The Adventure Journal

Stella Nova Part 1 // An Unraveled Academy Retreat | Palm Springs CA

An Intimate Desert Escape at the Stella Nova House
Palm Springs, CA | Led by Kade Bailey | Unraveled Reclamation Retreat 

Tucked into the vibrant charm of Palm Springs, the Stella Nova House became the perfect canvas for a story about slow mornings, quiet touches, and unrushed connection. This shoot—led by the endlessly creative Kade Bailey during the Unraveled Reclamation Retreat—felt like stepping into a vintage dream laced with golden light and effortless romance.

The palette was bold but warm: burnt orange velvet, olive green satin, cream-draped walls, and the soft blush of afternoon sun streaming through. Each corner of the space felt curated yet relaxed, and the way it embraced the couple gave every image depth and honesty.

What made this session remarkable wasn’t just the location or light—it was the intimacy. There’s something about two people who move together so naturally that you forget the camera exists. From slipping on heels to brushing on lipstick, their interactions felt like poetry: tender, grounded, and deeply real. You can almost hear the soft music playing in the background as they danced barefoot, shared glances, and touched with intention.

The in-between moments told the story—the way he looked at her with steadiness, the way she reached for him like home. It was sensual and soft all at once, like love that has weathered time and still chooses closeness over and over again.

This session reminded us that connection doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. Sometimes, the most profound beauty is found in quiet gestures and morning light.

This wasn’t just about photography. It was about witnessing something real and capturing it in a way that doesn’t ask for perfection—only truth. Retreats like this one remind us why we do what we do. Why we show up with cameras, yes—but more importantly, why we hold space for human connection. It’s in the quiet glances, the in-between touches, the shared breath under the golden desert sun. This shoot will stay with me for a while.

Have a story you want to tell too? Lets chat and make it happen!

 

hello@waveandwonder.com

 

Serving all of Northern Utah including Clearfield, Layton, Syracuse, Sunset, Roy, Clinton, Farmington, Centerville, & Ogden areas in Davis county, also serving Weber County, Morgan county & SLC county.

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Located in Utah & loves to travel!

Wave + Wonder is your one-stop-shop for families, couples, maternity, and newborn photography.

I specialize in Lifestyle-Esque portraiture capturing your raw authentic love & connection.