The Merv Griffin Estate was made for the kind of people who prefer to live large! Nestled on 39 acres in the midst of Coachella Valley, this mansion features 13 luxurious rooms as well as breathtaking views just outside of Palm Springs. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that this has become a favorite destination for couples hoping to transform their wedding day into an unforgettable escape. As a Palm Springs wedding photographer, I recently got the chance to work with Michael and Megan for their Merv Griffin Estate wedding. If you have been considering this spot for your celebration, I would love to tell you everything you need to know!
About The Merv Griffin Estate Wedding Venue
81-345 Avenue 54, La Quinta, California 92253
When it comes to legendary Palm Springs performers, few out there can rival Merv Griffin! Here’s a quick background for those who might not be familiar. Merv began his professional singing career when he was 19 and started his own record label only a few years later in 1945. It was Doris Day who gave him his big break, arranging a screen test for him that would soon put him on the big screen. Over the years, Merv would star in countless musicals, put out tons of hit albums, and host his own talk show. Through it all, he remained a desert lover and built his own luxury compound out in La Quinta in the 1980s.
Merv died in 2007, leaving his house to local investors. Then called The Griffin Ranch, this became a celebrity hot spot during Coachella, giving guests plenty of space to host some pretty iconic parties. The house was put up for sale in 2024 and was reopened as a wedding space/rental home. When you reserve this space for your wedding day, you can live it up and have the time of your life!
Details of the Grounds
Because you are able to rent out the entirety of the Merv Griffin Estate for your wedding day, you will have a convenient spot where you can get ready alongside your wedding party. The interior of the house is absolutely stunning, by the way. While there are bold accents, the overall color palette is overall pretty neutral. When you combine this with the large, sun-lit windows, you have the recipe for the best spot for candid pics with your party! This is exactly what Megan and Michael decided to do. Because the house is so sprawling, they were able to stay separate all the way through their first look pics.
With this venue, the exterior is definitely the spot where you will want to host your wedding. As I mentioned earlier, this house is nestled on nearly 40 acres. This is going to give you a ton of space where you can create your ideal wedding layout. The lawn just outside the house is lush and flat, making it accessible for wedding guests of all ages. When Megan and Michael had their wedding out here, they made their grand entrance from the house. All eyes were on Megan as she walked out of the Palm Springs fixture, past the palm trees, and down to the aisle where Michael was waiting, absolutely starry-eyed. It was every bit as grand and romantic as they had dreamed!
Outdoor Wedding Receptions At The Merv Griffin Estate
During their photos, their guests headed back to the patio of the house, where they played lawn games and enjoyed some superbly mixed drinks. Once they were done here, it was time to really celebrate! The couple held their reception outside in the courtyard with their dance floor near the house and their couple’s table beneath the garden pergola. String lights between the palm trees added to the vibes. After toasts, it was time to party in style! The pair brought in a vintage gelato stand for their guests to keep cool. For hours, they danced and laughed with their friends while celebrating their love story. It was a day that felt completely customized to them, thanks in large part to the Merv Griffin Estate!
Photography Opportunities at the Merv Griffin Estate Wedding Venue
There are simply so many great spots around the Merv Griffin Estate that will be perfect for your wedding photos. The rooms are large and airy with large windows that you can use to show off your completed look. You will also be able to go just outside of the doors to grab some fun, candid pics with your wedding party. Go ahead and bring along the champagne for these! You deserve it! For your group pics, I would recommend sticking around the exterior of the house. Because the lawn is flat and expansive, it’s perfect for posing with people of all ages and abilities.
For your couple’s portraits, you can spend some time exploring the property. This space has romantic walkways and lush plants that will give you dreamy photo opportunities. For more editorial pics, you can share some drinks alongside the pool.
Wedding Details
The Merv Griffin Estate now belongs to the McLean Company, pairing you with a group of experts who know what it takes to throw unforgettable events. They use a list of preferred vendors for things like catering and drinks. As you pick your menu, you are going to be able to choose from cuisines such as Mexican, refined comfort food, and barbecue. They additionally have their own event rental companies, which will completely transform your space according to your vision. Lastly, the venue is going to give you total freedom as you plan to ensure you truly have the day that is right for you!
Celebrate In A Piece Of Palm Springs History At The Merv Griffin Estate Wedding Venue
If you have been searching for a secluded yet classic Palm Springs wedding venue, I think you are about to fall in love with having a Merv Griffin Estate wedding! This breathtaking property is going to be a legendary backdrop for your entire party!
Once you have your wedding venue, it’s time to start thinking about your photographer. I’m ready to be there for that, too! As a Palm Springs wedding photographer, I love nothing more than working with couples to document every colorful and authentic moment. I would love to have a conversation and tell you all about my style so you can see if I’m a match for you. Send me a message today to find out more!
Thank You To The Vendors Who Made This Day Possible
Officiant: Pastor Paul Berst
DJ: Michael Cabrera
Photographer: Ashley La Prade Photography
Content Creator: Kurated by Kassie
Florals & Decor: Region Design Studio
Hair & Make Up: Jen Plus Colour
Caterer: Westwood
Rentals: Signature Rentals
Photo Booth: Classic Booths
Bartender: That’s The Spirit
Cake: Jensen’s
Gelato Cart: Gelato Granucci
Planner: Weddings With Pam Olson
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