One of the foundations here at GWS is that we wholeheartedly believe that your wedding should be a reflection of who you + your love are. Ashley + Justin are longtime “burners” (as in attendees of the Burning Man Festival), and organize a Burning Man-themed camp for their friends. When it came to their wedding, they wanted to create a similar experience for all of their guests that was them.
Ashley shares a bit more: We both have a love for travel and were engaged during a trip to Turkey and India, so we wanted to tie in some inspiration from the places we visited during our engagement. We were fortunate enough to find The Fire Garden in Bonsall, it has a magical desert vibe with fire sculptures and art to explore throughout the property.
The two of them were a bit nervous about what some of their family members might think of their non-traditional wedding, but in the end — they loved how it was uniquely them. Let’s head to the festival in the photos by Brogen Jessup!
The Gown + Details
HOLY SMOKES! Ashley’s Mon Cheri gown is seriously breathtaking… The lace + that tulle overlay?!
Ashley had a couple of DIY projects for her wedding attire: she used various chains and crystals to create a belt for her dress, along with a matching set of earrings.
It was all about bold orange hues in this textured bouquet from Bespoke!
The Ceremony Space
Bringing in inspiration from India, they lined the aisle with patterned rugs + incorporated strung marigolds into the backdrop.
Our Musical Choices
We were very lucky to find Rev Rebecca, from the moment we spoke to her on the phone we knew she was the person to marry us. She helped us design custom a ceremony incorporating parts of Justin’s Persian heritage, as well as many elements specific to our relationship. We were even able to include some water we had brought back from the Ganges River during our engagement in India.
The Newlyweds
The raddest lounge for the raddest newlyweds!
The Funky Reception
Moon Vine Bartending created beautiful, custom craft cocktails for guests to enjoy!
They turned this dome into a cozy tea lounge, inspired by India. How cool is this?!
Their friend, Michael, from Dreamscape Collective provided an array of rugs and floor cushions to use. They also utilized some of the fabric and décor from their Burning Man camp.
Now THAT’S a charcuterie spread!!
The Tablescape
How gorgeous is this tablescape?! That color scheme of the bold cobalt + orange hues is SO GOOD.
Our Advice
I think the biggest thing is to be true to yourselves and plan the day you really want. When we first got started planning, we were a little concerned about how our families and other guests might feel about some of the less conventional aspects of our wedding… but in the end, they loved every part of it and appreciated getting to experience something that was uniquely us.
A “magic carpet” ride?! So fun!! Ashley shares: Our friend Andrew has motorized magic carpet (made out of an old scooter) that he brings to Burning Man to ride around on. We thought it would be funny ride out on the carpet when we were first introduced as husband and wife. It was a little tricky driving it but ended up being a lot of fun and pretty hilarious.
From the team here at GWS, congratulations Ashley + Justin!
To immerse yourself more into the festivities, dive into this video by Shutter and Sound.
Featured in This Wedding
Brogen Jessup
Shutter and Sound
Signature Party Rentals
Sundrop Vintage
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Other Vendors in This Wedding
Venue: The Fire Garden // Wedding Planner: Neon Carrot // Florals: Bespoke // Wedding Dress: Mon Cheri // Hairpiece: Rachael Neubauer // Bride's Ring: Irelia Fine Jewelry // Hair Stylist: Cristina Kruse // Groom Attire: Ted Baker // Groom's Shoes: Ted Baker // Groom's Ring: Irelia Fine Jewelry // Catering: San Diego Paella // Cake: Noel Moton // Desserts: Chunk N Chip // Tabletop Rentals: Farm Tables and More // Music: Dat Phat // Officiant: Rev Rebecca Armstrong // craft cocktails: Moon Vine Bartending
