Mid-Century Desert Getaway — Have & Hold Events

A Mid-Century Desert Getaway

When we first met with this couple on Zoom over a year ago, we knew this was going to be a special one. What you see reflected in these photos perfectly describes the lively, spunky nature of these two. I will never forget, when we asked them what they wanted their wedding day to feel like, they simply said “We obviously know it will be the best night of our lives, but we also want it to be the best night of our guests’ lives too.”

With that, we got to work creating this mid-century modern event of a lifetime.

The Ceremony - Scenic + Sappy

The first thing you need to know about this ceremony is that it’s aesthetics paled in comparison to the vows that were shared. This couple had their guests (and us) both doubled over in laughter and crying tears of joy as they committed to life together forever. But, the setting for the occasion was equally as picturesque as the vows were emotional. This stunning arbor installation by Award Creative was one of the key pieces we knew we wanted to incorporate as a base for the entire day’s design. It perfectly set the tone by creating a statement with dried and muted tones amongst the large fanning cacti leaves. The iconic Lautner Compound sounding wall served as the perfect backdrop for this couple’s nuptials with it’s funky, Old-Hollywood pattern taking center stage. With nearly 200 guests in attendance, we had to find a way to bring the beauty of the altar all the way to those in the last row, so we decided on a few dried cacti arrangements at the base of the aisle to tie it all together.

Portraits - Highlighting the Destination

These two L.A. based writers knew that they wanted their guests to feel completely immersed in the desert vibes of the weekend and the Lautner Compound was the perfect spot to do so. With the palm trees peaking out from every corner and the retro interior of the Lautner suites, it was not difficult for Brianna Broyles and her team to create some feel-good magic with her camera! With one look at these portraits, you can feel the pre-wedding jitters melting off of these two love birds as they got to walk hand in hand as (almost) husband and wife.

I feel I would be remiss if I didn’t throw in a wedding pro tip here - we highly encourage going with a first look before the ceremony. Why? Doing a first look means that you can get all of these lovely portraits and bridal party shots and even family shots done before your guests even arrive! This means you can join your party as soon as you want after the ceremony and there is no rushing around trying to get all of the shots in. Trust us, your photographer will thank you later.

Dinner - A Vibrant Affair

From the start of the designing process, we knew we wanted these tablescapes to reflect the warm and fun nature of this couple. We played with lots of different textures and hues to create a one of a kind Hollywood-esque place setting that quite literally glowed in the light of golden hour. While most people would shy away from this color palette, this couple wanted all the color we could give them. So, we decided to do an alternating setting that would push the envelope on being both bold and classic. MTB Event Rentals inventory was full of the perfect signature pieces to create a one-of-a-kind styling for our couple. The menu stationary, also designed by Have & Hold Events, reflected the thick and minimal fonts of the mid-century modern style as well. This customized menu coupled with the retro palette created a visual dream for guests as they found their seats.

The Reception

Even though the day was already full of intentional details around every corner, this experience did not stop at the reception. First, we take a look at the customized escort wall that greeted guests as they found their seats. As a nod to the desert destination of the weekend, every guest found their name on the retro styled backdrop, along with a succulent to take home. This escort wall acted not only as a functional seating chart, but also as a great talking piece with favors to take home as well.

Brianna Broyles Fiesta Photo-booth was definitely a highlight of the night for guests. A photo-booth is the perfect way to entertain guests, create memories, and have something to look back on down the road. The Fiesta Photo-booth is seamless, aesthetic, and will make your wedding reception one to remember for your guests.

As the sun set, DJ Mac with Second Song had guests dancing the night away under the glow of San Diego Social Lights perfectly set mood lighting. There was laughing, dancing, and even a little bit of lip-syncing! At the end of the night, our couple soaked in their last dance with their loved ones surrounding. And just like that, exactly as the newlyweds had wished almost a year prior before the planning had even begun, it was indeed a moment and night that we will never forget.