If you’re considering an intimate destination wedding, have you thought about the stunning setting of Thousand Palms in California?! Recently, I had the best time capturing a beautiful wedding at The Estate at Via Las Palmas, and I'm here to share why this location, along with a well-planned intimate gathering, makes for an unforgettable experience! We’re talking all about the value of a client-focused experience and sharing insider tips to ensure your wedding day is everything you’ve imagined.
Getaway Vibes: Why Intimate Destination Weddings
An intimate destination wedding? Yes, please! It’s like a mini vacation where your favorite people come together to celebrate your love in some seriously gorgeous scenery. With just a handful of guests, you can really go all out with personal touches and create those sweet, meaningful moments. Trust me, your guests will be all about that getaway vibe—who wouldn’t want to party in paradise?!
Speaking of getaways, check out my Getaway package, designed for couples who want their entire wedding weekend captured. From rehearsal dinners to farewell brunches, I'll be there to document every moment!
Keep Calm and Hire a Planner Extraordinaire
I can't stress enough the importance of having a pro wedding planner for an intimate destination wedding! At The Estate at Via Las Palmas, we had some gusty desert winds trying to crash the party right before the guests arrived. A skilled planner can handle these challenges and ensure that your vision comes to life seamlessly, creating an immersive and stress-free experience for everyone involved especially for you couples!!
Special Moments: First Looks and Grandpa's Handkerchief
One of the standout parts of this wedding was the couple’s first look. Unlike traditional weddings, where the couple might rush through photos after the ceremony, this first look allowed for all formal portraits, family photos, and friend shots to be done early. The couple also decided against a formal wedding party, making the event even more about their genuine interactions!
A particularly touching moment was the bride's First Look with her grandpa, complete with a custom handkerchief bearing a handwritten note. It’s these personal details that make an intimate destination wedding so cherished! I COULD CRY!
Sunset Serenade: Savor the Evening Light
Since we had already knocked out most of the photos, after the ceremony, it was all about capturing the couple during that gorgeous golden hour. This was their time to chill and really soak in the moment, especially for the bride, who had been a bit stressed earlier in the day. It’s incredible how just a few quiet moments together can turn up the joy of the day! I love those times when they can just be themselves and enjoy each other’s company!
FAQs: Curious About Having A Wedding In Thousands Palms?
The best time of year for an intimate wedding at In Thousands Palms?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather in Thousand Palms, avoiding the intense summer heat. These seasons highlight the lush beauty of the estate and provide comfortable temperatures for guests.
How can we manage unpredictable desert weather?
Having an experienced wedding planner is crucial. They can anticipate weather changes, such as gusty winds, and implement contingency plans to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What accommodations are available for out-of-town guests?
Thousand Palms and the surrounding areas offer a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy inns, providing easy access for your guests to enjoy a comfortable stay.
Tips for Planning Your Intimate Destination Wedding
1. Kick It Off with a Top-Notch Planner:
Trust your planner to handle logistics and design so you can focus on what matters most—celebrating with loved ones.
2. Say Yes to a First Look:
Not only does it allow for more personalized photos, but it also reduces stress and gives you time to enjoy your ceremony and guests.
3. Make It Personal:
Incorporate details that reflect your story, like the bride’s note to her grandpa, to create unforgettable moments.
4. Let the Locale Shine:
Embrace the natural beauty of the venue in your decor and photos. Thousand Palms offers a stunning backdrop that enhances every shot.
Client Love Note
"Where do I even start gushing about Kari, our absolute rockstar of a wedding photographer? Seriously, this woman is not just insanely talented behind the lens, but she's also like having your best friend there, keeping you cool as a cucumber on the big day.
Picture this: a whirlwind of wedding chaos, nerves all over the place, and then there's Kari, swooping in like a superhero to save the day. She's not just snapping photos; she's a calming force, making sure everyone's feeling their best, especially when my nerves were getting the best of me.
And talk about hype! Kari was like our personal cheerleader, boosting our confidence with every click of her camera.
Now, let's get to the good stuff – the photos. They speak for themselves! Each one's like a work of art, capturing all the feels of our big day. Seriously, we've already got a sneak peek, and I'm pretty sure each photo is more beautiful than the last. We're practically counting down the minutes until we get the rest!
Kari, if you're reading this, you're an absolute legend. Thanks for making our wedding day feel like a fairytale, and for giving us memories we'll treasure forever. Can't wait to see the rest of your magic! - Carley and Neil"
Wedding Captured On Film Photography
Book your Intimate Destination Wedding Photographer
An intimate destination wedding is MORE than just a celebration; it’s about creating an experience that you and your guests will always remember. If you’re ready to explore what the California Desert has to offer, let’s chat about how I can be your destination wedding photographer and help capture those incredible moments.
Get in touch with me today! I cannot freaking wait to see you pop into my inbox! And more than that I CAN'T WAIT TO CAPTURE YOUR SWEET LOVE!
Need more inspiration for your intimate destination wedding? Check out my latest blog!
Vendors
Planner & Design : @vineandbrancheventsco - Tatiana Czerwiak
Signage / Escort display : @wildhouseink
Rentals : @sigpartyrentals & @catalogatelier
Florist : @angelicaflowers
Venue : @estateatvialaspalmas
Hair : @Ashley.jadehair
Find them on Instagram & head the the link in their bio (or DM's to inquire)
