How to Plan Intentional Elopement Activities Like This Adventurous Lake Tahoe Elopement Day

Planning an elopement is about more than just saying “I do.” It’s a chance to design a day full of intentional elopement activities, epic adventures, and heartfelt celebrations that tell your love story in the most meaningful way. Ruth and Joshua’s Lake Tahoe elopement was pure magic. A perfect blend of personal touches, adventure, and the raw beauty of the outdoors. And I’m here for all of it. Whether you’re thinking about an elopement in Lake Tahoe or another breathtaking spot, let’s chat about how you can create a day that’s uniquely yours.

a couple sitting on a dock looking out at Lake Tahoe as one of their Elopement Activities

a couple saying their vows next to a waterfall in Lake Tahoe

Meet Ruth & Joshua: A Love Rooted in Chemistry (Literally)

Ruth and Joshua’s love story began during their undergrad years, studying chemistry and physics under my parents, who were college professors (yup, we’re all in STEM/STEAM over here!). Fast forward to today: Ruth is out there crushing it in her PhD program, and Joshua is her rock—both literally and figuratively. With their shared love for adventure, their dream of exploring Lake Tahoe finally became a reality for their perfect elopement.

Despite Ruth recovering from a torn knee ligament, their adventurous spirits were unstoppable! Joshua was right there to help her navigate every trail and climb every rock, and their love shone in every single moment.

newly weds laughing together as they enjoy an picnic as an Elopement Activity after their ceremony

bridal portrait in a flower meadow holding a wildflower bouquet

Designing Elopement Activities That Reflect Your Story

Ruth and Joshua’s Lake Tahoe elopement was intentionally designed to celebrate their connection and sense of adventure. From a sunrise first look to an emotional ceremony by a cascading waterfall to a meadow brunch surrounded by wildflowers, their day was a seamless celebration of their love. And that’s exactly what you want for your elopement! Activities that aren’t on your schedule just because, but are full of meaning and connection.

So, how do you create moments like these? Here’s your blueprint for planning elopement activities that pack a punch of intention and adventure.

a couple having an elopement next to a roaring waterfall in Lake Tahoe

newly weds having a picnic after their ceremony, a perfect after Elopement Activity!

newly weds kissing in a wildflower meadow in Lake Tahoe on their elopement day

Start with a Sunrise First Look

Picture this: the sun just starting to peek over the horizon, the lake calm and glassy, and you and your partner soaking in that quiet, intimate moment. That’s how Ruth and Joshua kicked off their elopement day—with a sunrise first look at Lake Tahoe. It was peaceful, it was private, and it set the tone for an unforgettable day.

Pro Tip: Think about what setting would make your sunrise first look magical. Whether it’s the shores of a lake, a forest clearing, or a mountain top view, those early morning hours are the perfect chance to connect and savor the start of your adventure. And it’s often the least crowded time of day!

a woman standing behind a man for their first look

woman touching man's shoulder before he turns around for the first look

candid reactions as this couple has their first look together on lake Tahoe

groom dipping and kissing his bride with their reflection in Lake Tahoe

bride and groom kissing with lake Tahoe as their backdrop, a sunrise first look is a great Elopement Activity idea

Exchange Vows in an Adventurous Setting

Ruth and Joshua didn’t just say their vows anywhere. They chose the stunning Glen Alpine Waterfall—nature’s own amphitheater, complete with cascading water, towering rocks, and that kind of energy that makes you feel tiny and powerful all at once. As their officiant (and photographer), I had the honor of witnessing them share this moment in such an awe-inspiring space. Standing surrounded by nature and the person you love brings an unmatched depth to your ceremony.

Vows in a dramatic setting are unforgettable because they amplify the raw emotion of the moment. Think waterfalls, mountaintop overlooks, or even a hidden beach. The natural beauty of these locations will make you pause, take it all in, and remember every word.

bride and groom standing in front of a waterfall for an adventurous Elopement Activity

a couple saying their vows privately in front of a waterfall in Lake Tahoe

newly weds kissing during their elopement ceremony

the bride and groom's lower halves as they satnd on rocks during their Elopement Activity

the groom helping the bride walk down through the rocks

Celebrate with a Brunch in Nature

After their vows, we headed to a meadow bursting with wildflowers for a laid-back picnic brunch. It was simple, sweet, and surrounded by the kind of scenery that makes you stop and just… breathe. They ate, laughed, and shared those quiet moments that felt like the perfect “this is us” celebration.

Why It’s Awesome: A celebration doesn’t have to be grand to be epic. Think lakeside picnics, cooking over an open fire, or just sharing fresh fruit and pastries as you relax on a blanket under the trees. These relaxed, heartfelt moments create the kind of memories that really stick.

the bride and groom laughing together before their picnic Elopement Activity

the bridal couple's after elopement ceremony picnic set up

newly weds enjoying a picnic together after their ceremony

an Elopement Activity of having a brunch picnic together after your ceremony

newly weds enjoying a picnic in a wildflower meadow

Is a Lake Tahoe Elopement Right for You?

Lake Tahoe is more than just a pretty backdrop—it’s an adventure waiting to be had! Imagine saying your vows at a mountain summit, dancing in the crisp air on a snowy trail, or sharing a sweet moment at a lakeside spot with the sun dipping behind the pine trees. With everything from dramatic waterfalls and wildflower-filled meadows to epic mountain top hikes and serene beach scenes. Lake Tahoe is the perfect mix of romance and adventure for couples who want a day that’s as bold and beautiful as their love story.

Summer, especially July, is a top pick for exploring Tahoe. Wildflowers are in full bloom, trails are snow-free, and you’ll have access to some of the most stunning spots in the area. Whether you’re dreaming of an early morning sunrise photoshoot or a midday hike, the epic scenery will make your elopement feel like a movie — but better because it’s your real-life love story.

bride and groom standing on a doc after their sunrise first look

bride and groom standing at the end of a dock looking out at Lake Tahoe

bridal couple holding hands in front of a waterfall during one of their Elopement Activities

bridal couple walking through the rocks together

bride and groom holding each other and smiling after their elopement

Let’s Plan Your Perfect Elopement

Ruth and Joshua’s story shows how intentional planning can transform an elopement into a deeply personal and memorable elopement experience. From paddle boarding at sunrise to exchanging vows in a secluded canyon or sharing a private dinner under the stars, there are countless elopement activities to make your day truly special.

If you’re dreaming of a Lake Tahoe elopement or another stunning destination, let’s work together to create a day full of adventure, love, and meaningful moments. Your dream elopement is waiting—let’s make it happen! Contact me on my website to begin.