The Day: Sierra Weddings received a call one morning from a very excited Bride to Be. She had found the love of her life and wanted to elope in Lake Tahoe.  This would turn out to not be a typical Tahoe Elopement. Julie and Lyle wanted something intimate but incredibly unique.  The couple decided on exchanging vows at the Thunderbird Lodge, a Lake Tahoe historical estate. Spending a week at the Hyatt in Incline, they enjoyed the various attractions Lake Tahoe has to offer from touring Virginia City, Gambling at the casinos and just relaxing at the spa.
A black stretch limo from Sierra West Limousine, greeted the couple at the Hyatt Lake Tahoe, and they arrived in style at the Thunderbird Lodge where they were welcomed by Pastor Paul Tracy.  They descended along the native stone pathway that leads to the grand entryway of the old great room and from there they walked out on to the balcony to behold the incredible view of Lake Tahoe! From that moment, the soothing music of Violin and guitar provided by Avalanche set the romantic tone for the rest of the afternoon.   The couple hired Christa Hoffarth to capture each moment of surprise as the couple first arrived at their location, rounded each historical corner from waterfalls, native gardens, and trees to the private beach cove. As the couple readied for the big moment, the bride held her flowers designed by Thrans Flowers, and Sierra Weddings added an extra touch by lining their path with rose petals.  The ceremony was quiet and peaceful with the final surprise provide by their coordinator with not just a two dove release, but a dozen doves released at the end of their ceremony. One dove knowingly held off for the couple to release together. Joyful music continued with light hors d’oeurves and French champagne poured. The couple enjoyed the traditional “breaking of bread” as they cut into their wedding cake provided by Sweet Sensations. The event at the Thunderbird was completed with a private historic tour of the property’s ungrounded mysterious tunnels and ending at the boathouse where the famous Thunderbird Boat is moored.