A year ago, when we first met Chris and Britta at their Joshua Tree engagement session, we knew that these two were going to have one of the most beautiful and special wedding days. What we weren’t expecting was ALL THE TEARS – Britta’s, Chris’s, Britta’s dads … and ours! Their wedding at the O’Donnell House in Palm Springs was just absolutely beyond incredible.

Chris and Britta met just about five years ago at a BBQ in San Francisco, where they live. They were immediately smitten with each other, and by the end of that first night together, they both knew something special had just happened. They exchanged numbers, and went out on a date a few days later and as Britta puts it, “it’s been an amazing adventure together ever since!”

Three years later, they planned a two week trip to the Philippines and Thailand and Chris planned this elaborate proposal. Britta told us: Unbeknownst to her, Chris had been in contact with the hotel in Phuket a month in advance, planning a proposal on the beach with the plan of spelling out “Marry Me?” in flower petals on the sand, weather permitting. We were out exploring the temples and Buddhas on their first full day in Phuket, I insisted on stopping to pet all the stray Thai village cats throughout the day. Returning to the hotel around 6 pm, Chris’ palms were getting sweaty, surely because of the humidity. Chris opened the door to the hotel room, stepping in a few steps before me, and I had multiple bags full of Thai silk shawls and other various gifts weighing down my shoulders. Before the hotel door was even able to close behind them, Chris was down on one knee, telling me how much he loved me and reaching into his pocket to pull out the ring (not in a case, mind you!). I began ugly crying like only I can, mascara (and probably snot) running down my face as she yelled “DUH!” It all came together for me when she took another few steps out of the foyer and into the living room, seeing a custom-made cake and “Marry Me?” written in flower petals across the room. It was the BEST DAY EVER. That Chris–general dentist by day, sneaky event planner by night!

This kind of thing is the kind of man Chris is, and the way he couldn’t stop beaming at Britta on their wedding day totally stole our hearts!

Their Palm Springs wedding at the O’Donnell House featured coral, navy and touches of light green. Our favorite piece of decor was the life-sized cut-out of their beloved goldendoodle, Oliver! Pets aren’t allowed at the venue, so this was a super cute and creative way to incorporate him into their wedding day!

We would love to give a big shout out and thank you to the rad vendor team that came together for Chris and Britta’s Palm Springs wedding at the O’Donnell House!

venue The O’Donnell House | coordinator Lisa Sipe with The Events Department | dj DJ Chris Paul |  officiant Nikhil Ghatnekar | florist Vavé Studios | wedding cake Exquisite Desserts | catering Catering by Westwood | hair stylists J Russell The Salon – Ally Scott + Chlor Tomalak | makeup artists Maja’s Vanity + Monica Velasquez | invitations Minted | bridal gown Adrianna Papell Platinum from The Bustle Del Mar  | bridal sandals Trina Turk | groom + groomsmen attire The Black Tux | bridesmaids gowns Amsale from Bella Bridesmaids | wedding rings Derco Fine Jewelers + Bluestone Jewelry | videography Tyler Hamman, Paraview Wedding Cinematography | signage Connie & Joan

Are you looking for a Palm Springs wedding photographer in Southern California??

Hey there, I’m Ashley Durham, a Palm Springs wedding photographer specializing in unposed, authentic and romantic intimate weddings that capture the love, fun and realness of couples and wedding days.

I am happy to serve couples from Palm Springs to Phoenix, and all over Southern California, Western Arizona, Southern Nevada or anywhere else I can drive or fly. You ready to have an incredible time together for your wedding?? Message me today!