To know Hope and Kaitlyn is to absolutely LOVE them. I was filled with joy arriving to their Nakoma wedding. We had met the previous year for a wintery engagement session in South Lake Tahoe, which you can check out here! Such a gorgeous and loving duo.
When I arrived for their wedding day I was met with a warm embrace from Hope and was immediatley laughing at Kaitlyn’s jokes. Officially the best bridal party, and their biggest supporters. So many tears throughout the day. From their beautiful vows, to their moving speeches you couldn’t take your eyes off them. We had the most dreamy overcast evening to take their portraits, and I love the romantic look of them. For a couple that said they didn’t like pictures of themselves, they could have fooled me in how natural and stunning they both were. Their party goes down in history as the most fun, wild full of energy dance party.
Amazing music and contagious energy up until their last farewell. I cannot thank you enough for letting me share in such a wonderful day that truly felt like a gift to be able to witness.
Now a little about this hidden Clio gem! Lake Tahoe tends to be a favorite area for destination weddings. This is your chance to embrace the rugged west while getting married amidst some of the most breathtaking views. Now, you just need the right place that will provide you with luxurious accommodations for your dream day! As a Lake Tahoe wedding photographer, I get the unique chance to hang around a lot of gorgeous venues, and today, I wanted to share one of my favorites with you: the Nakoma wedding venue. This beautiful venue is here to give you top-notch accommodations in one of the most naturally stunning environments.
About The Nakoma Wedding Venue
348 Bear Run, Clio, California 96106
Nakoma Resort and wedding venue draws its name from the Chippewa people’s phrase, “I do as I promise.” While the resort wasn’t built until 2000, the plans stem from the Roaring Twenties when the world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright created plans for a golf retreat in Madison, Wisconsin. However, the plans were never used, and they lay dormant for decades until the 21st century when the Lodge decided to use them for a brand-new resort. The building was created in the middle of the 1,280-acre property, and the accompanying villas were built using inspiration from Wright’s designs.
Today, you will find spaces that feel vintage while still being completely modern. The designers have incorporated natural elements that celebrate the surrounding area while ensuring you’re never too far away from top-of-the-line luxury. Located 60 miles from Lake Tahoe and 45 miles from Reno, you will feel like you’re in a world all your own.
Details of the Grounds
Most couples choose to have an outdoor wedding ceremony with Nakoma. The venue offers several serene spaces that give you premium views of the Sierras. While some choose to use a completely secluded space apart from the resort, many choose to have theirs right next to the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed lodge. If you are planning an outdoor wedding, you can speak with the venue, and they will help you find the best space to bring your vision to life. The venue does provide a few indoor places for more intimate ceremonies. Restaurant Fifty44 provides you with rustic surroundings outfitted with a stone fireplace. The Poolside at Altitude can also accommodate indoor events. This area offers floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the property.
The venue provides a number of gorgeous spaces for your reception. Restaurant Fifty44 is one of the best spots if you want to keep things inside. The four-sided fireplace serves as a centerpiece in the middle of the stony room. This is the ideal spot for a more intimate wedding. For more space, you can try out The Poolside. This area offers an indoor-outdoor option where your party can move as needed. Outside, you can host a reception at the Lodge Deck. This space has trees growing through the wood of the deck, creating an organic yet comfortable atmosphere. The venue also offers The Patio at the Inn. Here, you will be able to figure out a seating arrangement and have full access to the Lobby.
Cocktail Hour And Other Special Spaces
The Nakoma lobby at The Patio is ideal for an indoor wedding cocktail hour, while the Poolside works well for an outdoor option. With both, your guests will have a stylish space where they can sip on some signature cocktails and enjoy the surrounding area.
The resort offers two separate spaces for getting ready before the wedding. Brides will have use of the Tea Room inside the Frank Lloyd Wright Lodge. This will put you just steps away from the Eureka Lawn. Grooms can use the Cavern Lounge to unwind before the ceremony begins.
Nakoma wants to ensure you can have the party that’s right for you. They can host parties with 100-250 guests and will ensure you have the right space to hold it.
The resort is full of beautiful details that are guaranteed to elevate your space. The outside patio shows off the lodge’s raw, stony exterior, while the bistro lights will keep it illuminated throughout the night. The resort has a golf course that provides your guests with clear views of the surrounding nature. Many couples choose to use an archway and set it up amidst the grassy area. The Poolside features a large, inground pool and surrounding concrete area where guests can lounge between your wedding and ceremony.
Photography Opportunities
The Nakoma is the ideal venue for an outdoor wedding photography session. The exterior features plenty of spaces for couples portraits with verdant backdrops. Many couples choose to have pictures taken on the road leading up to the venue. With this option, you’ll have mountains on one side and trees on the other. The cliffs around the venue will also provide you with some of the best portraits imaginable.
Wedding Details
Nakoma specializes in hosting unforgettable weddings. Before your wedding, you will be treated to a private tasting so you can create the ideal menu for your event. On the day of, the venue will take care of everything, including chairs, tables, china, linens, and dinnerware. Your guests will have parking, and the resort can provide additional transportation. They offer full bar services and can work with you to create a signature drink. If you would prefer, they can offer covered outdoor wedding spaces. The resort itself gives you an easy lodging option for your guests, offering up to 42 guestrooms for your party. If you choose to stay, you can treat yourself to their world-class spa, enjoy their daily breakfast, or try out the recreation center, including group fitness classes and a climbing gym.
Dream Team
Wedding Planner | Courtney at Nakoma
Venue | Nakoma
Florals | Magnolia Mums
Catering | Nakoma
Video | Toast Wedding Films
Make-Up | Hope (Bride)
DJ | Michelle Rebaleati with Music in Tahoe
Photography | Kirsten Zarek
Blend Mountains and Luxury With Your Dream Nakoma Wedding
With the Nakoma wedding venue, you don’t have to trade gorgeous mountain views for top-of-the-line luxury. This Frank Lloyd Wright-designed space has unlimited options for creating your dream day. As far as capturing all those unique details, that’s where I come in. I am a Lake Tahoe photographer and adore partnering with couples to help them remember every splendid second of their big day. I would love nothing more than to have a conversation with you and show you my portfolio so you can decide whether I’m the wedding photographer for you. Contact me today so we can chat!
