East Shore Trail, and exploring the Village at Northstar with its roller skating, shopping, and mini-golf. And while it’s not as busy as South Lake Tahoe, there aren’t as many summer wedding venues there–something to keep in mind.
5 Summer Wedding Theme Ideas and Wedding Venues in Lake Tahoe to Match
So, are you ready to plan your dream Lake Tahoe summer wedding? Better be because we’re sharing our favorite summer wedding ideas and fun themes to bring a unique touch to your celebration.
1. Rustic-Chic Wedding Theme
A rustic-chic wedding theme is all about fusing the simple, country aesthetic with a touch of elegance and sophistication. This style often incorporates natural elements like wood, burlap, and lace alongside softer touches like fresh flowers and white drapery. The decor is a key aspect of this theme, featuring items such as wooden signage, mason jar centerpieces, and twinkling fairy lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The color palette tends to lean toward more muted tones like creams, pastels, and earthy hues, perfectly complementing the natural elements used throughout the decor. However, don't shy away from adding pops of brighter colors to add a bit of whimsy to your event. Think soft blush roses against a backdrop of weathered wood or turquoise table runners over a rustic wooden table. The rustic-chic wedding theme is all about balance, blending the rugged and raw charm of the rustic style with the polished sophistication of chic elements.
Summer Wedding Venues in Lake Tahoe Perfect for This Theme:
2. Beach Wedding Theme
A beach wedding theme in the picturesque setting of Lake Tahoe is a perfect blend of natural beauty and romantic charm. The lake's crystal clear waters and stunning mountain views create an idyllic backdrop for your ceremony. Your decor should complement this setting with elements that reflect the serene environment. Think driftwood centerpieces, seashell decorations, and nautical accents like anchors or sailboats. You could also incorporate local flora, such as pine cones or wildflowers, into your bouquets or table settings.
The color palette for a Lake Tahoe beach wedding often features shades of blue to mirror the water, combined with sandy neutrals and pops of bright colors inspired by the sunset over the lake. Additionally, white and cream tones are perfect for adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. To fully embrace the beach theme, consider a casual dress code with lightweight fabrics and barefoot elegance. This way, you can capture the laid-back vibe of a beach wedding while still making the most of the breathtaking Lake Tahoe scenery.
Summer Wedding Venues in Lake Tahoe Perfect for This Theme:
3. Garden Wedding Theme
A garden wedding theme in Lake Tahoe is the epitome of rustic elegance and natural beauty. The venues around the lake are surrounded by lush greenery, blooming flowers, and towering trees, providing a stunning setting for your special day. Decorations could include whimsical fairy lights strung between trees, floral garlands, and centerpieces featuring local flowers like lupines, lilies, or maybe even Tahoe's famous wildflowers. A beautiful archway adorned with flowing fabric and vibrant blooms would make a breathtaking focal point for your ceremony.
Your color palette should reflect the vibrant hues of the garden, with shades of green, lavender, blush pink, and pops of brighter colors like yellows and blues. For a more rustic touch, incorporate elements like wooden signs, vintage lanterns, and burlap table runners. Garden weddings also lend themselves to an elegant yet relaxed dress code, perhaps with flowing dresses for the bridesmaids and linen suits for the groomsmen. All these elements combined will create a charming and intimate atmosphere that truly reflects the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe.
Summer Wedding Venues in Lake Tahoe Perfect for This Theme:
4. Mountain Wedding Theme
A mountain wedding theme in Lake Tahoe is all about celebrating the grandeur of nature. The towering peaks, sparkling lake, and verdant forests provide a breathtaking backdrop that needs little embellishment. For decor, consider rustic elements like wooden signs, antler motifs, or even a ceremony arch made from aspen branches. You can also add touches of luxury with elegant table settings, chandeliers, and plush seating arrangements. Natural elements such as pine cones, moss, and wildflowers can be used to create unique centerpieces and bouquets.
The color palette for a mountain wedding often incorporates earthy tones like browns and greens, combined with cool blues and crisp whites to reflect the surrounding landscape. To heighten the outdoor ambiance, consider a cozy bonfire for the reception, complete with s'mores and hot cocoa bars. A mountain wedding theme in Lake Tahoe offers a beautiful blend of rustic charm and natural elegance, creating a memorable experience for you and your guests.
Summer Wedding Venues in Lake Tahoe Perfect for This Theme:
5. Classic Wedding Theme
A classic wedding theme in Lake Tahoe is a timeless choice that exudes sophistication and elegance. The stunning lake views and majestic mountains form a spectacular backdrop to your elegant affair. Decorations for a classic wedding often include crystal chandeliers, white linens, and classic floral arrangements with roses, peonies, or lilies.
A color palette of white, cream, and soft pastels like blush or champagne lends a romantic and serene feel to the setting. Consider incorporating elements of Tahoe's natural beauty, such as pine branches or wildflowers, as subtle nods to your unique location. For an added touch of glamor, you could use gold accents in your table settings, signage, or wedding party attire. Your ceremony could take place under a beautifully adorned archway, with the sparkling lake and towering mountains as your backdrop. As for the reception, a grand ballroom or an elegant lakeside tent would be perfect for celebrating your love story. With a classic wedding theme in Lake Tahoe, you can create a timeless event that reflects both your personal style and the natural beauty of the region.
Summer Wedding Venues in Lake Tahoe Perfect for This Theme:
Bring Your Summer Wedding Ideas to Life with Epic Thyme
Are you ready to make your Lake Tahoe summer wedding a dream come true? Epic Thyme is the way to go! As an experienced and creative event planning company, we specialize in bringing your unique vision to life. Whether you dream of a rustic outdoor ceremony under the warm summer sun, a sophisticated lakeside reception, or a timeless soiree, we’ve got you covered.
Our team of wedding pros will guide you through every detail, from selecting a wedding venue in Lake Tahoe to choosing custom décor, ensuring your big day is as memorable and magical as you've always imagined. So why wait? Get in touch today, and let’s start planning your wedding in the summer in Lake Tahoe!