Welcome Back!

We are thrilled to welcome visitors back to Lake Tahoe after the recent Caldor Fire. Thanks to the tireless work of all the front-line heroes and agencies who worked to protect our town and forests, Tahoe South is open and thriving. It’s the perfect time to secure your wedding date!

It seems the holidays start earlier and earlier every year, doesn’t it? Why not join in the excitement by throwing an extravagant holiday event of your own? Give friends and family a reason to celebrate in the winter wonderland of Lake Tahoe next year by announcing a holiday-season wedding for 2012. The months of November and December are considered low season at most locations around the Lake as venues gear down from summer before getting ready to gear up for winter… Which means great rates, several lodging options and a quieter resort town setting often reserved just for the locals.

Fall Colors

There’s nothing more romantic than the golden glow offered by aspen trees during the fall season in the High Sierra. Gather with the ones you love in a sweet grove near Fallen Leaf Lake at a rustic chapel or in Hope Valley for an even more romantic and private setting near the Carson River. Be careful though – fall colors disappear just as quickly as they arrive… Typically just a two week window during the month of October.

Winter Wonderland

Imagine walking down the aisle through a snow covered meadow… Or peeking through the windows on a crisp alpine evening as the sun sets over Lake Tahoe. Don a furry shawl to keep your shoulders warm for photos – this sassy new trend is taking the fashion industry by storm, with many department stores offering faux versions for under $100. If you’re lucky enough to have a few inches of snow for your big day, reach out to local sleigh ride companies for a fun twist to the reception by offering guests a chance to go dashing through the snow between dances.

Go Play Outside

While you’re thinking the off season may mean less activity options… Think again! South Lake Tahoe is a local’s dream during the off season and can be yours, too. (Don’t tell anyone I told you!) Many of our regional golf courses offer great rates during the fall and early winter months, mountain biking trails are at some of their best conditions of the entire year with sporadic rain showers and cold nights and then there’s the paddlewheelers… There’s nothing more fantastic than a sunset from the decks of the Tahoe Queen or MS Dixie II during the early winter months.

Add Some Sparkle

Remiss for ideas on decor that reach beyond the typical red and green holiday colors? Add some sparkle. Try a winter white and platinum palate decorated with accents of sparkle… Toss a little bling out onto tables with rhinestones or crystals, hang twinkling accent chandeliers and play up your centerpieces with decorative branches adorned with ribbons or bows. If color is your thing, consider tossing a few hints of deep navy or an electric blue for a fun twist… And if your soon-to-be Mr or Mrs has a fun spirit, try magenta or fuschia on for size. They’re spectacular holiday accents!

Holiday Elopements

There’s still time. Yes, you CAN get married in 2011 at South Lake Tahoe. Your best bet? Contact a local wedding planner who can help you get everything dialed in on short notice, then get ready to say “I Do” with those closest to you.

Get the Drift?

Snow drift, that is? Come on up to South Shore this holiday season to see things for yourself. Check out a few venues, reach out to a few planners and find out why so many locals live for this time of year at Lake Tahoe. We’re sure you’ll be thrilled you did!