Bridal portraits at Riviera Hotel Palm Springs Ca
Christine Arnold Photography in Palm Springs

Bridal portraits at Riviera Hotel Palm Springs Ca

We had SO much fun photography Taryn and Mats couples photographs at the Riviera. The bar in the hotel lobby is so retro and chic. They have a giant TV behind the bar which runs video of rock and roll superstars from the 50's and 60's. For this image I posed Taryn right in the center of the bar in a fun, sexy pose, I told her to just look at her handsome groom who was standing next to me and then I just waited until an image I liked popped on the screen, in this case Elvis Prestley! I think this a fun portrait of a bride on her wedding day. Taryn was a little rock and roll, with her gorgeous tattoo artwork, so I think this really reflects her personality.


In this captivating photograph, a bride stands elegantly behind a sleek, modern bar, the setting imbued with an air of timeless charm and contemporary flair. The background features a large screen displaying a black-and-white image of Elvis Presley, his iconic visage lending a touch of classic rock 'n' roll nostalgia to the scene. This juxtaposition of the past and present creates a visually striking and emotionally resonant composition.

The bride, positioned centrally, exudes confidence and grace. She wears a stunning white gown that hugs her figure, its simple yet sophisticated design accentuated by a gold embellished belt that cinches at the waist, adding a touch of glamour. The gown’s V-neckline and flowing fabric highlight her statuesque form, while her long, wavy hair cascades over her shoulders, framing her face beautifully. Her makeup is flawless, with a bold red lip that adds a pop of color and complements the overall elegance of her look.

Adding to the bride's modern allure is her prominent arm tattoo, a bold and artistic expression that contrasts with the traditional bridal aesthetic. This detail not only personalizes her appearance but also underscores the blend of classic and contemporary elements that define the scene. Her relaxed pose, with one hand resting lightly on the bar and the other elegantly placed on her hip, conveys a sense of poised ease and self-assuredness.

The bar itself is a vision of modern design, with a glossy white surface that reflects the ambient light, creating a sleek and polished appearance. High-backed white bar stools, adorned with circular black accents, are arranged neatly in front of the bar, adding to the sophisticated ambiance. Behind the bar, a well-stocked array of bottles is illuminated by a warm, golden light, which contrasts nicely with the cool tones of the overall setting and highlights the extensive collection of spirits, suggesting an atmosphere of celebration and indulgence.

Above the bar, the large screen displaying Elvis Presley is divided into several smaller panels, forming a cohesive yet segmented visual that draws the eye upward. This nostalgic image not only serves as a decorative focal point but also imbues the scene with a sense of historical depth and cultural significance, evoking memories of a bygone era of music and entertainment.

The walls of the venue are adorned with a subtle textured pattern, adding depth and interest to the background without detracting from the main focus. The overall lighting of the space is soft and inviting, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for a wedding celebration.

In this photograph, the interplay between the bride's modern elegance and the vintage charm of Elvis Presley creates a harmonious blend of past and present, tradition and individuality. It captures a moment of poised grace and celebratory anticipation, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty of the bride, the sophistication of the setting, and the timeless allure of classic rock 'n' roll. This image is a testament to the power of thoughtful composition and the enduring appeal of blending different eras and styles to create something uniquely memorable and visually compelling.


Elvis Presley, often referred to as "The King of Rock and Roll," was an iconic American singer, musician, and actor who achieved legendary status and left an indelible mark on popular culture. Born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, and later moving to Memphis, Tennessee, Elvis had a profound influence on the development of rock and roll music and became one of the most celebrated and influential artists of the 20th century.

Elvis's unique musical style blended various genres, including rockabilly, rhythm and blues, gospel, and country, creating a sound that captivated audiences around the world. His powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and dynamic performances revolutionized the music industry and paved the way for future rock and pop artists.

Elvis rose to fame in the 1950s, propelled by his energetic live performances and a string of chart-topping hits. Some of his most famous songs include "Heartbreak Hotel," "Hound Dog," "Love Me Tender," "Jailhouse Rock," and "Can't Help Falling in Love." His music showcased his versatility, ranging from rockabilly anthems to soulful ballads.

In addition to his musical success, Elvis also had a prolific career in film. He starred in numerous movies throughout the 1960s and 1970s, such as "Love Me Tender," "Jailhouse Rock," "Blue Hawaii," and "Viva Las Vegas." While his film career often featured light-hearted musicals, Elvis's acting talent and charisma shone through, making him a beloved figure on the silver screen as well.

Elvis's impact extended beyond his music and films. His style, which blended elements of rock and roll rebellion with a suave and flamboyant image, influenced fashion trends and helped shape the concept of the modern-day music idol. His signature hairstyle, slicked-back pompadour, and iconic jumpsuits became synonymous with his image and persona.

Elvis's success was not without its challenges. He faced criticism and controversy for his blending of musical genres, his provocative stage presence, and the evolving cultural landscape of the time. However, his talent and charisma endured, and he remained a beloved and influential figure until his untimely death on August 16, 1977, at the age of 42.

Even decades after his passing, Elvis's legacy lives on. His music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, and his cultural impact is still felt in the realms of music, fashion, and entertainment. Elvis Presley's contributions to the world of music and popular culture cemented his status as an enduring and beloved figure, forever remembered as "The King."

Location: 41000 Bob Hope Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270.