A Garden-Inspired Private Estate Wedding on Rubicon Bay
By a Lake Tahoe Wedding Photographer Who Loves Intimate, Soulful Celebrations
When people search for Lake Tahoe wedding photographers, they’re often dreaming of breathtaking views, golden light, and weddings that feel deeply personal. Ryan and Faye’s celebration checked every one of those boxes, and more.
They tied the knot at a family friend’s private estate nestled along the shoreline of Rubicon Bay, a hidden gem on the western edge of Lake Tahoe. This wasn’t just a wedding; it was a love letter to summer in the Sierra, where towering pines meet sparkling blue waters.
An Intimate Lake Tahoe Estate Wedding
Ryan and Faye envisioned a day that felt warm, effortless, and full of joy. Guests arrived to the scent of florals spilling from woven baskets, a garden-themed celebration that brought a soft romanticism to the rugged lakeside setting. Their ceremony was tucked into a lush clearing on the property, with the lake peeking through the trees as the ultimate backdrop.
Afterward, everyone gathered for cocktails overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Tahoe, soaking in the views and clinking glasses beneath the early evening sun. The reception took place inside, where long tables were lit by the soft glow of candlelight, and the evening unfolded into heartfelt toasts, a lively dance floor, and the sound of laughter echoing under the stars.
A Blend of Film and Digital Imagery
As a Lake Tahoe wedding photographer, one of my favorite elements of this day was the opportunity to photograph on both digital and 35mm film. Film added a soft, timeless quality to the gallery, capturing emotion with that painterly, nostalgic texture, while digital gave us the flexibility to document all the fast-moving, joyful moments of the day. Film add-ons are available for any wedding collections!
The result? A collection of images that feel equal parts elegant and playful, full of heart, movement, and real connection.
Why Private Estate Weddings in Lake Tahoe Are So Special
Private estate weddings like Ryan and Faye’s are truly something special. They allow couples to slow down, stretch out the celebration, and create a completely one-of-a-kind experience that reflects who they are. Every corner of this day was infused with their story, from the ceremony under the trees to the golden-hour portraits along the water’s edge.
If you’re planning a wedding in Lake Tahoe and dreaming of a celebration that’s personal, picturesque, and a little off the beaten path, a private estate just might be the perfect setting. And if you’re looking for Lake Tahoe wedding photographers who know how to blend editorial beauty with real emotion, I’d love to chat.
Ready to tell your story?
Let’s make something beautiful — timeless images that feel like you.
Vendors
Wedding Planner | Married Poppins
Photography | Kirsten Zarek
Florals | Sierra Flower Farm
Catering | Gerards Paella
Bar | The Pour
DJ | DJ Klick
Lie Music | Patrick Hansen
Make-up | Kari Goodwin
Dessert | Happy Tiers
Rentals | Found Rental Co
Late Night Bites | Pretty Old Wieners
