Some wedding weekends don’t just begin—they arrive with intention. For Katie and Will, their Palm Springs celebration kicked off with a bold, personality-filled welcome party at Tack Room Tavern, setting the tone for a weekend designed entirely around experience, connection, and unforgettable moments.
Leaning into a playful western aesthetic, the evening unfolded with custom cocktails, layered textures, and a curated hat-making experience that invited guests to step fully into the theme. It wasn’t just a party—it was an interactive moment, where every guest became part of the atmosphere, creating a celebration that felt both elevated and effortlessly fun.
From vibrant design elements to the intentional pacing of the weekend, Katie and Will approached their wedding not as a single day, but as a shared experience. And this opening night made one thing clear—this was going to be a celebration no one would forget.
“We didn’t just plan a wedding—we created an experience for everyone we love.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
The two first met in 2016 while in college, brought together by mutual friends in Fort Worth. What started as a chance encounter quickly turned into hours of conversation, with an undeniable connection from the start.
Even after going their separate ways post-grad, that connection never fully faded—pulling them back together in a way that felt both natural and meant to be.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
Nearly two years after first meeting, the two unexpectedly found themselves in Cabo at the same time. Determined to reconnect, Will orchestrated a “casual” run-in with the help of his entire family.
Despite all the planning, nerves got the best of him—and he barely spoke when they finally met again. Luckily, Katie picked up right where they left off, and from that moment on, they were inseparable.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
Their relationship began with long distance, spanning a year and a half across different states and demanding schedules.
Instead of letting it become a setback, they turned it into an opportunity—planning visits, creating shared experiences, and ultimately growing stronger through the process. When Katie eventually moved to California, everything fell into place.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
Family was woven throughout the entire weekend. Katie’s grandfather officiated the ceremony, bringing decades of love and wisdom into the moment.
From siblings standing beside them to their six-month-old niece as flower girl, every detail reflected a deep value for family and connection. The celebration even extended into a relaxed poolside gathering the following day, allowing everyone to continue sharing in the experience.
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
One of the most meaningful moments was stepping away together after the ceremony to read their vows privately.
In the midst of a full, energetic celebration, it created a quiet space to pause, reflect, and truly take in the weight and beauty of the day—just the two of them.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
Through their relationship, they’ve learned the value of patience, calmness, and perspective.
Balancing each other in the best ways, they’ve created a partnership rooted in support, understanding, and the ability to navigate life together with intention.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
Seeing their vision come to life.
From vibrant design choices to experiential moments like the welcome party, they approached the weekend with the goal of making every guest feel included and immersed. It wasn’t just about hosting—it was about creating something people could truly be part of.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Stay aligned through communication.
Understanding each other’s thoughts, emotions, and expectations is key—not just during planning, but throughout marriage. Being open and honest creates the foundation for everything else.
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
Love should feel easy.
Not perfect—but natural, steady, and rooted in being fully yourself with another person. When you find that kind of connection, everything else feels possible.
Planning & Design: COJ Events / @coj_events
Venue: Tack Room Tavern / @thetack760
Photography: Niki Rhodes / @nikirhodesphoto
Videography: Kate Pervak / @katepervak
Floral, Rentals & Lighting: Luna Design Studio / @luna_design_studios
Rentals: Planks & Patina / @planksandpatina
Linens: BBJ La Tavola / @bbjlatavola
Hat Bar: Rancher Hat Bar / @rancherhatbar
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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