When 2020 took a sharp U-turn in March, engaged couples and wedding professionals alike struggled to hold on through the curves. Flexibility became the keyword for the year. For couples who were planning to have a large summer wedding, well… those plans changed. Some chose to postpone while others pivoted to a Lake Tahoe elopement and, of course, some had been planning an intimate elopement all along! All in all, it was an epic year for elopements which made it very difficult to choose our favorites. Scroll on for just a few of the best.
(2020 also saw the advent of the microwedding – the best of which you can find here!)
There’s something so nostalgic about a vintage getaway car and for this couple, it was extra special: the red ’57 Healy was also featured in the groom’s parents’ wedding in 1987.
SECLUSION & SINGLETRACK
Caroline and Greg’s intimate camping elopement near Kirkwood singlehandedly made tailgate receptions for two a thing! Afterwards, they hopped on their mountain bikes to get after it on the trail.
SMALL & STYLISH
This couple may have changed their plans but they didn’t sacrifice on style! A small group of family attended their elopement and they’ll have their larger wedding next year.
LEAP OF LOVE
Sabrina and Leo took part in Squaw-Alpine’s “Leap of Love” leap-year elopement ceremony on February 29, 2020, after which photographer Holly Shankland popped on her skis and chased them around the hill. They even shared a wedding cake on the lift!
Holly Shankland Photography | Squaw-Alpine | Ceremonies by Meredith (Officiant)
BACKCOUNTRY ROMANCE
Jocelyn Noel Photography
This couple backpacked into Desolation Wilderness with two friends and eloped near Lake Aloha!
Jocelyn Noel Photography
After covid derailed Jess and Paul’s original day… and several plans after that… they simply set out for a sunset sailing elopement that was perfect in every way.
ON THE ROAD
Under The Redwoods Photography
Prediction: van elopements are the next big thing! This couple’s ceremony overlooked North Lake Tahoe and was followed by a champagne toast, delicious charcuterie, and a surprise video montage of sweet messages from friends and family.
Under The Redwoods Photography
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Jocelyn Noel Photography
Why settle for the mountains or the lake? Richelle and Martin hiked to a fire lookout for their elopement ceremony and then took a spin on the iconic Wild Goose II, stopping to take sunset photos on one of the East Shore’s sandy beaches. See it all here.
Mountain High Weddings (Officiant) | Jocelyn Noel Photography | Nancy Rise Artistry
FOREVER FAMILY
Kept Record Photography
You would never know that this couple’s elopement was planned just six weeks beforehand! Taylor’s mom and sister pitched in to help order the gorgeous flowers and his entire family made Katie feel so loved and supported (her family could not travel due to covid).
Kept Record Photography | Ceremonies by Meredith (Officiant)
Amanda and Eamon eloped on the pier at a lakeside private estate with a small group of family, proving all you need is true love and an amazing view. (Okay, a talented photographer and gorgeous bouquet are important too!)
STUNNING SUNSET
Charleton Churchill Photography
Matt and Brenda, two American educators currently teaching abroad in South Korea, originally planned a 150 person wedding at Tahoe Donner but, due to covid, eloped with just Brenda’s brother and mom (who also made the bride’s gorgeous dress). The couple credits their amazing Lake Tahoe wedding vendors with making their day absolutely perfect and gifted each of them a special ramen set from Korea. In turn, Mother Nature gifted them with a picture perfect sunset.
Charleton Churchill Photography | Blue Sky Events | Davey Hibler Productions (Videography) | Celebrations Party Rentals & Tents | Love & Lupines (Florals)