The couple looks at one another - a small wedding ceremony at Sand Harbor State Park, Nevada

The couple gaze lovingly at each other during their intimate wedding ceremony, the lake in the background illuminated by the eerie light of the approaching rain clouds
Image Location: 
Sand Harbor State Park, Nevada

The groom and bride look at one another during their small wedding ceremony. Lake Tahoe is in the background. The rain clouds are moving closer and the light on the lake is becoming more dramatic.

Shirin and Daniel wanted a simple wedding in a beautiful location. Because they both love the outdoors, and had enjoyed visits to Lake Tahoe together, they decided Sand Harbor would be the right place to exchange vows. Some couples frown upon wedding day rain for its potential to upset plans, timeline, and other details. But Shirin and Daniel love a bit of adventure and they didn't mind it one bit. 

Daniel is a biochemist from Germany, and his family flew to California for this special day. Shirin's family is from Iran, and English is not a first language for either of their parents. This was one of my favorite aspects of their small wedding at Sand Harbor. With a very small language barrier, I believe we communicate in simpler ways. Expressions of joy and pride between both families, regardless of the language differences was a beautiful thing to see.