Heather & Napoleon’s wedding day was beyond perfect. Set in the Aspen trees among a beautiful, near the beach setting at Lake Tahoe, it had been raining for a day or so in the afternoons before, but not a drop on their big day!  There were some serious health set backs for the two of them, but you'd never know it when you talked to both Heather and Napoleon before the ceremony. They were so calm, and ready for their day to be complete!

I have to interrupt my telling of their wedding day story here to praise (and thank!) the organization of both the bride and her mom. I have never had a wedding day run so smoothly, (and even early!) I couldn’t believe it :) Note: see picture of master timeline created by said party… he he he

Heather & Napoleon opted to do a First Look before the ceremony at Aspen Grove in Incline Village, Lake Tahoe.  Being able to capture that special moment for the two of them is priceless to me. Not only did it allow them to have a quiet moment to celebrate their love together, but it also allowed for some beautiful picture time and solitude before the craziness of the celebration began.

We wandered around the forest for a while, then joined with the amazing wedding party they had for some more pictures. These friends and family (the wedding party) were some of the best, most supportive people I’ve ever met! They’ve been there for Heather and Napoleon through so many things, and they were a really fun group of people to hang out with! Nothing but laughter from these guys and gals :)

Heather and Napoleon were then whisked away by a stunning vintage Roles Royce, while allowing them a little time to themselves before the festivities.

Side note: I absolutely LOVED how many selfies the groom kept taking throughout the day! You are amazing, Napo!!

And then it was time for the beautiful ceremony! Their friend was the officiant. And the ceremony and vows were so touching and personal. To hear their story, to be reminded of the commitment they were making as husband and wife, and to get some sound advice about how to keep a marriage strong and happy, it was simply perfect!

And finally, it was party time!! From the mariachi band (yes, a mariachi quartet!! They were AMAZING!) to the amazing food and the mashed potato martini bar?!?!? Every detail of the reception was thought out and picked especially for the bride and groom and their closest friends and family. Such a lovely evening full of love and laughter!

To Heather & Napoleon: Thank you so much for asking Rachel and I to be a part of your special day! I felt truly honored to be asked to document your precious love that you have for one another, and to be able to meet your closest friends and family as they celebrated your special day!

Here’s to the happy couple, Mr and Mrs. De La Pena! I am so happy for the two of you. I know your lives together will be filled with wonderful adventures, and I feel so lucky to have been a part of this one J

xoxox,

Gretchen

The creative team who made the wedding come to life...

Venue: Aspen Grove - Incline Village, Lake Tahoe

Co-photographer: Rachel - of Brilliant Imagery Photography

Makeup: Kiss & Makeup

Floral Decor: A Floral Afair

Band: Mariachi

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