A High Sierra Elopement in Markleeville

Elopements

Aug 30

Robert and Lani had been planning a big summer 2020 wedding, becoming one of the thousands of couples whose celebrations were impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Determined to let love rule, they changed course, opting for an elopement that embraced the natural beauty of the High Sierra, as well as Robert's rich family history in the area.

With the assistance of wedding officiant Christa Deane of Mountain High Weddings and photographer Jaime Emery of Rose Street Studio, Robert and Lani selected Markleeville, near South Lake Tahoe, as the setting for their special day. The groom's family were homesteaders in Markleeville and Robert's father, Gary, joined the couple at the pub/restaurant where Christa issued their marriage license - and he was born!

From there they took a little tour of the town, taking photos at several locations, including the white clapboard one-room schoolhouse where both Robert and Gary's grandmothers went to school. The day culminated with a hike to a beautiful bluff overlooking Mt. Raymond, where the family frequently hunted and fished, for an intimate ceremony surrounded by snow capped peaks.

In the end, with a simple wildflower bouquet, their beautiful Weimaraner by their side, and all the wedding stress melted away, Robert and Lani declared they wouldn't have wanted to celebrate their love any other way.