Alicia & Steven

Hard work often pays off in the most beautiful way!

At least that’s what went through my head while I was photographing Alicia & Steven’s wedding ceremony. On a clear, bluebird-sky day near the winding Owen’s River, these two read their heartfelt vows, alongside the peaceful flow of running water.

It was a lovely and romantic moment, and one that came from weeks of planning and dedicated work. Let me explain…

Elopement Planning for a Winter Wedding Day

You see, mountain weather is highly variable in the winter. And as climate change has only made things more unpredictable. All of that is to say that it’s tough to plan outdoor weddings and adventure elopement around weather trends and seasonality.

But that’s exactly when good elopement planners, like myself, work our best magic! As a long-time intimate wedding photographer for the area, I knew a lot of this going in. And—fortunately for me—Alicia & Steven knew what they were getting into too! And they were up for the challenge because they were certain they wanted to get married on their 10-year dating anniversary date!

For two weeks leading up to the big day, I watched the weather forecasts. And wouldn’t you know it, California received record snowfall in the days leading up to Alicia & Steven’s wedding day. When that happens, it’s wise to chat through Plan B — as well as Plan C, Plan D, and beyond!

For example: What if the highway closes? What if the dirt roads to your wedding portrait locations are impassable? What if the snow is too thick the walk through? What if an area is especially icy and slippery?

These are all vitally important questions to ask. But luckily, the clouds parted, the sun came out, and the roads cleared up (although snowchains were required). My husband Isiah (who would officiate the wedding) and I arrived dats early to scout the area. And we were delighted by the fresh-snow laden landscape — knowing that, with a little bit of preparation, everything would go smoothly for the bride and groom!

Snowshoes & I Dos: A Winter Wedding Ceremony in Mono County

Isiah and I met Alicia & Steven at their cabin in the morning. The two chose Tamarack Lodge & Resort for their stay. If you haven’t been, it’s an adorable spot offering quaint and cozy cabins facing on the best lakes in Mammoth Lakes, CA.

As our bride and groom got ready together, I snapped some photos of all their charming and DIY details. For instance, our couple made their own strawberry cake, flower bouquet, and handfasting cord with their favorite colors. How cute!

Long johns and base layers were donned first; an absolute necessity when the temperature would only reach 37ºF at the highest! Our couple split so Alicia could put on her wedding dress, giving Steven a chance for the first-look. Alicia wore a red dress, his favorite color on her.

Amongst the pines, Alicia tapped Steven on the shoulder. As he turned around, we was stunned with how incredible she looked in her wedding attire. Even more magically, a light breeze came through — bringing gentle falling snow from the trees branches. It was the beautiful kind of luck you hope for on your wedding day.

Afterward, we packed up and headed to their wedding ceremony spot. I had scouted the day before, so I knew we needed snowshoes. It was an executive decision on my part. I figured it’d be so much easier to make the trek atop the snow, rather than through it.

We hauled all 4 pairs of snowshoes out of the truck, donned them at the edge of the pavement, and headed out to the ceremony spot.

Once there, Isiah, our officiant, delivered a beautiful ceremony, complete with many readings and a handfasting. The two said their vows, and almost managed to get some tears out of me. This couple had such an amazing history together, that they had plenty of inspiration to pull from for their vows. After the big kiss at the end, I could tell our couple was beaming with the realization that, yes, they were now husband and wife!

Next, we headed back to Twin Lakes for some wedding portraits. The ground was a bit slippery with ice, so we were extra careful. But it went smoothly as our couple enjoyed a cake-cutting and hot chocolate by the frozen lake.

I’m so happy that things went swimmingly for Alicia & Steven on their winter elopement in Mono County.

Mammoth Lakes Elopement Guide

Tips for Your Winter Mammoth Lakes Elopement

Winter weddings in the mountains are perfect for couples who are down to be flexible. You never know what will happen, so here are my best tips for a winter Mammoth Lakes Elopement:

Work with your photographer regarding locations, permits, and venues. The Eastern Sierra is a beautiful place, with many options. But because of the various types of land ownership, you’ll want to work with a photographer who can help you choose the right spot and know what permits you’ll need. And has a backup plan in the case of massive snowstorms!
Practice Leave No Trace and follow local restrictions. Keep the natural world happy and healthy by following LNT guidelines. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for local restrictions, like chain control, closed roads, and outdoor sports requirements like snowshoeing and avalanche safety.
Be prepared and flexible. Weather in the mountains is unpredictable. It will snow as early as October or as late as May. Storms can happen even in the summer months. So be prepared for the elements, but also be flexible in case plans need to change.
Looking for adventure and activities? If so, Mammoth Lakes is a hot spot for all sorts of outdoor fun! Talk with your photographer about including some activities such as going up the gondola, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and more.

Ready to take the next step? Book a call with Love & Latitudes, your Mammoth Lakes wedding photographer!