Wedding Advisor
San Francisco wedding planning experts are ready to turn your dream day into reality.
Let us delight you with service as legendary as your romance. It begins with our wedding advisors, experts at providing the personalized touches that ensure your wedding represents you and your partner’s tastes and preferences. Our wedding advisors, who know that no detail or decision is too small, can offer guidance and support as you choose hotel wedding locations and décor offerings.
Request more information on our expert wedding services.
Do you have outdoor space for a wedding ceremony?
Yes. The Terrace Courtyard features beautiful paved walkways, sculpted boxwood hedges, a fountain and a wonderful heated circular tent, which is an intimate space to host your ceremony.
Can we book a ceremony only, without having a reception at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco?
Yes.
What is the deposit based on and when is the final payment due?
Deposits are based on the number of guests and the space reserved. A non-refundable deposit, based on 25 percent of the estimated charges, is required to confirm banquet space. Estimated final balance is due 10 business days prior to your event.
Do we need to hire a Wedding Consultant?
It is not required for a bride to have a wedding consultant. However, we will be pleased to recommend a wedding consultant to coordinate your special day.
What will be the responsibility of the Special Events Manager?
- Recommend Special Event Professionals such as music, floral, photography, invitations, and décor.
- Act as a menu consultant for all food and beverage selections.
- Prepare your Banquet Event Orders for your approval and details to be communicated successfully to the operational team of the Hotel.
- Create a floor plan of your function space in order for you to plan and provide the Hotel with your seating arrangements.
- Assist you with any overnight room requirements.
- Review the banquet check for accuracy prior to the completion of your final bill.
Do you recommend any vendors such as photographers, florists, entertainments and others?
We have a list of several vendors that we recommend for weddings. We will be pleased to assist you with any contacts you may need to make your event memorable.
Can we have our wedding portraits taken at the hotel although we don’t hold our wedding at The Ritz-Carlton?
No, we extend the privilege of wedding photography at the hotel to The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco brides and grooms only.
What is the average cost per person for food and beverage?
Based on our current banquet menus, on average you may expect to spend approximately $200 - $230 per person, exclusive of service charge and sales tax. These averages would encompass hors d’oeuvres during your welcome reception, three-course plated meal inclusive of wedding cake, wine service with the meal, champagne toast and an open hosted bar for four hours.
Please be aware that our menu items and pricing are subject to change and are guaranteed 90 days in advance. Your final menu pricing will be based on your actual selection.
Can we bring our own Wedding Cake?
Yes. Wedding cakes can be custom made by our award-winning Pastry Chef. If the cake is not purchased from the hotel and brought in from the outside, we charge a cake-cutting fee.
Do you allow outside catering?
Yes. The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco culinary team provides all food and beverage at the hotel. Under some circumstances, we may allow a licensed caterer to utilize our facilities with the proper documentations under the supervision of our Executive Chef.
When do we need to finalize our menu?
Food and beverage selections should be finalized and confirmed with your Special Event Manager 30 days prior to the date of your wedding.
When do we need to let the hotel know exactly how many guests will be attending?
The Hotel requires the final guarantee of attendants be communicated to the catering office no later than 12 p.m., three business days prior to the date of your scheduled event.
CULINARY Show All Hide All
What is the average cost per person for food and beverage?
Based on current banquet menus and wedding packages, costs will vary per person for lunch and per person for dinner exclusive of current taxable service charge and current sales tax. These averages would encompass hors d’oeuvres during your welcome cocktail reception, plated or buffet meal, wine service with meal and an open hosted bar service based on a moderate drinking group.
Please be aware that our menu items and pricing are subject to change and your final expenditure will depend on your final guest attendance, menu selections and food and beverage financial commitment.
Are we permitted to provide our own food and beverage at the hotel?
Although we do not permit food and beverage from outside sources to be served in the hotel, our culinary team provides an extensive selection of wonderful food and beverage, including a multitude of ethnic cuisines. We are delighted to customize menus to reflect your own personal tastes and even incorporate cherished family recipes.
Can you please clarify the Food and Beverage Minimum?
The food and beverage minimum is the least amount of money that you are required to spend in a combination of food and beverage, excluding service charge and sales tax based on the venue you are utilizing for your event. Please keep in mind that is not all you can anticipate to spend. The food and beverage minimum is reached by selecting individually priced, a la carte menu items or applicable wedding package with optional enhancements to equal or exceed the required dollar figure.
The following are examples of items that would apply towards the food and beverage minimum:
Butler passed and displayed hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, plated or buffet meal, dessert stations, specialty martini bars, dinner wine service, champagne toast, bar service and non-alcoholic beverage items.
Upgraded linens, china, silverware, specialty lighting and décor, bartender and/or chef fees, parking, guestroom accommodations and in-room dining do not apply towards the food and beverage minimum.
How late can alcohol be served?
We recommend that alcohol service be discontinued approximately one hour prior to the end of your function. By California State Law, no alcohol may be served after 2:00 a.m.
When do I need to finalize my menu?
Food and beverage selections must be finalized and confirmed with your Ritz-Carlton Events Manager four to six weeks prior to the date of your wedding. Your final guest count or guarantee is due three business days prior to the wedding or one week with choice entrée selections. This will be considered a guarantee, for which you will be charged even if fewer guests attend the event.
Do you provide children’s and vendor meals?
Children’s menus are customized to the needs of your event and will vary for children ages (5 through 12). Chef’s choice of vendor meals is priced based on the current banquet menu selections.
Do you provide a tasting of the food we select? When may I come and what is included?
We are pleased to offer a sample menu tasting for weddings with a food and beverage minimum. Tastings are scheduled with your Meetings and Special Events Manager for as outlined in your tasting guideline in the sales contract. There will be an additional for guests beyond the above listed.
GENERAL INFORMATION Show All Hide All
How do I secure my wedding date and venue?
Your initial visit will be conducted by the Catering Sales Manager. She will conduct a thorough inspection of a designated venue and will check dates, space and locations. Upon selection of your wedding date, a Catering Agreement will be prepared and your date will be confirmed upon receipt of your deposit. Your details are then turned over to a Ritz-Carlton Wedding Specialist on the Special Events team to begin the planning process of your wedding.
Can I host my ceremony only at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe?
While our indoor and outdoor ceremony sites are generally reserved exclusively for those couples hosting their reception at the Resort, ceremony-only options may be available on select dates and times.
How late can I play music?
Indoor locations (The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom and Pines Ballroom) – 2 a.m.
Outdoor locations (Fireside Terraces, The Woods, The Meadows) – 10 p.m.
What are the deposits based on and when are they due?
Deposits depend upon how far in advance your arrangements are made and range from 25% - 100% of the combined food and beverage minimum, taxable service charge, applicable taxes and rental fees for the event space reserved. A deposit schedule will be provided as part of your contract. Deposits are non-refundable and non-date transferable. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe requires full pre-payment and a credit card on file for all events.
What accommodations are provided for the Bride and Groom?
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe provides a complimentary deluxe guestroom for the Bride and Groom the evening of the wedding over most dates excluding holiday periods.
How do my guests reserve rooms?
A special rate may be available with a minimum commitment of 10 or more rooms. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe strongly recommends that a room block be arranged for all wedding celebrations. A room block guarantees a certain number of rooms exclusively for your guests. Your contracted guest room rate is guaranteed until approximately 45 days prior to your wedding date. This date is listed on your sales contract. After that time guests may make reservations based on availability at prevailing rates. Any remaining rooms not reserved will be released for sale at the cutoff date. Financial responsibility for unused and unsold rooms may apply; please refer to your sales contract.
Can we do a rehearsal for the wedding ceremony?
Your Ritz-Carlton Wedding Specialist is happy to arrange a ceremony rehearsal for you and your wedding party. Rehearsal times are confirmed up to three (3) weeks prior to your wedding and set at a time that does not interfere with other booked events; please contact your Ritz-Carlton Wedding Specialist in advance to arrange. Ceremony rehearsals are normally one hour in length and there is no additional fee.
Where does the bridal party get ready before the wedding?
Many of our brides choose to stay with us the evening before their wedding and therefore have the use of their room for changing. Your florist, bridesmaids and family members may bring any flowers, dresses and makeup into your room. Wedding parties also have the option of buying out the salon area of The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Lake Tahoe for hair, nails and makeup providing all services are contracted through the resort.
What are the fees for parking? Can I pay for all guests parking?
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe offers only valet parking. Our current valet parking charges are $10 event parking and $35 for overnight guests. You may choose to host your guests parking charges by applying the charges to your master bill. Alternatively they may pay individually. The wedding party is responsible for any vendor parking as well which may be added to your master account.
OBTAINING A MARRIAGE LICENSE Show All Hide All
How can I obtain a marriage license in Placer County?
There are several requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Placer County, CA. If your ceremony is taking place in another county or state, your wedding coordinator or Ritz-Carlton wedding specialist would be delighted to assist you in obtaining the necessary information for that locale.
The following requirements need to be fulfilled to obtain a marriage license in Placer County:
Both parties must be at least 18 years old
Both the bride and groom must apply in person
You must have proper government-issued identification with the correct spelling of your name and address. Options include:
Driver's License
Passport
Divorce papers are not necessary if the divorce has been final for over 90 days.
A blood test is no longer required in California.
The certificate may be obtained from any county seat in California. It will be honored within the state for 90 days.
To obtain a marriage license, contact the North Lake Tahoe License Bureau:
Placer County, North Lake Tahoe License Bureau
5225 N. Lake Blvd. Carnelian Bay, CA 96140
(530) 546-1900
By appointment only, issued Monday through Friday mornings - $56.00
NOTE: This information is subject to change. Please verify current requirements in advance of your wedding date.
PHOTOGRAPHY Show All Hide All
May we take our wedding photographs at the hotel if we are not hosting our reception there?
Our most elegant backdrops for wedding photographs are private areas reserved for our guests hosting their wedding reception in the hotel. We request that photographs taken in any public area of the hotel, such as the hotel lobby, staircases, lounges or restaurants do not interfere with another guest's experience. Removal or rearranging of public area furniture is not permitted.
OUTSIDE VENDORS Show All Hide All
Are you able to recommend photographers, florists and other vendors?
We are pleased to provide an extensive list of the finest special event professionals in the area. These individuals have provided impeccable service and products to our guests in the past, and we are delighted to assist you in contacting them and obtaining any necessary information.
CULINARY Show All Hide All
What is the average cost per person for food and beverage?
Based on current banquet menus and wedding packages, costs will vary per person for lunch and per person for dinner exclusive of current taxable service charge and current sales tax. These averages would encompass hors d’oeuvres during your welcome cocktail reception, plated or buffet meal, wine service with meal and an open hosted bar service based on a moderate drinking group.
Please be aware that our menu items and pricing are subject to change and your final expenditure will depend on your final guest attendance, menu selections and food and beverage financial commitment.
Are we permitted to provide our own food and beverage at the hotel?
Although we do not permit food and beverage from outside sources to be served in the hotel, our culinary team provides an extensive selection of wonderful food and beverage, including a multitude of ethnic cuisines. We are delighted to customize menus to reflect your own personal tastes and even incorporate cherished family recipes.
Can you please clarify the Food and Beverage Minimum?
The food and beverage minimum is the least amount of money that you are required to spend in a combination of food and beverage, excluding service charge and sales tax based on the venue you are utilizing for your event. Please keep in mind that is not all you can anticipate to spend. The food and beverage minimum is reached by selecting individually priced, a la carte menu items or applicable wedding package with optional enhancements to equal or exceed the required dollar figure.
The following are examples of items that would apply towards the food and beverage minimum:
Butler passed and displayed hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, plated or buffet meal, dessert stations, specialty martini bars, dinner wine service, champagne toast, bar service and non-alcoholic beverage items.
Upgraded linens, china, silverware, specialty lighting and décor, bartender and/or chef fees, parking, guestroom accommodations and in-room dining do not apply towards the food and beverage minimum.
How late can alcohol be served?
We recommend that alcohol service be discontinued approximately one hour prior to the end of your function. By California State Law, no alcohol may be served after 2:00 a.m.
When do I need to finalize my menu?
Food and beverage selections must be finalized and confirmed with your Ritz-Carlton Events Manager four to six weeks prior to the date of your wedding. Your final guest count or guarantee is due three business days prior to the wedding or one week with choice entrée selections. This will be considered a guarantee, for which you will be charged even if fewer guests attend the event.
Do you provide children’s and vendor meals?
Children’s menus are customized to the needs of your event and will vary for children ages (5 through 12). Chef’s choice of vendor meals is priced based on the current banquet menu selections.
Do you provide a tasting of the food we select? When may I come and what is included?
We are pleased to offer a sample menu tasting for weddings with a food and beverage minimum. Tastings are scheduled with your Meetings and Special Events Manager for as outlined in your tasting guideline in the sales contract. There will be an additional for guests beyond the above listed.
GENERAL INFORMATION Show All Hide All
How do I secure my wedding date and venue?
Your initial visit will be conducted by the Catering Sales Manager. She will conduct a thorough inspection of a designated venue and will check dates, space and locations. Upon selection of your wedding date, a Catering Agreement will be prepared and your date will be confirmed upon receipt of your deposit. Your details are then turned over to a Ritz-Carlton Wedding Specialist on the Special Events team to begin the planning process of your wedding.
Can I host my ceremony only at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe?
While our indoor and outdoor ceremony sites are generally reserved exclusively for those couples hosting their reception at the Resort, ceremony-only options may be available on select dates and times.
How late can I play music?
Indoor locations (The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom and Pines Ballroom) – 2 a.m.
Outdoor locations (Fireside Terraces, The Woods, The Meadows) – 10 p.m.
What are the deposits based on and when are they due?
Deposits depend upon how far in advance your arrangements are made and range from 25% - 100% of the combined food and beverage minimum, taxable service charge, applicable taxes and rental fees for the event space reserved. A deposit schedule will be provided as part of your contract. Deposits are non-refundable and non-date transferable. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe requires full pre-payment and a credit card on file for all events.
What accommodations are provided for the Bride and Groom?
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe provides a complimentary deluxe guestroom for the Bride and Groom the evening of the wedding over most dates excluding holiday periods.
How do my guests reserve rooms?
A special rate may be available with a minimum commitment of 10 or more rooms. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe strongly recommends that a room block be arranged for all wedding celebrations. A room block guarantees a certain number of rooms exclusively for your guests. Your contracted guest room rate is guaranteed until approximately 45 days prior to your wedding date. This date is listed on your sales contract. After that time guests may make reservations based on availability at prevailing rates. Any remaining rooms not reserved will be released for sale at the cutoff date. Financial responsibility for unused and unsold rooms may apply; please refer to your sales contract.
Can we do a rehearsal for the wedding ceremony?
Your Ritz-Carlton Wedding Specialist is happy to arrange a ceremony rehearsal for you and your wedding party. Rehearsal times are confirmed up to three (3) weeks prior to your wedding and set at a time that does not interfere with other booked events; please contact your Ritz-Carlton Wedding Specialist in advance to arrange. Ceremony rehearsals are normally one hour in length and there is no additional fee.
Where does the bridal party get ready before the wedding?
Many of our brides choose to stay with us the evening before their wedding and therefore have the use of their room for changing. Your florist, bridesmaids and family members may bring any flowers, dresses and makeup into your room. Wedding parties also have the option of buying out the salon area of The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Lake Tahoe for hair, nails and makeup providing all services are contracted through the resort.
What are the fees for parking? Can I pay for all guests parking?
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe offers only valet parking. Our current valet parking charges are $10 event parking and $35 for overnight guests. You may choose to host your guests parking charges by applying the charges to your master bill. Alternatively they may pay individually. The wedding party is responsible for any vendor parking as well which may be added to your master account.
OBTAINING A MARRIAGE LICENSE Show All Hide All
How can I obtain a marriage license in Placer County?
There are several requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Placer County, CA. If your ceremony is taking place in another county or state, your wedding coordinator or Ritz-Carlton wedding specialist would be delighted to assist you in obtaining the necessary information for that locale.
The following requirements need to be fulfilled to obtain a marriage license in Placer County:
Both parties must be at least 18 years old
Both the bride and groom must apply in person
You must have proper government-issued identification with the correct spelling of your name and address. Options include:
Driver's License
Passport
Divorce papers are not necessary if the divorce has been final for over 90 days.
A blood test is no longer required in California.
The certificate may be obtained from any county seat in California. It will be honored within the state for 90 days.
To obtain a marriage license, contact the North Lake Tahoe License Bureau:
Placer County, North Lake Tahoe License Bureau
5225 N. Lake Blvd. Carnelian Bay, CA 96140
(530) 546-1900
By appointment only, issued Monday through Friday mornings - $56.00
NOTE: This information is subject to change. Please verify current requirements in advance of your wedding date.