MENU

elopement Photography &
Planning Support All in One

Emerald Bay Elopement

I’m Kristin, a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

Emerald Bay is one of the most iconic places to elope in Lake Tahoe  and for good reason. The turquoise water, granite cliffs, and sweeping overlook views make it one of the most photographed locations in all of California.

If you’re dreaming about an Emerald Bay elopement, here’s exactly what you need to know before you start planning.

Eloping at Emerald Bay is absolutely possible, but because it’s part of California State Parks, there are specific rules you’ll need to follow.

You can’t just show up and set up a ceremony.

Couples need a wedding permit, must follow guest limitations, and must use designated ceremony areas. Once you understand the guidelines though, planning your Emerald Bay elopement is much simpler than it sounds.

As a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer, I walk my couples through the entire process so nothing feels overwhelming.

How to Elope at Emerald Bay


To hold a ceremony at Emerald Bay, you’ll need a Special Event Permit through California State Parks.

Here are the basics:

  • A wedding permit is required for any organized ceremony
  • Guest counts are limited
  • No arches, large setups, amplified sound, or chairs in most locations
  • Certain areas have stricter regulations than others
  • Permits should be applied for well in advance, especially during peak season

Because Emerald Bay is one of the most popular elopement spots in Lake Tahoe, dates can fill quickly — especially in summer and fall.

I help my couples navigate the permit process and choose the best ceremony location based on their vision and guest count.

Emerald Bay Wedding Permit Requirements

To hold a ceremony at Emerald Bay, you’ll need a Special Event Permit through California State Parks.

Here are the basics:

  • A wedding permit is required for any organized ceremony
  • Guest counts are limited
  • No arches, large setups, amplified sound, or chairs in most locations
  • Certain areas have stricter regulations than others
  • Permits should be applied for well in advance, especially during peak season

Because Emerald Bay is one of the most popular elopement spots in Lake Tahoe, dates can fill quickly — especially in summer and fall.

I help my couples navigate the permit process and choose the best ceremony location based on their vision and guest count.

Planning your entire Lake Tahoe elopement?
Read my complete guide here.

Best Ceremony Locations at Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay Overlook

Emerald Bay has a few different ceremony options, each with a different feel.

The classic panoramic view of the bay and Fannette Island. This is the most iconic and most requested location.

Eagle Point

A more intimate option with lake views and fewer crowds during certain times of day.

Beach-Level Access (limited + seasonal)

Some areas near the shoreline may be available depending on water levels and park regulations.

Choosing the right ceremony spot depends on your guest count, mobility needs, and time of day.

I’m a Emerald Bay elopement photographer and planner for couples who want a wedding day that feels intentional, relaxed, and genuinely fun.

I don’t just show up with a camera, I help you plan your elopement from the beginning. From talking through locations and logistics to building a timeline that flows, I’m there to guide you, cheer you on, fix your dress, and keep the day feeling calm and easy.

I care about what lights you two up and what makes your connection yours, and I help create an elopement day that feels like it was made just for you.

I specialize in elopements across Lake Tahoe and California, and help couples navigate the planning process without it feeling overwhelming.

Hey, I'm Kristin!

"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin

Best Time of Day for an Emerald Bay Elopement

Timing is everything at Emerald Bay.

Midday brings harsh light and heavy tourist traffic, especially in summer.

Sunrise and sunset are ideal for:
  • Softer light
  • Fewer crowds
  • More privacy
  • More relaxed atmosphere

Sunset elopements here are especially beautiful, with golden light hitting the water and cliffs.

Because parking is limited, timing also affects how smooth your experience feels.

Guest Limits & Restrictions

Emerald Bay is stunning, but it’s not designed for large gatherings.

Most ceremonies here are best suited for:
  • The couple only
  • Up to a small handful of guests
  • Minimal setup

Large wedding parties, arches, chairs, and decor are not allowed.

That’s why Emerald Bay works best for couples who truly want an intimate, nature-focused elopement.

If you’re wanting a bigger guest list, I can recommend alternative Lake Tahoe ceremony locations that allow more flexibility.

Why Hire an Emerald Bay Elopement Photographer

Emerald Bay isn’t just beautiful, it’s unpredictable.

  • Weather shifts quickly.
  • Crowds fluctuate.
  • Lighting changes fast near the cliffs.

Hiring a photographer who knows the location means:

  • Knowing exactly where to stand for the best light
  • Avoiding peak crowd times
  • Having backup options if weather shifts
  • Navigating permit rules confidently

I don’t just show up and take photos.
I help you build a stress-free plan around one of the most iconic elopement locations in California.

Planning an Emerald Bay Elopement?

If Emerald Bay feels like your place, I’d love to help you plan a day that feels relaxed, intentional, and completely you.

Reach out and tell me what you’re envisioning and we’ll start building your Emerald Bay elopement together.

If you're considering something more adventurous than a beach ceremony, explore these hiking elopement locations.

emerald bay elopement
packages & pricing

Now Let’s Make It Easy

You understand what it takes to elope at Emerald Bay.  The next step is having someone in your corner who can help the process feel simple, calm, and stress-free.


This isn’t just photography.
this an experience built around the two of you!

The laughter, the quiet moments, the adventure
are captured beautifully and wrapped in a stress-free,
red-carpet process from start to finish.

Planning Support: Location scouting, permits, timelines, vendor recommendations — I handle all the behind-the-scenes details so you can focus on what matters most: each other.

Creative Touches: From faux florals and color palettes to the tiny details that make your day look and feel cohesive, I’ll help design your setup so it’s both beautiful and stress-free.

Faux Florals: Custom faux florals are included with every elopement. I’ll help you choose a bouquet and boutonnière that match your colors, location, and vibe — no wilting, no stress, and they photograph beautifully in every season.

Picnic, Cake, & Toast: Celebrate your “just married” moment with a cozy picnic setup, a mini cake, and a bubbly toast (non-alcoholic options available!). It’s the perfect way to slow down and take it all in together.

Two Photographers (Add-on): When you want full coverage, my husband Rick joins me — capturing your day from every angle so nothing goes unseen.

Day-Of Coordination: I’ll keep your day running smoothly from start to finish so you don’t have to think twice about what’s next.

Sneak Peeks & Final Gallery: A handful of teasers within 24 hours (because I know you’ll be dying to relive it), and your full gallery delivered within 45 days — filled with images that bring it all rushing back.

the experience

Take a peek at what I offer to make your elopement experience easy, intentional, and actually enjoyable.

emerald bay elopement
packages & pricing

So You're Ready to Elope at Emerald Bay,

"Kristin we cannot thank you enough! It was truly just the most perfect day, thank you for all your hard work making everything come together. You made it so EASY and the ability to feel relaxed and just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift. We are so happy, thank you so much!" - Jaime & Cody

"The ability to feel relaxed & just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift."

lake tahoe:
Logan Shoals Vista Point

Create Your Emerald Bay Elopement 

Lake Tahoe Elopements

yosemite Elopements

san francisco Elopements

california Elopements

Elopement Locations

Elopement Planning Tips

best Elopement Locations

The Legal Side of Eloping

how to elope in california

Elopement planning

Elopement Resources

Kristin Smith Photography

Kristin is a Northern California elopement photographer who helps couples plan and photograph intentional, stress-free elopements in places like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite and epic California locations.

From location guidance and timelines to documenting the day itself, I’m here to make the entire experience feel relaxed, meaningful, and easy.

ARE YOU READY?

emerald bay | lake tahoe & northern california elopements

Let's Start Planning Your Adventure!

elopement package emerald bay

portfolio

elopement packages

Next Stop?

Explore

Home

About

Pricing

Portfolio

Blog

Elopement Resources

Yosemite - Mirror Lake

Elopements - What Shots to Expect from Me

Elopement Planning Checklist

How to Elope in Lake Tahoe

How to Elope in Yosemite National Park

Elopement Packages

Follow me

Practicing "Leave No Trace" tactics to help preserve the Earth - the way it should be.

Elopement locations

Lake Tahoe

Yosemite National Park

San Francisco

Contact

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Your Privacy Options

How to Elope

How to Elope in California

Kristin Smith is an elopement photographer serving California.