Sands Hotel & Spa is one of the most stylish and design-forward venues in the desert, which makes it the perfect choice for couples planning a destination celebration. As a California wedding photographer, I’m always inspired by venues that feel like an experience from the moment you arrive, and a Sands Hotel & Spa wedding delivers exactly that. With its Moroccan-inspired design, mid-century influences, and thoughtfully curated spaces, it offers a wedding experience that feels equal parts elevated and fun.

Located in Indian Wells near Palm Springs, this boutique hotel features 46 guest rooms and the option for a full resort buyout, which allows couples to turn their wedding into an immersive, multi-day experience. For Sara and Juan, that’s exactly what they did. They had a destination wedding where guests traveled from all over to celebrate in a setting that felt vibrant, stylish, and completely unforgettable.

Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:

• Why I Love Photographing a Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding
• What Makes Sands Hotel & Spa Special
• Ceremony & Reception Spaces
• The Type of Couple Who Will Love This Venue
• Favorite Photo Locations
• Sands Hotel & Spa at a Glance

Why I Love Photographing a Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding

From a photographer’s perspective, a Sands Hotel & Spa wedding is a dream. Every corner of the property feels intentionally designed. It has a mix of bold patterns, soft desert tones, and architectural details that photograph beautifully.

The venue was designed by renowned interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, and that influence is felt throughout the space. There’s a strong sense of personality here, from the iconic black-and-white striped cabanas to the layered textures and curated décor. It’s a setting that elevates every detail without requiring much additional styling.

What I also love is how versatile the property feels. You can move from a serene ceremony space to a vibrant poolside reception and then into a high-energy indoor dance party, all within one cohesive environment. This makes your wedding day feel dynamic while still visually connected.

What Makes a Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding So Special

There are so many elements that set a Sands Hotel & Spa wedding apart, but one of the biggest is the overall guest experience. With the option for a full buyout, couples can truly take over the space and create a private, destination-style celebration.

The venue is also adults-only, which contributes to a more elevated, relaxed atmosphere throughout the weekend. Guests can fully unwind, enjoy the design-forward spaces, and celebrate without distraction.

Another standout feature is the ability to extend the celebration. Sara and Juan’s wedding was a perfect example of this because guests were able to celebrate well into the night, with the party continuing until one o’clock in the morning. For couples who want a wedding that feels less rushed and more like a full experience, this is a huge draw.

And of course, the design itself plays a major role. The blend of Moroccan influence and mid-century style creates a setting that feels both unique and timeless, making every moment feel intentional and visually striking.

Ceremony & Reception Spaces at Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding

Another one of the most appealing aspects of a Sands Hotel & Spa wedding is the variety of spaces available. Each has a different atmosphere while still feeling cohesive.

The Olive Grove Ceremony

The Olive Grove is one of the most beautiful ceremony locations on the property. This area is surrounded by mature olive trees and set against a soft desert-toned backdrop. It’s such a romantic setting for exchanging vows.

Sara and Juan chose this space for their ceremony, which felt intimate yet elevated. Their dog even joined as the ring bearer and came down the aisle in a remote-controlled car, adding a personal and playful touch.

Poolside Reception

Following the ceremony, the celebration moved poolside for dinner and the reception. This space is iconic to the venue. It has striped cabanas, Moroccan daybeds, and desert landscaping that create a chic and relaxed environment.

Sara and Juan leaned into a vibrant color palette of pinks, oranges, and greens, which complemented the desert setting beautifully. As the sun set, the space transformed into a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests could dine, toast, and celebrate together.

Pink Cabana & Indoor Dancing

For the later part of the evening, the celebration transitioned indoors to the Pink Cabana restaurant space. With its glass doors and layered design elements, it’s the perfect setting for dancing and late-night festivities.

This transition allows the wedding day to evolve naturally from outdoor elegance to a lively, high-energy party.

The Type of Couple Who Will Love a Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding

This venue is perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel like an experience. If you’re drawn to bold design and a setting that feels both luxurious and fun, a Sands Hotel & Spa wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for.

It’s especially ideal for destination weddings, where guests can stay on-site and fully immerse themselves in the celebration. Couples who choose this venue often prioritize guest experience, design, and creating a weekend that feels memorable from start to finish.

Sara and Juan embodied this perfectly! Their wedding felt joyful, stylish, and full of personality.

Favorite Photo Opportunities at a Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding

There is no shortage of incredible photo locations throughout the property. From the Olive Grove to the poolside cabanas and the interiors of the Pink Cabana, every space offers something visually unique.

I especially love how the venue’s design interacts with color and light. The desert tones, combined with bold patterns and textures, create images that feel editorial and dynamic.

Sara and Juan’s day was filled with standout moments. One of the most memorable parts of the night was when the couple and their guests jumped into the pool fully clothed. It was so spontaneous and the perfect reflection of the energy they brought to the entire day.

Sands Hotel & Spa At a Glance

Address: 44-985 Province Way Indian Wells, CA 92210
Website: https://sandshotelandspa.com
Phone: 760-321-3771
Email: sales@sandshotelandspa.com
Setting: Modern desert chic

Planning Your Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding?

A Sands Hotel & Spa wedding has a truly unique blend of design, atmosphere, and guest experience. From its Moroccan-inspired interiors to its chic outdoor spaces, it’s a venue that your guests will rave about for years to come.

If you’re planning your wedding at Sands Hotel & Spa and are looking for a photographer who values storytelling, editorial detail, and capturing moments that feel as good as they look, I would love to connect! Inquire today to learn more about availability and begin planning your Sands Hotel & Spa wedding photography experience.

Sands Hotel & Spa Wedding Vendor Team

Venue: Sands Hotel & Spa
Planner: Whitney with Everly and Co. 
Florist: Poppy and Pot
Photography: MVF Portraits
Videography: Vintage Modern Film 
DJ: Endless Summer DJs
Dessert: Exquisite Desserts
Rentals: Hostess Haven and Signature Party Rentals
Beauty Team: Sarah Nika Glam