Tips on Planning a Tahoe Winter Wedding

Nicky Byrnes Weddings

The perfectly chic, winter wonderland wedding starts with finding the right location. You will be hard-pressed to find a venue more romantic than the snowy mountain tops of Lake Tahoe. The inviting chill and cozy backdrop of a Tahoe wedding can seem picturesque but can require a bit of skillful planning. Here’s how to turn your wooded, fairy-tale wedding into a reality without breaking the budget. When to Book Your Date Whether you dream of burgundy hues and gold or classic spruce tree elegance, all Tahoe couples can agree on one thing – all the pretty snow. Setting the perfect date for your wedding can make or break that dream. To ensure a serene background from the picture books, consider …

Granlibakken Tahoe Venue Spotlight

Granlibakken Tahoe Venue Spotlight

Nicky Byrnes Weddings

There was something in the air that day. You could feel the energy between Fay and Scott rustling through the trees as they eagerly awaited their wedding ceremony. There was a sense of great anticipation and good vibes that resonated from the private bridal dressing area. This couple truly sparkles with love and excitement, making it hard not to get caught up in the emotions of the day. Especially Scott’s first peek at his bride, as she stood tall and graceful among the sheltered first of the Lake Tahoe wooded valley. The Granlibakken Tahoe venue, tucked into the mountainous Tahoe area, was a perfect wedding and reception location for the playful couple. They had decided this was the absolute perfect …

Five Stunning Locations for Lake Tahoe Wedding Photos

Five Stunning Locations for Lake Tahoe Wedding Photos

Nicky Byrnes Weddings

You’ve made it through months of planning. You’ve chosen a destination, thrilled your second cousin’s daughter by asking her to be the flower girl, and picked the perfect table adornments. You’ve found the right cake, said, “yes” to the dress, and booked a honeymoon trip to die for. Destination weddings are all the rage these days, and Lake Tahoe doesn’t disappoint! If you are looking for the best locations to take photographs that will take your breath away for years to come, read on! Hidden Beach While Hidden Beach is located right next to Highway 28, it really is “hidden”! The beach is situated between giant boulders, hiding the highway from view. The beach provides a large sandy area, perfect …

Heidi and Gavin: Boho, DIY Wedding at Basecamp Hotel, South Lake Tahoe

Nicky Byrnes Weddings

Oh my WORD these two. When Heidi, Gavin and I first talked I was already geeked on shooting their wedding because it would be held at one of my fav places in South Lake Tahoe, Basecamp Hotel! I love the modern, sleek vibe of the hotel, they recently remodeled to put in an awesome beer garden with multiple mountain-view decks, and the best part, they’re all about sustainability! Did I mention there’s a vintage airstream in the beer garden? No? Well there is and it is awesome. Aaaaaanyhoo, of course I knew that Heidi and Gavin were my type of people. The whole day was just so peaceful and perfect. Gavin is so charming and funny, I definitely chuckled a …

Alli and Jonathan: Intimate, Laid-Back Wedding at Gar Woods

Nicky Byrnes Weddings

Alli and Jonathan have THE.CUTEST. story ever. They met in choir in high school and Alli had to convince shy Jonathan, through friends, to ask her out. They dated for a little while in high school, lost touch, then found each other years later in San Francisco. They’ve been together ever since! I know, you’re dying of adorable overload right? Even though they now live in Orange County, they fell in love in Northern California so Tahoe was an obvious choice for their wedding. Gar Woods is a gorgeous venue right on the lake in Carnelian Bay, CA known for their “wet-woody” (an insanely tasty blended rum drink that you should probably only have one of), a boat-in pier and …

5 Trends in Wedding Photography

5 Trends in Wedding Photography for 2016/2017

Neil belliveau Weddings

Whether your wedding theme is traditional, avant garde or rustic and homey, you are likely to want your wedding photos to look and feel original. After all, the love that you share with your fiancé is as unique as your own individual personalities, and even if your wedding is rather conventional, your photos should be fresh and distinct.  1. Candid Shots Long gone are the days of rigid, posed photos filled with forced photos and predictable set ups. In 2016 and beyond, candid shots are far more personal and meaningful. You will really appreciate all of those personal photos in the years to come – candid shots help the memories last forever. 2. Classic Film In this often purely digital …

Casey and Matt: Private Estate Wedding in Homewood, CA

Nicky Byrnes Weddings

Casey and Matt were married on a crisp August day at a private estate on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Though they live in Connecticut, they both feel a special connection to the mountains and thus chose Tahoe for their special day. There were lots of tears shed (possibly a few from this photographer….) and hugs given as the small group celebrated. I fell in love with this couple and I know you will too!!!! Thanks to these amazing vendors!!! Catering: Chef Jauquin Flowers: Blake’s Floral Design Hair and Makeup: Salon Be Decor: DIY by the bride’s sister Amanda Dekker Dress: “Jordan” by Truvelle

4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Photographer

Neil belliveau Weddings

Choosing your wedding photographer is an exciting process. After all, these photos will help you remember your big day for decades to come, and it is important that you are happy with the results. Are you struggling with how to choose your wedding photographer? Read our helpful tips below.  Does their style mesh with your ideal? While you may love the photos by a local photographer, this alone may not make them ideal for your wedding. It is key that you first assess their style. Do they tend to create very traditional, conservative prints? Are they wild and avant garde? Do they focus on the kinds of details that you find important (architecture and design vs. candid shots of family, …

Amanda and Lauren: Hellman-Ehrman Mansion Wedding

Nicky Byrnes Weddings

Amanda and Lauren were married on a gorgeous June day at Hellman Ehrman Mansion in Sugar Pine Point State Park. The event was stunning with Lauren’s mother and aunt Debbie Mcafee providing breathtaking floral design and adorable vintage finds. Both brides’ personalities shone brightly from Lauren’s batman, sneaker wedges to Amanda’s dreamy embellished gown. The day went off perfectly thanks to expert planning from Pattye and Cassie of Take the Cake Events. Vendors: Venue: Hellman Ehrman Mansion, Sugar Pine Point State Park, Tahoma, CA Planning/Day of Coordination: Take the Cake Events DJ and Lighting: Chromatic Events Caterer: Cherry Bomb Catering Rentals: Roundabout Catering and Rentals Videography: Mabble Media Cake: Sugar Pine Cakery Floral and Design: Lauren’s aunt Debbie McAfee