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Tropical Black Tie Wedding at Colony Palms Hotel

Bride and Groom walking to the end of the aisle after being married

Before Haley had found the perfect Palm Springs wedding Venue, she already had the perfect Palm Springs wedding dress. Upon seeing the beautifully reimagined Colony Palms Hotel, she knew it was meant to be for her and Simon’s wedding on a sunny and cool November day (honestly the best time of year out here).

In the Beginning

Haley’s dress is by Carolina Herrera – though entirely unplanned, seemed made for the concept of the space. Simon’s tuxedo is by the master of men’s finery, of course, Tom Ford. The day started peaceful with them each dressing with their family members.

First Look & Low Key First Kiss

I think there should always be an “organic” first look with parents/family/wedding party first. It helps to dispel any lingering nervous feelings, and for the parent that wasn’t involved in all the fittings…its such a special moment. Haley spent a moment with her father that was so moving.

Moments Around the Property

Some photos around the property before the wedding begins. Being in autumn the warm light was rather fleeting. An ideal day for a Palm Springs wedding are warm days & cool nights – and that most often begins in late October until April.

Kvelling under the Chuppah

The most beautiful chuppah – that just matched and fit everything seamlessly and perfectly! Colony Palms is such a gorgeous place for a wedding. The ceremony faced Mt San Jacinto and just makes for a breathtaking backdrop. Nothing evokes a fond desert memory more than this backdrop.

A Palm Springs Party On the Pool & Under the Stars

As guests started to slowly migrate to the pool area for dinner we spent some more time with Haley & Simon with the diminishing sunlight. The reception space truly came alive at night with a dancefloor made over the pool – sounds scary maybe – but it was incredible and gave a wonderful ambience to the dance party. I’m also happy to report no one fell in.

You Always Need Some Motion Film

The Morning After

I started doing these in the past couple of years – capturing the moments the morning after the big day – in all the messy hair, crumpled wedding clothes from dancing, left over cake, wedding leftovers…after feeling inspired from the famous Terry O’Neill photograph of Faye Dunaway posing with her Oscar the morning after. The day after is still filled with so much energy and vibe..but of a different sensation I believe worth capturing. I was gifted that year with a new 4×5 film camera, so I thought it was a good time to bring it out! We were in no hurry which is refreshing after a couple of days of following a schedule.

For reference – this only took about an hour – definitely worth making time for a fun editorial session. Most of these were shot on film – to see another wedding with a day after check out this wedding I shot in Greece. A day after shoot can be in a solo session or a raucous party like that one – but if possible, always something I suggest if possible.