The Pines Bass Lake Wedding
Emily and Luke’s early summer wedding was full of joy, love, and golden light, with The Pines wedding venue in Bass Lake, providing the perfect lakeside setting. Nestled in the trees, the whole day felt peaceful and personal—like a tucked-away escape where their closest people gathered to celebrate something real. From the heartfelt vows to a first look, every part of the day reflected who they are together: best friends, creative souls, and a couple deeply connected by years of laughter, growth, and love.
From Licorice to Love: Emily & Luke’s Story
Emily and Luke met during their first week at UC Santa Barbara. On day three, Luke was walking with a group of new friends, holding a giant tub of licorice. Emily was behind them. Luke turned around and offered her some, even though he doesn’t actually like licorice. That moment sparked something special.
They became best friends almost instantly. Their dorm rooms were close, and they both spent hours in the college theater. They stayed friends for a year, started exploring a relationship in year two, and officially became a couple in February 2020. Most of their wedding party was made up of that same tight-knit college group.
A Meaningful Proposal
Luke proposed on January 10, 2024, and the story behind the date is just as sweet as the moment itself. He had actually chosen it two years earlier—it marked the anniversary of two big milestones: adopting their cat in 2021 and Emily starting grad school in 2022. For Luke, it symbolized new beginnings. He even saved the date in a locked phone note back in 2022.
On the night of the proposal, he took Emily out for a fancy dinner, pretending it was just a casual date night. When they returned home, she walked into a house filled with candles, rose petals, and printed photos from their relationship. He got down on one knee and showed her the note.
A Breathtaking Setting at Bass Lake
Their wedding took place at The Pines Resort in Bass Lake—a venue that perfectly blends rustic charm and lakeside beauty. Tucked into the Sierra National Forest, it offers forest views, waterfront ceremony spots, and cozy cabins that make the whole experience feel like a getaway.
The venue’s ceremony site overlooks the water, with towering pines behind you and the lake stretching out ahead. It’s romantic, peaceful, and incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour.
The Pines Bass Lake Wedding Highlights
Emily wore a romantic lace ballgown with delicate detailing and a flowing veil that caught the light with every step. Her look was timeless and elegant, with soft curls framing her face and a joyful, radiant smile that never left. Luke wore a classic deep blue suit that stood out beautifully against the greens and browns of the forest.
The morning felt peaceful and full of anticipation. Laughter echoed through the cabins as the wedding party helped each other get ready, shared quiet moments, and soaked in the excitement. There was a sense of calm joy in the air. Everyone knew this day was something special.
One of the most memorable moments came during the first look. As the groomsmen turned around to see Emily in her dress for the first time, she surprised him and the groomsmen by pulling out a hidden Smirnoff Ice. Without hesitation, she iced them right on the spot. Everyone burst into laughter, completely caught off guard. It was unexpected, lighthearted, and perfectly true to their playful, close-knit dynamic. That moment set the tone for a day filled with love, laughter, and genuine connection.
Singing in the Car & Sharing the Stage
Emily and Luke love spending time together watching TV, rewatching favorite shows, and singing in the car. Luke still works in musical theater, and Emily often volunteers at his productions so they can spend more time together. They’ve built a life around shared creativity, friendship, and care.
All of that showed up at the wedding—from their playful interactions to the way they looked at each other across the dance floor. You could tell they’ve built something real and lasting over the years.
Sunset Portraits on the Shore
One of the most breathtaking parts of the day came at sunset. We stepped down to the water for golden hour portraits, and everything fell quiet. The light wrapped around them like a soft blanket, catching on Emily’s veil and making the lake shimmer.
They stood by the railing, just taking it all in. After a full day of excitement and emotion, this was their moment to pause. They kissed, laughed softly, and leaned into each other with a peace that only comes after years of growing together.
A Night to Remember
The reception was filled with heartfelt toasts, great music, and happy tears that continued late into the night. Friends stood up to share stories from college theater, reflecting on the bond Emily and Luke have built over the years. Each speech brought laughter, a few tears, and a deeper sense of just how loved they are.
As the sun sank behind the trees, the lake shimmered with the last light of the day. String lights glowed overhead while guests danced, sang along to favorite songs, and hugged tightly between tracks. The energy felt easy and full of warmth. It was the perfect ending to a celebration rooted in years of friendship, creativity, and a love that felt present in every detail.
This Pines wedding was more than just beautiful—it was deeply personal and true to Emily and Luke’s story.
Emily and Luke, thank you for letting me be part of such a meaningful day. Photographing your wedding felt like celebrating with old friends—your joy, your humor, and the way you care for each other was beautiful to witness. I’ll always remember the laughter, the love, and that perfect sunset by the lake.
Dreaming of Your Own Wedding at the Pines in Bass Lake?
If you’re planning your own at the Pines or envisioning a celebration surrounded by tall trees, sparkling water, and mountain air, you’re in the right place. The Pines Resort offers such a peaceful, romantic setting—it’s the kind of place where memories are made and the beauty of nature becomes part of your story.
Every couple brings their own personality to this venue, and I love capturing how the lake, light, and forest all come together to frame those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Take a look at my other blog posts from mountain weddings to get inspired and see what’s possible. Whether you’re planning something intimate or a full weekend celebration, I’d love to walk alongside you and help tell your story in a way that feels honest, warm, and timeless.
Ready to start planning? Reach out today and let’s dream up something beautiful together.
The Pines Bass Lake Wedding Vendors
Venue: The Pines
Photography: Ashley Norton Photography
Florals: Ash + Ivy Floral Design
Bakery: Frosted Cakery
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May 17, 2025
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