Lautner Compound Wedding | Desert Hot Springs, CA | A Midcentury Modern Soiree

January 28, 2020

A wedding ceremony in the desert. Lautner Compound wedding captured by Briana Morrison

Friends Working Together

Oh hey gorgeous desert wedding!!!!

I’ve been dying to shoot a wedding just like this one for YEARS – the location, the light, the style, the super rad and hella chill couple and their guests… Every single element came together to make for a gorgeous and lively wedding day and I was ALL about those vibes.

When my friend Jasmine of Let’s Frolic Together asked me to shoot this wedding with her at the last minute; I borrowed a dress, broke out my limited vacation photography kit, and tried very hard to maintain my cool. I probably did a happy dance. You know the drill. No cool maintained.

About The Lautner Compound

The Lautner Compound consists of three beautiful spaces that together create a dreamy mid century modern wedding, event, and “micro-resort” space in Desert Hot Springs, CA.

Most noteworthy, The Lautner was designed and built as a desert hideaway in 1947 by legendary American architect John Lautner and consists of 4 private independent living spaces. It is surrounded by 10,000 sq ft of open air space called The Park which can accommodate weddings of up to 300 guests.

Adjoining The Lautner and The Park is the 1957 California Ranch House which extends the guest services and makes for a full-service on site wedding and event space. As a result, the entire compound is dreamy AF and perfect for any architecture, desert, & mid century modern loving couple.

The Vendors

Venue: The Lautner Compound
Planner: Michelle Garibay Events
Florals: The Lavender Rose
Catering: Good Fella Tacos
Cake: Rachel Ruth Bakes
DJ: Dart Collective
Hair & Makeup: Lindsey Smith
Dress: Marchesa
Suit: INDOCHINO
Bar: Mint Bartending
Photo Booth: Classic Photo Booth Rental
Rentals: Planks and Patina & Signature Party Booths
Photography Team: My good friend Jasmine of Let’s Frolic Together and myself, Briana Morrison Photography

Gorgeous dress and shoe details at this Desert Hot Springs wedding. Photos by Briana Morrison

The bride gets ready inside of this John Lautner home in Desert Hot Springs, CA. Photography by Briana Morrison

Getting ready details at The Lautner Compound in So Cal. Photography by Briana Morrison

The bride chills with her ladies before the ceremony at The Lautner Compound. Photography by Briana Morrison

Desert Wedding Photography by
Briana Morrison

A first look in this John Lautner home in Desert Hot Springs, CA. Lautner Compound wedding captured by Briana Morrison

Desert wedding vibes by Portland Wedding photographer Briana Morrison

Lautner Compound details in Desert Hot Springs, CA

Bridal party photography at this desert wedding in Southern California. Lautner Compound wedding captured by Briana Morrison

Lautner Compound wedding captured by Briana Morrison

Lautner Compound wedding captured by Briana Morrison

A gorgeous outdoor ceremony in the desert photographed by Briana Morrison.

Candid wedding photography in Desert Hot Springs, CA by Briana Morrison

Lautner Compound wedding captured by Briana Morrison

Candid wedding photography at The Lautner Compound by Briana Morrison

Candid wedding photography at The Lautner Compound by Briana Morrison

Bridal portraits at The Lautner Compound by Briana Morrison

Bridal portraits at The Lautner Compound by Briana Morrison

Candid wedding photography at The Lautner Compound in Desert Hot Springs, CA by Briana Morrison.

Candid wedding photography at The Lautner Compound in Desert Hot Springs, CA by Briana Morrison.

Desert Hot Springs wedding photographer, Briana Morrison

Portland Wedding Photographer

Brand & Lifestyle Photography

Family & Maternity Photography

Taylor and Drew were married in an intimate ceremony at the Salmonberry Inn in Lincoln City, Oregon—surrounded by their closest loved ones and the quiet rhythm of the coast.

Everything about their day felt calm, meaningful, and true to who they are. A little barefoot beach time, a sweet exchange of vows under the trees, a cozy indoor lounge moment—it was all so effortlessly beautiful.

The Salmonberry Inn made the perfect backdrop for a day full of love and simplicity. Taylor and Drew, thank you for inviting me into your story. I’m honored to have witnessed it.

#LincolnCityWedding #OregonCoastElopement #SalmonberryInnWedding #IntimateWedding #ModernLoveStory

Vendors
Photography @brianamorrison
Venue & Catering @salmonberryinnandbeachhouse

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Taylor and Drew were married in an intimate ceremony at the Salmonberry Inn in Lincoln City, Oregon—surrounded by their closest loved ones and the quiet rhythm of the coast.

Everything about their day felt calm, meaningful, and true to who they are. A little barefoot beach time, a sweet exchange of vows under the trees, a cozy indoor lounge moment—it was all so effortlessly beautiful.

The Salmonberry Inn made the perfect backdrop for a day full of love and simplicity. Taylor and Drew, thank you for inviting me into your story. I’m honored to have witnessed it.

#LincolnCityWedding #OregonCoastElopement #SalmonberryInnWedding #IntimateWedding #ModernLoveStory

Vendors
Photography @brianamorrison
Venue & Catering @salmonberryinnandbeachhouse

From behind the lens to inside the gallery—what an honor to document Mandy Arroyo and her latest show, Tender, now on view at Elle Gallery in Portland through August 24th.

This is our third time working together, and it’s been such a joy to witness her evolution—from designer to full-time painter, and now to exhibiting artist. Mandy paints vibrant local landscapes using acrylics and oil pastels—her work is joyful, vibrant, and full of wonder.

If you’re local, go see it in person. You’ll leave inspired.

Mandy, thank you for trusting me to help share your story. It’s always a gift.

#PortlandArtist #ArtShowPhotography #TenderByMandyArroyo #PortlandGallery #CreativePortraits

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From behind the lens to inside the gallery—what an honor to document Mandy Arroyo and her latest show, Tender, now on view at Elle Gallery in Portland through August 24th.

This is our third time working together, and it’s been such a joy to witness her evolution—from designer to full-time painter, and now to exhibiting artist. Mandy paints vibrant local landscapes using acrylics and oil pastels—her work is joyful, vibrant, and full of wonder.

If you’re local, go see it in person. You’ll leave inspired.

Mandy, thank you for trusting me to help share your story. It’s always a gift.

#PortlandArtist #ArtShowPhotography #TenderByMandyArroyo #PortlandGallery #CreativePortraits

Tippy & Nate’s Timberline Lodge wedding was the kind of day that leaves a lasting imprint.

The weather? Absolute perfection. The timeline? Ahead of schedule all day. The energy? Calm, grounded, and full of love.

These two are kind, generous souls—and that energy radiated through every moment and every guest. Their family portraits were smooth, the ceremony heartfelt, and the toasts… so full of laughter and love, you couldn’t help but tear up.

One of the most unforgettable parts of the day? Nate joined the jazz band on the drums during dinner and absolutely crushed it. The whole room lit up.

As the sun dipped low, we snuck away for sunset portraits on the mountain. The wildflowers were in bloom, the sky turned cotton candy pink, and the whole world felt soft and golden.

And to top it all off, Tippy and Nate personally thanked every single vendor by name during dinner—something so rare and deeply meaningful. It reminded us why we do this work.

Congratulations, Tippy & Nate. Thank you for including us in such a heartfelt, magical day.

Vendor Team
Venue, Catering, Bar: @timberlinelodge
Event Planner: weddingplannermorgan
Band: @crosstalk.music
Photographer: @brianamorrisonphoto
Florist: @songbirdfloristry
Makeup: @coreenecollinshair
Cake:@luxesucredesserts

#timberlinelodgewedding #mountainweddingphotographer #oregonweddingphotographer #filmweddingphotographer #brianamorrisonphotography

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Tippy & Nate’s Timberline Lodge wedding was the kind of day that leaves a lasting imprint.

The weather? Absolute perfection. The timeline? Ahead of schedule all day. The energy? Calm, grounded, and full of love.

These two are kind, generous souls—and that energy radiated through every moment and every guest. Their family portraits were smooth, the ceremony heartfelt, and the toasts… so full of laughter and love, you couldn’t help but tear up.

One of the most unforgettable parts of the day? Nate joined the jazz band on the drums during dinner and absolutely crushed it. The whole room lit up.

As the sun dipped low, we snuck away for sunset portraits on the mountain. The wildflowers were in bloom, the sky turned cotton candy pink, and the whole world felt soft and golden.

And to top it all off, Tippy and Nate personally thanked every single vendor by name during dinner—something so rare and deeply meaningful. It reminded us why we do this work.

Congratulations, Tippy & Nate. Thank you for including us in such a heartfelt, magical day.

Vendor Team
Venue, Catering, Bar: @timberlinelodge
Event Planner: weddingplannermorgan
Band: @crosstalk.music
Photographer: @brianamorrisonphoto
Florist: @songbirdfloristry
Makeup: @coreenecollinshair
Cake:@luxesucredesserts

#timberlinelodgewedding #mountainweddingphotographer #oregonweddingphotographer #filmweddingphotographer #brianamorrisonphotography

Through My Eyes: Rome

When I travel, I’m drawn to light, texture, and emotion. I chase quiet beauty over trends—moments that feel timeless.

The first time I visited Rome, I went alone. I had been living in Berlin during a cold, gray spring and needed warmth—sun on my skin and the hum of ancient history beneath my feet. I found all of it here.

What struck me most was the way this city holds contradiction so gracefully: man-made wonders beside the soft persistence of nature, crumbling marble next to fresh blooms, solitude held by golden light. I felt both lonely and not at all. The beauty of the place kept me company, my camera always in hand.

If I could do it all over again, I might have chosen Rome for my wedding. A place full of life, soul, and romance—perfect for celebrating love surrounded by your favorite people and stories etched in stone.

#ThroughMyEyes #RomeOnFilm #TravelWithIntention #SlowTravelMoments #DestinationWeddingRome

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Through My Eyes: Rome

When I travel, I’m drawn to light, texture, and emotion. I chase quiet beauty over trends—moments that feel timeless.

The first time I visited Rome, I went alone. I had been living in Berlin during a cold, gray spring and needed warmth—sun on my skin and the hum of ancient history beneath my feet. I found all of it here.

What struck me most was the way this city holds contradiction so gracefully: man-made wonders beside the soft persistence of nature, crumbling marble next to fresh blooms, solitude held by golden light. I felt both lonely and not at all. The beauty of the place kept me company, my camera always in hand.

If I could do it all over again, I might have chosen Rome for my wedding. A place full of life, soul, and romance—perfect for celebrating love surrounded by your favorite people and stories etched in stone.

#ThroughMyEyes #RomeOnFilm #TravelWithIntention #SlowTravelMoments #DestinationWeddingRome

Yesterday felt like a dream. Tippy and Nate’s wedding at Timberline Lodge was one of the most peaceful, joy-filled, and magically timed days I’ve ever had the honor of documenting.

The moment we walked into the getting-ready suite, there were friends napping, someone softly strumming an acoustic guitar, and steamy excerpts being read from a romance novel—pure calm and intention.

The day flowed effortlessly. Family portraits were ahead of schedule, the light was stunning, and every moment felt filled with warmth.

During dinner, Nate casually joined the jazz band on drums (as one does), and then we wandered onto the mountain for the most incredible golden hour portraits. It was slow, cinematic, and absolutely perfect.

Tippy & Nate, thank you for including us in your beautiful wedding at Timberline Lodge. 💕

Vendor Team
Venue, Catering, Bar: @timberlinelodge
Event Planner: @weddingplannermorgan
Band: @crosstalk.music
Photographer: @brianamorrisonphoto
Florist: @songbirdfloristry
Makeup: @coreenecollinshair
Cake:@luxesucredesserts

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Yesterday felt like a dream. Tippy and Nate’s wedding at Timberline Lodge was one of the most peaceful, joy-filled, and magically timed days I’ve ever had the honor of documenting.

The moment we walked into the getting-ready suite, there were friends napping, someone softly strumming an acoustic guitar, and steamy excerpts being read from a romance novel—pure calm and intention.

The day flowed effortlessly. Family portraits were ahead of schedule, the light was stunning, and every moment felt filled with warmth.

During dinner, Nate casually joined the jazz band on drums (as one does), and then we wandered onto the mountain for the most incredible golden hour portraits. It was slow, cinematic, and absolutely perfect.

Tippy & Nate, thank you for including us in your beautiful wedding at Timberline Lodge. 💕

Vendor Team
Venue, Catering, Bar: @timberlinelodge
Event Planner: @weddingplannermorgan
Band: @crosstalk.music
Photographer: @brianamorrisonphoto
Florist: @songbirdfloristry
Makeup: @coreenecollinshair
Cake:@luxesucredesserts

A few early favorites from Erica & Brian’s wedding day — a celebration full of color, connection, and so much joy.

They got ready at The Jupiter NEXT (that lobby light is a dream), said their vows in front of the wine barrels at Coopers Hall, and hosted the most heartfelt dinner surrounded by flowers, candlelight, and all their favorite people.

One of the most meaningful touches? Each place setting included a handwritten letter to that guest — a tear-filled and unforgettable way to make everyone feel seen and celebrated.

As the day softened into golden hour, the two of them snuck away for a moment alone — just enough time to soak it all in and make a few dreamy portraits in the glow of the late afternoon light.

Vendors
Venue, Bar, Catering, DOC: @coopershallpdx
Photography: @brianamorrison
Florals: @kismetfloraldesign
Beauty: @mane.bridal
Entertainment: @jrmusiccollective
Bakery: @dreamcakespnw

#portlandweddingphotographer #coopershallwedding #jupiternextwedding #portlandwedding #colorfulweddingideas

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A few early favorites from Erica & Brian’s wedding day — a celebration full of color, connection, and so much joy.

They got ready at The Jupiter NEXT (that lobby light is a dream), said their vows in front of the wine barrels at Coopers Hall, and hosted the most heartfelt dinner surrounded by flowers, candlelight, and all their favorite people.

One of the most meaningful touches? Each place setting included a handwritten letter to that guest — a tear-filled and unforgettable way to make everyone feel seen and celebrated.

As the day softened into golden hour, the two of them snuck away for a moment alone — just enough time to soak it all in and make a few dreamy portraits in the glow of the late afternoon light.

Vendors
Venue, Bar, Catering, DOC: @coopershallpdx
Photography: @brianamorrison
Florals: @kismetfloraldesign
Beauty: @mane.bridal
Entertainment: @jrmusiccollective
Bakery: @dreamcakespnw

#portlandweddingphotographer #coopershallwedding #jupiternextwedding #portlandwedding #colorfulweddingideas

I’ve been slowly making my way through the archives and feeling deep gratitude for all the places photography has taken me. These images were created in 2013 on Polaroid peel-apart film while I was on set with The Film Show. I still remember the light, the quiet, the way it felt to create something just for the sake of art. The brilliant styling here is by Tia Reagan.

Film photography has been woven into my life and work since the very beginning. It’s not a trend or a phase—it’s part of my creative foundation. Whether I’m shooting weddings, portraits, or fashion, film keeps me grounded in intention and process.

#lafashionphotographer #filmphotographer #fashiononfilm #polaroidfilm #brianamorrison

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I’ve been slowly making my way through the archives and feeling deep gratitude for all the places photography has taken me. These images were created in 2013 on Polaroid peel-apart film while I was on set with The Film Show. I still remember the light, the quiet, the way it felt to create something just for the sake of art. The brilliant styling here is by Tia Reagan.

Film photography has been woven into my life and work since the very beginning. It’s not a trend or a phase—it’s part of my creative foundation. Whether I’m shooting weddings, portraits, or fashion, film keeps me grounded in intention and process.

#lafashionphotographer #filmphotographer #fashiononfilm #polaroidfilm #brianamorrison

The first time I visited the Pantheon in Rome it was on accident. I stumbled across a colossal building while wandering the alleys and piazzas and figured I should check it out.

There was no line, no tickets, no crowd. The entire experience felt a little surreal.

Ten years later I visit again and now you need tickets to get inside. The sea of people out front is dense with tour guides and panhandling. A little of that magic stolen away.

So the trick is, for the exterior anyway, to visit at dawn. Catch this beauty before the crowds wake up, while the sun stretches over the rooftops to light up the solid marble pillars in golden light.

If you’re planning an elopement, wedding, or honeymoon in Rome, Italy I’d be honored to be your guide and photographer. I can bring you to all the best views and historic locations and know of an excellent private tour guide who can share the history of these beautiful places.

Rome, Italy wedding and portrait photography by Briana Morrison.

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The first time I visited the Pantheon in Rome it was on accident. I stumbled across a colossal building while wandering the alleys and piazzas and figured I should check it out.

There was no line, no tickets, no crowd. The entire experience felt a little surreal.

Ten years later I visit again and now you need tickets to get inside. The sea of people out front is dense with tour guides and panhandling. A little of that magic stolen away.

So the trick is, for the exterior anyway, to visit at dawn. Catch this beauty before the crowds wake up, while the sun stretches over the rooftops to light up the solid marble pillars in golden light.

If you’re planning an elopement, wedding, or honeymoon in Rome, Italy I’d be honored to be your guide and photographer. I can bring you to all the best views and historic locations and know of an excellent private tour guide who can share the history of these beautiful places.

Rome, Italy wedding and portrait photography by Briana Morrison.

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