Sunday, January 31, 2010

Chris + Ana

I had the pleasure of taking engagement photos for Chris and Ana. The couple recently relocated from Central Coast in CA to Ballard, WA and wanted to take photos that captured their new community. We started our journey at Golden Gardens then made our way down Market. The Ballard Farmer's Market was in session and we meandered in and out of some of their favorite boutiques. Here are a few of my favorite photos from the day. Again, Thank you Ana and Chris for letting participate. I had a blast taking your photos. Beth

Monday, January 18, 2010

Viceroy Palm Springs| Destination Wedding Location

I recently had the privilege of touring, sampling, and experiencing The Viceroy Palm Springs while on a destination wedding venue search. The Viceroy is a luxury boutique hotel located in sunny Palm Springs, CA. The manicured grounds, private villas, and 3 refreshing pools makes this the perfect destination wedding location.

Kelly Wearstler is the interior design genius behind the resort's modern Hollywood Regency design. She recaptures the look and glamour of Hollywood's Golden Age by featuring modern styling amidst a black, white, silver and lemon yellow palette. The location is a photographer's, wedding planner's, and bride's dream come true. There is no need to re-create the wheel when planning your wedding. Kelly has conveniently and tastefully set the tone for your event. The Viceroy website alone will serve as your wedding inspiration board.

The hotel's 67 guest rooms, studios, and villas that are situated perfectly to create intimate and secluded locations throughout the hotel grounds. The Viceroy, first unveiled in 1933, rests on 4 acres divided into 4 very elegant environments for your wedding (click for map). My two favorite locations are the Regency Courtyard and the Presidio Ballroom. The surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop in the Regency Courtyard which is perfect for your garden ceremony while the Presidio Ballroom exudes Hollywood glamour with mirrored walls, glass chandeliers, and amazing silver wallpaper. The first time I entered the ballroom I felt like I had slipped into gray satin evening gown, my hair was pinned back in finger rolls, and from my ears dangled diamond chandelier earrings. It was like stepping through a portal to old Hollywood.

The Palm Springs International Airport
is conveniently close to the hotel, about an 8-minute cab ride. No rental car required for your guests; The Viceroy is located in downtown Palm Springs near all of the boutiques and restaurants.

The Citron, the hotel's gourmet restaurant, features California modern cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and poolside. I would recommend their grapefruit martini or lemon drop, it's like the Viceroy in liquid format. The restaurant staff are extremely attentive; you will never be without a drink.

The Viceroy hospitality is only rivaled by The Parker. You and your guests (and your puppy) will feel welcome from the moment they arrive. The staff is genuinely friendly. It is obvious that each member of the Viceroy team is madly in love with their job.

I look so forward to my next trip. Please make sure to visit their website. It contains amazing photographs of the venue along with all of the details you need to plan your Palm Springs destination wedding. All photographs above are from the Viceroy website.