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Vivid Color and Vibrant Style Define This Nontraditional Palm Springs Wedding

Some love stories take the scenic route. For Dom and Chase, what began as high school smoothie “dates” sparked by Dom’s dad’s soccer games eventually led to years apart, and a surprise reunion on Black Friday that changed everything. That reconnection turned into daily Skype calls between San Francisco and Shanghai, followed by a spontaneous trip to Japan “as friends.” A trip that quietly, completely, changed the course of their relationship.

When it came time to plan their wedding, it was only fitting that their day would be as intentional and unconventional as their love story. Rooted in personal meaning, layered with creativity, and set in the desert landscape of their hometown, this nontraditional Palm Springs wedding was an honest reflection of who they are—fun, expressive, sentimental, and full of soul.

What We Love About This Nontraditional Palm Springs Wedding:

  • A vibrant color palette of chartreuse, cayenne pepper, lavender, and cream that made every detail pop
  • A private vow exchange at the Palm Springs Art Museum that felt as personal as it was meaningful
  • Statement wedding fashion, including a gold jacquard suit and a veil with fluffy floral appliqués
  • DIY touches everywhere—from the stationery to handwritten guest cards and travel-inspired table names
  • The relaxed, intimate energy of a 50-guest wedding that still felt full of personality and fun

“We didn’t have a rigid wedding vision,” Dom shared. “But I always knew how I wanted it to feel—intimate, creative, and completely us.”

Rather than build around expectations or tradition, Dom and Chase focused on feeling. That approach inspired every choice, from skipping a wedding party to choosing a bold palette of chartreuse, cayenne red, lavender, and cream. It was vivid and unexpected—just like their relationship.

Both creatives in their fields, they drew inspiration from their design backgrounds to lean into texture, color, and emotion. The result? A nontraditional Palm Springs wedding that felt artful, effortless, and uniquely theirs.

Invitations That Set the Vibe Early

As a wedding stationer, Dom knows that design is more than just pretty details. It’s the first impression. “The save-the-dates were neon chartreuse with cayenne pepper letterpress and a bold floral liner. We wanted people to feel the vibe immediately.”

The invitations kept things playful, asking guests to dress in “festive formal wear,” with a cheeky note: “Outdress the bride and groom.” That energy carried into the day-of details too. Everything from menus and signage to handwritten cards, was designed and crafted by the couple. Their table names were inspired by places they’ve traveled together, each holding a piece of their shared story.

Making the Guest List Count (And the Guest Count Small)

Limiting their guest list to 50 meant every invite was intentional. “It was one of the hardest parts,” Dom admitted. “But having only our closest friends and family there made everything more meaningful.”

They kicked things off with a welcome party at Chase’s childhood home, where his parents once hosted their own pre-wedding event. With tiki drinks, handmade tacos, their favorite coconut cake, and music by their friends, the night was full of nostalgia and love. It set the tone for a weekend rooted in memory, community, and joy.

Featured Vendor:

Carmen Lopez Photography

Wedding Fashion That Reflected Their Personalities

Dom and Chase decided to keep things simple by skipping a wedding party and focusing on personal style, each wearing a different outfit for their first look and their ceremony.

  • Dom’s first look: a silky white open-back dress with a birdcage veil—elegant with a playful twist.
  • Dom’s ceremony look: a timeless Katherine Tash gown with a chapel-length veil adorned with soft floral appliqués, plus a pearl heirloom ring from her great-great-grandmother.
  • Chase’s first look: a Miami Vice–inspired Paul Smith top to complement the museum backdrop.
  • Chase’s ceremony look: a gold Hibiscus Jacquard suit from Mr. Turk paired with a sentimental heirloom watch and a crane lapel pin symbolizing longevity in Japanese culture.

“It was important to us that our outfits told a story. They were bold, personal, and very us.”

Intention in Every Layer of their Nontraditional Palm Springs Wedding Day

Rather than jump straight into the ceremony, Dom and Chase made space for private vows at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Just the two of them, surrounded by art. Dom arrived in a vintage Rolls Royce, a meaningful nod to her late father’s love of classic cars.

Related: Get Inspired By These 30 Touching Wedding Vows Examples

A Simple, Sentimental Nontraditional Palm Springs Wedding Ceremony 

Their official ceremony took place in the intimate Cactarium at Moorten Botanical Garden. Surrounded by towering cacti, guests explored the space with champagne in hand before and after the vows.

“We wanted a venue that felt timeless and returnable. Moorten is a local gem. It’s historic, beautiful, and feels like home.”

They kept the decor simple—acrylic chairs and pedestals, sculptural florals, and calla lilies as a tribute to Chase’s mom. The couple co-wrote the ceremony script with Chase’s sister and included a group reading of “Scientific Romance” by Tim Pratt. “It was a little silly and very us. Exactly what we wanted.”

Trusting the Right People for Their Nontraditional Palm Springs Wedding

As someone who works with couples daily, Dom knew exactly who she wanted to bring this day to life—like Junebug vendor Carmen Lopez Photography, whose warm, artistic eye matched the tone of the day.

“I gave them a mood board and said, ‘Run with it.’ When you trust creative people to do what they do best, magic happens.”

They carried that same energy into their music choices. No DJ, just a guitarist and a meaningful playlist that honored their late fathers and favorite memories. “Every choice had a reason. Even the fun ones.”

Rethinking What a Reception Needs to Be

Forget a traditional dance floor. After the ceremony, the celebration moved to Mr. Lyon’s, where cocktails on the terrace led into a moody, textured dinner surrounded by vibrant floral arrangements and funky paper goods. “We put our energy into what mattered—good food, drinks, and a well-designed experience.”

The night ended with a silent disco back at the couple’s Airbnb. Just them and their closest friends dancing the night away.

Redefining What a Wedding Can Look Like

A nontraditional Palm Springs wedding gave Dom and Chase the freedom to focus on feeling instead of formality. And for couples planning their own celebration, they offer this advice:

“Stay anchored in your why. When every decision comes from that place, the day just clicks.”

This wasn’t a wedding that checked boxes. It was a love letter—to their hometown, their people, and the life they’ve built together. It was layered with meaning, infused with artistry, and completely, unapologetically theirs. Because in the end, a wedding doesn’t have to follow a script. It just has to sound like your song.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Carmen Lopez Photography
Ceremony Venue – Moorten Botanical Garden
Reception Venue – Mr. Lyons
Floral Design – Dogwood Florals
Live Music – Luke Metzler
Invitation Design – Stay Spicy Design
Wedding Dress – Loho Bride
Groom’s Apparel – Mr. Turk
Rings – Smoketree Jewelers
Rentals – Bright Rentals

 

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A Destination Wedding in Valle de Guadalupe Rooted in Earth Tones and Cultural Tradition

May 12, 2025 | justine

What happens when you blend timeless design, natural beauty, and deep cultural roots? For Riddhi and Michael, their wedding in Valle de Guadalupe wasn’t just about saying “I do.” It was about creating space for connection, honoring their cultures, and throwing a celebration that felt as natural and joyful as their love story.

What We Love About This Valle de Guadalupe Wedding:

  • The soft earth-toned color palette that blended beautifully with the Valle de Guadalupe landscape
  • Thoughtful, personalized touches like exchanging vows during their first look
  • The way both Italian and Indian traditions were honored throughout the day
  • Bridesmaids in one-of-a-kind Indian outfits with dainty accessories
  • A reception that felt like the best house party—complete with surprise dance performances under the stars

Riddhi and Michael had visited Valle de Guadalupe once before, back in 2019, and something about the place stayed with them. So when it came time to plan their wedding, this lush Mexican wine country kept calling them back.

“We loved the idea of inviting our guests to a place none of them had been before,” they shared. “It made everything feel even more special and intimate.”

That choice led them to Junebug vendor Selene of Proboda Baja Weddings who helped bring every thoughtful detail to life. “We actually booked our venue without seeing it in person. We completely trusted Selene, and it was one of the best decisions we made.”

The moment they stepped into Clos de Tres Cantos, they knew. With its mountain views, modern stone architecture, and open-air layout, it was the perfect canvas for the day they imagined. 

From the very beginning, the couple wanted their celebration to feel grounded, intentional, and reflective of their journey together. “We weren’t interested in doing things just because they were traditional,” Riddhi said. “We chose only the details that felt authentic to us.”

And it worked. The day flowed naturally, without pressure or performance, just presence.

Featured Vendor:

Proboda Baja Weddings

Creating Connection Before the Big Day

Want to make your wedding weekend feel like one big joyful family reunion? Take a page from Riddhi and Michael’s book.

They hosted a casual house party the night before, complete with tacos, storytelling, and laughter. “We just wanted people to connect before the big day. So by the time the ceremony came around, it didn’t feel like two sides. It felt like one.”

That intentional warmth carried right through to the dance floor.

Designing a Cohesive Look for Their Big Day at Valle de Guadalupe

The wedding’s aesthetic drew directly from the surroundings of Valle de Guadalupe. The color palette: warm neutrals, soft greens, ivory, and earthy undertones that echoed the vineyard backdrop.

Riddhi wore a custom ivory Indian lehenga by Arpita Mehta, styled by Bridelan. It featured a V-neck blouse, high-waisted skirt, delicate embroidery, and a sheer veil that floated behind her like a dream. Michael complemented the look with a sage green sherwani. Detailed yet understated, just like the day itself.

For the reception, they switched things up. Riddhi changed into a modern, sleek Rime Arodaky jumpsuit, and Michael wore a textured linen-wool blend suit in a deep green from Suit Supply. “It was comfortable, elegant, and perfect for dancing all night,” they said.

Their wedding party followed suit. Bridesmaids in different Indian outfits and colors, accessorized with dainty jewelry; groomsmen in ivory sherwanis with slight personal touches. The visual harmony was striking.

Honoring Culture While Keeping It Modern

With Riddhi being Indian and Michael Italian, honoring both backgrounds was essential. They chose to have an Indian ceremony, carefully adapted for all guests to understand.

“We were lucky to find a priest who explained each ritual in English. It made the ceremony feel so meaningful and inclusive.”

The result was a perfect balance. Steeped in tradition, yet fully their own. And although they had exchanged their personal vows privately earlier in the day, they included a few shared promises in the ceremony, grounding the moment in shared intention.

Letting Natural Surroundings Inspire the Decor

“We actually booked our venue without seeing it in person. Putting our full trust in our wedding planner’s recommendation. And it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made,” they shared.

They were drawn to the idea of getting married at a winery, surrounded by mountains, lush greenery, stone architecture, and the natural beauty of the landscape.

Clos de Tres Cantos felt like a dream. The space was intimate and warm, the open-kitchen restaurant served the most incredible food, and to this day, their red wine is still one of their top five favorites. It felt like the kind of place where every element aligned with who they are and the kind of celebration they wanted to share.

The florals and decor were designed to complement the winery and its surroundings—minimalist, thoughtful, and full of natural beauty. “Everything we needed was right there. It felt like a one-stop sanctuary for love, laughter, and celebration.”

Balancing Intention, Emotion, and Entertainment at Their Valle de Guadalupe Wedding

When it came to the reception, Riddhi and Michael wanted the night to unfold naturally. The evening kicked off with a delicious four-course meal, thoughtfully prepared by Ariete in the open-air kitchen, letting guests savor both the food and the setting.

Instead of making a grand entrance, they chose something more relaxed: simply walking down the steps into the garden as guests mingled during cocktail hour. “It was a soft, unspoken transition into the celebration. It felt organic and effortless.”

That same laid-back energy carried through the rest of the evening. Every detail reflected their personalities and values. Skipping tradition when it didn’t resonate and leaning into moments that felt true to them.

Heartfelt speeches from parents, siblings, and close friends added warmth and humor, building an emotional arc that only grew as the night went on. Then came the surprise of the evening: choreographed dances from friends and family that left everyone stunned in the best way possible.

They danced under the stars until midnight to a soundtrack that was completely them, from Bollywood bangers to nostalgic 90s hits. “The energy was unmatched. It wasn’t just the best party we’ve ever had. It was the best one we’ve ever been to.”

What They’d Do All Over Again—And What They Want You to Know

Looking back, Riddhi and Michael wouldn’t change a thing. “Every choice we made felt intentional, true to who we are, and rooted in love.”

Their advice to couples?

“It’s your weekend, make it yours. Choose the details, experiences, and moments that feel authentic to you as a couple. Don’t feel pressured to follow traditions that don’t resonate.”

They also emphasized building a thoughtful, slow-paced timeline:

“Give yourself time to breathe. Enjoy a slow morning. Take breaks. Make sure you actually eat! Not everything is a fire drill. It really can feel calm and joyful.”

Their Valle de Guadalupe wedding was exactly that—calm, joyful, deeply meaningful, and completely their own.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – LaDichosa
Event Planning + Floral Design – Proboda Baja Weddings
Venue – Clos de Tres Cantos
Catering – Ariete
Officiant – Yogen Pathak
Invitation Design – Etsy
Wedding Dress – Arpita Metha
Stylist – Bridelan

 

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A Modern Tulum Wedding with Earthy Hues and Whimsical Blooms

What happens when a cosmic reconnection leads to a destination wedding in the lush tropics? For Amanda and Jasper, their modern Tulum wedding was more than just a celebration. It all came together after years of growing, finding their way back to each other, and building something real.

Their story started in Washington, DC, back in 2016, during what Amanda jokingly called “expiration dating.” Jasper had just defended his PhD and was about to leave the city. “We made the most of the time we had,” she said, “but it ended with a heartfelt goodbye.”

Then in April 2020, during the early pandemic days, Jasper reached out, out of the blue. What he didn’t know was that Amanda had just planted “Jasper” tomato seeds on the farm she was managing. Coincidence or destiny, we’ll let you decide. What followed was a thoughtful reconnection and, eventually, a shared life together that led them to say “I do” in a place close to their hearts.

What We Love About This Modern Tulum Wedding:

  • The effortlessly candid photography by Junebug vendor Julieta Rabadan, capturing real, unposed moments
  • Sculptural florals, natural textures, and modern decor that felt right at home in the jungle
  • A mirrored ceremony aisle framed by palms, pink anthuriums, and a golden circular altar
  • A curated bar with crafted cocktails and elevated mocktails
  • A reception that moved seamlessly from sunlit dinner to disco-lit dance floor

Featured Vendor:

Julieta Rabadan

How a Meaningful Destination Elevated Their Celebration

Tulum wasn’t just a pretty backdrop—it was meaningful. The couple had traveled there before and wanted their day to feel like a natural extension of their life together. Their modern Tulum wedding design combined laid-back luxury with earthy tones and natural textures, creating a vibe that was relaxed but refined.

Rather than spotlighting staged moments, their photographer focused on capturing real memories as they unfolded. “They didn’t want a posed shoot,” Julieta shared. “Everything you see is truly what happened.”

Ditching Tradition for Something More Special

Jasper and Amanda’s ceremony was the perfect blend of modern design and jungle magic. Tucked deep in Tulum’s greenery, the setup felt private, cinematic, and totally dreamy. A sleek black aisle with curvy gold details reflected the towering palms above, leading to a circular altar surrounded by tropical blooms in soft pinks and mossy greens.

Clear ghost chairs flanked the mirrored walkway, giving the whole space a clean, contemporary vibe while still letting the natural surroundings shine. The flowers were sculptural and wild in the best way, like they were growing right out of the ground. From the reflective aisle to the minimalist altar, every detail felt thoughtful, elevated, and completely “them.”

Modern Tulum Wedding Fashion That Blended Elegance With Ease

Amanda’s wedding looks were the perfect match for the vibe of the day—elegant, a little unexpected, and full of thoughtful detail. For the ceremony, she wore a minimalist ivory gown with clean lines and a square neckline, paired with a sheer embroidered cape that brought a soft, romantic feel. The cape’s delicate floral and bird motifs caught the light as she walked down the mirrored aisle, adding just the right amount of magic.

For the reception, she switched into a one-shoulder mini dress with pearl-like embellishments—fun, stylish, and made for dancing. Jasper kept it timeless in a black suit and tie, with a blush boutonnière that tied everything together and added a subtle pop of color.

Thoughtful Touches That Made the Day Theirs

From the moment guests stepped into the reception, it was clear Jasper and Amanda’s modern Tulum wedding was anything but typical. The night unfolded across a mix of beautifully styled spaces. Each one layered with color, texture, and intentional design.

Dinner felt like a dream: long linen-covered tables set under bright bougainvillea, with pastel-toned florals and glowing taper candles softening the clean white architecture. Rattan chairs and stacked tableware gave the setup that effortless, beachy elegance, while the color palette—peach, soft pinks, lavender, and pops of anthurium—reflected the couple’s playful, unfussy style.

Not far off, the checkered dance floor sat beneath a canopy of trees and oversized silver disco balls. Velvet lounge corners offered a cozy spot to chat, while bistro lights twinkled overhead as the sky darkened. By nightfall, the whole space had transformed into a jungle disco, equal parts garden party and all-out celebration.

A standout detail? The bar. Jasper is sober, and the couple made sure everyone had something to toast with by offering a menu of fun, vibrant mocktails alongside classic cocktails. It was a small touch that made a big difference, ensuring every guest felt included and cared for.

As the night went on, the lights shifted red, disco reflections danced across the floor, and the energy was pure joy. It was an experience full of intention, beauty, and heart.

What Really Matters When You Look Back

Planning a destination celebration like a modern Tulum wedding? Teaming up with local vendors who really know the area can make all the difference—especially when it comes to rolling with the weather or bringing in design details that just work with the setting. And don’t be afraid to make it personal. Whether it’s writing your own ceremony script or crafting a drinks menu with something for everyone (like Jasper and Amanda’s beautiful mix of cocktails and mocktails), it’s those thoughtful touches that guests remember.

At the end of the day, it’s not about checking every box. It’s about how your wedding feels. So let go of the pressure and trust what feels right for you. Maybe that means a simple dress and a dreamy cape, a mirrored aisle in the middle of the jungle, or disco balls above a velvet lounge. Whatever it looks like, the most beautiful celebrations are the ones that feel real, joyful, and completely your own.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Julieta Rabadan
Event Planning – Angelina Cardenas
Venue – KIMA Tulum
Florals + Design + Styling – Maria Limon
Catering – Piedra de Fuego
Cake – Lali Pastels
DJ – AV Riviera Events
Rentals – Archive Rentals

 

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