A wedding gown fluttering in the desert breeze is a stunning sight to behold. With such a bare landscape, all colors pop and the bride stuns as more heroine than model. Such a bleak yet beautiful background wholly serves the bride, so that her hair glows and her features radiate. She becomes the only thing that matters against the horizon.
Rachael Ann Lunghi of Lace & Likes andSiren Floral Co. is all too familiar with the power of the desert. That’s why she recently did up the cinematic photoshoot of bride and wedding table at the charming oasis of Homestead Modern No. 1 in Pioneertown, California. A charming, contemporary example of escapism in the high desert, Pioneertown was built as scenery and sets by Hollywood studios following World War II. It remains a beloved destination, especially if you fancy a saloon atmosphere, because the celebrated musical roadhouse Pappy & Harriet's regularly comes to life just down the road.
So hardly a place exists that's better suited for picturesque candlelit dinners beneath the dying dry sun than this quirky Mojave Desert community. Homestead Modern No. 1 is a shining example of desert life meets high-end retreat. Outdoor lounging surrounds the modernist cabin where chic decor gives its insides a sharp, tasteful vibe that could equally suit an upscale apartment in the city. And it was here that Lunghi captured a bride’s essence against the empty rolling hills and a sky that seemed to drift on forever. Naturally, the Venue Report was thrilled by the chance to ask a few questions.
Words by Rachael Lunghi, Photos by Mike Radford, Styling / Planning by Lace & Likes
Tell us why you chose this particular venue for the shoot.
It's set-up for a small wedding or shoot. the landscape is gorgeous and generally private. the properties units are enough space for a handful of people to be cozy and the patio is just asking for a dinner reception.
Was there anything either onsite or in the surrounding area you integrated into your design?
Yep- i think we cleared out the tumbles for the locals. haha and loads of rocks + existing as well as fallen joshua trees which would also be a rad design element. not to mention the amazing trailer on property that is perfect for a photo backdrop!
Why did you make the design decisions you did?
Oof! I guess I just wanted the shoot and the space to tie together effortlessly. the shoot inspired by the space, and vice versa. I also really wanted the space to be showcased well, so I planned to use elements from the surrounding area and keep the palette neutral just like the desert.
What about this venue influenced your design direction and the details of the shoot?
everything :) I planned the palette/inspiration based on the property's colors/elements.
Any tips for hosting events/workshops here based on your experience?
Pappy & Harriet's is super close by, so I think that would work perfectly for catering help! and other than that, I'd just recommend doing justice to the natural beauty around the house and keeping things elegant but simple/modern.
Every bride looks good at home on the modern high desert range. Each look captures your attention, whether it’s looking on the indefinite landscape of tans, browns, and pale jade or a coy smile rising beneath a big, bright sky. Desert life has never looked so good.
Credits venue magic: Homestead Modern | photography: Mike Radford | styling / coordination: Lace and Likes | dresses: rue de seine from the dresstheory | hmu: 1011 makeup | tabletop: Hostess Haven | rentals: planks and patina | model: Merrill Melideo
