A Forest Dream: Trent & Kaitlyn’s Chalet View Lodge Wedding

Nestled in the tall pines of Graeagle, California, Chalet View Lodge offers something truly rare—refined elegance wrapped in natural beauty. As a California luxury wedding photographer, I’ve seen many beautiful venues, but Chalet View Lodge is in a category of its own. It’s where elevated design meets untouched wilderness, and for couples like Trent and Kaitlyn, it’s the dream backdrop for a wedding experience that feels both luxurious and deeply personal.

From the moment I arrived on-site for Trent and Kaitlyn’s wedding day, I knew it was going to be special. Their ceremony took place on the manicured lawn, framed by towering pines and a geometric wood arbor adorned with soft, romantic florals. The couple stood hand-in-hand, surrounded by their closest people, as sunlight filtered through the forest canopy. It was quiet and sacred—the kind of moment that makes you stop and breathe it all in.

One thing I love most about photographing weddings at Chalet View Lodge is how versatile and intentional the space is. The layout is designed to create an immersive weekend experience, not just a one-day event. Couples can host their rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, and even brunch the next day—all without ever needing to leave the property. It allows for a deeper connection to the people, the place, and the celebration itself.

Trent and Kaitlyn leaned into that full experience. They chose timeless, elegant details that enhanced the setting without competing with it—soft blue tones, delicate floral textures, and custom touches that felt like them. From a photographer’s perspective, it was a dream. Every turn of the day offered beautiful light, thoughtful styling, and authentic emotion—everything I need to create heirloom images that feel alive.

More about planning a Chalet View Lodge Wedding

Photographing weddings at Chalet View Lodge allows me to blend my love of editorial detail with candid, heartfelt storytelling. The result is a gallery that’s not only beautiful but rich with meaning. I focus on preserving those fleeting in-between moments—the way your dad tears up as he walks you down the aisle, the laughter echoing under string lights, the stillness just before you say “I do.”

If you’re a couple dreaming of a high-end wedding that still feels connected to nature, Chalet View Lodge should absolutely be on your list. It offers the luxury of a destination weekend without losing the intimacy and ease of a personalized celebration. And if you’re looking for someone who knows how to photograph it with care, intention, and artistry—I’d be honored to capture your story here.

To Trent and Kaitlyn—thank you for trusting me with your incredible day. Your love was a joy to witness, and your wedding will forever be one of my favorites.

—Shannon

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