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This Roberts Regional Recreation Area Wedding Was Inspired By Chinese Culture & the Couple’s Love for Vegas

March 14, 2024 | justine

Jen and Mariah’s Roberts Regional Recreation Area wedding was a dazzling celebration of their love and heritage. From the radiant mix of pinks and reds reminiscent of a Vegas sunset to the playful Chinese lanterns dancing in the breeze, every detail paid homage to their adoration for Chinese culture, Vegas, and their queer identity. It was a joyous occasion where love, diversity, and culture intertwined beautifully. It was vibrant and bold, creating unforgettable moments for all who attended.

Surrounded by tall Redwood trees, the outdoor ceremony was a sight to behold. Lanterns, ribbons, and colorful blooms added brightness to the setting, making it feel extra special. After the ceremony, everyone gathered for the festivities. One of the best parts was a bright neon sign that said, “Everyone is Gay,” like the ones you see in Las Vegas. It was a fun way to celebrate love and diversity. 

As if the décor wasn’t enough, wait until you see their attire! Mariah looked radiant in a sparkling dress, while Jen took their style to the next level with a bold maroon suit that turned heads. Later, they both changed into striking red traditional attire for the reception, adding even more elegance to the occasion. If you’re seeking inspiration on how to pull off an out-of-the-box celebration that also pays tribute to your heritage, keep scrolling. Junebug member Vivian Chen has expertly captured every detail and more, preserving the enchantment of this truly unique celebration.

The Couple:

Jen and Mariah

The Wedding:

Roberts Regional Recreation Area, California, United States

How Their Roberts Regional Recreation Area Wedding Came To Be

Our wedding aesthetic evolved through a thorough planning journey where we sought design inspiration and scouted venues. Settling on a reception venue with a bold terracotta-colored wall, we embraced Mariah’s love of pink. Her dream of wearing a sparkling dress and Jen’s vision of a maroon suit further set the tone. Being of Taiwanese descent, Jen’s heritage inspired us to integrate Chinese accents into the design, resulting in a vibrant fusion of pinks and reds. Chinese lanterns, ribbons, fabrics, and florals added pops of color, weaving cultural richness into the celebration. To pay homage to our love for Vegas and as a celebration of our queer identity, we designed a custom neon sign that says “Everyone is Gay” inspired by the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. Our wedding was ultimately a collection of our personal passions, cultural influences, and cherished memories.

Embracing Authenticity and Honoring Their Values

Contrary to the outdated notion that a wedding is primarily for others, we take pride that we were able to remain true to ourselves throughout the entire process. We planned the day that was most meaningful to us, staying authentic to our desires and values. Selecting standout memories from the day is challenging as every moment holds significance. However, our vow exchange and the heartfelt toasts from our loved ones were highlights. These moments affirmed our decision to share this day with each other and our community.

Trusting Instincts: Letting Go of the “Perfect Day

Release the notion of the “perfect day” and rely on your instincts. Embrace your decisions with enthusiasm without constantly doubting if they are the “right” choices. While we personally organized the entire wedding, we eventually opted to enlist a day-of coordinator for assistance with the execution. Doing these two things was invaluable to our process. They allowed us to conserve energy while planning and be fully engaged in the unfolding of the day.

The Story of Their DIY Wedding Decor

We custom-designed rainbow suncatcher stickers featuring one of our favorite flowers, the pincushion protea, as a fun and interactive representation of ourselves. It brings us joy to receive photos of rainbows casting their vibrant hues into our guests’ homes, knowing that they’ll be reminded of us whenever they catch a glimpse. We DIYed all of the stationary and decorations for our wedding, including all of our florals. A few days prior, we went to the local flower market, handpicked an assortment of blooms, and crammed them into our Subaru to store at home. The night before the wedding, we hosted a “flower prep pizza party,” where friends and family gathered to assist in cutting and designing all of the florals, except for our bouquets, which we designed ourselves. A special shout-out goes to our friend Jas, who took the lead in designing several of the larger centerpieces and aisle vases.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Vivian Chen
Ceremony Venue – Roberts Regional Recreation Area
Reception Venue – Good Stock
Catering – Thai Rice Spoon
Cake – Angel Cakes
Videography – JuneCat Media
Suit – Indochino
Wedding Dress – Needle & Thread
Rings – Capucinne
Rentals – AM Party Rentals
Favors – Rainbow Symphony

 

Congratulations to Jen and Mariah on their enchanting Roberts Regional Recreation Area wedding that beautifully blended Chinese culture with their love for Vegas. A heartfelt thank you to Junebug member Vivian Chen for expertly capturing every moment of this unforgettable celebration. For more beautiful celebrations like this one, check out her profile in our directory of the best wedding photographers from around the world.

Their wedding is a testament to the power of personalization and creativity, showing how infusing unique touches can create a truly memorable day. If their special day has sparked inspiration in you, but you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry! Our guide on planning a one-of-a-kind celebration is here to help, offering a plethora of ideas to kickstart your own extraordinary journey.

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How to Have a “Girls Gone Mild” Low-Key Bachelorette Party

March 13, 2024 | kailey

Image by Lite Weddings. See more of this real wedding here.

When you picture a bachelorette party, odds are you think of crazy nights out and a lot of drinking. While that will be the ideal weekend for some, that’s not the case for all. So, if you find yourself dreaming of a low-key bachelorette party, we have some good news: a laidback bachelorette party is absolutely doable, and it can be just as enjoyable as those wild traditional celebrations. 

In fact, a lowkey bachelorette party is a great way to celebrate the bride-to-be in a more intimate way. Think spa days, wine tastings, movie nights, and more. We’ve rounded up all our favorite ideas for those wanting to pull off a “girls gone mild” bachelorette party.

13 Low Key Bachelorette Party Ideas 

1. Relaxing Spa Weekend Getaway 

For the ultimate relaxing bachelorette party, consider a spa weekend getaway. Reserve a room at an enchanting resort that has an onsite spa, andtreat yourself to a day or two of pampering with massages and facials, and time in the saunas or hot tubs. It’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate before the big day. 

2. Schedule a Wine Tasting 

If you’re hoping to have a destination bachelorette party while still keeping things lowkey, consider escaping to wine country for an entire weekend of delicious foods and drinks. Alternatively, you can opt for a local day trip to your favorite local winery. Either way, this is the perfect option for laidback brides who still want to enjoy the occasional drink or two. Arrange a private tour and tasting experience so you can spend the day (or weekend) sipping on some delicious crafted wines with your best friends. 

3. Cozy Movie Night Under the Stars 

Film buffs, this low key bachelorette party idea is for you. Transform your backyard or Airbnb into an outdoor cinema with a projector for a movie under the stars. You can also create a cozy theater in the living room. Either way, this won’t be just any ordinary movie night. We envision matching pajamas, themed snacks, and a lineup of wedding-themed movies. 

4. Yoga Retreat 

Following months of hectic wedding planning, a yoga retreat with your closest friends could be just what you need. Pack your yoga gear and matching workout sets for the ultimate retreat experience—a truly low key bachelorette party idea. It’s a wholesome way to de-stress while also celebrating the special bride-to-be. You’ll be able to clear your mind and get fully into the wedding mindset. 

 

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5. Take A Cooking Class 

Taking a cooking class is a bachelorette party activity that’s guaranteed to be delicious. It’s an interactive experience that’ll have you going home full and equipped with some new culinary skills; it’s a double win. Plus, there are various themes and cuisines to choose from. This will allow you to tailor the experience to the bride and wedding party preferences. 

Recommended Reading: Bachelorette Party Theme Ideas You’ve Probably Never Heard of Before

6. DIY Floral Bouquet Making Class 

If you describe yourself as someone who’s crafty, trade your traditional bachelorette party for a bouquet-making class with a local florist. Schedule a private class where an experienced florist can walk you through, step-by-step, how to make your own bouquets. This is a fun way to celebrate the upcoming wedding and get your wedding party involved–and everyone can take their bouquets home with them as souvenirs

7. Get Messy With A Pottery Class 

Embrace your creativity by booking a private pottery class where you create stunning pieces together like mugs, plates, vases, etc. From molding your own pieces to painting them, this hands-on experience is guaranteed to be a creative bonding experience. Plus, the personalized pottery pieces you make will serve as cherished keepsakes that’ll last long beyond your bachelorette party.

8. Paint and Sip Class 

Your best friends, paint, and wine—these are the ingredients needed to pull off the ultimate laidback bachelorette party. Get creative in a paint-and-sip class led by an experienced art instructor. Follow along step by step, sipping on wine with your wedding party, and you’ll walk out with some unforgettable memories and a custom art piece. 

Recommended Reading: Bachelorette Party Essentials For Your Celebration

9. Take a Scenic Hike 

For wedding parties that love outdoor adventures, lace up your hiking boots and plan a scenic hike. It’s a great opportunity to get some exercise, destress, and bond with your loved ones. Consider tackling a longer hike that’s been on your bucket list with stunning views that’ll make for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.  

10. Game Night 

Infuse some friendly competition into your bachelorette party with a game night. Encourage all your friends to bring their favorite board games, or even get creative by crafting your own custom wedding-themed games like “ Who’s Most Likely To: Soon-To-Be Newlywed Edition.”  Consider offering prizes for the winners to up the excitement and make your game night even more memorable.

11. Host A Picnic

Plan a picnic in a scenic park or garden and soak up the sunshine to get in the wedding mindset. Pack some delicious snacks, homemade sandwiches, and drinks to enjoy an afternoon of bonding with your best friends. You can create a DIY picnic set up or bring in the professionals for a full picnic set up. 

 

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12. Go Glamping 

For those who like to be outdoors without getting too down and dirty, opt for a glamping trip. It’s very similar to camping but with added comfort. Picture getting out of town and cozying up by the fireplace in a luxury cabin. It’s the ultimate city escape for those seeking a relaxing weekend getaway full of smores, wine, and quality friend time.  

 

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13. Costal Grandma Getaway 

Take a break from wedding planning stress and soak up the sun, sand, and sea with your wedding crew. Head to the nearest beach for some much-needed relaxation. Don’t forget to pack your coolers, grab your books, and coordinate your swimsuits for the ultimate beach day.

From the style of wedding down to your bachelorette party, there is no one-size-fits-all wedding experience. And if you want to ditch the traditional “wild” bachelorette party for a mild celebration, we’re in support. After reading over these ideas and selecting your favorite, it’s time to get planning. Start by checking out our how-to guide for throwing a bachelorette party you’ll remember.

Image by MC Wedding.

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This SKYLIGHT Wedding Is Proof You Can Have a Tropical Wedding Anywhere

When Margaret and Malachi began planning their wedding, they were set on having a celebration that lasted all night and reflected their personal style. They were fortunate to discover a venue that provided a perfect starting point for their vision. Using vibrant colors, lush flowers, and modern decor, they turned their SKYLIGHT wedding into the tropical paradise they had always dreamed of for their special day.

SKYLIGHT proved to be the ideal wedding venue for the couple due to its great location and versatile space. They took full advantage of its blank canvas appeal, adorning it with stunning floral pillars and a vibrant geometric backdrop for their ceremony altar, along with a lush greenery installation. Their creativity knew no bounds as they transformed the space for the reception, complete with wooden tables adorned with elegant centerpieces.

If you’ve ever wondered about infusing your individuality into every element of your celebration to establish a unified and stylish theme, then this wedding is a must-see. The stunning photos, skillfully captured by NJ Duncan Photography, genuinely encapsulate the essence of this pair’s love story and the remarkable day they curated.

The Couple:

Margaret and Malachi

The Wedding:

SKYLIGHT, Denver, Colorado, United States

Recommended Reading: Unique Groom Style Ideas for the Well Dressed 

How They Landed on a Tropical SKYLIGHT Wedding

We had gone to a wedding that went to the wee hours of the morning and thought it was so fun not to have to change locations for an after party. Our venue was a 24-hour rental, so we got to choose whatever end time we wanted, and it worked out great. We also loved the blank canvas that we got to decorate and that it was centrally located so guests could stay in Denver. We had been going to a ton of weddings of friends when we got engaged, so we started by just thinking about what we liked and didn’t like at those weddings. Eventually, we found our venue and met with our planner, who gave us amazing vendor recommendations. The style of our wedding is very much a style we love in our own lives, relatively simple with warm touches and a few showy statements.

Recommended Reading: Ceremony Backdrops to Wow Your Guests

Recommended Reading: Get Inspired By These 30 Touching Wedding Vows Examples

Having a Close Friend Officiate and a Shared Journey Down the Aisle

We had a close friend officiate, someone who we were close to as our relationship started, so he could speak to how we have grown together. We also walked down the aisle together; we wanted that to symbolize that we were entering this marriage as partners. We wrote our own vows, which definitely made things feel more intimate and specific to us. Reading our vows to each other in front of all the people we love the most.

Balancing Act: Creating a Stunning Wedding with Guest Comfort in Mind

For couples beginning their wedding planning journey, here’s some advice. Firstly, think carefully about whether you want to include any traditions – remember, nothing is mandatory. Secondly, trust your vendors. They’re experts who are great at coming up with creative ideas. Lastly, we’re really proud that we managed to make our wedding look amazing while also making sure our guests felt comfortable and cared for.

Recommended Reading: 16 Sweetheart Table Ideas

Recommended Reading: Wedding Reception Table Ideas + Tips For Deciding What’s Best For Your Big Day

The Wedding Team:

Photography – NJ Duncan Photography
Event Planning – Erin Purnell of 828 Planning
Venue – SKYLIGHT
Floral Design – Wandering Poppy Co
Catering – Love Pop
DJ – DJ Connection
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Clementine’s Salon
Rentals – Colorado Party Rentals

 

Congratulations to Margaret and Malachi on their beautiful tropical SKYLIGHT wedding. And a big thank you to NJ Duncan Photography for capturing every moment of their special day.

When planning your wedding, don’t hesitate to let your personalities shine—whether it’s picking an unconventional venue or adding your touch to wedding traditions. Take a look at our guide for some fun ideas to make your big day truly unique.

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