INDIO, CALIF. — Set against the sun-soaked landscape of the Coachella Valley, Layla and Alex’s wedding was a vibrant celebration that seamlessly fused the creative spirit of Burning Man with the rich traditions of their Persian-Jewish heritage.
The couple, both first-generation Iranian Jews raised in Los Angeles, drew inspiration from the transformative desert festival for their nuptials at the Cache Estate in Indio. “We wanted it to be the most epic party outside of Black Rock City,” said Layla, whose vision brought together bohemian aesthetics, festival energy, and heartfelt cultural rituals.
Their love story began with a family connection—Layla’s godsister, who is married to Alex’s brother-in-law, played matchmaker. Their bond grew quickly and deeply, culminating in a romantic proposal in Israel just nine months later—a place both hold close to their hearts.
On the day of the wedding, Layla’s bridesmaids set the tone in radiant, popsicle-hued dresses. The centerpiece of the ceremony was a custom chuppah inspired by an art installation the couple had encountered at Burning Man. As the desert breeze moved through its frame, it served not just as a sacred space, but as a visual tribute to their shared love for art, adventure, and unconventional beauty.
The celebration was a vivid blend of Jewish and Persian customs. Traditional hora dancing kicked off the reception with high-energy spins and laughter. Later, the couple was showered in flower petals during gol berizi, a joyful Persian ceremony symbolizing good fortune and blessings. The culinary offerings paid homage to their heritage, with Persian dishes that delighted guests late into the night.
Adding a whimsical twist was an ice cream truck—a nostalgic nod to a party the couple once attended at Burning Man. Their two dogs even joined in the festivities, walking down the aisle in a moment that underscored the deeply personal nature of the day.
The music, a fusion of house beats and international rhythms—Persian, Spanish, and Israeli—kept the energy high until sunrise. “The goal of the night was to have an all-nighter,” said Layla. And they did just that.
More than just a wedding, Layla and Alex’s celebration was a joyful manifestation of their love: adventurous, inclusive, and unapologetically unique. It was a night of dancing, cultural pride, and unforgettable moments under the desert stars.
