Words cannot describe how beautiful this desert wedding is. The minimal elegance, the intimate folksy vibe, and the sweet little DIY details …these are all the ingredients of a perfect wedding!
This DIY wedding was truly a collaboration between family and friends, and that is what makes it so incredibly special. The venue was the family’s chapel; the groom’s mom officiated the wedding, the bride wore her mother’s wedding gown while the groom wore his father’s suit, the decor were all contributed by friends and arranged by the bride’s sister; cocktail food and refreshments were provided by a friend; and all the musicians were friends of the family.
Melissa wrote, “Now we look back at the images of everything from our sumptuous, emotional, rehearsal dinner, to the shots of us getting ready in our own home, to the incredibly unique and intimate ceremony, to the remarkably enjoyable and peaceful reception, and marvel with awe at how we did it all and just how marvelous it was…with a little (okay a whole lot of) help from our friends (and family).”
Now that’s a wonderful day! Too often, we forget that the wedding day is really about the celebration of love with friends and family, not a fancy soiree. The intimacy and joy of a wedding comes from the people. I love sharing real weddings that expresses that authentic joy and I hope that seeing their beautiful photographs inspires you too!
Special thanks to Hannah of Hannah Arista Photography for sharing this beautiful wedding with us!
Vendor Credits:
- Venue: Church of God, Baldy Mesa/Victorville, California
- Photographer: Hannah Arista Photography
- Dress: vintage-mother of the bride’s from the late 70′s, altered by “Lucy,” La Verne, California
- Suit: vintage-father of the groom’s, tailored to fit
- Hair and makeup: Janine Cortez Ker
- Reception Music: Phoebe Bridgers, Inner Prisms, Laura Jean Anderson, and Fivacious
Additional Credits:
- Officiant: Alice P. Johnson
- Rental Equipment: Bear Valley Party Rentals, Victorville, California
- Invitations: Handmade by the Bride and Groom
- Wall sconces: The Green Gypsie, Claremont, California
- Succulents: donated by several friends
- Floral arrangements & ceremony playlist: Megan Elcrat & Phillip Jones
- Cookies (“Cake”): Rose Rios
.
