Make your Colorado mountain wedding a truly unique experience.
With the majestic Beaver Creek Mountain and spectacular Vail Valley creating a picturesque scene, The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is the ideal location for destination weddings. Offering both indoor and outdoor reception and ceremony venues, including our mountainside Beaver Creek Chapel, let us help you bring your dream Colorado wedding vision to life.
Whether you prefer an intimate mountainside wedding ceremony or an elaborate ballroom reception with elegant décor, our dedicated wedding specialists will assist you every step of the way. From overnight accommodations for guests in our luxury hotel suites to restorative spa treatments for the bridal party, we offer an unmatched experience for everyone.
What are the responsibilities of The Ritz-Carlton Special Events Manager?
- Act as the on-site liaison between your wedding coordinator and Hotel operations staff.
- Establish your guest room block and monitor the status of reservations (if applicable).
- Personally oversee the details of the bride and groom’s room reservations (if applicable).
- Recommend Special Event Professionals to provide wedding coordination, music, floral, photography, ceremony officiant, invitations and amenities.
- Act as menu consultant for all food and beverage selections.
- Detail your Banquet Event Order and Wedding “Resume” outlining all of your event specifics and overnight accommodations to ensure that all information is communicated successfully to the operational team of the Hotel.
- Create an estimate of charges outlining your financial commitments and deposit schedule.
- Create a floor plan of your function space in order for you to plan and provide the Hotel with your seating arrangements.
- Oversee the ceremony and reception room(s) set-up, food preparation and other Hotel operations.
- Ensure a seamless transition to the Banquet Captain on the day of your event.
- Review your banquet checks for accuracy, prior to the completion of your final bill.
What are the responsibilities of a Wedding Planner?
- Assist with etiquette and protocol for invitations, family matters, ceremony and toasts.
- Create a timeline for your entire wedding day, including the ceremony and reception to supply to the Special Events Manager.
- Organize and coordinate your ceremony rehearsal. Remind bridal party of all pertinent “call times” and “don’t forgets” on the wedding day.
- Confirm call times and details with all vendors several days prior to the wedding day.
- Be the liaison with your family, bridal party and all vendors.
- Assist the bride and bridal party with dressing.
- Ensure the ladies have their corsages and bouquets, etc., and assist with pinning of the gentlemen’s boutonnières.
- Deliver and arrange ceremony programs, escort cards, place cards, favors and any personal items.
- Coordinate your actual ceremony (i.e., line up bride party, assist bride with dress, etc.)
- Coordinate your reception (i.e., grand entrance, first dance, toasts, cake cutting, etc.)
- Coordinate with vendors and the Hotel Banquet Captain to ensure timeliness of your events.
- Collect any personal items you may have brought at the conclusion of the reception.
- Count and collect all wedding gifts and deliver them to the appropriate location at the conclusion of your event.
- Assist you with full-service coordinating, from your engagement to your honeymoon, should you select a full-service package.
Does the hotel offer a discounted guest room block?
If you wish to reserve a block of rooms for your family and guests, please notify your Catering Sales Manager who can provide you with availability and rates. This block of rooms requires a group sales agreement, where 25% of the guest room and current sales tax must be paid in full upon the signing of the contract.
Where does the bridal party get ready before the wedding?
We recommend guest room reservations be made for a minimum two-night length of stay with a check-in date of the night before the wedding and checkout the day after the wedding. This will eliminate the stress on the day of the wedding of having to check in and out of guest rooms.
Can food and beverage be brought in from the outside?
The resort must provide all food and beverage items for your event. The sale and service of alcoholic beverages is regulated by the Colorado Department of Revenue, and The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is responsible for the administration of those regulations. It is our policy that all alcoholic beverages must be provided by the resort.
What is the resort’s alcohol policy?
The resort’s liquor license prohibits possessing or serving alcoholic beverages on property that were not purchased by The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch through a licensed liquor distributor.
Please explain the food and beverage minimum.
The food and beverage minimum is the least amount of money that you are required to spend on a combination of food and beverage, excluding service charge and sales tax, but is not all that you could spend. The food and beverage minimum is reached by selecting individually priced, à la carte menu items to equal or exceed the required dollar figure.
The following examples would apply toward the food and beverage minimum:
Hors d’oeuvres, food display and carving stations, plated or buffet meal, wedding cake, dessert display stations, wine service with the meal, champagne toast, the bar (including alcohol), specialty station and any non-alcoholic beverages.
Centerpieces, upgraded linens/china/silverware, décor, and specialty lighting would not apply toward the food and beverage minimum.
When do I need to finalize my menu?
Food and beverage selections must be finalized and confirmed with your Special Event Manager a maximum of 6-8 weeks prior to the date of your wedding.
When do I need to let the hotel know exactly how many guests will be attending my event?
The Catering department must be notified of the exact number of guests attending a function at least 72 working hours prior to the start of the event. This will be considered a guarantee, for which you will be charged, even if fewer guests attend the 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.