Have you or someone you know recently gotten engaged? Not too surprising, with 16 percent of all engagements occurring in December.

Planning a wedding or large celebration can be overwhelming, so here are some tips on how to get started.

The first items to tackle are figuring out your budget and choosing your venue. Do you want to get married here in Tahoe? With abundant sunshine and breathtaking views it is no wonder that Lake Tahoe ranks nationally in the top five wedding destinations.

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Incline Village in particular offers an unparalleled set of wedding and event venues.

The Chateau at Incline Village is a great spot to begin your search for the perfect traditional wedding location. We have 5,200 square feet of pure Tahoe ambiance — open beams, large rock fireplaces and sweeping mountain, lake and golf course views.

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Aspen Grove is a hidden gem. Nestled in an Aspen Grove, this venue is incredibly photogenic, with a canopy of green spreading over picnic seating for 200 guests.

The grassy area at the far end of the park is the perfect setting for an outdoor ceremony, lawn games and dancing. The barbecue area offers a versatile setting for buffets and bar service.

This is a perfect location for a wedding, but also an amazing rehearsal dinner or post event brunch site.

Diamond Peak’s Base Lodge deck is growing in popularity for winter wedding ceremonies. We have hosted a few winter ski ceremonies with guests getting a full view of the bride and groom’s grand ski entrance from the deck of the Base Lodge.

Once you’ve selected a venue, all of the other pieces seem to fall into place. Hiring entertainment, a photographer, a baker for your cake and a florist to set the scene at your reception are logical next steps.

We recommend hiring a photographer who is familiar with the area because he or she knows the best locations for breathtaking shots. Happy planning!

“IVGID Tip” is a bi-weekly feature running in the North Lake Tahoe Bonanza, in partnership with the Incline Village General Improvement District, providing locals with various tips pertaining to the recreation opportunities and services the district provides. This tip was provided by IVGID Sales & Event Coordinators Cathy Becker and Maggi Vandenburg. Visit InclineFacilties.com or call 775-832-1303 for information on booking at The Chateau, Aspen Grove or other IVGID facilities.