At a Glance
- A wedding photographer’s color palette request for her engagement party drew 2.5 million TikTok views and online backlash
- Guests thanked her for simplifying outfit choices, yet critics called the code “controlling” and costly
- Devereaux defends the move, saying cohesive attire boosts photos and guest experience
- Why it matters: The clash highlights shifting expectations around couple control versus guest convenience
Jenaya Devereaux turned a simple color suggestion into a viral debate. The 23-year-old Scottsdale bride-to-be asked 65 friends and family to wear blues, grays, and blacks for her September 10 “On Cloud 9” engagement party. She included a color cheat sheet with the invitation, stayed flexible on style, and received zero complaints-many guests later thanked her for making wardrobe decisions effortless.
Online reaction split sharply. A January 6 TikTok post filmed by Content with Casey shows Devereaux posing with her coordinated crowd. The clip surpassed 2.5 million views and triggered a flood of comments.
Top critiques included:
- “Reminder, your wedding day is only important to you”
- “I don’t like controlling other people’s lives”
- Concerns that guests might have to purchase new clothes
Supporters countered that caring friends should happily honor a simple palette.
Devereaux tells News Of Los Angeles she anticipated pushback but stands by her choice.
> “I completely understand why dress codes aren’t for everyone, but personally, I love knowing what’s expected. It makes getting dressed so much easier.”
She stresses affordability, noting many attendees re-wore closet staples. The couple also asked for no gifts, hoping to ease any financial strain.
The Photographer’s Perspective
Working weddings has shown Devereaux how unified color schemes elevate both images and atmosphere. She believes the extra coordination yields keepsake photos guests will treasure.
> “As a wedding photographer, I see firsthand how much a cohesive look elevates both photos and the overall experience.”
She adds that Scottsdale crowds enjoy dressing to a theme, and her circle embraced the concept.
Looking Ahead
Devereaux and high-school sweetheart Owen McCarron, 24, will wed October 4 at Kualoa Ranch, Oahu. Their three-day celebration already maps out daily attire:
| Event | Requested Attire |
|---|---|
| Sunset boat cruise | White or tan |
| Welcome party | Hawaiian prints |
| Wedding day | Black suits for men, colorful formal for women |
The bride says themes simplify planning for everyone and expects guests to arrive prepared after the engagement-party trial run.
> “We only get one engagement party, so we might as well throw the party we truly want.”
Despite online criticism, Devereaux remains resolute, insisting the celebration reflected her vision and brought loved ones together seamlessly.
