If there’s was only one word to describe Riley and Parker’s wedding, it would be epic. From the custom bridesmaid dresses designed by the bride’s close friend to the groovy, disco ball decor to even the oh-so dreamy desert setting, this outdoor bash is the epitome of perfection.
The duo exchanged vows at the beautiful La Quinta Resort & Spa, and even though it’s located in the middle of a desert, the venue features palm trees, bright bougainvilleas, and scenic mountains. So, of course they had a wow-worthy backdrop for “I dos” and celebrating the night away. Their photographer AshGabes Photography captured the special day and says, “If there was a blueprint for how to have the most colorful and personalized wedding of all time, Parker and Riley’s wedding is it!” Adding, “To cater to the couple’s more playful side, their reception was sparkling with disco balls, a groovy photo booth bus, a black-and-white checkered dance floor, colorful glassware, lilac colored velvet linens and speciality chairs, a cotton candy station, and more.”
Along with the gorge setting and decorations, Riley and Parker’s big day also included their vibrant personalities with the help of their trend-setting fashion. Riley swooned in an eye-catching, sparkly gown, which also looked fabulous against her ‘maid’s custom bridesmaid dresses. “I always knew they would be in purple bridesmaid dresses, since it’s been my favorite color since the day I was born,” says Riley. Adding, that because she had such a large wedding party she knew she wanted each of her bridesmaids to wear a dress that showed off their unique personalities. “One of my close friends and bridesmaid, Rebecca Bunker, is the Design Director for We are HAH, a women’s sustainable fashion brand, and I was so blessed to have her design the custom bridesmaids dresses. Parker also looked fashionable in a burgundy velvet tux, which helped add to the retro wedding aesthetic.
As for their florals, Ashley says “both the bride and her bridesmaids were complemented with vivid bouquets that were filled with every shade of pink/purple imaginable.” Check out the rest of their special day (as well as the must-see custom bridesmaid dresses!) below to find more wow-worthy inspo.
Riley says she found her glitter-filled gown about one week after getting engaged. “I found my dress on a blog and was instantly obsessed,” says Riley. Adding, “My family has always called me Princess Ry, and I knew an over-the-top dress like that was made for me. The second I put it on, I knew it was the only – it was in fact the only dress I ever tried!”
We seriously can’t get over these custom bridesmaid dresses! We especially love how they feature different shades of purple to evoke a hip iridescent look.
Riley says the the word ‘funky’ kept coming up in their conversations with their wedding planner when finalizing details for their big day. “Fun, bright and vibrant colors, disco balls, and a black and white dance floor were all a must,” says Riley. Adding, “Most importantly, we wanted the day and vibe to be relaxed but beautiful. Loving each other has always been the easiest part of our relationship, and we wanted everyone to feel that while they were there celebrating with us!”
Having all of our friends and loved ones together was so special. To be able to see so many smiling faces after the crazy year we have all gone through, was a feeling unlike anything else!
To add an even more personalized detail to their big day, the couple found a fun way to incorporate their meet-cute. Riley and Parker had a hotel-inspired “check-in” station, which also doubled as a seating chart, because they actually met while working at the front desk at a hotel in San Diego. They teamed up with Details Darling to create the “check-in” station and when guests arrived they were given pastel colored keychains, which led them to their seats at the reception. At the reception, they also had door hanger-inspired menu cards and room keys for place cards. “It was a clever way to pay homage to where the lovebirds’ story began,” says Ashley.
It’s safe to say that this custom bridesmaid dress will definitely be worn again and again. We love the high-low tiered skirt, too.
Just know that there is always something else to be done, and while it feels like the checklists are never-ending, it will all be worth it on the big day. For us, having a wedding planner that we loved and trusted was crucial, and no matter what, be sure to make the process as enjoyable as you can. A little tip - alcohol usually helps with the enjoyment factor. And for the guys that try to question a pattern on a napkin or the color palette recommended by your wedding planner, don't - I promise you they know what they are doing!
Along with Riley’s wedding planning advice, she also passed along a few tips for future newlyweds to keep in mind. She says her secret sauce to being happily married is to “love one another unconditionally.” She also adds, “Oh and, Taco Bell is the best late-night snack!”
Processional: Going to California by Led Zeppelin
Recessional: All You Need is Love by the Beatles
First Dance: Obsessed by Dan + Shay
Still obsessing over this epic wedding? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Check out more unique bridesmaid dresses and other inspo on #GWS here.
photography: AshGabes Photography // venue name: La Quinta Resort, La Quinta, California, USA // event design: Details, Darling // planning: Details, Darling // florals: Layered Vintage // wedding dress: Berta 'Napoli' [20-107] // bride's shoes: Miu Miu // bride's ring: JB Diamonds & Fine Jewelry, Inc. // hair stylist: KG Hair & Make Up // makeup artist: KG Hair & Make Up // groom attire: Hugo Boss // groom's ring: JB Diamonds & Fine Jewelry, Inc. // videography: Sun Beat Films // custom bridesmaids, flower girls + mother of the bride dress: Rebecca Bunker, Design Director for We Are HAH // rentals: Signature Party Rentals // rentals : Folklore // rentals : Catalog Atelier // rentals: Hostess Haven // signage: Wild House Ink // photobus: Mali Booth // cotton candy: Bon Puf // napkins: For Your Party
Those bridesmaid dresses are incredible!! OMG!