A Minimal Palm Springs Wedding with a Retro Twist

Caitlin wanted a summer wedding for the weather, while Jason wanted a fall anniversary… The two discussed having a small destination wedding or a large family affair on the East Coast. As they both have an affinity for Mid-Century architecture, which the Ace Hotel has in spades, Palm Springs was the best of both worlds! Caitlin could have her summer weather and Jason could have his fall anniversary. With that set, and the help of Jesi Haack Design + LB Events/Sarah Dollar, everything else just started to fall into place. Opting for a minimal, less frilly look with a desert vibe, palm fronds were used in lieu of traditional flower arrangements, along with earthy tones and pops of vibrant color.

Rewind to a year earlier when Jason was at a bar with his best friends… They suggested that the Jason + his buddies ride their motorcycles across the country to get to the wedding. Giddy with laughter + liquor, his friends thought the idea wouldn’t stick… Well, two weeks before the wedding day, Jason kissed Caitlin goodbye, told her he trusted any last-minute decision she would make, got on a motorcycle, and left with his friends from Brooklyn, NY.

Ready to see how the whole day came together?! Let’s take a peek at the photos captured by Mandee Johnson Photography!

Hello modern + ultra-cool pantsuit by Corine Zach!

Protea + palm fronds rounded out this bouquet by Jesi Haack Design.

Want to make a statement? Pantsuits are definitely in vogue for modern brides!

Jason said, “I wanted to earn it. I wanted it to be hard to get there. Because marrying Caitlin was the easiest thing I’ve ever had to do.”

Dark wood chairs, a macramé backdrop, and tons of potted cactus set the stage for the ceremony.

We love the way the made a note of “please no cell phones/pics during ceremony!” We’re all about having an unplugged ceremony where everyone there is truly present + in the moment with the couple.

All the paper goods were done by the bride!

The way the string lights dress up the interior = MAJOR *heart eyes*

His + hers drinks for a personalized touch to the bar!

So CUTE!! Congrats, Caitlin + Jason!

photography: Mandee Johnson Photography // venue name: Ace Hotel and Swim Club, Palm Springs, California, USA // event design: Jesi Haack Design // planning: LB Events/Sarah Dollar // florals: Jesi Haack Design // wedding dress: Corine Zach // bride’s shoes: Valentino // getting ready robes: Friends // hair stylist: Girl meets Bongga/Lindsay Snipes // makeup artist: Girl meets Bongga/Johcelynn Fawcett // groom attire: Alton Lane // groom’s shoes: Cole Haan // paper goods: Bride, Caitlin Guendelsberger Slack // catering: Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs // cake: Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs // desserts: Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs // music: The Flashdance/Phil Quinaz // officiant: Friend, Matt Jourdian