I believe all love stories deserve an epic backdrop, and Krystle and Wendy’s Lake Tahoe LGBTQ elopement was nothing short of freaking magical. From an intimate ceremony overlooking the lake to a champagne pop at Emerald Bay and ending the night with a “trash the dress” session in the hot tub—their day was filled with love, adventure, and so many personal touches.
Krystle & Wendy’s Story
Krystle and Wendy make a great team! Whether rescuing animals, working on home projects, or jamming out on the guitar, their life together is all about love, care, and creativity. Their Tahoe elopement was the perfect reflection of who they are: intentional, adventurous, and down-to-earth.
Neither had been to Lake Tahoe before, but Wendy had always wanted to see the boathouse connected to her family’s past. (I might have had a little inside scoop on the perfect Airbnb to make that happen…) We managed to include that in their first look!
I loved how they included so many personal details, like Wendy’s custom Converse, champagne bottles hand-painted by Krystle’s mom, and Krystle’s grandfather’s war pin pinned onto her dress. From the start, this elopement was super intentional, honoring their story and loved ones and celebrating love in a way that felt true to them
Their Intimate LGBTQ Elopement Ceremony with Killer Views
Originally, Krystle and Wendy had their hearts set on Emerald Bay for their ceremony. But after looking into the permit process, they decided to keep it simple and private, saving Emerald Bay for portraits instead. I met up with them two days before their elopement, and we spent the afternoon scouting locations.
The spot they ended up choosing was absolutely perfect. It was a secluded overlook near Heavenly Ski Resort, tucked away from the crowds. It was just them, Wendy’s brother serving as the officiant, Krystle’s twin sister, and the vast beauty of the lake stretching before them.
Personally, as a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer, I LOVE this ceremony location. It’s a hidden gem that offers so much intimacy, with plenty of space for me to capture different angles of the couple soaking in the moment. And if you’re ever working with me and choosing this location, my advice is to take in the moment! Bring water, breathe it all in, and don’t rush to leave. Your wedding day isn’t just about the photos—it’s about the experience.
Epic Elopement Portraits at Emerald Bay & Sunset Boat Celebration
After their vows, we made our way to Emerald Bay for portraits. Even though it wasn’t their ceremony spot, this location was still a dream for them. It was the perfect spot to soak in the day with just the two of them and a celebratory champagne pop.
And then it was time to PARTY! Krystle and Wendy joined their family for dinner at Chart House before hopping onto a private Tahoe Star Charter for a sunset cruise. Cocktails, music, light dancing, and the lake reflecting the last light of the day? Absolute elopement goals.
Kind Words from the Couple
“Amanda! These are wonderful! I couldn’t count how many times Krystle and I “awwwwed” while looking at them. And yes, we could relive that day over and over again as well. (Minus the 5:30am wake up call) Thank you so much for all of your hard work and time putting this together.”
Ending the Night With Trash The Dress Wedding Photos
If you thought the fun stopped there, think again. Krystle and Wendy wrapped up their elopement day in the best way possible—jumping into a hot tub for a “trash the dress” session. Because why not?! It was playful, steamy (literally and figuratively), and the perfect ending to a day that was equal parts romantic and ridiculously fun.
Ready to Plan Your Lake Tahoe LGBTQ+ Elopement? Let’s do it together!
Krystle and Wendy’s elopement was a reminder that weddings don’t have to follow any rules. They focused on what mattered most—each other, their families, and making the day one they’d never forget. And damn, was it unforgettable!
If you’re planning your own Lake Tahoe LGBTQ elopement, I’d love to help you craft a day that feels effortless, meaningful, and uniquely yours. Just reach out to me here! I can’t wait to hear from you.
And if you liked this blog, you might also enjoy my Lake Tahoe Elopement Guide and Unique Elopement Ideas in Lake Tahoe!
Vendors: Photographer and planning assistant – me, Amanda Kluesner Photography; Hair and Makeup – LunaBelle Beauty; Boat Charter: Tahoe Star Charters; Dinner – Chart House
