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HOW TO HOST AN UNFORGETTABLE WEDDING AT THE OVIATT

Jul 31

4 min read

A Q&A with Jennifer Donaldson of Willow & Bloom Events


There are weddings… and then there are Oviatt weddings — where Art Deco glamour meets skyline views, and the moment you step into that gilded elevator, you’re no longer in Downtown LA… you’re in another era entirely. It’s the kind of venue that doesn’t just host events — it sets the stage for stories that feel cinematic, intimate, and entirely unforgettable.


To uncover what makes this place so special (and spark a little inspiration for those planning their own day), we turned to one of our most trusted creative partners: Jennifer Donaldson, founder of Willow & Bloom Events. Jennifer has brought some of the most breathtaking weddings to life at The Oviatt — and if you ask us, or the couples lucky enough to work with her, her events aren’t just beautiful — they’re magic.



In your opinion, what sets The Oviatt apart as a wedding venue?


With insights from Willow & Bloom

“There’s something timeless about a wedding that unfolds high above the city, where Art Deco details glisten in the sunlight and the rooftop hums with romance. For me, The Oviatt isn’t just a venue; it’s a place where stories are told, memories are made, and dreams take flight. As a wedding planner I’ve had the joy of designing, planning and coordinating countless celebrations here, and yet, each one feels uniquely magical. It welcomes every couple like an old friend, transforms with every vision, and leaves its mark on every heart it touches. It truly speaks to my soul… and yes, it stole my heart too.”

Sha'Nelly & Jose - Photo: By Anabella June | Erin & Evan - Photo: Luis Martinez


Can you share any imaginative or unexpected design ideas that have worked especially well in the space?


Why The Oviatt is One-of-a-Kind

“Nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, The Oviatt is more than a building—it’s a fully functional, living history storybook. Every tile, every curve, every gilded detail carries whispers from the past. For couples who adore vintage elegance or simply want a space that transforms without needing much 'fluff,' The Oviatt delivers. Its iconic elevator, rooftop & observation deck, and opulent penthouse suite offer a cinematic backdrop both indoors and out. And behind the scenes? A dedicated team that feels more like family, everyone working together seamlessly to bring each couple’s vision to life.”

When a couple comes to you with a bold or non-traditional vision, how do you bring it to life?


Celebrating the Bold and the Beautiful

“One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping couples infuse their personalities into the day. I love when they come to me with bold, outside-the-box ideas. It’s in those moments I get to dream alongside them. There was the time a groom, a musician, serenaded his bride with the Jurassic Park score on his guitar as she walked toward him—right by the fountain, surrounded by a lush, overgrown garden. (Yes, tears were shed.) Another couple dreamed of a ‘living botanical garden in the sky,’ and let me tell you, it took two days and a small army of creatives to build it, but the result was nothing short of magical. And let’s not forget the couple who said absolutely no cake, then surprised guests with a multi-tiered wheel of brie, gouda, and other decadent cheeses. It was a hit... I say, let them eat cheese!”

Emily & Kyle - Photo: David Haskell / Zoe & Jeremiah - Photo: Carlo


What’s one tip you always give your couples when planning a wedding in a historic space like The Oviatt?


A Little Tip for Historic Charm

“The best advice I give my couples when planning a wedding at a historic venue like The Oviatt? Trust the space. This building is a chameleon, it adapts beautifully to whatever mood or aesthetic a couple desires. It always shines bright and reflects so perfectly with minimal effort. The moment you step off the elevator, you’re transported. There’s an unspoken reverence, a hush, a sense that this space has held countless love stories—and is ready to hold yours next.”


Just for fun: What’s your favorite moment during a wedding day?


My Favorite Wedding Day Moment

“Every wedding has its standout moments, but there’s one that gets me every time: the quiet joy right after a couple says ‘I do.’ All the nerves, the planning, the anticipation—gone in an instant. What’s left is something pure and powerful: two souls who’ve chosen each other, radiant and at peace. It’s the beginning of forever, and witnessing that is the greatest gift.”

Kyla & Aldo - Wedding Ceremony - Olga Carolynn Photography

Kyla & Aldo - Photo: Olga Carolynn Photography


Whether you're envisioning an intimate rooftop ceremony or dreaming up a bold, immersive celebration in the sky, The Oviatt has a way of rising to the occasion — and making every moment unforgettable.


Looking for a space that feels as iconic as your love story? We’d love to hear more about your plans. Our team is here to help you bring your vision to life — and connect you with creative partners who know how to make it shine.


One of those partners is Jennifer Donaldson, a trusted collaborator whose events continue to inspire us (and our couples) again and again. Learn more about her work below — she might just be the one to help bring your own story to life.



Jennifer Donaldson - Willow and Bloom Events - JVV Photography

About Jennifer Donaldson


With a heart rooted in romance and a mind shaped by over 20 years of design expertise, Jennifer Donaldson brings an artful, deeply personal touch to every celebration she plans. Her events—layered with beauty, historical charm, and thoughtful intention—feel like walking into a storybook written just for you. A longtime creative partner of The Oviatt, Jennifer has designed some of the venue’s most unforgettable weddings. From planning and design to coordination, her ability to weave meaning into every detail makes her not just a planner but a true collaborator in life's finest moments.

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