Shelley and Dave’s intimate Desolation Hotel wedding in Lake Tahoe was sweet and low key in the most sincere way. Their day was full of laughter, intentional details, and a whole lot of love.
They chose to get married in September, right as the leaves in Hope Valley were starting to turn golden and the air had that first hint of fall crispness. It was the perfect setting for two nature-loving souls who love to explore the world together and have so many adventures ahead!
A Love Story Built on Adventure
Shelley and Dave met on Match, and their first real date was an Oakland A’s game. Since then, they’ve been hiking, riding motorcycles, and exploring all over the U.S. Together, they’ve ridden thousands of miles on the open road. And for their honeymoon, they planned a motorcycle ride from Washington, DC, all the way to Niagara Falls.
They told me in their questionnaire that they love the outdoors, wanted a wedding that felt like them, and wanted to experience the beauty of Hope Valley as the leaves began to change.
And that’s exactly what we made happen!
Morning Hike and Getting Ready
Before the ceremony even began, the day started in the most “Shelley & Dave” way possible. They got up early for a sunrise hike to start their special day. I wasn’t there to photograph it, but that almost makes it better. Some moments are just for living.
Shelley got ready at her daughter’s cabin at Desolation, while Dave got ready in their own cabin. This part of the day was so sweet in all the anticipation!
Their Intimate Hope Valley Ceremony
Shelley walked down the aisle with her daughter and grandsons, and the ceremony included live guitar music that added such a personal, heartfelt touch.
Shelley and Dave exchanged their vows surrounded by 30 of their closest friends and family, at the second fishing platform in the Hope Valley Wildlife Area. It was peaceful and absolutely stunning! Afterwards we explored the nearby landscapes for some sweet portraits before joining the rest of the party at Desolation Hotel.
An Intimate Desolation Hotel Wedding Reception
If you’re dreaming of a Lake Tahoe-area wedding that’s quiet, intentional, and surrounded by nature, then Desolation Hotel might just be exactly what you’re looking for.
The vibe is warm and rustic, perfect for cozy receptions and nature lovers. There’s cozy cabins to make it a full getaway for you and your guests, as well as easy access to stunning ceremony locations nearby. You can easily combine a beautiful outdoor ceremony with a more elevated reception, just like Shelley and Dave did!
Shelley and Dave chose a farm table, family-style reception with fresh floral centerpieces and delicious bites. You could feel the love from every single guest in attendance, and it was such a sweet celebration!
Kind Words from the Couple
The pictures are so amazing! Dave and I made our thank you cards today, and it was so hard to pick one picture!! Thank you!!!
Planning Your Own Intimate Desolation Hotel Wedding Day?
I’m Amanda, a Lake Tahoe elopement and intimate wedding photographer. I specialize in crafting personalized experiences that celebrate the natural beauty of this land and the unique magic of your story.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement or micro wedding in Lake Tahoe and wondering what’s even possible, reach out and let’s chat!
Vendors: Photographer and planning assistant – me, Amanda Kluesner Photography; Officiant – Christa Deane; Florist – Create with T; Vegan Wedding Cake – Flour Girl Wedding Cakes
