Katie + Drew: Dreamy Palm Springs Wedding Illuminated by String Lights at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells
Austin, TX lovebirds Katie and Drew wanted to make sure their California-based families could partake in their most special day on October 28th, 2022 - so they made their way to Palm Springs, a perfect autumnal desert oasis just a few hours outside of Los Angeles, CA.
Those familiar with Palm Springs vacation spots may perhaps know of the Ace Hotel, The Parker, and Miramonte, to name a few - but the venue this couple chose feels like an untapped gem just waiting to be uncovered. Katie and Drew tied the knot and said their “I Do’s” at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells, an all-inclusive resort offering a visual feast of blue myrtle cacti, a sloping mountain range, and blue skies as far as the eye can see.
From start to finish, Katie and Drew’s day was a window into the true-to-life tale of who they are as a couple. Nostalgic, vintage-inspired, and reflective of their family history and relationships, their day was planned by Dan from Creative Happens and designed with storytelling in mind. Antique postcards of Palm Springs could be found throughout the locale, from welcome notes for the wedding party to place cards helping guests locate their seats.
With Katie’s three sisters as bridesmaids in gorgeous emerald green, the bridal party spent the day preparing on-site in the bridal suite. The bride didn't want to limit the pre-ceremony relaxation and preparation time to only her sisters, so she was also joined by her best girl friends, coined her 'ladies of honor.’ These close friends spent the morning getting ready alongside her, but later enjoyed the ceremony from the audience.
In a fun twist, Katie kept her elegant David’s Bridal gown with off-the-shoulder chiffon sleeves a secret from not just her husband-to-be, but also her entire party! This allowed her to have a special moment dressing with her mother for the event, followed by a joy-filled gown reveal with her closest friends. Thanks to hair and makeup from Beauty by Britney and Nancy A Artistry, Katie was glowing as the picture of bridal bliss.
Keeping in step with their clear love for moments built up with anticipation, Katie and Drew opted to also have their own first look on the golf course lawn. With palm trees at their sides and a beautiful wall of bougainvillea at their backs, the two had a sweet and candid moment on the lawn, before quickly ducking away to avoid some rogue sprinklers and gathering with their soon-to-be joined families before the ceremony.
The Palm Springs mountain range offered an idyllic backdrop for the exchanging of vows and rings. Framing the couple with lush floral arrangements throughout the ceremony space and reception centerpieces later on, Figure 8 Events provided stylized flowers and greenery, complementing the resort’s desert environment and geometric aesthetic.
Following the ceremony, Katie and Drew made sure to spend quality time with each individual guest at an extended ninety-minute cocktail hour, under a sky that seemed to celebrate along with them in cotton candy pinks and purples. This transition from day to night made for a spectacular sunset, which captured awe from all who beheld it.
As subtle as the turning of the seasons, their ceremony space was transformed throughout the couple’s cocktail hour into the image of festive celebration, thanks to the Hyatt Regency venue staff and Signature Party Rentals. The sleek and elegant linens and reception layout brought a modern balance to the otherwise vintage-romantic aesthetic. Innumerable string lights illuminated the reception area, making it possible for the party to continue once the sun went down.
Dinner by the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells followed soon after. Seated at the head table with the newlyweds were their closest friends and beloveds, while more family and friends circled around the dance floor in anticipation. As every wedding-goer knows, one ‘pièce de résistance’ of the event is often dessert. In lieu of a traditional cake, the couple opted for a more accessible and casual dessert bar, making lifelong memories while feeding one another personalized cheesecake bites.
Live music by Juke Box Productions filled the air, encircling the dining tables and dance floor. Once Katie and Drew celebrated with their first dance, it was time for the toasts. After the heartfelt speeches concluded, not a moment passed where at least one family member or friend wasn’t ‘cutting a rug’ out until the band played their final notes. The band even played an excellent live rendition of The Killers’ ‘Mr. Brightside,’ which had guests jumping to the beat. In spurts of childhood ecstasy, the adorable ring bearer and flower girl even made sure every person in attendance knew about the photo booth by XO Photo Co - by bringing the props straight to the dance floor and showing off their moves!
In celebration of their vintage-inspired day, the couple made sure to pay homage to their grandparents by replicating a special photo from their wedding day. On the first attempt, the couple accidentally spilled champagne all down Drew’s front (or maybe it was the sprinklers coming back for vengeance), but cheerily tried again with a laugh. The second time around, they were able to share the sentimental champagne toast in coupe glasses, à la generations past - a special way to honor those who have walked the path of love before them.
Once they were ready to say their farewells for the evening, everyone gathered for a grand exit filled with silver streamer poppers. The couple ran jubilantly down the tunnel of guests, toward their new life together. Congratulations Katie and Drew on a day made so uniquely for you, and the life you are building. A toast to you both!
TIPS FOR PLANNING A (DESTINATION) WEDDING THAT IS NOT LOCAL FOR YOU OR YOUR WEDDING GUESTS:
Having a destination wedding can be a wonderful experience for both you and your guests, but it also requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips for having a wedding in a non-local destination for your guests:
Choose the right location: When choosing a destination, consider the accessibility of the location, the availability of accommodations, and the activities and attractions available for your guests. It's also important to choose a location that reflects your style and personality. Hotels can be a great venue/location because they offer accommodations!! Having somewhere to stay on-site is a huge plus! This can also help reduce transportation costs and keep the celebration going even longer!
Give your guests plenty of notice: Send out save-the-date cards as early as possible to give your guests plenty of time to plan and make travel arrangements. You may also want to consider creating a wedding website with information about the destination, accommodations, and travel options.
Provide transportation: Consider providing transportation for your guests to and from the airport and wedding events. This can make it easier for your guests to navigate an unfamiliar location and can also ensure that everyone arrives on time. For destinations that a bit more rural, or guests aren’t staying on site, having a car hire or transportation service is a wonderful way to ensure everyone arrives at the right spot!
Offer suggestions for activities: Provide your guests with suggestions for activities and attractions in the area. This can help them make the most of their trip and can also create opportunities for group outings and bonding.
Plan events outside of the wedding: Consider planning events outside of the wedding day, such as a welcome reception, a group outing, or a farewell brunch. This can give your guests more opportunities to socialize and explore the destination. You can also host these in informal locations, like poolside at the hotel, so you don’t have to budget for additional wedding expenses!
Be respectful of your guests' budgets: Keep in mind that attending a destination wedding can be expensive for your guests. Try to choose affordable accommodations and provide options for different budgets.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your guests have a memorable and enjoyable experience at your non-local destination wedding.
VENDORS:
Photo: Vanessa Todd Photographer
Venue: Hyatt Regency Indian Wells
Catering and Bar Service: Hyatt Regency Indian Wells
Florals: Figure 8 Events
Rentals: Signature Event Party Rentals
Planning and Coordination: Dan from Creative Happens
Photo Booth: XO Photo Company
Dress: David’s Bridal
Live Band: Juke Box Productions
Hair and Makeup: Beauty by Britney and Nancy A Artistry
Send off streamers: linked here