Destination weddings are a unique opportunity to explore unfamiliar venues, collaborate with new vendors and also be tasked with learning the lay of a new land. I was overjoyed when Eric and Chase, a New York based couple, asked me to plan their nuptials in Palm Springs. The mid-century architecture and rat-pack era charm this desert town is known for had won over these lovebirds as the spot where they would say I do.

After touring various hotels and private properties, we landed at the Frederick Loewe Estate. Built in 1956 as the desert home of the famous composer, we couldn’t believe our eyes on the initial tour as armor from the original production of Camelot was displayed in the master bedroom with its revolving bed. Loewe also had a walk-of-fame star installed in front of the home’s entrance. Besides the rich artistic history that was palpable in every corner, the 2.5 acre property was a stunner. It had various options for how we could lay out the flow of the wedding. But being in a residential neighborhood in Palm Springs, it also came with tons of rules and regulations.

After a fabulous tasting, we learned why Chef Katherine King had earned her place as the preferred vendor of the estate. She worked with us to create a tailored menu that suited these two grooms, including Chase’s vision of an all green and white crudité station.

Eric’s eye for design informed choices like the Kelly Green dining chairs and the tablescape composed entires of succulents, cacti and candles. Guests found their escort cards at the dining tables lodged in a take-home wooden souvenir with the couple’s initials. Additionally, the back of every chair was draped with a black pashmina in anticipation of the inevitable temperature drop after sunset.

Eric and Chase brought tons of their personality to the wedding by having three different looks they rocked through the night. For the ceremony we staged a processional that allowed them each to make separate entrances with their parents before meeting in the middle to complete the journey down the aisle together. Their pug Eunice served as the ring lady.

The biggest rule we had to adhere to was the noise level while guests were outdoors. We could only have soft background music playing during dinner before moving guests indoors for dancing. So we programmed all toasts by family and beloved friends to take place during the meal. An announcement was made that the conclusion of speeches could not be met with applause, but rather a silent clap. There was such beauty to behold in seeing every guest put their hands in the air every time someone affirmed the love that was on display during this magical night in the mountains.