Desert Oasis: Modern Sophistication Meets Whimsy in Styled Shoot at Caesars Republic Rooftop

Caesars Republic plays host to a rooftop celebration laden with love and balmy details

Written by

Megan Simpson Teeter

Published:

Arizona Bride Spring Summer 2025

As the warm desert sun cast an effervescent glow over Scottsdale, an elegant event took shape on the rooftop of Caesars Republic Scottsdale. Designer and planner Ellie Burton of Gatherings by Elle describes the vision behind the shoot as a "modern desert vibe" that sought to harmonize the venue's sleek aesthetic with touches of clean, sophisticated details.

Elegant yet simple, the architecture of the venue lent itself to the color palette of the event. Arch and Arrow constructed invitations bathed in romantic simplicity, ushering guests into an alfresco, sunset ceremony. Uniform wooden chairs gazed upon a verdant floral arrangement provided by Laki Floral that gave way to the altar. And then, the stars of the show, the bride and groom—a couple in real life—donned a classic A-line gown and a smart suit, respectively, to enjoy their stylish celebration.

My goal was to create INTENTIONAL imagery that complemented the sophisticated design and AESTHETIC of the venue, while seamlessly incorporating our LOVE for the Arizona desert.
-- Ryann Lindsey, Ryann Lindsey Photography

We wanted to go for 'colorful and fresh' with WHIMSICAL colors for the ceremony. The color blocking of the CASCADING hydrangeas created a modern summer look.
--Ellie Burton, Gatherings by Elle

With vistas and a setting sun in the background, the sweet ceremony led into the warm-toned reception, bursting with simple details that packed a design punch: "clay" table numbers accented with sleek taupe candles that expertly matched the white-and-peach centerpieces and grounded floral pieces throughout the space. "The moss at the bottom of the arrangements was to add an organic vibe against the textured linens," Burton notes.

Diners found their seats in a sea of tables. Walnut rattan chargers held crisp porcelain plates topped with place cards that doubled as menus. Wooden utensils complemented the contemporary glassware, and pale green details brought an extra nod to the nature surrounding the venue. The darling couple toasted the end of the evening in their plush suite, reflective of newlyweds everywhere who look forward to that quiet moment with their beloved all day.

The team created a serpentine layout with round tables, featuring FLORALS that ECHOED the color-blocked hydrangeas in the ceremony.
–Ellie Burton, Gatherings by Elle