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

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

12 1

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.

23 0

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.

Rachelle & Daniel’s wedding day was a true celebration of love, style, and joyful moments from start to finish. They got ready at The Benson Hotel, sharing their first look beneath the grand chandeliers of the historic lobby before hopping into a vintage Mercedes—cue the cameras—for the ride to their ceremony.

They said “I do” at Oaks Pioneer Church, a charming little chapel tucked into the trees, full of stained glass and old-world charm. We made a quick stop at the Rose Garden for portraits before heading to Blockhouse & Pomarius Nursery for dinner and dancing under the twinkle lights.

There was wine flowing, laughter echoing, and beautiful people everywhere you looked. A perfect day for a perfectly-in-love couple.

Vendors
Photography: @brianamorrison
Videography: @lindseyjune.photofilm
Ceremony Venue: @oakspioneerchurch
Reception Venue: @blockhousepdx & @pomariusnursery
Florals: @starflowerpdx
Catering: @whitepepperpdx
Dress: @aniabridal
Suit: @indochinoweddings

60 8

Rachelle & Daniel’s wedding day was a true celebration of love, style, and joyful moments from start to finish. They got ready at The Benson Hotel, sharing their first look beneath the grand chandeliers of the historic lobby before hopping into a vintage Mercedes—cue the cameras—for the ride to their ceremony.

They said “I do” at Oaks Pioneer Church, a charming little chapel tucked into the trees, full of stained glass and old-world charm. We made a quick stop at the Rose Garden for portraits before heading to Blockhouse & Pomarius Nursery for dinner and dancing under the twinkle lights.

There was wine flowing, laughter echoing, and beautiful people everywhere you looked. A perfect day for a perfectly-in-love couple.

Vendors
Photography: @brianamorrison
Videography: @lindseyjune.photofilm
Ceremony Venue: @oakspioneerchurch
Reception Venue: @blockhousepdx & @pomariusnursery
Florals: @starflowerpdx
Catering: @whitepepperpdx
Dress: @aniabridal
Suit: @indochinoweddings

Hi, I’m Briana—photographer, artist, animal lover, and devoted fan of a cozy afternoon. If you’re new here, welcome. I’m so glad you’re here.

I photograph weddings, families, and honest, artful moments of love. My work is rooted in storytelling, nostalgia, and the belief that your life is something to be treasured.

Outside of photography, you’ll usually find me with a book in one hand and a dog curled up at my feet. I’m deeply in love with my animals (yes, my cats are dramatic and my dogs are spoiled), and I spend most of my free time reading or making pottery.

My lifestyle is best described as casual but tasteful. I adore nice things—especially if they’re handmade, sustainably made, or secondhand. I’m a sucker for beautiful lighting, good design, and well-made clothes with a story behind them.

After the world slowed down in 2020, I discovered how much I craved a slower pace, and I’ve been living with intention ever since. I believe in savoring the little things, honoring the seasons, and creating a life that feels as beautiful as it looks.

If you’re someone who values meaning over trends and beauty in the everyday—I think we’ll get along just fine.

Photographs: @aubrey.janelle
Denim Dress & Linen Coat: thrifted
Checkered Dress: by @museo.studio

94 9

Hi, I’m Briana—photographer, artist, animal lover, and devoted fan of a cozy afternoon. If you’re new here, welcome. I’m so glad you’re here.

I photograph weddings, families, and honest, artful moments of love. My work is rooted in storytelling, nostalgia, and the belief that your life is something to be treasured.

Outside of photography, you’ll usually find me with a book in one hand and a dog curled up at my feet. I’m deeply in love with my animals (yes, my cats are dramatic and my dogs are spoiled), and I spend most of my free time reading or making pottery.

My lifestyle is best described as casual but tasteful. I adore nice things—especially if they’re handmade, sustainably made, or secondhand. I’m a sucker for beautiful lighting, good design, and well-made clothes with a story behind them.

After the world slowed down in 2020, I discovered how much I craved a slower pace, and I’ve been living with intention ever since. I believe in savoring the little things, honoring the seasons, and creating a life that feels as beautiful as it looks.

If you’re someone who values meaning over trends and beauty in the everyday—I think we’ll get along just fine.

Photographs: @aubrey.janelle
Denim Dress & Linen Coat: thrifted
Checkered Dress: by @museo.studio

Joe had been planning this moment for months. Quietly encouraging Amanda to treat herself to manicures. Secretly hand-crafting a sign that read Mr. & Mrs. Hatzinikolis. Quietly orchestrating one of the most meaningful surprises of their lives.

Long Beach, Washington has always been a special place for them. A favorite coastal escape. So on a quiet day in the dunes, Amanda followed a familiar path—completely unaware of what was waiting for her.

Her parents had lovingly placed Joe’s handmade sign on the city’s post. Nearby, they left a bottle of champagne and a set of Amanda’s special wedding crystal—gifted to her years ago, waiting patiently for this very day.

That’s when Joe asked her to marry him.

I was there too, hiding in plain sight—just another beachgoer with a camera, quietly documenting the whole thing.

After the proposal, Joe surprised Amanda with dinner at The Pickled Fish and one more thoughtful twist: an extra day off work so they could soak it all in together before returning to real life.

It was such an honor to witness and preserve this milestone for them. These are the moments that become heirlooms—the kind you’ll look back on and feel all over again.

71 4

Joe had been planning this moment for months. Quietly encouraging Amanda to treat herself to manicures. Secretly hand-crafting a sign that read Mr. & Mrs. Hatzinikolis. Quietly orchestrating one of the most meaningful surprises of their lives.

Long Beach, Washington has always been a special place for them. A favorite coastal escape. So on a quiet day in the dunes, Amanda followed a familiar path—completely unaware of what was waiting for her.

Her parents had lovingly placed Joe’s handmade sign on the city’s post. Nearby, they left a bottle of champagne and a set of Amanda’s special wedding crystal—gifted to her years ago, waiting patiently for this very day.

That’s when Joe asked her to marry him.

I was there too, hiding in plain sight—just another beachgoer with a camera, quietly documenting the whole thing.

After the proposal, Joe surprised Amanda with dinner at The Pickled Fish and one more thoughtful twist: an extra day off work so they could soak it all in together before returning to real life.

It was such an honor to witness and preserve this milestone for them. These are the moments that become heirlooms—the kind you’ll look back on and feel all over again.

Let’s talk about value.

Wedding photography isn’t just a line item on your planning checklist—it’s an investment in how your story will live on.

The cake will be eaten. The dress carefully packed away. But your photographs are what remain—growing more meaningful over time as your memories deepen.

I don’t take that lightly. I believe in capturing your love with artful integrity, honoring your story in every frame, and turning those images into heirlooms.

If you’re planning a 2026 wedding and care deeply about the legacy you’re building, I’d love to talk about what I can create for you.

Reach out before June 1 to secure current pricing.

24 1

Let’s talk about value.

Wedding photography isn’t just a line item on your planning checklist—it’s an investment in how your story will live on.

The cake will be eaten. The dress carefully packed away. But your photographs are what remain—growing more meaningful over time as your memories deepen.

I don’t take that lightly. I believe in capturing your love with artful integrity, honoring your story in every frame, and turning those images into heirlooms.

If you’re planning a 2026 wedding and care deeply about the legacy you’re building, I’d love to talk about what I can create for you.

Reach out before June 1 to secure current pricing.

Life moves fast. Let’s remember it slowly.

Introducing Mindful Moments – 35mm Film Sessions, a new offering for families, maternity, partners, and pets. One roll of 35mm film. No rush, no pressure—just honest, artful storytelling.

Perfect for:
• Expecting parents
• Busy family life
• Teens on the edge of adulthood
• Pets you love like your kids

Includes all digital scans from your roll of film. Optional print upgrades available.

Only 10 sessions available this spring
$395 • Booking closes May 1st

This offering will only return once a year. First come, first served.

Reserve your session at the link in bio.
Let’s hold onto this season—just a little longer.

45 1

Life moves fast. Let’s remember it slowly.

Introducing Mindful Moments – 35mm Film Sessions, a new offering for families, maternity, partners, and pets. One roll of 35mm film. No rush, no pressure—just honest, artful storytelling.

Perfect for:
• Expecting parents
• Busy family life
• Teens on the edge of adulthood
• Pets you love like your kids

Includes all digital scans from your roll of film. Optional print upgrades available.

Only 10 sessions available this spring
$395 • Booking closes May 1st

This offering will only return once a year. First come, first served.

Reserve your session at the link in bio.
Let’s hold onto this season—just a little longer.

Getting this cover on Oregon Wedding Day is such an honor.

Together with a team of really extraordinary vendors and the most beautiful venue we created some serious magic.

The team:
Venue- @windmountainranch
Planning + Design- @amandajeanpdxevents
Floral Design- @flowers_by_almanac
Photographer- @brianamorrison
Cake- @banquettepdx
Makeup- @kasiablackburn_mua
Hair- @styledbymattie
Stationery- @lettersanddust
Gown Rental- @dalliancegownrentals
Flat Lay Curation- @flatlaylibrary
Veils- @augustveils
Rentals- @riverhoodrentals

43 5

Getting this cover on Oregon Wedding Day is such an honor.

Together with a team of really extraordinary vendors and the most beautiful venue we created some serious magic.

The team:
Venue- @windmountainranch
Planning + Design- @amandajeanpdxevents
Floral Design- @flowers_by_almanac
Photographer- @brianamorrison
Cake- @banquettepdx
Makeup- @kasiablackburn_mua
Hair- @styledbymattie
Stationery- @lettersanddust
Gown Rental- @dalliancegownrentals
Flat Lay Curation- @flatlaylibrary
Veils- @augustveils
Rentals- @riverhoodrentals

Load More Follow @brianamorrison