Among the vast, rocky landscape of Joshua Tree, California, sits a masterfully designed structure built into a surrounding boulder mound. Appearing like something out of a “Star Wars” film, the building could easily be mistaken for a mirage, but the Kellogg Doolittle House is very real. Couples can rent out this otherworldly property for an epic desert destination wedding, and this styled shoot serves as an ideal showcase.

Architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg began designing the house in 1988, taking over two decades to complete the project. Twenty-six concrete columns rise straight out of the rock and fan out overhead like a rib cage. The structure features no walls in the traditional sense; instead, it grows directly from the surrounding boulders.

Cathy O’Connell of COJ Events led the design and planning after the homeowner reached out to showcase the allure of hosting a wedding at the estate. Naturally, inspiration for every element, from the overall theme down to the smallest detail, reflected the distinct essence of the property.

“Nothing about this shoot could have happened anywhere else,” O’Connell says.

The goal for the ceremony was to highlight the impressive architecture while staying grounded in the terrain. In a stroke of creative design, the team at Luna Design Studios built custom paper magnolias shaped to echo the rock formations. Much like the home itself, the ceremony focal point appeared to grow out of the landscape.

“We walked the site together before a single flower or table was placed,” O’Connell recalls, “talking through sightlines and light. We even repositioned the ceremony setup twice to keep the rock formation in frame.”

The estate’s pool area, a newer addition to the property, served as the location for a sunset reception. Mirroring the organic curves of the surrounding landscape, the long table design serpentined around the pool deck. Styled with neutral stoneware, brown plateware, floral arrangements in burgundy and deep orange, and striking silver domed lamps, the tablescape maintained a futuristic feel.

“My favorite part of the shoot,” O’Connell says, “was standing on the cocktail patio as the sun started to dip and the breeze picked up. That was the moment I felt how completely this property belongs to the land around it, Joshua Tree and all.”

Anyone celebrating a wedding day at the estate would undoubtedly feel the same way.

Vendors: Planning & Design: COJ Events; Design, Florals & Rentals: Luna Design Studios; Venue: Kellogg Doolittle House; Photography: Logan Alexander Co.; Venue Manager:  The Lautner Compound; Videography: Rio & Tane; Bridal Beauty: Bre Luxe; Groom’s Hair & Touchups: Wedding Dapper Bar; Tabletop Decor: Signature Party Rentals; Bridal Styling: Estee’ Couture Bridal; Groom Styling: Friar Tux