RETRO, PALM SPRINGS INSPIRED ELOPEMENT AT THE VIRGIN HOTEL DALLAS
THE VIRGIN HOTEL DALLAS
I love shooting at The Virgin Hotel Dallas. The color scheme, ambiance, and retro Palm Springs-esque decor really make this location sing. But it also has this lost-in-paradise type of feel that just makes everyone feel relaxed, loose, and ready for a day of fun- which is always better when you’re doing a photoshoot, wouldn’t you agree?
With so many creative spaces to choose from, It’s so easy to find a beautiful backdrop for a wedding portrait or intimate candids at this hotel. Want something a little Old Hollywood glamour? Consider the rooftop bar and pool with amazing views of the Dallas skyline, fun retro seating, and rich red cabanas. Then there’s the elegant grand hallway complete with gold light fixtures, palm trees, and cast iron chairs. Perfect for intimate, eclectic gatherings or pre-function cocktail hours. With so many cool areas to photograph, the Virgin Hotel Dallas is a great Dallas wedding venue choice for anyone looking for a less traditional and more “unique-to-you” type of wedding day.
FINDING A STYLE THAT SPEAKS TO YOU
That nontraditional, full-of-personality style was exactly the feeling I wanted to capture in this particular shoot. One of the best things about being a Dallas wedding photographer is meeting amazing couples with so many different ways of celebrating their union. And, as lovely as the traditional weddings are, the events that really stand out to me are the ones where the couple had fun incorporating little touches unique to their individual love story.
Whether a rustic barn celebration, a ballroom fairytale fantasy, or a colorful retro elopement, planning a wedding true to you is the secret to every awesome celebration.
Protip #1: You don’t have to include a bunch of elaborate gestures in every category to personalize your special day. Your unique venue choice, out-of-the-box theme, eclectic décor, personal favorite cocktail feature, funky florals, or custom music playlist are all enough to make the day magical, memorable, and unique.
Protip #2: Pick a location that speaks to you as a couple. Choose someplace fun that makes you feel relaxed and special on your big day. If you’re not comfortable in your surroundings, listen to your gut and go with another venue.
Protip #3: Be clear with your wedding vendors about your vision from the first meeting. I have worked with so many amazing Dallas wedding vendors that want nothing more than to help make your wedding dreams a reality. Being upfront about what you want, your budget, and what you’re willing to compromise on (and what you aren’t) will help your vendors better serve you throughout the planning process.
For me, this photoshoot was about highlighting how simple it can be to create a personality-filled, fun elopement with the use of color, props, décor, and floral arrangements. And don’t underestimate the power of statement hair and makeup! An elegant hairstyle, smoky eye, or understated classic wedding dress can be a really great way to tie your whole wedding theme together.
When it comes to planning your dream wedding, happiness is the goal. No need to shy away from colors, décor, or style preferences. If it makes you happy, go for it. This is the beginning of your happily ever after!
I had so much fun planning this photoshoot with the Virgin Hotel Dallas, the amazing vendors, and my gorgeous models. Check out the gallery below for some of my favorite photos from the shoot. And don’t forget to visit the links to these amazing Dallas wedding vendors too!
THE VENDOR TEAM:
Photographer + Planner: Monika Normand Photography | @monika_normand_photo
Florist: Bottega de Flores | @bottegadeflores
Design/Rentals: Claire Fowler | @youvebeenclarified
Invitation Suite: Lyons Paperie | @lyonspaperie
Bridal Shop: Wed Bridal Boutique | @wedbridalboutique
Hair: Amanda Dupnik | @amandad.hairMakeup: Jane Longley | @beauty.inhisimage
Venue: Virgin Hotels Dallas | @virginhotelsdal
Models: Tayte O’Mary + Kelsey Devonshire | @tayteom + @kedevonshire
Cake: Sweets by Selina | @sweetsbyselina
All photos are edited with POP Presets Wedding Master Desktop Pack for Lightroom Desktop and Lightroom CC