Wedding at Bora Bora Ultimate Planning Guide
The Ultimate “How to” Planning Guide for a Wedding at Bora Bora
(complete with paperwork, and locations)
Planning for a one-of-a-kind wedding at Bora Bora? Let the pristine beaches, tall lush green trees and the white sands of the beaches be your wedding witnesses. Bora bora has gained in popularity for its luxurious private resorts and stunning ocean views.
However, planning your wedding at an international destination is not as easy as booking a venue and a minister! There are multiple factors like documentation, places to choose from, seasons to visit, travel and accommodation bookings and a lot more. If you’re looking to have a wedding in Bora Bora, this ultimate planning guide will help you get things started!
Legal Stuff for Bora Bora Weddings
As fun and picture-perfect as it sounds, it also has some back-end work that needs to be completed in due time if you want this ceremony to be your legal marriage. Some people have a registered marriage in their nations/cities and just want to have a photographic wedding at Bora Bora. However, if you want to legally get married in Bora Bora, then remember to pack all of these documents along!
- Birth certificate copies of the bride and groom must be issued at least six months before the wedding date. For example, if the wedding is in December 2023, then the certificates need to be issued before June 2023.
- Passports of both with requisite validity
- Previous Divorce Certificate, if applicable
- Residential Proof for the couple
- Completed Copy of the ‘Marriage of Foreign Citizens in French Polynesia’ Form
Along with these, you would have to submit the following documents which must be written/translated into French:
- Death Certificate of the previous spouse, if applicable
- A letter addressed to the Mayor of Bora Bora – needs to be signed and dated by the bride and groom (An English Copy + A French Copy – both authenticated)
- Certificate of No Impediment
- Marriage contract / Notary certificate, if applicable
All these documents need to be submitted to the Town Hall at least 60-70 days before the date of the ceremony. If you cannot visit personally, you can arrange for scanned copies or connect with your wedding planners at Bora Bora to help you go the right way.
Best Ways to Get Married in Bora Bora
There’s a reason why Bora Bora weddings are so popular. No matter the kind of wedding you want to have, it can all be done in Bora Bora. Don’t believe us? Here are 4 different ways to get married in Bora Bora – something for everyone!
1. Private Resort Beaches
These are one of the most recommended and picturesque ideas for a wedding at Bora Bora. Due to tourist commercialization, there are multiple resorts on the island, but did you know that most of these resorts also have a private beach entitled to them?! When you plan a wedding through such a resort, they take care of all your wedding planning at the destination and you can sit back and enjoy your wedding on the silver sands and turquoise waters.
Some of the best private Resort beaches are:
- The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
- Conrad Bora Bora Nui
- InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel
- Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
You can, of course, have weddings at regular beaches too but chances are some random tourists bump into you and photobomb your wedding pictures. To avoid all that, these resort beaches are a perfect option as they offer complete privacy for the ideal wedding at Bora Bora.
2. Cute & Compact – Chapels
If you want to have a wedding in Bora Bora but don’t want to have a French Polynesian wedding, then you can also have a traditional Christian wedding at any of the churches & Chapels in Bora Bora!
Here are some Chapels that you can choose depending on the areas that you are living in:
- Paroisse Saint Pierre-Célestin
- Protestant Church
- Eglise de Fa’anui
Apart from these, most resorts also have a chapel. So in this case, you don’t want to scour the island finding Chapels to say ‘I do’ in, but rather you can inquire about Resort properties that will provide Chapels.
Some resorts in Bora Bora which have an in-house chapel include:
- Intercontinental Resort and Thalasso Spa, Bora Bora – Offers the Blue Lagoon Chapel (South Pacific Ocean’s First & Only Overwater Chapel)
- Hilton Nui Resort Bora Bora – Offers The Quaint Hilton Wedding Chapel (Nestled within lush greenery and atop a volcanic hill)
- Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Offers Aherenona Chapel (The grandest of all in Bora Bora with a cathedral ceiling, larger area and magnificent views)
You can search for properties closest to you and have a beautiful traditional wedding. Weddings at Bora Bora don’t have to be on a beach! Plan your day as you want!
3. Perched Atop Mountains!
We all know there are two types of people: a beach person and a mountain person! Bora Bora is surely a paradise if you are a beach person but as I said, it has something for everyone. Here are some wedding options you can go for if you want to have a wedding with mountain views and get some epic wedding pictures from the heights of Bora Bora!
- Conrad Bora Bora Nui – Offers a chapel located on a hilltop providing mesmerizing views of the lagoon and Mt. Otemanu.
- Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island – Spend your day getting pampered by top-notch services on this private island and get married atop a unique hillside venue with dramatic ocean and mountain views.
4. Other Unique Wedding Plans
If you are looking to have a completely unique experience with some never seen before plans, here are some top picks:
- Wedding on Motu Tapu – A package offered by Hilton Nui Resort Bora Bora allows you to get married on the sacred isle of Motu Tapu. It is a place of holistic importance and a historical standpoint of the Tahitian royalties.
- Sailing Weddings – Rather than just picking one destination, get a yacht and sail the Pacific while you get married overwater on the yacht itself!
- Wedding on Corals – well, not exactly ‘on’ them, but St. Regis & Four Seasons Resorts do provide some packages that allow you to get married on the beach just feet away from the Corals.
Best Times for Bora Bora Weddings
The climate at Bora Bora Islands is largely classified into two categories – wet and dry. The wet months (November – April) are of course the rainy season on the islands when there are very low numbers of tourists on the go.
While it is not the best time to visit Bora Bora, the airfare, and tariffs of all resorts and accommodations are quite low and budget-friendly during these months. So if you want to plan a budget-friendly elopement to Bora Bora, then these could be your dates! You can easily go for a chapel wedding which can be conducted indoors even in the rain. Outdoor weddings might be a challenge during these months.
From May onwards till back to November is the dry season. These are the best months to visit Bora Bora. The weather is sunny, dry, bright, warm and shiny. It is of course the favorite of many tourists and the rates of all flights, resorts and accommodations are doubled.
Even though these are dry months you can expect an occasional rain shower from time to time as well. The peak season for all tourists is in June and July. These months should be avoided for weddings as it would be crowded and messy to plan a wedding amidst mobs of tourists flocking in.
Essentially the months of August and September are the middle ground. It is the perfect season just about to enter the wet months – not too warm, not too cold – yet having a relatively low number of tourists along with some affordable rates. These are the most preferred months to plan Bora Bora weddings.
Why a Destination Wedding in Bora Bora
The islands are listed among the top most romantic places on earth. The credits to Bora Bora being famous among couples has to go the Mount Otemanu which rises from amidst the vast ocean like a green emerald with a ring of corals around it.
The entire island is surrounded by an atoll. Diverse corals and largely thriving marine life are just some more beautiful add-ons to visit Bora Bora. If you want to plan your wedding at Bora Bora, there are few better options.
The resorts here are all specialized and experienced in wedding planning having arranged so many themselves. You can block your accommodation dates and ask the resorts to plan a wedding for you. They would be more than happy to put together a traditional French Polynesian wedding for you including flower garlands, local music, and amazing meals.
Bora Bora Weddings Cost
Bora Bora weddings can range from $2,500 to $10,000 on average, based on the package and venues you choose. These are just the costs of your wedding day including all arrangements made on the day itself and do not include your accommodations or airfare.
Bora Bora weddings are usually barefoot paradise. Such soft and white sands underneath and you want to be in your fancy shoes? A Big NO! Most weddings have a tropical theme with the couple being in their favorite tropical shorts and dresses. Add on some wreaths to give the couple a royal feel on the island, and you have a fun and bright Bora-bora-style wedding right there!
Wedding Package Bora Bora
I’m based in the San Francisco Bay Area, but travel all over for weddings. I offer a simplified all inclusive package (lodging, airfare, transportation, meals, included) starting at $10,000.
Conclusion
Now that you have everything you need to know for planning a wedding in Bora Bora, you can focus on the water sports, beaches and sightseeing of Bora Bora, Feel free to research excursions to neighboring French Polynesian islands like Tahiti or just relax in the premium resorts and recharge yourself to face the hustle and bustle of the city!
With its wide venue choices and extremely hospitable resorts and services, Bora Bora is an ideal wedding destination for international weddings. So what are you waiting for? Save the dates now!
If you’d like to chat about your wedding in Bora Bora, please CONTACT ME to discuss details!
How to Plan Weddings in Glacier National Park
How to Plan Weddings in Glacier National Park The Ultimate Guide for Planning Weddings in Glacier National Park(complete with pricing and photos) Nestled up in the Rocky Mountains in northern Montana, Glacier National Park has long been the pride of the region, offering residents and visitors stunning views, remarkable trails, and an abundance of outdoor experiences to relish in. Given the natural beauty of the park, it’s no mystery as to why some couples opt for weddings in Glacier National Park to be the ideal location for their nuptials, whether an elopement or a larger wedding. If you’re one of those couples, there are a few essential keys to planning weddings at Glacier National Park to make it as easy as possible. How to Get a Glacier National Park Wedding Permit Given the rising popularity of National Park weddings as well as the massive increase in elopements and micro weddings, it’s important that you go in with realistic expectations about the timeframes, availability, and possible waiting period required to book a wedding event in the park. It is unlikely you’ll be able to snag a Glacier National Park wedding on a whim and elope in just a few weeks time. To help meet your expectations when it comes to planning weddings at Glacier National Park, here are a few factors to account for when it comes to getting a Glacier National Park wedding permit: Permit requests: These can take weeks or months to process, depending on when you submit one. The park has had an influx in permit requests which means it’s going to take longer to filter and approve them. Availability: Just because you want a date, doesn’t mean it’s available. Requests are likely filtered on a first come, first serve basis. Go in with realistic expectations, especially if you’re putting in a request for an ideal location or time of year. Covid-delays: Covid has proven itself to be an unpredictable beast, and park closures or staffing shortages can further delay the planning process. You can find the application form here. Permit Specifications for Weddings in Glacier National Park Once you’ve narrowed down where and when you’d like to be married (while remaining flexible with available times/dates), it’s time to submit your permit. Permits are mandatory for any weddings in Glacier National Park, even if it’s just you, your partner, and an officiant. The National Park Service also recommends submitting an application no less than one month from your desired date, but no more than 12 months away. Between the increased number of elopement requests and staffing shortages, it may take some time to process. However, if the location/date you chose is not available, the Park service will call you and provide available locations/dates so that you don’t have to completely resubmit the permit application. Be ready for this call and be open-minded to changes! You should fill out the Glacier National Park wedding permit application form with as much information as you can provide regarding your wedding. You should have an idea of what services (photographer, videographer) or the number of guests you plan to have. Be specific on your application about location as well as the time of your ceremony. Most locations allow for two hour ceremonies, maximum. You will need to submit this along with information about what equipment you plan to use, so make sure you thoroughly read the location descriptions to find out what you can and cannot have in the area. This will need to be submitted along with a $125 application fee. Locations for Weddings in Glacier National Park Glacier National Park actually offers around 30 different locations across the park where couples can conduct their wedding. The smallest location, Kintla Lake, only allows for a maximum of 8 guests in total. This would include the officiant, photographer, guests, the couple, and any individuals part of the wedding. The largest locations (of which there are around 7) allow for a maximum of 30-50 guests, again including the couple, officiant, and anyone affiliated with the wedding. Once you’ve decided how many people you’d like to have attend the wedding, you can consider a few other factors to narrow down your desired location. Accessibility: Some locations are accessible only for walking, with no cars or wheelchairs able to reach the location. If you have elderly grandparents you want to attend, for example, these may not be ideal locations. The photos below show the locations that are pet friendly, as well. Best Times for Weddings in Glacier National Park Peak season and low seasons have different restrictions. For example, during peak season months, the Fish Creek Amphitheater has a maximum capacity of 30 participants, while in the low season, the maximum is 50 participants. The park considers the high season to be early May to Early October, and the low season runs from early October to the following start of May. Even still, some areas are only open during even more restricted months, like the Juniper River location, which is only available from June through October. Facility Limitations for Weddings at Glacier National Park This is a National Park, and as such, some places are restricted in their facilities available to visitors and guests. Certain wedding sites, like Ryan Beach, don’t have any access to things like bathrooms and trash cans, and visitors are expected to follow No Trace Principles, leaving behind zero evidence of their presence. Restrictions for Weddings in Glacier National Park Keep in mind that getting married in a National Park is not the traditional route for most, so you can’t expect to have the most traditional wedding. Some of the locations do not allow certain items and equipment. They may specify no tables or chairs may be brought in, or that you can’t have florals at a location. Perhaps they don’t allow amplified sound. Keep these in mind when picking where you want your ceremony. Conclusion Once you have your location decided and your permit is approved, nail down the final details!
How to Plan Weddings in Yosemite National Park
How to Plan Weddings in Yosemite National Park The Ultimate Guide for Planning Weddings in Yosemite National Park (complete with pricing and photos) If you are looking for information on planning weddings in Yosemite National Park you have come to the right place! There’s little doubt as to why it is among the most popular national parks in the US, with its granite domes, scenic viewpoints, and towering waterfalls. It is one of the best backdrops to have your wedding photos taken in any season! Read below for information How to Get a Permit for Weddings in Yosemite National Park Every ceremony requires a nonrefundable $150 permit, as well as a separate photo/video permit You can schedule your wedding event for up to a year in advance or at least 21 days before the date. Yosemite is one of most popular National Park Wedding Venues so I highly recommend submitting your application sooner than later to avoid any delays and headaches in sheduling. Locations for Yosemite National Park Weddings and Photos Yosemite has iconic photo backdrops that blend perfectly with the surrounding. If you want the best sunset view, you can check out Taft Point for its daring views of the falls and valley. Glacier Point serves as the must have Yosemite background of Half Dome, followed closely by Tunnel View. If you want waterfalls, Bridalveil Falls is the most accessible and is a short easy hike. And finally on the outskirts of the park, Mariposa Grove serves as a more unexpected Yosemite National Park wedding venue if you want to be dwarfed by these majestic trees. The indoor locations include the central Ahwahnee Hotel, and the nearby Convict Lake Resort and Evergreen Lodge. Check out the more complete list of ceremony specific locations. Check the availability of these locations as some are closed down during certain times, especially in the winter (such as Glacier Point). Best Times for Weddings at Yosemite National Park Choose a date or season that is special to you and will be for years to come. Have other options available because Yosemite tends to get crowded in peak seasons, during the summer and spring, when the waterfalls are gushing. Summer is the most popular time, but doing a winter wedding can also allow for some spectacular and quiet images. Springtime has the most color and most water in the falls, however. If you are real lucky, you can be there during a “snowfall” whereas the trees are colored from the spring change, but there was a fresh coat of snow the day before to have the unique view of Yosemite that I personally have only seen once in my life! Places to Stay There are plenty of places to explore, so a single day wouldn’t be enough for your wedding in Yosemite National Park. To get the whole experience, check out accommodations in camping locations, cabins, and resorts within and outside the park or even Airbnbs. Top places include Yosemite Valley Lodge, Autocamp, and the Ahwahnee Hotel. Groveland is the nearest town right outside Yosemite. Oakhurst is a 30 minute drive outside the Park as well. Most Popular Yosemite Elopement Locations There are plenty of picturesque places for Yosemite National Park weddings. Some of the places for smaller elopements you can consider include Tenaya Lake, Mirror Lake, Cook’s Meadow, and Washburn Point. Each of these places is available all-year-round, but all still require a Yosemite National Park wedding permit. Conclusion Yosemite National Park Weddings offer the most magical outdoor experiences you can imagine. If you have ever been there, you know why it is one of the most popular national parks in the USA…and why it is one of my favorite places in the world to visit! With so much natural beauty, and so much variety all within the Park, it is arguably the best place to elope in the US! If you are thinking of other California elopement locations, see my posts about the Best Places to Elope in San Francisco or the Best Places to Elope in Lake Tahoe for more wedding planning help. If you would like to discuss your Yosemite National Park wedding please CONTACT ME to discuss ideas! Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com 762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118
How to Guide : Planning Zion National Park Weddings
How to Guide : Planning Zion National Park Weddings The Ultimate Guide for Planning Zion National Park Weddings (complete with pricing and photos) If you are interested in planning Zion National Park Weddings this guide is for you! Once you walk amongst the red rock you will be in immediate awe and wonder of this magical place, thus making some awesome photos and memories! Amidst the natural beauty and marriage of sandstone cliffs and water are beautiful spots worthy of some awesome wedding photos. Read below for a breakdown of what you need to do before your wedding in Zion National Park. Locations for Weddings at Zion National Park Weddings at Zion National Park must adhere to the park’s regulations. You have to obtain a permit to have your ceremony at one of the six sanctioned Zion National Park wedding venues : the Temple of Sinewava, Menu Falls, Zion Lodge Lawn, Nature Center North Lawn, South Campground Amphitheater, and Timber Creek Overlook. There’s no likelihood of anyone getting permits for locations other than these. You can take photos anywhere else in the park, but wedding ceremonies must be in designated places. After you have decided on the date(s), you can check the availability of the locations, and if they match your plans, you can continue with booking. Weddings at Zion National Park are best during spring when flowers are blooming and trees are budding, and if you’re lucky, the river water level is just about right. Summer is also great with all the greenery, but the crowds are twice as large. Therefore, if you wish to have an intimate wedding, summer might not be the best time to have it. Every other season can still be great. It all depends on what you prefer for your elopement. Permits for Zion National Park Weddings As with all national parks, Zion National Park weddings require a permit for the location chosen. It is always recommended to get permits for weddings in Zion National Park much earlier than you think to avoid any potential headaches. It is a minimum to get it at least 21 days ahead of time, but I highly recommend getting it as soon as you set a date. You will also need to have a marriage license with you during the event, and since it’s only valid for 30 days, get it after everything else is set. The wedding costs here are lower than elsewhere, so you can have your dream wedding at a dreamy cost too! Vendors for Zion National Park Weddings Working with an organized vendor who already knows the park makes things a lot easier. You can get a wedding planner to take care of every detail and choose your favorite photographer (hi!!!) to capture the special moments. The rest of your dream wedding team can have a stylist, florist, caterer, cake designer, officiant, and anyone else you need. Read the reviews on the vendors and get someone who can match your style and unique requirements. Some planners and vendors are available locally, while others may need to fly in. If you are wanting some awesome candid photography for your once in a lifetime wedding celebration, please CONTACT ME to discuss ideas! Suggested Hikes in Zion National Park The beauty of Zion National Park doesn’t just lie in having an elopement, but also the many options to hike! Ones that I have done and personally recommend include Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook. Conclusion After getting married, you have to explore the rest of Zion National Park. Take as many photos on creeks, canyons, and other beautiful spots as you like. Afterward, you can have cocktails at any of the nearby resorts or tacos at the Whiptail Grill. As a side note, you can have your wedding outside of Zion National Park, especially if you have more guests than they’ll allow in the actual ceremony. There are plenty of places you can choose from, which offer the same magical taste of Zion National Park. Some places worth considering include St. George and Springdale, whic are just a short drive from the park. If you would like to have a Zion National Park wedding, please CONTACT ME to discuss ideas! Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com 762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118
How to Plan a Wedding in Big Sur
How to Plan a Wedding in Big Sur The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding in Big Sur (complete with tips and venue information) There are few places on the west coast as stunning as having a wedding in Big Sur. Known for state parks and coastal scenery, countless couples have planned their wedding in Big Sur and it is becoming one of the more popular locations to exchange vows and take wedding photos. Below is the ultimate guide for all your planning needs for a wedding in Big Sur. 1 Simple Method to Having a Wedding in Big Sur All you really need to plan your elopement or wedding in Big Sur is an officiant, a marriage license, and one witness. And of course, CONTACTING a photographer like me! Getting the Marriage License Your wedding in Big Sur can’t be official without a marriage license. In California, a marriage license can be obtained in any county for a ceremony held in the state, even if the marriage is held in a different county. Big Sur is in Monterey County, so you can get the license from San Francisco County, for example. However, you must return the license to the county that issued it, along with the signature of the officiant and at least one witness. For out of town couples, it’s popular to stay in San Francisco while having your wedding in Big Sur. If this is the case with you, read up on how to get your marriage license in my San Francisco City Hall Weddings Planning Guide And if you are flexible with locations, take a look at the Best Places to Have an Elopement in San Francisco Big Sur Wedding Permit Best Times of the Year for a Wedding in Big Sur There are more ideal times to have your wedding at Big Sur. Perhaps the safest is Fall for its warmer weather, color, and clear skies. However, anytime between March and October is suitable while the winter months may be a bit too cold and overcast. Rain does tend to occur in early Spring so plan accordingly. If you plan it right, you can time your wedding in Big Sur with the warmest time of the year around September and October and if you’re lucky, can make a stop to see the visiting monarch butterflies nearby in Pacific Grove Photo Locations for a Wedding in Big Sur Regardless of where you host your wedding at Big Sur, you will have many breathtaking locations for photos nearby. The Bixby Bridge on Highway 1 provides a unique backdrop and is probably the most popular. Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a majestic location, particularly near sunset. Rocky Point Restaurant provides a scenic overlook set aside rugged coastal cliffs. Finally, Garrapata Trail is a perfect backdrop filled with wildflowers during spring and summer. Bixby Bridge Iconic Big Sur Coastline Big Sur Elopement Packages Big Sur elopement packages are typically customized to fit your needs, but start at $2000 for 3 hours. A sample elopement in Big Sur consists of getting ready/details, the wedding ceremony, group photos, couples portraits, and a reception. For the more adventurous couples, doing multiple photo locations around gorgeous Big Sur is highly recommended to take advantage of the stunning coastline and scenic views Best Wedding Venues in Big Sur CA Big Sur is popular for elopements and marrying on cliffs overlooking the ocean, but for those who want an actual venue that’s no problem either! Let’s take a look at some of my favorite wedding venues in Big Sur CA. Big Sur Lodge Rental Fee: $599 – $1,199 This is one of the most classic Big Sur wedding venues around the area. Big Sur Lodge is located in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park with indoor and outdoor seating. Most popular is the Redwood Patio, located next to a flowing stream. There is also an option for a picnic style rehearsal dinner in the state park. This is easily the most popular place to have a wedding at Big Sur. Ventana Contact for pricing Ventana is a resort that prides itself on a wide variety of options for your wedding in Big Sur. The blending of the ocean, forests, and mountains at this Big Sur wedding venue will leave you in awe. With over 12,000 feet of event space, there is a setting for a wedding of any size. Sur Visa is an outdoor overlook adorned with picnic tables and elegant landscaping. Redwood Cathedral provides a space surrounded by towering trees. The Loft blends natural woods with modern décor to create an intimate indoor setting. This is definitely one of the most diverse wedding venues in Big Sur CA to fit your needs. Check out my Ventana Big Sur Wedding Guide for more details Loma Vista Gardens Rental Fee: $5,400 – $18,400 depending on size and day Loma Vista was named for the its beautiful views, making this one of my favorite wedding venues in Big Sur CA. The location is backdropped by mountains and has elegantly manicured landscaping including cactus gardens. With packages for traditional and elopement weddings, Loma Vista Gardens can customize the perfect ceremony for any types of wedding in Big Sur. This locale is a great choice for couples wanting a rustic feel for an outdoor ceremony. Point 16 Contact for pricing Located about half an hour outside of downtown, Point 16 is an area off of Highway 1 that is frequently used for planning a wedding in Big Sur. There is perhaps no better view in the area as Point 16 overlooks the beauty of the Pacific Ocean from a lush hillside meadow. There is no bad time for a wedding here as any time of day will provide an excellent view for your wedding at Big Sur. Post Ranch Inn Rental Fee: $6,000Small weddings: $5,500 – $6,600Elopements: $3,900 You haven’t seen Big Sur until you’ve seen a sunset from the Post Ranch Inn’s view of the Pacific Ocean. Couples will find a variety of packages
10 Best Places to Elope in Lake Tahoe – with Pricing
Elope in Lake Tahoe (updated 2025) The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Lake Tahoe (with pricing, locations, and packages) Considering eloping in Lake Tahoe? Looking for the best places to elope in Lake Tahoe? I’d love to be your Lake Tahoe Wedding Photographer and capture your big day with a focus on candid storytelling and creating unique portraits! Read below for the ultimate planning guide to help you decide if eloping in Lake Tahoe is for you! Why Elope in Lake Tahoe Lake Tahoe is known for its tranquil blue waters and quiet solitude where one can enjoy being out in nature only a few hours away from a major city. With so many hiking trails, scenic vistas, easily accessible waterfalls and epic drives, it is no wonder more people are choosing to elope in Lake Tahoe now more than ever to have a more intimate ceremony surrounded by the perfect setting for wedding photographs. Best Time for Eloping in Lake Tahoe If you ask me, I would say Spring is the best time overall to elope in Lake Tahoe, ranging from March – mid June. Arguably the busiest (and best) time for an elopement in Lake Tahoe is during the summer months June to August, as most attractions are open and weather is perfect. In addition, catching the Fourth of July celebrations might also be something worth considering. For fall foliage, October up until mid-November is best, and there’s nothing like capturing the fall colors in your wedding photos! Of course, if the quiet of winter and snow are more appealing, the winter months of November through January are best for your Lake Tahoe elopement (although the second most busy time of the year in Lake Tahoe). For visitors who simply want to avoid tourist season, September through November is best. Elopement Packages in Lake Tahoe Elopement packages in Lake Tahoe start at $4000 for 4 hours to take full advantage of telling your wedding day story.Please CONTACT ME to discuss eloping in Lake Tahoe! The locations below are some of the best places to elope in Lake Tahoe and offer some awesome backdrops. Many people visit Lake Tahoe from out of town, then go to San Francisco afterwards to take in the sights in the popular City. If you are thinking of eloping closer to SF, check out the Best Places to Elope in San Francisco. Permit Info to Elope in Lake Tahoe Lake Tahoe is a little notorious for being overwhelmed with elopement permits and photo permit requests. With such beauty and multiple places to elope in Lake Tahoe, your best bet is to call the office but here is the permit application page to start the process. It is recommended to allow at least 60 days to get a permit for your Lake Tahoe elopement. Any National Forest land requires a permit as well. Depending on what state you are in, the photography permit is different. Here’s the Nevada photo permit office Where to Elope in South Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay State Park Lookout 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150Rental Fee : $695 – $795 + site permit fee If you look up the best places to elope in Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park is definitely at the top of most lists! With iconic views overlooking Lake Tahoe. this is also the most visited lookout in all of Lake Tahoe. It is best photographed during sunrise, since the surrounding hills block the sun as it sets in the afternoon. Lakeside Beach 4081 Lakeshore Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150Rental Fee : $700 – $900 A more unique elopement location in that it is located on a beach, a Lakeside Beach wedding has it all – seating, a ceremony arch, and the lake view! It shares the beach with the public technically, but is separated by a fence so you have a private area for your elopement. Logan Shoals Vista Point Lake Shore Blvd, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448Rental Fee : $645 – $695 (site permit included) This popular location is situated along the road, so it is one of the more common locations to pull over and explore in South Lake Tahoe. Seemingly made for elopements, they have a designated area within a short walk from the roadside parking. Gorgeous scenic views during sunset make this one of the best places to elope in Lake Tahoe. Tahoe Paradise Park 1011 W San Bernardino Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150Rental Fee : $1025 – $1225 (ceremony only, site permit included) This more hidden park is located in the middle of a residential area, so is more commonly visited by the locals using the pickle ball courts or going for a little walk around the small lake. With a clubhouse, tented area, and 2 hour minimum, this hidden elopement location could be perfect for you! This is one of the best places to elope in Lake Tahoe but also has room for up to 300 people in the tented area. All sounds good? I’d love to discuss with you my elopement packages in Lake Tahoe CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS ELOPING IN LAKE TAHOE D.L. Bliss State Park 9881 CA-89, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 Despite not as popular as Emerald Bay State Park, this park nevertheless offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe and is a great elopement location. If you enjoy hiking to your ceremony location, this is a solid choice. Spooner Lake Nevada 89703 This quiet Lake offers a few areas for your elopement ceremony, with the most popular and scenic area near the main entrance. If you walk further around the lake, you can easily find a quiet area amongst the trees to say your vows. This is one of the best places to elope in Lake Tahoe if you want to have fall foliage since the reflection of the trees in the water are quite memorable. Sugar Pine Point State Park Pier Tahoma, CA 96142 Sugar Pine Point State Park is known for its pier
Venues for Weddings in San Francisco
The 50+ Most Popular Venues for Weddings in San Francisco Ultimate Guide to the Top Venues for Weddings in San Francisco (with pricing, photos, and videos) Here is a list of the best venues for weddings in San Francisco (updated for 2022!). We are so lucky to have such a wide variety of settings in the Bay Area ranging from giant redwood groves, rustic barns, elegant historic buildings, and more, and within a short drive from San Francisco. With so many options for venues for weddings in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area, it is inevitable I missed some so please feel free to let me know. I will periodically update this page with more photos, individual blog posts, or videos to give you the best most comprehensive information to help plan your dream wedding. If you would like my honest opinion of your venue choices feel free to CONTACT ME – happy to help! Favorite San Francisco Elopement Locations: The Mountain Terrace, Shelldance Orchid Gardens, Hastings House Garden Weddings My Personal Favorite Venues for Weddings in San Francisco: Muir WoodsShelldance Orchid GardensPalace of Fine ArtsSan Francisco City HallLegion of HonorStern GroveThe Olympic ClubThe Mountain TerraceHastings House Garden Weddings Best “Only in San Francisco” Venues for Weddings in San Francisco: Want a location that shows off that you are in San Francisco? All of these wedding venues in San Francisco have views of the Golden Gate Bridge or other San Francisco landmarks. Hornblower Cruises (SF) Rental Fee : $118 / person For one of the more unique venues for weddings in San Francisco, why not sail around the San Francisco Bay! This popular and unique excursion allows you and your guest unique views of San Francisco as well as the ability to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge for some unique photographs. In addition, their food is world class from my own experiences. Cavallo Point (Sausalito) Rental Fee : Contact for pricing Located across the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito, no other wedding venues in SF shows off the Golden Gate Bridge as nicely as Cavallo Point. Sitting across a hill overlooking the Bridge and the Bay, choosing this San Francisco wedding venue will treat your guests to one of the most breathtaking views of San Francisco. Hotel Vitale (SF) Packages : $185 – $260 / person Situated along the Embarcadero, Hotel Vitale offers a panoramic view of both the Bay Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. It is one of the few rooftop venues for weddings in San Francisco as well. Being a hotel, they offer all inclusive services for you and your guests. Fort Mason Center (SF) Rental Fee : $1,650 – $11,000 The Fort Mason Center offers several wedding venues in SF but the most popular ones are the General’s Residence, Gallery 308, and the smaller Firehouse, each offering their own unique setting for your wedding day. Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in San Francisco: Love to be surrounded by trees and being outdoors in nature? These are the best wedding venues in SF and beyond with gorgeous views. The Mountain Terrace (Woodside) Rental Fee : $2,500 – $4,500 (ceremony only) With decades-old trees acting as a wedding ceremony backdrop, The Mountain Terrace is the ideal setting for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and basking in the sun and fresh air. With a recently remodeled mega deck, they allow several options for outdoor and indoor receptions, making this one of my favorite wedding venues in SF. Read more about The Mountain Terrace with my walkthrough https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibmrGG9xbac Muir Woods (Mill Valley) Permit Fee : $60 for up to 30 guests This popular elopement destination offers the perfect escape to nature by surrounding you with redwood groves all around. It is centrally located between San Francisco and Napa, allowing your out of town guests options in how they explore northern California. In addition to SF City Hall, this is one of my favorite wedding venues in SF for its simplicity and beauty for elopements and small weddings. Check out my Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding in Muir Woods for more details! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHcJNX09nCk Hastings House Garden Weddings (Half Moon Bay) Packages start at : $12,000 If you are looking for a secluded “secret” garden look no further than the Hastings House Garden Weddings for your elopement! This enchanting garden only allows for a small number of guests and is seemingly made just for elopements. You need little to no decor at this wedding venue in Half Moon Bay since the beauty is all around you! Read more about Hastings House Garden Weddings with my walkthrough Shakespeare Garden (SF) Reservation Fee : $506Hourly Rate : $144 (2 hour min)Refundable Deposit : $500 One of the best places to elope in San Francisco, this small garden in Golden Gate Park allows a great setting for an intimate place to say your vows. One of the more affordable and secluded wedding venues in SF, this is also the most popular Golden Gate Park wedding venue for those wanting a more natural background. Check out this Shakespeare Garden Wedding for inspiration! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIF4ytamSm0 Like what you see? Which venues for weddings in San Francisco fit your style? CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS SAN FRANCISCO WEDDING VENUES Old Mill Park (Mill Valley) Rental Fee : $125 – $275 / hourRefundable Deposit : $100 – $1,000 Located in Mill Valley across the Golden Gate Bridge, Old Mill Park is one of the most popular venues for weddings in San Francisco and perfect for those who love nature. They have a separate ampitheater that comes with its own staging and seating, making it a convenient wedding venue in San Francisco for large and small weddings. Check out my Ultimate Planning Guide for an Old Mill Park Wedding SF Botanical Garden Rental Fee : $875 – $10,000 This well manicured Garden in the middle of Golden Gate Park is one of the more forgotten wedding venues in SF since Golden Gate Park is so large. With 55 acres showcasing plants from all over the world, they offer the perfect natural
Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below!
415 756 9335
ianchinphotography@gmail.com
762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.