Planning a wedding in Lake Tahoe is an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience for couples. The area is home to many great wedding venues and vendors. However, a Tahoe event may come with challenges for couples planning a wedding on a budget. But fear not! Follow the tips and tricks in this blog, and you’ll be well on your way to planning your dream Lake Tahoe wedding on a budget.
What is a Reasonable Budget for a Lake Tahoe Wedding?
When it comes to a Lake Tahoe wedding, the cost can vary quite drastically. In 2021, the average California wedding cost $40,000. However, Lake Tahoe is one of the most sought-after wedding locations in the world, so it’s not unusual for couples to pay more than this. Fortunately, there are a variety of venues that range from high-end to reasonably priced, so there is something in Lake Tahoe for everyone.
6 Tips for Planning Your Lake Tahoe Wedding on a Budget
Planning your Lake Tahoe wedding on a budget doesn’t have to be stressful. With these six tips, you’ll find clever and practical ways to save on your big day while still creating the wedding of your dreams.
1. Choose an Affordable (Yet Beautiful) Lake Tahoe Wedding Venue
When it comes to Lake Tahoe wedding venues, you may feel it’s impossible to find one with incredible views within your budget. Fortunately, that is not the case at all! With all the scenery in and around Lake Tahoe, finding an amazing venue for a wedding on a budget isn’t hard. For example, North Tahoe Event Center is an affordable yet beautiful lakefront venue with services to create the most magical wedding experience.
2. Hire a Wedding Planner
When planning your Lake Tahoe wedding on a budget, hiring a wedding planner is something to consider. This may sound like a large upfront cost, but it will actually save you a lot of money in the long run. Wedding planners know the best vendors in the area, have industry relationships that can produce discounts, and know tips for making your budget go further. Having a wedding planner to check your guest list, ensure you don’t overdo food, drinks, or seating, and fine-tune the little details will keep your wedding on a budget and help you stress less leading up to your big day.
3. Buy Secondhand or DIY Your Wedding Decor
Instead of buying brand new decor, you can rent, buy secondhand, or create your decor yourself. Some vendors offer pre-used wedding decor to rent or purchase. You can also look on Facebook Marketplace or ask your recently married friends if they have items to spare. If you are crafty and into DIY, Pinterest and Etsy are great places to find inspiration and create beautiful decor for your wedding on a budget.
4. Cap Your Guests List at 100 or Fewer
One of the most prominent ways to have a Lake Tahoe wedding on a budget is to narrow down your guest list. Inviting 100 or fewer guests to your wedding can exponentially decrease the money you spend on vendors. You may even consider a micro wedding with 30 guests or fewer. A smaller wedding enables you to reshape your budget to have your dream wedding while still sharing the day with those you love the most.
5. Consider Having a Weekday Wedding
While this may not be an option for everyone, holding your wedding on a weekday is typically more affordable. You’ll likely have more options at more affordable prices since vendors and venues are not usually booked during the week. While it may be trickier for some guests to attend, it will also allow for less expensive accommodations for those traveling to the area.
6. Recruit Your Friends and Family to Help
Do any of your friends have an eye for beautiful florals? Do you have a cousin who happens to be a DJ? Using the skills and passions of your family and friends can be another way to plan a Lake Tahoe wedding on a budget. Have your loved ones recommend vendors or even become ordained to marry you! These are just a couple of ways your friends and family can support your budget-friendly wedding.
Can You Get Married on the Beach in Tahoe on a Budget?
If you’re planning a Lake Tahoe wedding on a budget, but you still want a classic lakeside event, is that possible? At the North Tahoe Event Center, it is! Lakeside venues in Tahoe are usually super expensive, but we offer an affordable, breathtaking venue right on the shore of the lake. Our specialty is providing our couples and their guests with the most spectacular views of the lake and nearby mountains at a reasonable price.
Have Your Lake Tahoe Wedding on a Budget with Us
Now that you’ve learned a few tips and tricks for having a Lake Tahoe wedding on a budget, you’re ready to dial in your finances and start booking your venue and vendors! Choosing North Tahoe Event Center for your big day honors your wedding budget and provides the ever-desirable lakefront ceremony spot. Check out our different wedding packages to find the perfect fit for your special day in Lake Tahoe!
