Cultural Wedding at Korakia Pensione
Today’s couple knew there would be no better excuse to head back to their native California than their wedding day, so they packed their bags and celebrated with friends and family at the jaw-dropping venue Korakia Pensione Palm Springs. With Erin J Saldana capturing images, First Pick Planning in control of planning, and the bride’s sister Candice Benjamin taking on the floral design, it’s little wonder this day turned out as beautifully as it did!
From the bride, Ashley: We have been living in Louisiana for 2 years because my husband is in the Army, so we were definitely missing our native California. I knew Palm Springs would be the perfect location for a desert oasis themed wedding. We wanted it to be quirky, laid back, and fun with just a touch of luxury. When I saw Korakia Pensione I knew it would be perfect, and the general manager was so helpful and accommodating I was blown away. Our theme was desert oasis fiesta. I wanted to main colors to be coral and mint with metallic details to pop against that desert background, while also incorporating my husband’s Mexican heritage with the dancers, pinata, and dulces. That mix mash of cultures is what southern California is all about. I knew I wanted to go with a coral for my dress because the color was just amazing, and it felt good to be different. The day was about us celebrating our love with our friends and family, we didn’t want to worry about what was traditional or expected.
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My friends and family came together to help us keep our budget low while still having a gorgeous wedding. My sister in law made the aguas frescas and bought the materials to make little signs. All of the centerpieces and bouquets were arranged and designed by my fabulous sister Candice Benjamin with help from my wedding coordinator Jen Bergmark. We went the morning before to the flower district in LA and they just let me go crazy picking out flowers that fit our theme and made my heart flutter. They spent all night piecing together these amazingly unique arrangements. Even the dancers were a high school group that my sister in law belonged to. They were amazing and completely affordable.
Any advice for couples planning their weddings now? Remember when you’re planning that this day is about what the two of you want. Pick three adjectives that the two of you agree on, and when you’re making your decisions make sure that it applies to all three of those things. And don’t think that because you have a low budget that you have to go to a craft store and raid the cheesy wedding aisle. Get creative. If you’re not creative comb through your friends and family and see if anyone is willing to help out. It will make your wedding that much more meaningful.
Wedding Music:
Processional: “Ho Hey,” The Lumineers
Recessional: “I Will Wait,” Mumford and Sons
We didn’t have a first dance, we had a folklorico performance instead.
Very interesting images, lovely shades throughout, The Bride looks fabulous, love the dress and accessories.