Lake Tahoe is a dream destination wedding location. The lake. The mountains. The trees. The laid-back vibes. The good food. The views. The list goes on. For couples that live in the area, it’s a no-brainer destination for a wedding. But what if you’re from out of town? Should you have a destination wedding in Lake Tahoe? Although we’re slightly biased to the area, we understand that having a destination wedding isn’t for everyone. So let’s dive into Lake Tahoe destination wedding pros and cons to help you decide what’s best for you. 

Is It Inconsiderate To Have a Destination Wedding?

When considering planning an out-of-town wedding, a lot of couples struggle to answer, Is a destination wedding selfish? Is it inconsiderate to ask your guests to travel to celebrate with you?

Regardless of whether you live a few hours away or a few states away, we don’t think having a destination wedding is selfish. (And, to be honest, even if it is, it’s your wedding. It’s one of the only times that it makes sense to center everything around what you really want.)

The key is to make sure your guests feel included and appreciated. And there are lots of ways to do this! Just because some friends and family might not be able to make the trip doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the celebration.

First, consider live-streaming your ceremony. With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to set up a live stream so everyone can watch you say “I do” in real time, no matter where they are. It’s a fantastic way to include those who can’t travel, allowing them to feel they’re a part of your special day.

Another great idea is to throw a big post-wedding party back in your hometown. This way, everyone who couldn’t join you at the destination gets a chance to celebrate with you. Think of it as an extended honeymoon celebration where you can share photos, videos, and maybe even a snippet of your wedding vows. It’s like having your cake and eating it, too — literally!

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Destination Wedding?

While having a destination wedding isn’t selfish, it does come with a unique set of advantages and disadvantages to keep in mind. On the bright side, tying the knot in a breathtaking location (like Lake Tahoe) is the stuff of dreams! Also, a destination wedding usually means a smaller, more intimate guest list, so you get to celebrate with those who matter most. Plus, you can roll the wedding and honeymoon into one epic adventure, which is a pretty sweet deal. 

However, there are a few bumps to watch out for. Destination weddings can rack up the costs, not just for you but for your guests, too, with all the travel and accommodation expenses. Then there’s actually planning a destination wedding — sorting out travel plans and making sure everything you need gets there can be a bit of a headache. And let’s not forget, some folks might not be able to make it due to the travel, which could leave them feeling left out.

Lake Tahoe Destination Wedding Pros and Cons

Once you answer “Should I have a destination wedding?” with a resounding YES!, the next question is, “Should I have a destination wedding in Lake Tahoe?” Here are some pros and cons of a Lake Tahoe destination wedding to help you decide if this stunning location is the right fit for your big day.

Pro #1: It’s Stunning

One of the biggest draws of planning a destination wedding is getting to celebrate your love in a beautiful location. And that’s exactly what Lake Tahoe offers. Imagine tying the knot with the backdrop of crystal-clear waters and majestic mountains. The natural beauty here is out of this world, making every moment and photo absolutely breathtaking.

Pro #2: There’s Lots To Do

Another reason to love destination weddings is that they’re kind of like a mini vacation, so it’s important to choose a place with lots to do and see. Lake Tahoe is the perfect playground for everyone! Whether your guests are into skiing and snowboarding in the winter or hiking and boating in the summer, there’s no shortage of fun activities to keep everyone entertained. 

Some of our favorite hikes and adventures are:

You can find more ideas in our adventure wedding guide! 

Pro #3: There Are Venues Galore

Lake Tahoe seriously has it all when it comes to wedding venues. From luxurious lakeside resorts to charming mountain lodges and elegant golf clubs, your options are endless. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic outdoor ceremony or a swanky indoor reception, you’ll find the perfect spot that screams “you.” 

Our recommendation? North Tahoe Event Center, of course! We’re steps from the lake’s shore with mountain views from our Beachfront Terrace and Lakeview Suite, perfect for an indoor-outdoor wedding that’s the best of both worlds. 

Pro #4: It’s Amazing Year-Round

With its diverse seasonal offerings, Lake Tahoe is a fantastic destination wedding location year-round. Winter weddings can feature cozy fireplaces and snowy vistas, while summer weddings can take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful outdoor settings. The fall foliage and spring blooms also offer picturesque options for your special day.

Pro #5: The Wedding Pros Rock

Because Lake Tahoe is such a sought-after wedding destination, the vendors in the area are top-notch. Everything from gourmet caterers serving up delicious local cuisine to talented photographers capturing every magical moment and florists creating stunning arrangements — you’re in great hands here. And to help you find the perfect pros for your wedding, you can check out our vendor recommendations!

Con #1: The Weather Can Be Unpredictable

While the weather in Lake Tahoe can be breathtaking, it can also be quite unpredictable. Snowstorms in the winter and sudden rain showers in the summer can disrupt outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Having a solid backup plan, such as an indoor venue option, is essential to avoid any weather-related mishaps. 

If you have your wedding at North Tahoe Event Center, our solution is simple: we have stunning indoor spaces so you can enjoy your celebration, rain or shine! 

Con #2: Travel Can Take Time

Getting to Lake Tahoe can be a bit challenging, especially for guests traveling from far away. The nearest major airports are in Reno, Nevada, and Sacramento, California, requiring additional travel by car or shuttle. Coordinating transportation and making sure everyone arrives on time can add an extra layer of complexity to your wedding planning.

Prioritizing your guest experience is super important. Learn how to elevate the guest experience to make sure they have an amazing time at your destination wedding, too! 

Con #3: Accommodations Fill Up Fast

Lake Tahoe is a popular tourist destination, which means finding accommodations during peak seasons can be tough. Hotels and rental properties can book up quickly, and prices may soar, especially during holiday weekends or major events. It’s really important to book accommodations well in advance and possibly reserve room blocks for your guests to avoid any last-minute issues.

If you book North Tahoe Event Center for your special day, we’ll help you choose the perfect accommodations in the area to make sure all your guests are comfortable during their stay!

Your Lake Tahoe Destination Wedding Awaits at North Tahoe Event Center

If you feel like the Lake Tahoe destination wedding pros outweigh the cons, it’s time to start planning! Up first? Book a venue to bring your dream celebration to life, like North Tahoe Event Center.

Our space is ideal because it offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your special day. With versatile event spaces that can be tailored to fit any style or size of celebration, you’ll find the perfect setting for both your ceremony and reception. Our experienced staff is dedicated to ensuring every detail is flawlessly executed, from setup to teardown, so you can relax and enjoy every moment. 

Conveniently located with easy access to lodging and local attractions, North Tahoe Event Center provides everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience. Contact us today, and let us help you create the wedding of your dreams in one of the most beautiful destinations on earth.