Brooke and Jake's Bohemian Palm Springs Real Wedding

A mutual Midwestern upbringing sparked the connection between Brooke Bockhold, 38, and Jake Hardin, 34, when the Huntington Beach residents met at a local bar. Four years later, after Jake proposed on a Puerto Rican vacation, they tied the knot at The O’Donnell House in Palm Springs, where Brooke walked down the aisle to Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” and their 104 guests indulged in a foodie-approved spread: passed apps, a trio of paella stations and tacos, and, of course, flowing wine, beer, and vodka.

“I knew I wanted my maid of honor and BFF, Galen, to stand out, so we decided on a long, dark fuchsia dress for her,” Brooke says. “I let my other girls choose whatever kind of dress they wanted—short or long, lace or beaded— as long as it was a neutral color.”

When SoCal couple Brooke Bockhold and Jake Hardin were looking for a wedding venue, they knew they wanted a location that could house their ceremony and reception, which is exactly what The O’Donnell House in Palm Springs offered. From the charm of the historic grounds to the lush, bougainvillea-filled backyard to the abundant desert views—they hit the romance jackpot.

“I really wanted a laid-back boho vibe—nothing traditional!” Brooke says. “Bougainvillea were definitely a centering theme; since they were everywhere at The O’Donnell House, I didn’t want any other flowers to compete.”