Rainy, All Black Wedding at Tannenbaum Event Center in Reno
Devin & Jason
It’s not every day that you get to be a part of a family wedding. Especially one like this, for your own sibling! After capturing my brother’s proposal to my now sister-in-law in Olympic NP and their engagement session in Laguna Beach, it was time to set the camera down and be part of their day.
Enter Jaymie, a friend of mine for years, who agreed to take over photography so I could enjoy the wedding. Despite that, I was still there to help. Naturally, I was one of the only people who knew how to do things like attach Devin’s veil and the groomsmen’s boutonnieres, so I was still working a tiny bit. But I still got to hear the best part—and one of the things I usually miss—the vows!
I also want to point out that Devin & Jason ask for all-black attire on their wedding day. Even though this is far from traditional, it really struck a classy tone. As you’ll see in the photos, the black clothing, umbrellas, and Tannenbaum Event Center decor all made for unique wedding vibe—that’s just too cool not to mention!
So let’s get into Devin & Jason’s wedding day story.
Wedding Day Rain on Mt. Rose
We woke up on the big day to see a solid sheet of clouds and rain. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, especially in the autumn. Although we all held out hope that things would clear up—we were pretty sure it’d be a soggy wedding day.
But wet weather aside, that didn’t stop the stoke! The crew started getting ready at our 25-person Airbnb and continued later at the venue; specifically, the Tannenbaum Events Center at Mt. Rose between Reno and Lake Tahoe.
While there was a bit of chatter and gametime decision making, the conclusion was made to continue despite the rain. So, after a touching first look between Devin and her dad, our bride decided the show would continue—with the wedding service outdoors.
Umbrellas Up for a Splendid Wedding Ceremony
The instant the ceremony began, the rain came down in sheets. But the wedding officiant, our very own Isiah, came out and said the most surreal and beautiful statements that got the tears started, and made everyone in attendance fall in love with the stormy weather.
“I know you’re all braving the elements today. And you’ve probably heard that rain on your wedding day is good luck. But I want to share a bit of mythology, which says that the Sky and the Earth are in love with one another. But it’s a tragic kind of love, because they are separated—and cannot reach each other. This caused the sky to cry, creating rain.
If the rain can connect the heavens and the earth, then surely it can connect two hearts. So maybe there is something to the idea that rain on your wedding day is good luck."
He even got a bit teary-eyed after accidentally looking at the mother of the groom!
The rest of the ceremony flowed smoothly. Devin & Jason shared their vows, completely invested in the moment. They exchanged rings as droplets of water fell onto their hands. And the guests sat, red-eyed and tissues in hand, throughout the service.
At the end, Jason heroically smashed the glass—causing everyone to cheer on the couple's behalf. Followed by the kiss of husband and wife. Head over heels for the moment, our newlyweds performed a romantic dip in the center aisle for another smooch!
The Wedding Reception at Tannenbaum Event Center
Immediately after the ceremony, all the guests ran inside to warm up. Isiah stole the couple away for a second to sign the wedding documents, before handing them off to Jaymie for some couple’s portraits.
Inside the Tannenbaum Event Center, everyone was glowing about the ceremony. It didn’t matter whether they were grabbing a drink from the bar or double-checking their makeup; everyone was in a stellar mood.
Jaymie did an expert job cycling people through for friends and family photos.
Up next, we sat for dinner—chowing down on all the tastiness the caterers had to offer. Several friends and family members stood up to toasts and speeches on Devin & Jason’s behalf. You could tell that this group of people absolutely championed the couple on their special day.
Last but certainly not least, the dance floor got bumping. Folks were busting a move left and right, keeping the spirits high on an already peak experience!
Tips for Your Tannenbaum Event Center Wedding
The Tannenbaum Event Center on Mt. Rose is a wonderful wedding venue. Not too far from Lake Tahoe and not too close to Reno, you really get the seclusion you desire—without being too far from town, if the need strikes you.
Here are a few helpful tips to consider before booking your wedding day here:
Be prepared for wild weather: Do you need umbrellas? If it does rain, it certainly helps the photos to have a bunch of matching umbrellas. Either way, embrace it and have some fun!
Hire a photographer who’s prepared for the weather. Rain is not guaranteed, but it’s always an option in the mountains—especially in the fall and winter. Get a photographer who knows how to use their gear in the rain while still capturing your best moments.
Be aware of elevation. The mountains are so beautiful, but our couple came from sea level! The Tannenbaum Event Center sits at around 8k feet, so come early and give yourself a few days to acclimate. Drink lots of water and electrolytes, take walks, and get some sleep.
Ready to take the next step? Book a call with Love & Latitudes, your Reno wedding photographer!
Tannenbaum Event Center Wedding Photography Packages
+ 8-12 hours of coverage
+ Planning and vendor services
+ Online gallery with high-resolution photos
+ Option to download images or purchase prints online
+ Travel fees included
+ Optional officiant services.
Meet Your Reno Wedding Photographer
I'm Diana Lustig, a California-born adventurer with a camera for a hand and an inborn love for the outdoors. I'm a professional photographer of 15 years and counting. I’ve captured over 50 weddings, 12 of which took place in the Eastern Sierra. In my free time, you'll find me traveling through the southwest and the East Side with my husband in our van, Clyde.
How did I get into wedding and elopement photography? In 2019, I hired adventure photographers for my own wedding and they showed me there’s a different, more personal way to get married. It was such a special day, I want to bring it to so many more couples who believe in getting married their own way.
