Destination Wedding: Laura & Jordan

Laura Osborne, a Ph.D. candidate in clinical psychology, and Jordan Coopersmith, a software manager, met in January 2009 through Laura’s cousin. Their first date was at a Ra Ra Riot concert, a band that became a special part of their relationship. Two years later, Jordan, an Encinitas native, crafted a caught-on-camera proposal in Chicago’s W Hotel. The couple married in a “semi-destination” wedding at the intimate Parker hotel in Palm Springs among 136 guests. –Katie Olsen

The Parker Palm Springs

Photography by Justin Lee, May 26, 2012

THEIR FAVORITE MOMENT

Jordan’s mom, who was battling cancer at the time, and Laura’s mom lit the unity candle together during the ceremony. “Our wedding day was a very special day for us because it was one of the last events we got to share with Jordan’s mother,” says Laura.

A SPECIAL OFFICIANT

Jordan’s friend from college, Scott, officiated the wedding. “We wanted to create a personal and intimate experience,” Laura says.

MORE OLD HOLLYWOOD

The bride and groom set up a cigar lounge where guests could sip cognac, bourbon, or whiskey, and indulge in a cigar.

INSPIRING TEARS

Laura tried on her first dress and “everyone was immediately crying,” she says. The darker sash added personal flair and defined the waistline.

SIGNATURE DRINKS

Guests drank the Parker’s classic muddled lemonade, Jordan’s signature Old Fashioned, and Laura’s Moscow Mule.

FOUR-COURSE MEAL

“Jordan and I are really into food,” Laura says. The couple treated their guests to an exquisite four-course meal and then surprised them with adult grilled cheese and Parmesan truffle French fries around midnight.

THE VENUE

Laura wanted an “old Hollywood-style wedding with the right combination of quirkiness and elegance.” The Parker’s vintage décor fit the mold for the couple’s wedding.