11STUNNING CELEBRATIONS to inspire your wedding vision EMBRACE THE SPOTLIGHT find your showstopping wedding look
Endless vistas. Surrounded by family, friends and all those you love. Your big day in a stunning setting, a backdrop of vermilion cliffs and black lava fields.
From event design and ceremony setup to custom catering and guest services, our team is ready to help you plan the wedding you’ve always dreamed of. The sky’s the limit.
Exquisite Beginnings
Perfect every aspect of your distinct vision. Taking care and pleasure at every sense, and refining each touchpoint with the subtle details that transform your dreams into a Singular Experience.
The St. Regis Deer Valley elevates the atmosphere with the sights, scents, and ambiance that make the ordinary Transcending
Photography by: Megan Robinson Photography
PHOTOS
REAL WEDDINGS
Real Couples. Real Events. Real Love. See how teams of seasoned Utah wedding pros brought new life into their clients’ unique celebrations.
67
INSPIRATIONS
Three innovative styled shoots, each curated to showcase out-ofthe-box ideas and expand the boundaries of what’s possible in wedding design
88
DESERT DESTINATIONS
Move over Palm Springs— Southern Utah is rapidly growing into a must-see resort destination, whether you’re after a country club weekend , a red-rock adventure or an exclusive luxury getaway.
98
CENTER STAGE
Breathtaking bridal looks for the 2026 bride, each one undeniably ready for the spotlight
21 BEGINNINGS
Explore the latest in every facet of your big day, from the bar to the bling.
DEPARTMENTS
42 THE NIGHT BEFORE Your welcome dinner sets the tone for the wedding weekend—so take advantage.
50 FROM UTAH, WITH LOVE
Local vendors for every accessory in your bridal ensemble.
110 PREFERRED VENDORS
Our top vendor picks for every wedding need.
114
VENUE GUIDE
The utlimate guide to Utah’s wedding venues.
121
SOCIAL PAGES
There’s no party like a wedding industry party—see how the pros are showing off.
128 SEND OFF
Capture every beautiful moment of your day —including the beauty of the aftermath
PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER
Margaret Mary Shuff
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Megan Hulse Bartholomew
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Avrey Evans
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Brad Mee
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Jeremy Pugh
ART DIRECTOR
Chelsea Rushton
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Kimberly Hammons
WEB
EDITOR/SOCIAL MANAGER
Michaelis Lyons
PRODUCTION MANAGERS
Sam Burt
Luis Henriques
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Jodi Nelson
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Janette Erickson
Mat Thompson
Justin Dunkley
Philip Redd
515 S. 700 EAST, SUITE 3-I, SALT LAKE CITY, UT 84102 PHONE / 801-485-5100 FAX / 801-485-5133 EMAIL / EDITOR@UTAHBRIDEANDGROOM.COM
SUBMISSIONS
Utah Bride & Groom magazine is published annually, arriving on newsstands in February with a cover refresh in July. If you have questions or comments regarding our magazine, please contact us.
TO SUBMIT A GALLERY
We are proud to feature Utah weddings and styled shoots produced by talented vendors from around the state, both in print and digitally. If you have a gallery of images you would like our editors to see, please use the form at UtahBrideandGroom. com/submit to submit your work. A member of the editorial
team will contact you about any interest. Our goal is to respond to all queries; however, due to the large volume we receive, individual responses are not always possible.
Submissions for online features are open year-round. Print submissions for the following year open in January, and are accepted on a rolling basis until September 1.
STORY QUERIES
We value the ideas and interests of our readers. All story queries can be submitted via mail (address below), by email to editor@utahbrideandgroom.com and online via our contact form.
FOR WEDDING PROFESSIONALS
Would you like to see your business featured in our venue or resource guide? Are you opening a new business, hosting a bridal event, or interested in digital marketing opportunities? Send inquiries about advertising with Utah Bride & Groom directly to our sales team: sales@saltlakemagazine.com
PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER
Margaret Mary Shuff
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Christiana Lilly
CONTROLLER
Jeanne Greenberg
PUBLISHERS OF Salt Lake magazine Utah Bride & Groom Utah Style & Design Boca Raton magazine
Interested in joining our team for firsthand knowledge of the magazine world? Part-time, internships are available. Send a resume and writing samples to editor@utahbrideandgroom.com.
Utah Bride & Groom magazine
515 S. 700 East, Suite 3i Salt Lake City, Utah 84102
YOU SAID “YES,” and by doing so you not only said agreed to the person you love most (congratulations!), but also to the adventure of wedding planning. It may seem daunting, but these pages are your guide to embracing the many decisions, embracing your personal style, and—most importantly—embracing the spotlight.
It all starts with the Beginnings, where we explore finding your personal style in every element of your wedding celebration from the bar and the bling to the tabletop and the tailoring. (Page 21). In “The Night Before,” we encourage diving fully into your wedding’s unique vibe, starting with the welcome dinner. (Page 42). If you’re on the hunt for authenticity, explore locally-made accessories in “From Utah, With Love.” (Page 50). Our fashion feature, “Center Stage” gives full permission for the bride to be bold: find a look that demands the spotlight. (Page 98). In our Inspirations section, three teams of wedding pros go bold, whether it be with dramatic lighting and contrast (“Silver Linings,” Page 80), intense color and innovative floral (“Palette Play,” Page 74), or a daring balance of classic and modern touches (“Gallery Stroll,” Page 68). And in “Desert Destinations,” we celebrate Southern Utah’s rapidly developing new identity as a luxurious resort destination. (Page 88). No matter your wedding style, we hope you’ll take a beat during this hectic process, take a breath, and embrace every moment.
Megan Bartholomew, editor
Follow us on Instagram @utahbridemag
CAPTURE THE MAGNIFICENCE OF YOUR DAY
When it comes to wedding photography, mastering the art takes a lot of practice and patience. It’s essential to have an eye for detail and to understand how lighting affects your shots. Capture the magic of your love story with Katinov Photography & Videography. Your dream wedding deserves nothing less than extraordinary artistry.
katinov.com 435-313-9319
katinovphotography@gmail.com
Photos: LRC Photography, Maddie Stokes Photography, B Carlson
CHEERS COMES THE BRIDE
Alpine Distilling’s latest experience allows couples to handcraft a one-of-a-kind spirit that is as unique as their love story
By AVREY EVANS
AS A “WARDEN RECTIFIER” member of the London Gin Guild, Sarah Sergent is Alpine Distilling’s Master Botanical Distiller, and one of the most decorated gin-makers in the country. Her Park City distillery and social club serves up craft cocktails, hosts intimate private gatherings and even helps spirit-forward couples create a personalized gin to share with family and friends on their wedding day. Through an immersive two-and-half hour journey, couples learn beginnerfriendly distillation techniques, explore various flavors and aromas and create a lifelong memory with their partner. Each to-be-wed duo is encouraged to flex their creativity: take the recently married Mara and Martin, for example. They drew inspiration from Mara’s bridal bouquet to craft a floral-forward gin with coriander, rose hips, lavender, jasmine and peony. “Turning the bridal bouquet into a custom gin cocktail brought an intimate botanical essence to their celebration,” says Sergent, who worked closely with the couple to bottle their love affair into a sippable story.
Alpine Distilling’s Ever After Custom Wedding Gin experience can accommodate up to eight guests, and includes welcome cocktails, light bites and up to eight 750mL bottles of your bespoke, hand-crafted gin. Book at events@alpinedistilling.com, alpineparkcity.com
PHOTO BY SPARKLE PHOTOGRAPHY
ETERNAL BLOOMS
Wedding keepsakes that last
a lifetime.
By AVREY EVANS
FLOWERS ARE OFTEN ONE OF THE BIGGEST EXPENSES in weddings, and more and more brides are leaning toward extravagant arrangements with rare and exotic blooms. To extend their beauty long after your wedding day, Haley Cunningham of Everbloom Preservation can turn bouquets, boutonnieres and accessories into brilliant, one-of-akind keepsakes.
Cunningham uses high-quality resin to preserve the natural hue and form of each petal, and transform them into functional decor like bookends, coasters, ring holders, serving trays and even side tables. The personalization doesn’t end there, she works with each newlywed to incorporate wedding-day details and personality. “These pieces are really customizable,” she says. “You can include ribbons, invitations, polaroids and even jewelry.” There’s no limit on personal touches, and some of her favorite designs have included cufflinks from the groom, framed photos of lost loved ones and even the collar of a four-legged ringbearer.
Each of Cunningham’s pieces become a living time capsule of your special day, preserving not only the flowers, but the feeling of “I do.”
LOCAL FLORAL PRESERVATIONISTS:
Everbloom Preservation everbloompreservation.com
Forever Floral Designs foreverfloral.lovable.app
Pressed and Bloomy pressedandbloomy.com
The Fleur Press thefleurpress.com
Flowers of the Press flowersofthepress.com
BEZEL BLING
Select an engagement piece that glitters like the stars—the Hollywood stars. A time-honored setting is making a comeback in engagement ring trends.
By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
BEZEL SETTINGS are taking the celebrity world by storm: Miley Cyrus, Zendaya and even the lovers’ idol Taylor Swift have all embraced the bezel wave, sporting engagement rings with clean, contemporary lines and the perfect dash of vintage charm. According to Alexis Branscomb, an expert stylist at J. Brooks Jewelers, those oldschool styles, ironically, are making a comeback with fiancées who want something new. “Vintage settings reemerge frequently because they feel fresh in a way—they haven’t been seen recently, so they feel unique and curated.”
Ideal for round-cut diamonds, the bezel setting offers extra protection, opting for a full metal casing around the stone, rather than the typically-seen prong.
“A bezel setting is one of the most secure styles you can have for an engagement ring,” says Branscomb. “It’s awesome for anyone really hard on their hands, and offers a great blend of trendy sparkle and classic elegance.”
jbrooksjewelers.com 1 2 4 3 5
1. Pauline ring by Gabriel & Co., $2,350; 2. Alexandria Collection 3-Stone Emerald engagement ring by UNEEK, $4,995; 3. Bezel engagement ring with diamonds in white gold, curated for the J. Brooks Collection, $2,420; 4. Zoie engagement ring by J. Brooks Bridal, $3,215; 5. Emerald Bezel Set East to West engagement ring, curated for the J. Brooks Collection, $2,405; All prices reflected for setting only.
Curated Rentals. Intentional Design.
From elevated tabletops to memorable lounge vignettes, Indigo brings together design-forward pieces that transform a space and tell your story. Whether you’re a planner, a designer, or a couple with a vision, we help you create a setting that feels warm, inviting, and effortlessly refined.
Design Meets Atmosphere
Stunning Tabletop Items
Lighting Design
Luscious Linens
Audio Guestbook
AV Equipment
Tables & Chairs
Custom Scent Design
JUST THE BEGINNING
How one niche Utah planner is helping couples kick off wedding preparations in high style—starting with the proposal
By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
FOR LUCY MONTOYA, owner of Pro Proposal Co., beginnings are critical. Serving both couples local to Utah as well as those paying an extra-special visit, Pro Proposal Co. offers a wide range of packages and experiences to help make every client’s engagement unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking a simple, rose-petaled moment full of quiet love or an over the top engagement weekend of helicopter rides and spa retreats, Montoya is sure to have a package to fit the bill. Pro Proposal Co relies on highly qualified vendors and is ready to customize every detail, so couples can remain in the moment rather than stressing the little things.
“Every love story has to start somewhere,” she says. “Being part of this ‘beginning’ for couples is so magical, and it also gives them a foundation of vendor relationships to rely on as they begin wedding planning.”
As another perk, Pro Proposal Co. also partners with For Her Hand Gem Co. to assist proposers in customizing the perfect engagement ring. Committed to sustainability, For Her Hand Gem Co. waits in the wings to assist with crafting a beautiful, ecofriendly piece that fiancées will treasure for a lifetime.
Learn more at p roproposalco.com
OLD SCHOOL
Today’s grooms are taking advice and influence from heirloom styles and embracing bolder palettes for one-of-a-kind nuptial ensembles
By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
ONE UWM GROOM, Dominic Cicerone, drew direct inspiration from his grandfather’s wedding suit.
“There is something timeless and really nostalgic about it,” says Cicerone. His full wedding day look included a cream jacket, black tuxedo pants and black bow tie, all modernized for the present day.
“The term ‘old-school’ sometimes puts a wall up, because grooms don’t want to look dated,” says Cody Hoppes, sales specialist at UWM Men’s Shop, where custom suits are a specialty. “That’s not what we are doing. We are taking the traditional styles and hues your grandfather would have worn, and giving them modern tailoring for a fresh and timeless piece.”
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:
An heirloom color story meets a modern cut in Dominic Cicerone’s wedding look.
Jayce, another UWM groom, selected a rich green sport coat to stand out against the Southern Utah landscape which served as backdrop for formal photos.
Cicerone’s grandfather in his wedding suit from 1950.
For Dominic’s look, the jacket was modernized with updated lapel tailoring, as well as changes to buttons for a sleek, on-trend profile.
According to the UWM pros, grooms are also embracing color: burgundy, green, browns and blues, reminiscent of classic-cut brands such as Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers. Visit UWM store for fabric details.
“Across the board, we are seeing far more saturated tones for bolder suits,” says Hoppes.
UTAH WOOLEN MILLS
6100 S. State St., Murray uwmmensshop.com
The most reputable and trusted bar service in Utah
Signature cocktail/mocktail menu +
Seasonal cocktails
Transparent, easy-to-understand pricing
Various packages to fit budget/style
Direct line to admin for any questions/changes
Numerous customizations:
Champagne towers
Coffee/Tea stations
Premium glassware
Private tasting sessions
Alcohol shopping calculator
CELEBRATION MAKERS
Written By Blakely Page
THE VISIONARIES BEHIND “I DO”
In this special section, we highlight Utah’s most talented wedding professionals and showcase their creative insights on the evolving wedding landscape. From breathtaking venues and artistic floral designs to full-service event planners, these experts offer inspiration and fresh ideas for crafting an unforgettable, personalized celebration.
FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS, Every Blooming Thing has transformed floral design into an art of storytelling. Owner Robert Upwall believes that flowers should do more than decorate a space; they should reflect who a couple truly is.
When helping couples explore their floral direction, Upwall begins by learning their story. He enjoys discovering a shared interest or meaningful detail about the couple, and designs from there. “I like to find out what makes them tick and then I design around that,” he explains. His process is grounded in curiosity and connection, resulting in arrangements that feel deeply personal.
Unlike many florists that chase trends, Upwall’s creative philosophy remains rooted in authenticity. He focuses on each couple’s vision, helping them discover
what they’re drawn to even if they can’t quite put it into words. His work, which he describes as eclectic, blends refined artistry with nature’s spontaneity.
Upwall’s approach to design is immersive. “To me, it’s about a couple’s body language,” he says. “I like to see what they’re responding to and connecting to in person. When you come in person, you get everything to help you choose and I get to know your comfort level.” That connection becomes the foundation of each floral story he builds. Drawing inspiration from nature and using locally grown blooms whenever possible, Upwall often incorporates meaningful flowers, such as those that carry sentimental or symbolic value. The result is a floral design that goes beyond beauty, creating an experience as distinctive as the couple themselves.
ROBERT UPWALL OWNER
Top Tips
WHAT’S AHEAD:
In 2026 we’re tackling larger events on a much higher scale.
EXCITED ABOUT:
It’s honestly the work. I’ve been doing this since I was twelve and I still have the same level of excitement as I did when I began. I find the work meaningful and incredibly rewarding.
FRESH IDEAS:
We forage for products more than ever! Whether it’s branches, twigs, or something else specific, we like to incorporate touches of nature in our designs, especially if they come from the area surrounding the venue.
SARAH O’DONNELL FOUNDER
Top Tips
WHAT’S AHEAD:
We’re thrilled about our new brick-and-mortar location, giving the community a chance to experience the crossroads between coffee, tea and mixology creations in a space reflecting Mecca’s signature aesthetic of greenery, natural textures and sustainability.
EXCITED ABOUT:
I’m excited about more coffee shops taking on a mixology approach to coffee. We’re just starting to see this in Utah!
FRESH IDEAS:
It’s no secret we’re seeing a decline in alcohol consumption. People are being more mindful of their consumption and I totally support this! Coffee and matcha bars are starting to become more popular at weddings.
Mecca Bar Co.
650 S. 500 West, SLC | 801-449-0182
meccabarco.com | IG @meccabarco
WHEN SARAH O’DONNELL FOUNDED
MECCA BAR CO., her goal wasn’t only to serve drinks but to create moments worth remembering. Inspired by the word Mecca, meaning a “place to gather”, she built her business focusing on connection through handcrafted beverages.
Mecca’s hand-built bars are filled with garden-grown herbs and fresh mixers in recycled glass bottles, setting the stage for drinks as beautiful as they are intentional. Each cocktail is made with organic, fresh-pressed juice and natural ingredients, offering a taste that feels both artful and authentic.
Mecca Bar Co. brings more to the table than just cocktails. Mecca’s espresso and matcha setups have become a popular choice for weddings, festivals, and office dropins, offering an elevated, mindful take on a classic ritual.
What sets Mecca apart is Sarah’s ability to create signature drinks that blend styles and influences into something entirely her own. Beyond weddings and private events, Mecca has become a local favorite at Wheeler’s Farmers Market, where visitors gather each week for seasonal concoctions and warm hospitality.
Among Mecca’s most striking elements are the custom gondola bar and photo booth, where refurbished ski gondolas have been reimagined as mobile bars that bring character and charm to any event.
For Sarah, Mecca is more than a beverage catering company. It’s a place where creativity and connection meet, and where every glass raised, whether filled with espresso or a handcrafted cocktail, is a celebration of the moment.
Sheer Ambrosia Bakery
1749 S. State Street, SLC | 801-891-6242
sheerambrosiabakery.com | IG @sheerambrosia
FOR RITA MAGALDE, OWNER AND OPERATOR AT SHEER AMBROSIA, baking has always been more than a recipe. It began in her mother’s kitchen, where dough met the season’s harvest, and became a lifelong devotion to creating something both timeless and new.
Her baklava unfolds in 45 golden layers brushed with care and tasting of memory. In Rita’s eyes, baklava is more than dessert; it’s a connection.
She’s refined her recipe over the years, layering delicate sheets of thin dough, using a little less sugar and creating a pastry that’s crisp, fragrant and beautifully light, yet still moist.
Her mother’s influence runs deep. A Southern baker who used what was in season—blackberries in summer, pecans in fall—she taught Rita to bake with intuition and care. That legacy inspired a
Greek-Southern fusion that is now Sheer Ambrosia’s signature, from classic honey walnut baklava to inventive variations featuring fruit and other varieties of nuts. When working with couples, Rita treats tastings as both a collaboration and celebration. “Taste brings back memories,” she explains, “and each dessert tells a story.” Many couples choose her old-world style baklava as a way to thank guests for celebrating with them. And because the baklava often disappears before the couple gets a bite, she now crafts a small nuptial cake just for them, a sweet thoughtful touch that reflects her philosophy: desserts should be personal, delicious and unforgettable. At the heart of Sheer Ambrosia is Rita’s belief that every dessert should feel like a celebration, a memory and a gift all at once.
RITA MAGALDE OWNER & OPERATOR
Top Tips
WHAT’S AHEAD:
The future of Sheer Ambrosia is as golden and promising as the layers of its signature baklava. I’m exploring new ways to connect people through dessert with a focus on expanded online offerings, curated gift collections and custom creations for weddings and special events.
EXCITED ABOUT:
I’ve always been a romantic at heart—I truly love, love. Being part of someone’s wedding day feels like such an honor, and I pour my heart into making it as special as possible. Many of my clients naturally become friends along the way, but whether we stay in touch or not, I always go above and beyond to make their celebration something they’ll never forget.
FRESH IDEAS:
We want to help our couples create an event that is uniquely them. We have endless ideas on how to capture your vision to make your event extraordinary.
Hoopes Events
107 E. Fort Union Blvd., Murray | 801-900-6093 hoopesevents.com | IG @hoopesevents
TONYA HOOPES, OWNER OF HOOPES EVENTS, knows every great celebration begins with a vision. Known for her friendly, approachable nature, Hoopes has built her reputation on understanding each couple’s story and translating it into a beautifully orchestrated, personalized event.
Hoopes spends time getting to know her clients, ensuring she understands not only what they want their wedding to look like but how they want it to feel. By tackling the most stressful elements early on, she gives couples the freedom to enjoy the planning process, focusing on what truly matters.
With years of experience planning weddings across Utah and around the world, Hoopes specializes in creating multi-day celebrations that go beyond the tradition. Her destination weddings often span several days, transforming
into immersive experiences that reflect each couple’s unique story. Hoopes also brings a special understanding of family dynamics and helps couples navigate what’s most important to both sides while keeping harmony at the center of every decision.
And while Hoopes Events is known for its luxurious aesthetic, Hoopes is equally skilled at maximizing every budget. Her philosophy is simple: thoughtful planning and creative problem-solving can make any celebration extraordinary. Her advice to couples? Choose the right venue, understand what’s included and ask questions up front to avoid surprises later.
Under Hoopes’ guidance, Hoopes Events continues to redefine what wedding planning can be—personal, polished and effortlessly elegant.
TONYA HOOPES OWNER
Top Tips
WHAT’S AHEAD:
We are seeing an increase in international weddings. We are currently collaborating with a few companies to develop luxury experiences for clients and their guests.
EXCITED ABOUT:
I’m most excited about working with clients who are eager to create an event that authentically represents them. They value unique details and elements that reflect their personalities, and they prioritize spending quality time with their guests.
FRESH IDEAS:
Smaller, more intimate weddings are rising in popularity. Couples are still investing significantly in details but are opting for a more curated guest list. There’s a strong focus on personalizing aspects that are most important to them.
(ABOVE) PHOTOS BY PEPPER NIX
PHOTO BY KATIE EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY KORTNEY J PHOTO
The Night Before
Take cues from a wonderfully Western welcome dinner as you plan your own themed celebration
Planning & Design by CANVAS
By MEGAN
WEDDINGS & EVENTS
Photographs by ALIXANN LOOSLE PHOTOGRAPHY
BARTHOLOMEW
DRESS CODE
In order to fully immerse your guests in your wedding weekend, it’s important to engage them right off the bat. And what better way to set the tone than inviting your friends and family to go all in on your theme?
For their rehearsal dinner at High West Saloon on Park City’s Historic Main Street, Amelia and Enzo opted for a cowboy-chic alldenim dress code, and their guests complied with great enthusiasm. In keeping with the Western vibes, Amelia arrived on scene in topto-bottom fringe, kicking off her weekend role as the bride in high style.
DECOR
Although this bride was certainly inspired by the landscapes and vignettes of the Wild West, she didn’t consider her celebration a “themed wedding.” To avoid any comparison to the kitsch, wedding planner Rachel Petersen of Canvas Weddings and Events worked with the couple to infuse modern beauty into the design. The welcome dinner featured bright, funky arrangements to offset the moody atmosphere of the Saloon, while on the wedding day itself, soft neutral blooms lent a delicate touch to stark dried florals at Blue Sky Lodge. Each combination was carefully curated for the ideal blend of thematic authenticity and undeniable elegance.
EXPERIENCES
Particularly when it comes to destination weddings, crafting quintessential experiences is another surefire way to invite your guests to step into your wedding vision. Amelia and Enzo curated a High West whiskey tasting for their friends and family, as well as specialty cocktails to get the full sampling of the High West portfolio and its odes to Western tradition.
PERSONALIZATION
Amid the cheerful blush florals at the welcome party, details infused with Amelia and Enzo’s personalities peek cleverly from the table designs. Numbered signs and menus handdrawn by a friend of the bride depict all the
fun-filled elements to hint at the wedding mood to come: cowboy boots, dainty florals, funky fonts. And at every setting, fish-shaped place cards welcome guests to their seats with a nod to Enzo’s love of the outdoors. According to Petersen and other pros, personal details such as these are key in crafting an event design that is as authentic as it is memorable.
“Amelia wanted the wedding to feel natural, fun and upbeat,” says Petersen.”All of these infused details brought that vision, as well as she and Enzo’s fun personalities, to life.” canvasweddingsandevents.com
SEE MORE OF THIS WESTERN-THEMED WEDDING: utahbrideandgroom.com/real-weddingamelia-enzo-at-blue-sky/
VENDORS
WELCOME PARTY VENUE: High West Distillery, highwest.com
WEDDING VENUE: The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts, blueskyauberge.com
SECOND SHOOTER: Evelyn Eslava Photography, @evelyneslavaphotography
VIDEOGRAPHY: Shey Allen Films, sheyallenfilms.com
AFTER PARTY DJ: DJ Matty Mo, djmattymo.com
FLORAL: Brya Designs, bryadesigns.com
RENTALS: All Out Event Rental, allouteventrental.com
RENTALS: BBJ La Tavola, bbjlatavola.com
RENTALS: Indigo Utah, indigoutah.com
STATIONERY: The Print Mark, theprintmark.com
Your History Starts Here
at Salt Lake City’s most unique wedding venue
The breathtaking views and dramatic architecture of the Natural History Museum of Utah provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding.
nhmu.utah.edu/wedding See more on Instagram @nhmuevents
Photo by
Kailee Matsumura Photography
Photo by Pepper Nix
Sego Lily Events
ZERO regrets
A
new
way to toast love.
Celebrate with beautifully crafted low and non-alcoholic wines, sparkling selections, and cocktails that delight every palate.
Inclusive, elevated, and endlessly celebratory —because every guest deserves to raise a glass. A locally owned beverage brokerage rooted in food and wine culture in Utah Contact us for more information at info@vinelore.com Follow us @vinelore.ut
From Utah, With Love
Local sources for every last detail
By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
WE GET IT, the bridal gown is the star of the show. But a showstopping gown is not the end of the story when it comes to your wedding day look.
A true bridal trousseau goes from head to toe, including all the frills, sparkles and accoutrements needed for every moment of the wedding day.
Whether you’re missing a statement-making ceremony veil, a pair of runway-worthy dancing shoes for the after party or something extra special for the wedding night, these local designers and neighborhood bridal stops have you covered.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MCKENZIE MCKEENE
BASE LAYER
Founded by Utah entrepreneur Emily Kelly in 2017, Mentionables is a lingerie brand “by women, for women.” What started out as one newlywed in a basement apartment creating pieces she wished had been available for her own wedding attire has expanded into full body-positive movement, releasing new collections of model-free lingerie lines every season. shopmentionables.com
CHERRY ON TOP
Fashion guru McKenzie McKeene crafts custom, oneof-a-kind veils and accessories to put the finishing touch on any bridal ensemble. Whether your look needs some simple sparkle or a dramatic cathedralveil moment, McKeene can design a piece that is undeniably ‘you.’ mckenziemckeene.com
STRUT YOUR STUFF
You may have heard of Hayley Paige—world-renowned wedding gown designer and businesswoman extraordinaire? We thought you might recognize the name. But did you know that this industry powerhouse also has a shoe brand? She is Cheval offers bridal footwear for the whimsical and bold bride, and can be found in select styles at Versailles Atelier Bridal in South Jordan. va-bridal.com; sheischeval.com
Instant Inspiration
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REAL WEDDINGS
Real Couples. Real Celebrations. Real Love. Get inspired by unique event designs, crafted by Utah’s top pros.
Keyana & Matt
LA CAILLE, SANDY SEPTEMBER 14
Planning & Design by HOOPES EVENTS
Photographs by CHRISTIE Q PHOTOGRAPHY By MEGAN
BARTHOLOMEW
THE COUPLE
Keyana and Matt’s first connection was all thanks to Hinge, but a shared zest for life kept them happily together for 4 years before their snowy winter engagement. Reluctantly agreeing to a post-blizzard hike with Matt and her father, Keyana got a much-deserved surprise after a snowshoe trek near Desolation Lake. As Keyana turned to take some photos at the midway point, Matt quickly took out the ring. “I think that we both blacked out from pure happiness and excitement,” Keyana says. “We enjoyed some champagne at our rest stop, and all of us had a pep in our step the entire hike down.”
THE WEDDING
The timeless elegance of La Caille made the perfect backdrop for Keyana & Matt’s classic black and white palette.
Drawn to the indoor and outdoor charm of the venue, the couple took full advantage of every space: bridal photos at the Chateau on property, a traditional Iranian ceremony on the grand lawn and a magical reception in the luscious greenhouse.
After guests arrived on the warm September afternoon, they were greeted by stunning Cottonwood Canyon views and a beautiful Sofreh Aghd, a visual centerpiece and spiritual tableau in Iranian wedding ceremonies, piled high with items representing blessings, purity, prosperity and love for the couples’ new life together. Keyana walked down the outdoor aisle in a pearl and crystal adorned gown by Berta Bridal with a flowing lace overskirt, and Matt awaited her in a classic black tuxedo.
THE PARTY
Upon entering the greenhouse venue for the reception, guests were greeted by a striking checkerboard dance floor surrounded by tables bursting with elegant white florals. At the bar, drinks named for the couple’s dogs brought fanfavorite cocktails (a dirty martini and spicy margarita) to the celebration with sentimental flair.
Following a classic dinner of beef tenderloin, salmon and salad, Keyana, Matt and their loved ones broke out their best dance moves to a playlist totally authentic to them. The
newlyweds performed their first dance to a custom mix of country and Iranian music, blending their two favorite styles into one track. “It was a mix of romance and total fun,” says Keyana.
The remainder of the night was spent grooving to a curation of country, classic rock and Middle-Eastern music, and enjoying chocolate and vanilla cake before venturing over to La Caille’s Chateau for a late-night afterparty.
THE HONEYMOON
Following their celebration, Keyana and Matt spent three weeks in a newlywed bubble, exploring the beautiful landscapes of Spain.
VIDEOGRAPHY: Jared Wortley Films, jaredwortleyfilms.com
VENUE, CATERING AND BAR SERVICE: St. Regis Deer Valley, marriott.com/en-us/hotels /slcxr-the-st-regis-deer-valley
FLORAL: Artisan Bloom, artisanbloom.com
CAKE: Annie’s Cakes, caratsandcake.com
RENTALS: All Out Event Rental and Diamond Rentals, eventrentalutah.com, diamondevent.com
GOWN: Galia Lahav and Leah de Gloria via Bridal Reflections, bridalreflections.com
GROOM’S SUIT: Tom Ford, tomfordfashion.com
MAKEUP: Kali Chris, kalichris.com
HAIR: Kristen Packard Artistry, kristenpackard.com
SIGNAGE: Twelve30 Creative, twelve30.com
DJ: Rob Bennion and Gold Standard, echotalent.com/robbennion, goldstandardmusic.com
Rebecca + Ryan
ST. REGIS, DEER VALLEY
JANUARY 11
Planning & Design by MICHELLE LEO EVENTS
Photographs by MEGAN ROBINSON By AVREY EVANS
THE COUPLE
Seattleite Ryan and Salt Lake native Rebecca met as many couples in romcom films do—on the beach. But instead of meeting eyes during a slo-mo sunset scene, Rebecca was hard at work training as a professional slackliner as Ryan looked on. After a mutual friend introduced them, training sessions turned into conversations, dinners, drives along the PCH and eventually, an engagement.
Seven years into their partnership, Ryan began planning an epic proposal during a trip to the Big Apple. While Rebecca was whisked away to an impromptu nail appointment, Ryan set up an intimate candlelit dinner in a suite overlooking Central Park. Rebecca returned to enjoy a chef-curated four-course meal with her closest circle, and afterward Ryan made a speech reflecting on their New Year’s Resolutions. He’d accomplished them all but one: to marry her. In a rush of happy tears, Rebecca exclaimed, “of course I’ll marry you!”
THE WEDDING
St. Regis’ elegant atmosphere and ski-in ski-out access met the couple’s desire for adventure-meets-refinement during their wedding weekend. To take full advantage of Utah’s legendary winter scenery, an outdoor ceremony featured a mirrored aisle and berry-hued florals on all sides. As Rebecca floated down the aisle in a romantic ballgown by Leah de Gloria, soft snowflakes fell from the sky, marking the moment with winter magic. “Our guests even asked if we had paid to have the snow made,” Rachel laughs. “We hadn’t—it was pure magic.”
THE PARTY
To up the ante, the reception area was embellished with Gatsby-level finery. Decadent gold and black made up the wedding palette, infused with pops of tropical green and pink to evoke a 1920s Havana speakeasy. As guests arrived, they were greeted by a “bouncer” dressed in full roaring ’20s attire who knocked on a secret bookshelf to open and reveal the lavish party within. Each detail told a story of secret indulgence; tarot-themed table assignments, flair bartending, casino tables and a Champagne wall. Once Rebecca changed into a flirty feathered party dress—The Charlie by Leah de Gloria—it was time to start the party. Live music kept revelers on their feet late into the evening, and the after party ensued in the sultry-lit Deer Crest Room. The following morning, wedding-goers enjoyed the ski haven by carving turns down Deer Valley’s award-winning terrain.
Annie & Wyatt
RIVER BOTTOMS RANCH JUNE 7
Planning & Design by KATE ELIZABETH
EVENTS
Photographs by WHITNEY HUNT PHOTOGRAPHY
By MICHAELIS LYONS
THE COUPLE
Annie and Wyatt met growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas, and reconnected during Annie’s junior year of college while she was on a trip to Colorado, Wyatt’s new home. When Annie later moved to Denver permanently, a mutual friend set them up and the couple went on their first date the same day that Annie signed her new lease.
The couple eventually moved back to Utah, where on Valentine’s Day 2024, Wyatt planned a romantic date night at Butcher’s Chop House on Main Street in Park City. After dinner, Wyatt walked Annie through the snowy night and down to the bridge at the bottom of Main Street, where he got down on one knee and proposed with what Annie says is the most gorgeous ring she has ever seen.
Annie then turned around to see their friends capturing the moment. To celebrate the happy couple, the group went to Collie’s Sports Bar for a drink, where Wyatt told Annie about the last surprise he had planned: the next day, the couple would be flying home to Little Rock, Arkansas, to rejoice with family in their hometown.
THE WEDDING
Annie and Wyatt knew they wanted a venue that captured the natural beauty of Utah and were swept away by the sensational views at River Bottoms Ranch.
Driven by the beauty of the season, the day’s palette embraced an airy composition to complement the ceremony’s outdoor setting. An arched arrangement of brightly colored florals in blue, pink and purple hues created a light, summery feel while an assortment of vases at the aisle entrance elevated the design with a touch of stately elegance. The chic design was the perfect accompaniment to Annie’s showstopping walk down the aisle in a strapless fitand-flare dress with delicate beading along the bodice.
Inside the venue, exquisite florals continued to set the stage. Tulips, caille lilies, peonies and hydrangeas adorned the tables, and floral-printed plates added an element of whimsy to the place settings. To keep the design sophisticated, votive candles were weaved into the table decor.
THE PARTY
Upon arrival at the venue, guests were treated to champagne with edible flowers to enjoy during the ceremony. During cocktail hour, four signature drinks were served, including a rosemary paloma, a smoked pineapple jalapeño margarita, a cucumber crush and a blackberry smash.
After a dinner of either beef tenderloin with citrus gremolata, local Rocky Mountain Trout with tomato jam, or a sage butter mushroom ravioli, the newlyweds took to the dance floor beneath tulip-adorned chandeliers while the Metro Music Club played “Everything” by Michael Bublé.
To end the night, the couple was sent off by sparklers before rejoining their friends and family for an after party at The Spur Bar & Grill.
VENDORS
PLANNING AND DESIGN: Kate Elizabeth Event, kateelizabethevents.com
LIVE EVENT PAINTER: Painted by Kelsey Jane, paintedbykelseyjane.com
HMUA: Jill Marie Makeup, @jillmariemakeup ; Marisa Rose, marisarosemph.com
GOWN: Anne Barge, annebarge.com
SUIT: State & Liberty, stateandliberty.com
RECEPTION DRESS: Eva Landel, evalandel.com
BRIDESMAID’S GOWNS: Dessy Group, dessy.com
Sydney & Brandon
PARK MEADOWS COUNTRY CLUB
SEPTEMBER 4
Planning & Design by FUSE WEDDINGS AND EVENTS
Photographs by SARAH BALTZ OF SPARKLE PHOTOGRAPHY
By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
THE COUPLE
Sometimes, sparks fly in the most unusual of locations. For this couple, that surprising meet-cute happened in a dormitory elevator at SMU in Dallas, Texas. Now, years later, Sydney (a PA student) and Brandon (a real estate agent and financial manager) have taken the next step toward forever with their whimsical forest-themed wedding celebration.
But first, the proposal. On one of the couple’s many trips to Utah, Brandon planned a special surprise for the final hike of the outing. The pair took the lift to Silver Lake and enjoyed pastries among the scenery while reminiscing on their trip. Once pastries were eaten and the trip sufficiently
recalled, Brandon got to one knee to make one last magical memory— Sydney said yes, all captured in secret by their soon-to-be wedding photographer, Sarah Baltz of Sparkle Photography.
THE WEDDING
With Utah a new destination for the majority of their friends and loved ones, the couple set out to craft the ultimate mountain experience for their guests. And with a pickleball welcome party followed by a Western-themed rehearsal dinner at Park City’s The Spur Bar & Grill—complete with local favorite artists Chanson and Creed—all fit the bill.
For the main affair, Sydney and Brandon embraced faith and a love of hospitality shared by those with roots in the South. Following a ceremony at St. Mary’s Church (where the pair’s Texas priest flew in to officiate), guests flocked to Park Meadows Country Club for a wholly unexpected, fairy-forest themed reception.
Upon arrival, guests entered through a greenery-lined hallway, outfitted with bells to request champagne served by floating, white-gloved hands through the garden walls. Then, drinks in hand, they strolled into the main dining room to find a dazzling floral forest—built from the ground up by Artisan Bloom. A moody foundation of rich forest green was the only color the bride was set on. The rest, a rainbow of whimsical florals and butterfly accents, stood out brilliantly against the dark backdrop. “Butterflies have long been something that connected me to my grandparents,” shares Sydney. “Many of the hanging butterflies were tags from gifts my grandma had given me over the years, and a tribute to my grandfather who passed in 2019.”
Sydney greeted her loved ones in a colorfully embroidered Anne Barge ballgown, next to Brandon in a classic black outfit from State & Liberty, a brand custom-cut for athletic builds.
THE PARTY
On the menu, guests enjoyed red pepper soup and Greek salad, followed by entrees of filet, sea bass, chicken or cauliflower steaks. Alongside dinner, each table was presented with a raw bar and char-grilled oysters (in honor of Sydney’s New Orleans roots), as well as bird cages filled with sweet pastry selections and a traditional New Orleans-style wedding cake. True to this couple’s style, the celebration was filled with one-of-a-kind experiences: from a live sketch artist to ski-signatures in place of a traditional guestbook. After changing into a flowing second look by Eva Landel, Sydney and her new husband danced the night away to a live band and southern horn line.
THE HONEYMOON
After Sydney’s clinical rotations for her degree, the couple will start 2026 with a honeymoon trip to Japan and Thailand.
THE COUPLE
High school sweethearts Alia and Ryan met through mutual friends and are now sharing the college experience at Utah Valley University, where Alia is majoring in digital marketing and Ryan is majoring in business marketing.
While the couple had been planning their wedding for a few months leading up to the proposal, Ryan was determined to make the moment a surprise for Alia—and he almost succeeded. He decided he was going to propose on her birthday in September. To throw her off his trail, he told Alia that the ring wasn’t going to arrive until the end of the month. When her birthday came, Ryan had some of Alia’s friends take her out to dinner and shopping in Salt Lake City. But after dinner, she noticed her friend driving towards the Capitol instead, and “instantly knew what was happening.”
Upon arrival, Alia saw Ryan standing beneath the trees. When she approached her soon-tobe-fiancé, Ryan got down on one knee and proposed against the golden sunset. After some happy tears and an enthusiastic “yes!” both of their families, who had been waiting in the distance, cheered for the newly-engaged couple.
THE WEDDING
Following a sealing ceremony at the Draper LDS Temple, the party moved to Twenty & Creek in Sandy, where Alia had fallen in love with the sleek aesthetic and open layout. The bride wore a ruched satin gown with shoulder sleeves and a sheer veil, while Ryan wore a black suit with a boutonniere composed of blush florals that matched Alia’s bouquet. Both of them displayed their coordinating gold rings— his an elegant band and hers an oval diamond in a basket setting.
Surrounding a custom monogrammed dance floor, lush florals in understated white, brown and orange hues brought an autumnal vibe indoors by capturing the spirit of the season without overpowering the subtle details woven throughout the rest of the design.
THE PARTY
After a dinner of herb-roasted airline chicken breast with garlic and sage butter gravy, creamy mashed potatoes and roasted haricots verts, Alia and Ryan had their first dance to
Alia & Ryan
TWENTY & CREEK
NOVEMBER 22
Planning & Floral Design by LA FÊTE FLORAL
Photographs by MIKKI PLATT
By MICHAELIS LYONS
“Biblical” by Calum Scott—a song which holds a special place in both of their hearts. The first number was followed by a mother and son dance to “Half the Man” by Jennifer Hart and a father and daughter dance to “Home Again” by UNSECRET.
During the reception, guests were served warm apple cider alongside crème brûlée cake. To end the night, the couple was sent off by sparklers while “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay played in the background.
THE HONEYMOON
Following their wedding, Alia and Ryan flew to Cancún, Mexico to celebrate their union.
VENDORS
PLANNING AND FLORAL DESIGN: Allison Baddley at La Fête Floral, lafetefloral.com
PHOTOGRAPHER: Mikki Platt, mikkiplatt.com
VIDEOGRAPHY: Emily Rain, emilyrainyamada.com
VENUE: Twenty & Creek, twentyandcreek.com
CATERING: Culinary Crafts, culinarycrafts.com
RENTALS: All Out Event Rentals, eventrentalutah.com
GOWN: Frankie Jane Couture Bridal, frankiejane.com
SUITS: H&M, hm.com
BRIDESMAID’S GOWNS: Billy J, billyj.us
HAIR AND MAKEUP: Marisa Rose, @Marisarosemph
MUSIC: DJ PBaby, djpbaby.com
FLOOR WRAP: Utah Floor Wraps, utahfloorwraps.com
PAPER AND SIGNAGE: La Madeleine Studio, lamadeleinestudio.com
VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN: Belle Bodas Events, bellebodasandevents.com
Utah locals Tiffani and Taylor found each other during a time when they needed a place of safety and strength.
In the two years they were together, both endured the tremendous loss of seven family members and friends—and through the heartbreak, their bond became a sacred anchor of resilience. During her journey of emotional healing, Tiffani found clarity on the serene shores of Hawaii, and that’s exactly the place Taylor decided to pop the question a year later.
Outside their beachfront bungalow on the North Shore, Taylor invited Tiffani on a moonlit stroll down to the water. While Tiffani doodled their initials in the sand, he steeled his nerves, pulled out the ring box and lowered to one knee. Tiffani answered his question with an immediate yes. “Now [Hawaii] is not just my place of healing,” says Tiffani. “It’s our place of new beginnings.”
THE WEDDING
Tiffani and Taylor waffled for a bit if they wanted to mark their union offshore or at home. In the end, the couple decided to surround themselves with the familiar landscape of Utah’s mountains at The Lodge at Blue Sky in Wanship. Leaning into the venue’s bucolic setting, Tiffani chose to “let nature set the scene; the crisp mountain breeze, wild native plants and the golden sunset painting the sky.” When it came to the color palette and decor, the couple handed the reins to wedding planner Braelynn Tuitupou of Belle Bodas Events, who elevated the outdoor venue with natural tones, elegant loungers and indigenous flora. Wedding guests settled in outside the property’s mountaintop yurt to witness the ceremony. Opting against a first-look, Taylor set eyes on Tiffani donning an elegant Galia Lahav gown with a plunging neckline and a shimmering sheer skirt. Taylor worked with the tailors at Jack Suits in Salt Lake City to create a custom look with deep olive tones and a patterned vest. To maintain a sense of intimacy, the couple scrapped the traditional wedding party and were instead joined at the altar by their two sons, and Taylor’s best-friend-turned officiant.
THE PARTY
After the “I Dos,” the guests and newlyweds made their way to the plein-air reception space, where Blue Sky’s chefs laid out a relaxed yet elevated BBQ-style feast featuring local ingredients and flavors of the Mountain West. Toast and trips down memory lane ensued, shared alongside saved seats for lost loved ones.“It was our way of keeping them close as we began this new chapter,” Tiffani reflects.
To signal the start of the party portion of the evening, Tiffany slipped into a fringed minidress and blinged-out cowgirl boots. The DJ spun up some high-energy music that filled the open sky with the sounds of love and lured barefoot partygoers onto the dance floor. Afterward, the happy couple returned to Blue Sky Lodge for a late-night dip in the pool and their first overnight stay as Mr. and Mrs.
INSPIRATIONS
Three teams of seasoned wedding pros come together to craft a trio of carefully curated styled shoots, showing off the latest and boldest in wedding trends.
GALLERY STROLL
An old school venue, luxurious tablescapes, saturated florals and a dramapacked gown make for wedding inspiration worthy of the painter’s brush.
Planning & Design by SOIREE PRODUCTIONS
Photographs by PEPPER NIX ︱ By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
THE VENUE
If elegance and European charm are on your vision board, look no further than Deer Valley’s iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge. Inspired by its namesake Olympian and his Norwegian heritage, the venue’s rich blue and burgundy palette, hand-carved artisan fireplaces and exquisite art collection serve as warm and sultry backdrops for a cozy mountain wedding.
THE DECOR
Taking a page from the Stein’s book of bold palettes, abundant color is a driving force in making this design sing. Case in point: beyond the typical gossamer white fabric floating overhead, this design employs a mix of rich chocolate and powdery bluegrey draping to give weight and a sense of place to every element of the reception.
Upon entry into the ballroom, dark, towering drapes frame a luxe scene: a plush vintage chair warming at the foot of an intricately carved mantel and a peek of a wintery landscape painting. On either side of the drapes, traditional Victorian garden vases overflow with towering florals in deep,
saturated magenta, gold and pink, completing the ultimate receiving line photo opportunity. (Also the perfect dramatic backdrop for a bridal portrait to hang in a newlywed nest.)
Rather than setting guests up in a sprawling ballroom space, planner Kristin Spear of Soiree Productions also enlisted Wasatch AV to drape an intimate dining experience. Rich color continues from the freestanding arrangements, appearing in candlesticks, linens and fruit strewn across the tablescape as well as woven into individual bouquets, evoking the quiet grace of a still life painting. Finally, enclosed in a cocoon of textural white drapes, a full-color cake by Stein’s expert pastry team echoes the blue tones of the dinner setup.
THE LOOK
The Charlotte gown by Floure Studio, available at Frankie Jane Couture Bridal in Orem, features an intriguing asymmetrical neckline and a regal basque-waist bodice. A Victorian-era darling that is gaining steam with modern brides, the basque waist is coveted for its ability to add shape and edge to a fullskirted ensemble. And speaking of skirts—this design sports a dramatic two-meter train of billowing silk satin, capturing light from all angles.
GOWN, VEIL, SELECT ACCESSORIES: Frankie Jane Couture Bridal, frankiejane.com
BRIDAL JEWELRY: J. Brooks Jewelers, jbrooksjewelers.com
MODEL: Martine Perez, via TMG, talentmg.com
HMUA: Kali Chris Hair and Makeup, kalichris.com
DRAPING: Wasatch AV, wasatchav.com
RENTALS: Diamond Event & Tent, diamondevent.com
BTS VIDEO: Jared Wortley Films, jaredwortleyfilms.com
Palette Play
Don’t dull your personality on your big day. Irene + Co Events demonstrates how to let bold color and whimsical design land gracefully with careful attention to detail.
By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
Planning & Design by IRENE + CO EVENTS
Photographs by MORGAN LEIGH PHOTOGRAPHY
BE BOLD
For the couple with heaps of personality, why diminish it on your biggest day? “Your wedding day is the day to embrace all of the ‘muchness’ that you are,” says event planner Irene Katzias.
For this setup, Katzias lets decor get loud with unapologetic color and out-of-the-box design.
“For the ceremony arch, I wanted it to be something natural, fun and free—like it was growing right out of the ground.” And, in contrast to the modern-edged facade of The Venue at The Ranches, this organic design, bursting with pink peonies and vibrant orchid accents, is the perfect mix to add a sense of whimsy.
Inside, Katzias skipped the tabletop arrangements and instead enlisted Mille Fleur Design to custom-build a stunning tree as the centerpiece of the reception space. “I am seeing more couples embrace installations,” she says. “It’s a way to be more impactful with the budget, and allows guests to have a one-of-a-kind experience.”
In another tradition-bucking move, this team skipped the traditional handheld bouquet in favor of a modern approach that turns bridal florals into a chic accessory. Against a sleek columnar gown with pearl details, an armband floral arrangement hangs on with laid-back ease, acting as sculptural art while allowing the bride’s hands to be free for greetings and glass-clinking.
SET THE TONE
Your wedding paper suite is the ideal opportunity to showcase your personality and unique event vision before the celebration even begins. In this collection, the colors, patterns and textures of the wedding day make a ‘sneak peek’ appearance. Vibrant fuchsia trim and print are the first introduction to the event. Inside the punchy envelopes, playful pattern teases the linens to come on the big day, and a pearl-adorned vellum overlay mimics the sleek bridal gown.
“I love playing around with texture for an elevated finish,” says Katzias. Later, those textures come back into play on the tables: rose gold flatware, and elegant-edged Eleanor plates from Indigo Event Rentals lend softness and subtle elegance atom the linen’s bold pattern.
DAY TO NIGHT
The designer’s fluency in top-notch detail doesn’t just apply to paper, and comes in handy when preparing for a day-to-night event. “You have to plan ahead for the move from natural light to evening lighting,” Katzias says. “Preplanning helps curate a very intentional story with lighting, and gives your evening design so much more depth.” Rather than relying on glaring fluorescent lights after the natural sunlight fades, bring your own lighting plan to set the mood. Here, a combination of stylish table lamps, glowing orb lights and strategic spotlight and uplighting lend a formal air to the dinner setting.
Katzias also crafted an elevated experience for this event’s afterparty. Oversized metallic inflatables, a plum-colored dessert stand, a sleek light-tunnel photobooth and an innovative DJ/saxophonist combo make for an interactive and unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.
VENDORS
PLANNING & DESIGN: Irene + Co Events, irenecoevents.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: Morgan Leigh Photography, morganleighphotography.com
VENUE: The Venue at the Ranches, theranchesvenue.com
RENTALS: Summit Party Rentals, summitpartyrentals.com
HMUA: Beauty by Reese, beautybyreese.com
MODELS: Marin Burraston, @mamma_long_legs; and Ethan Kartchner, @ethan.kart
GOWN: Versailles Atelier Bridal, va-bridal.com
VEIL AND EARRINGS: Christie Lauren, @christielaurenheadpieces
SHOES: She is Cheval, @sheischeval
SUIT: Suit Up, suitupcustomclothing.com
AFTER PARTY DECOR/
PHOTOBOOTH: Snap, Pop, Party, snappopparty.com
Silver Linings
Bold, daring and “unapologetically luxe,” Chelsie McRae of Life Moments Events brings seasoned pros together to create a wedding design that redefines luxury
Written by MICHAELIS LYONS ︱
by BREANNA WHITE
Photographs
As a firm believer that she is, “only as good as the incredible vendors I surround myself with,” wedding planner Chelsie McRae gave her team of talented wedding professionals the freedom to follow their own muses with the concept of a sophisticated, maximalist event as a guide.
BACK TO BLACK
In an industry saturated with color, McRae flips the status quo on its head with a striking monochrome palette driven by alluring visuals, engaging textures and dynamic lighting. The seemingly-simple black, white and silver color scheme creates a canvas on which every carefully curated detail, from the ruched table linens and expertlylaid flatware to the soft fog and artful lighting, shines with extraordinary technique.
MODERN EDGE
Taking full advantage of Utah’s hottest new venue, McRae embraces the sleek, modern design of the Grand Hyatt at Deer Valley with a blend of geometric elements and romantic details. Expertly staged white and silver draping by Lumiere Utah hangs vertically behind the sweetheart table in an innovative move that departs from the traditional method of swooping fabric. This practice of taking classic elements and imbuing them with a modern twist continues with chrome-painted monstera leaves and anthurium by Haus of Stems, selected by Jill Savage of Floral Rhapsody. Curated lighting by Peak Sound guides the eye to delicately crafted vignettes along the tablescapes, creating impactful visual moments throughout the design.
In a hidden speakeasy, two brides enjoy an intimate moment away from their guests. One bride wears a black satin a-line gown, the other a complementing mermaid
INSPIRATIONS
VENDORS
PLANNING & DESIGN: Chelsie McRae, Life Moments Events, creatinglifemoments.com
PHOTOGRAPHER: Breanna White, breannawhite.com
VIDEOGRAPHY: Alex Pizarro Productions, alexpizarroproductions.com
VENUE AND CATERING: Grand Hyatt Deer Valley, hyatt.com/grand-hyatt/en-US/slcgp-grand-hyatt-deer-valley
RENTALS: CLM Event Rentals, clmeventrentals.com; Karla Edlinger Events, karlaedlingerevents.com
PAPER: Ruby Jane Events, rubyjaneevents.com
cut with a plunging illusion neckline in the same color. Their dazzling ensembles create an arresting tableau against the backdrop of the bar.
FABULOUS FLORALS
With a composition influenced by sharp lines and modern themes, McRae says it was up to Savage’s floral design to take the event from a high-end gala to a lush wedding. On the outdoor patio, delicately hung white hydrangea, Playa Blanca roses and bleached hanging amaranthus bring the ceremony space to life in the forefront of breathtaking valley-views. “The ceremony was meant to feel larger than life without interrupting the sweeping
views of the Jordanelle Reservoir,” says Savage of Floral Rhapsody. “I wanted the florals to be visually engaging, with shapes and layers that guided your eye across the entire backdrop.”
Inside the ballroom, the floral arrangements continue to elevate the design. “We shifted the energy to a more intimate, atmospheric experience,” Savage continues. “Candle styling warmed the entire space, and the florals spilled from the tables to the floor to create a sense of depth and movement. The goal was for guests to feel wrapped in the design the moment they stepped inside.”
Destin desert
Utah’s southern region is rapidly becoming known for not only The Mighty Five—but also as a luxurious destination for your dream wedding.
Southern Utah has long been heralded as a hotspot for adventurers, as home to five national parks with some of the world’s most iconic views. But over the last few years, the region has been elevating beyond the expected outdoorsy fare, becoming a much-discussed destination for influencers, athletes and, yes, couples looking to host a high-end wedding celebration. Come with us and explore three of the region’s most unique nuptial destinations, offering one-of-a-kind experiences for weddings of all styles.
ations
Written by MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW Image Courtesy of BLACK DESERT RESORT
Amangiri Resort
1 KAYENTA ROAD, CANYON POINT EVENT PHOTOS BY HALEY NORD PHOTOGRAPHY; PROPERTY PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMANGIRI RESORT
ELEVATED ELOPEMENTS
If highly-exclusive, luxurious and intimate are ‘must-haves’ on your wedding wishlist, Canyon Point’s Amangiri resort is your ideal destination. Situated on 920 pristine acres of desert landscape, Amangiri is surrounded by some of Utah’s most iconic natural sites, such as Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley and Lake Powell. With a dozen established venues and countless other vistas for outdoor gatherings along the allseason resorts’ private trails, Amangiri is the ideal mix of desert adventure and luxurious comfort.
VENUES
DESERT LOUNGE
This contemporary dining space lets desert views take center stage, with sweeping mesas and a pared-back aesthetic making it the perfect landing place for low-slung receptions and cocktail hours.
CAMP SARIKA
At Camp Sarika, the resort’s exclusive satellite camp available for event buyout, an elegant dining room flows effortlessly
VENDORS
PLANNER AND BTS CONTENT: Not Jess A Planner, notjessaplanner.com
onto an alfresco patio with an elemental atmosphere. Here, couples can show off the best of Utah with locally-sourced seasonal menus that blend the state’s rustic yet refined flavors for the ultimate desert experience.
RAVEN’S NEST
A short hike from Camp Sarika’s main pavilion, the Raven’s Nest is just one of many open-air stone venues around Amangiri’s expansive property. Wrapped in circular walls of natural Entrada sandstone, Raven’s Nest and similar alcoves provide the perfect spot for casual dinners, after-party desserts or intimate ceremonies under the open sky.
AMENITIES & EXPERIENCES
Alongside the dining settings at Desert Lounge and Camp Sarika, the Amangiri Resort Restaurant centers on an open-plan kitchen with an American Southwestinspired menu, infused with modern global influences. A four-course ‘Spirit of the Journey’ tasting menu pays tribute to the region’s indigenous tribes, and any dining desire can be taken on the road with one of the resort’s many outdoor dining experiences.
And for the pinnacle of pampering, visit the Amangiri Spa. From individual facial and massage treatments to multiday detoxification programs, the spa has everything you need to unwind and prepare for your big day.
aman.com/resorts/amangiri
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
ALTRUISTIC ADVENTURES
For the adventurous souls and the big-hearted brides, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab has crafted the ultimate, animal-centered wedding experience.
VENUES ANGEL’S LANDING
Named in a clever nod to one of Utah’s most iconic hikes, the ‘Angel’s Landing’ at Best Friends is not a towering thousand-foot rock formation, but rather an enchanting meadow tucked into an amphitheater of red rock cliffs.
The outdoor venue features a round lawn, a peaceful brook and rock faces perfectly formed to contain ceremony altars, guest lounges and more.
THE LABYRINTH
Atop the cliffs of the sanctuary’s Angel Canyon, The Labyrinth is an ethereal rock maze constructed in the property’s Gratitude Garden, surrounded by nearly 360-degree views of desert canyons. Secluded, serene and beautifully landscaped, the setting is perfect for an intimate ceremony site.
5001 ANGEL CANYON ROAD, KANAB PHOTOS BY M. FELT PHOTOGRAPHY
AMENITIES AND EXPERIENCES
BEST FRIENDS
ROADHOUSE & MERCANTILE
Out of town guests? No sweat. Invite your VIPs and their furry plus-ones to stay right on-property at Best Friends RoadHouse and Mercantile, where people and pets alike get top-notch lodging in the heart of Kanab.
FOUR-LEGGED GUESTS
It comes as no surprise that the sanctuary is, in fact, a working animal rescue. Best Friends Animal Society lends eligible animals to sleep over in rooms with visitors at the Mercantile, invites guests on tours or volunteer excursions throughout the property and even delivers adoptable four-legged friends to interact with celebrators at any wedding event on site.
ICONIC VIEWS
Visitors can enjoy countless photo opportunities both on property and in the nearby Zion National Park. On Best Friends land, epic fan favorites include West Cutler point, Kanab Creek and Red Knoll, all showcasing a variety of desert viewscapes.
DINE IN
Alongside a host of local eateries in the quaint town of Kanab, the Sanctuary is home to the Best Friends Angel Village Café, an awardwinning vegan restaurant open for welcome parties and rehearsal dinners. bestfriendscelebrations.com
VENDORS
PLANNING AND DESIGN: Forevermore Events, forevermoreevents.com
FLORAL DESIGN: By Bloomers , bybloomers.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: M. Felt Photography, mfeltphotography.com
RENTALS: St. George Party Rentals, stgeorgepartyrentals.com
OUTSIDE CATERING: Chef Shon, Sego Catering, segokanab.com; Red Fort, redfortcuisine.com
PAPER DETAILS: Black Julep Studio, blackjulepstudio.com
A/V: Festival Sounds, festivalsounds.com
SKETCH ARTIST: Tao Tao Holmes, @tao.tao.art.art
CEREMONY MUSIC: Indrajit Banerjee and Jason McKenzie, indrasitar.com
(DOG)
Black Desert Resort
1500 E. BLACK DESERT DRIVE, IVINS
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLACK DESERT RESORT
A DESERT OASIS
For the ultimate resort wedding experience, look no further than the booming community of Ivins, UT, where Black Desert Resort has set up shop as the nexus of luxury, natural wonder and adventure.
“Black Desert Resort is a destination where weddings become multi-day celebrations that merge culinary excellence, world-class venues and unforgettable group adventures,” says Evan Breckenridge, director of marketing.
VENUES THE EAST TERRACE
While any view at BDR is nothing short of cinematic, the hotel’s East Terrace overlooks a black lava field golf course, and offers panoramic backdrops of vermilion cliffs and Snow Canyon red rock that are unparalleled by any other destination.
ONYX & OBSIDIAN BALLROOMS:
Bring the brilliance of the natural world to your indoor reception in one of Black Desert’s stunning ballrooms. Capable of hosting up to 600 guests, the sleek and elegant Onyx and Obsidian ballrooms feature towering columns of glowing natural stone, glittering chandeliers and customizable layouts to help you celebrate the beauty of the desert with a modern edge your guests won’t soon forget.
CLUB 73
Perfect for welcome parties or bachelor bashes, Club 73 is a backyard BBQ-inspired space with patio seating, panoramic views and a 36-hole putting green. Unapologetically playful, it’s the ideal spot to get guests in the mood for a celebration.
THE REEF VIP LOUNGE
Want an unforgettable afterparty? Book your after-hours soiree at The Reef VIP lounge, a hidden 7,000-square-foot venue with a theater room, shuffleboard and more for elevated, intimate late-night gatherings.
ACTIVITIES AND AMENITIES
GREATER ZION EXPLORATION
Whether your preferred adventure method is hiking or horseback riding, off the beaten path by ATV or off the path entirely in a houseboat, BDR’s signature infusion of destination wedding with red-rock adventure crafts a totally unique experience for visiting couples and their guests.
A host of curated experiences allow newlywedsto-be to celebrate their love, their way: bachelor bashes include golf, Jeep tours and craft cocktails; bachelorette getaways feature poolside cabanas, horseback riding and live performances at the iconic Tuacahn Amphitheater; or, for couples just wanting to kick back, luxurious couples retreats at Plume Spa get you relaxed and ready for the big day.
DINING
Basalt: Primed for celebrations, this elevated fine dining experience features a menu stacked with UT-47 Prime beef raised by Utah ranchers, sustainable seafood and panoramic views.
Latitude: For an easy-breezy reception, book at Latitude’s open-air lakeside restaurant with seasonal menus and sweeping views, also ideal for rehearsal dinners or farewell brunches.
20th Hole: For the casual party people, this massive 14,000-square-foot sports bar venue is the ideal landing space—full of sleek design, golf simulators and comfort dishes. blackdesertresort.com .
STAGCenter
By MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW
Bridal looks that embrace the dramatic and bold— firmly claiming your place as the star of the show.
Today’s modern bride is welcoming the limelight, celebrating her big day and all the events leading up to it with spotlight-forward bridal photography, impressive venues and, naturally, unforgettable gowns. This collection of bridal styles, styled by Kori Laurel and captured by photographer Heather Nan, pulls back the curtain on the larger-than-life styles that are characterizing this wedding season’s leading ladies. Jewelry provided by O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
Photography by HEATHER NAN
Styling by KORI LAUREL
SITTING PRETTY
The bubble skirt is here to stay, and for good reason: undeniable star power and dimension. Whether floating down the aisle or lounging around, the Charlotte gown by Zuri Bridal delivers a double-take-worthy dose of volume. Walters Faith 5-row tubular earrings in 18k yellow gold, $3,895; Roberto Coin Love By The Inch 5-station diamond
Delicate lace tights add whimsical flair to the shapely Leighton gown by Watters, $2,795, crafted from luxurious mikado fabric concealing a bold waist-high slit in the folds of its ballgown skirt. Bayco Oval & Rose cut diamond ring in platinum, pricing upon request. Select Watters gowns available via Fantasy Bridal, Murray. Inquire with store for style availability.
THROW IT BACK
A versatile two-piece set by Moira Hughes, starting at $3,500 from Renee Atelier, ensures a truly oneof-a-kind bridal ensemble. Here, the Tempeste Bodice—featuring an elegant button closure and hand-sewn beading detail—teams with a full raw silk skirt for drama from every angle. Ole Lynggaard Pearl Jacket earrings with shooting star diamond studs in 18k gold, $13,600 set; O.C Tanner Collection 2.4k custom engagement ring in 18k yellow gold. Additional pricing available upon request.
With a drop waist and billowing organza skirt, Watters’ A-Line Felicity gown, $2,000, exudes both elegance and sensual sophistication. Veil via Kori Laurel collection. Ole Lynggaard Wild Rose earrings in 18k gold, $6,600; O.C. Tanner collection 2.4k custom engagement ring in 18k yellow gold, pricing upon request. Select Watters gowns available via Fantasy Bridal, Murray. Inquire with store for style availability.
PRIMA DONNA
ALL IN
Take advantage of the spotlight with a face-framing cathedral veil—the perfect accessory to take your ensemble from basic to high-fashion. Fili gown with topper by Watters, starting at $2,395, available via
Fantasy Bridal, Murray. Mariana Hardwick cathedral veil from Renee Atelier Bridal, SLC. O.C. Tanner Collection 1.5k Round diamond engagement ring in 18k gold, $14,000.
LAYERED UP
ABOVE: Embrace a vintage vibe with this lightcatching inset engagement ring in classic yellow gold. O.C. Tanner Collection Round 1.5k diamond engagement ring in 18k yellow gold, $14,000.
LEFT: Embrace bridal elegance with the Elle column gown by Alyssa Kristin, crafted from intricately-textured floral jacquard. Then, for added luxury, wrap up in the design’s Italian mikado overskirt: fashion-forward and overflowing with romance. Memoire Pave huggie hoop earrings in 18k white gold, $2,000. Select Alyssa Kristin designs available via The Bridal Studio, SLC. Inquire with store for style availability.
DEARLY BELOVED
Charm never goes out of fashion. Case in point, this 1980’s vintage lace column gown with pearldetail puff sleeves embodies all the sweet style a 2026 bride could dream of. Gown from Lovers Bridal. Mikimoto Dangle pearl earrings in 18k yellow gold, $6,500; Bayco Oval & Rose cut diamond ring in platinum, pricing upon request.
STRIKE A POSE
Structure, sparkle and contrast combine in this high style combo from Grace Loves Lace.
LEFT: The Aurora topper, from $600, adds sculptural edge to this otherwise sweet and sparkly sheath. With delicate ruching an asymmetrical drop waist and a flowing train, this addition is all about visual impact.
RIGHT: The Amandine gown, $3,600, features a full column of delicate corded lace and hints of glitter for a feminine finish.
BELOW: Ashoka 2.08k diamond engagement ring in platinum, $4,600, via O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
For your reception, why not slip into something just as dazzling as your ceremony gown? These fun-filled miniature gowns each pack a punch of glitter for your afterparty look.
ABOVE: Ravella Mini by Grace Loves Lace, $2,000; Choker topper via Renee Atelier Bridal; Bayco Oval & Rose cut diamond ring in platinum, Bayco Rose cut 2.25k diamond earrings in platinum, $18,000, from O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
RIGHT: Camille Mini by Grace Loves Lace, from $1,600; Pasquale Bruni .66 carat Petite Garden Flower earrings in 18k gold, $7,000, from O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
Select Grace Loves Lace designs available via The Bridal Studio, SLC. Inquire with store for style availability. Jewelry via O.C. Tanner Jewelers
SWEPT AWAY
Capture every windswept photo-op on your big day with face-framing bangs and a billowing accessory like the Sheridan gown and cape by Casablanca Bridal. Pasquale Bruni Petite Garden Flower earrings in 18k white gold, $7,000; Ashoka 2.08k diamond engagement ring in platinum. Additional pricing available upon request. Select Casablanca Bridal designs available via Fantasy Bridal. Inquire with store for style availability.
PREFERRED VENDORS
Bridal Consultants & Event Planners
Hoopes Weddings and Events
107 E. Fort Union Blvd., Midvale (435) 414-0090 hoopesevents.com
Marae Events
3267 E. 3300 South, SLC (801) 231-4380 maraeevnts.com
Cakes & Caterers
Cuisine Unlimited Catering & Special Events
3575 S. 300 West, South Salt Lake (801) 268-2332 cuisineunlimited.com
Good Day Catering 7872 Old Bingham Highway, West Jordan (801) 532-7829 gooddaycatering.com
Sheer Ambrosia Bakery 1749 S. State Street, SLC (801) 891-6242 sheerambrosiabakery.com
Sysco Intermountain 9494 S. Prosperity Road, West Jordan (801) 563-6300 sysco.com
Decorators/ Florists
Cactus & Tropicals
2735 S. 2000 East, SLC (801) 485-2542
7696 S. Main Street (801) 253-4790
12252 S. Draper Gate Drive, Draper (801) 676-0935 cactusandtropicals.com
Decoration Inc.
826 S. 500 West, SLC (801) 521-8533 decorationinc.com
Every Blooming Thing
1344 S. 2100 East, SLC (801) 521-4773 everybloomingthing.com
The Red Earth 545 UT-313, Moab (435) 562-5965 theredearthvenue.com
ULUM Moab 147 S. Looking Glass Rd., La Salle 888-969-4858 ulumresorts.com 30-60
Under Canvas Locations near Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase & Moab
406-404-1861 undercanvas.com Varies
Zion Red Rock Villa 991 W. 230 South, Rockville (435) 772-3139 zionredrock.com
Zion National Park Lodge 1 Zion Lodge, Springdale (435) 772-7700 zionlodge.com
Where Love Takes Root.
Create the destination wedding of your dreams, right here at home. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, a lush oasis in the foothills of Salt Lake City.
Photos by JMAY PHOTO
INDUSTRY WATCH
Events by Utah’s wedding vendors, for Utah’s wedding vendors
Utah Bride & Groom White Party 2025
RED BUTTE GARDEN • JUNE 9, 2025 | Photographs by MORGAN LEIGH PHOTOGRAPHY; KATINOV PHOTOGRAPHY
Utah Bride & Groom magazine’s annual White Party brings together the biggest talents within the state’s bustling wedding industry for an evening presented by Sysco International and Black Desert Resort.
With a vibrant palette and lively florals, this year’s event helped to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Red Butte Garden, bringing the venue’s Orangerie to life in zesty fashion. Bright fl avors, high fashion and even a fl ash mob performance brought Utah’s wedding pros together for the ultimate evening of celebrating each other.
Holly Kuyt of Mountaintop Moments Events flashes a grin in the flash mob
1. Mark Miller of Copa Bar Service, Joslyn Poole of Metro Music Club, Jeff Stirland of Peak Sound UT and Breanna White of Breanna White Photography 2. Miranda Thompson of Snap Pop Party, Tanner Castro of Tanner Castro Films, Taylor Ivey of Reverie BTS Co., and Reese Stockman of Beauty by Reese 3. An elegant centerpiece by Sweet Afton Floral anchors a grazing table by Cuisine Unlimited 4. (Left to Right) Chelsea Rushton, Michaelis Lyons, Kennadie Jackson, Margaret Mary Shuff, Janette Erickson, Kimmy Hammons, Avrey Evans and Megan Bartholomew of the Utah Bride & Groom team 5. Jarom Christensen, Kaitlynn Putnam of Sweet Afton Floral, DJs of Powell Weddings & Events
Planning & Design: Hoopes Events, hoopesevents.com Photography: Morgan Leigh Photography, morganleighphotography. net ; and Katinov Photography, katinov.com; Venue: Red Butte Garden, redbuttegarden.org ; Catering: Cuisine Unlimited, cuisineunlimited. com; Bar Service: Mecca Bar Co., meccabarco.com and Vine Lore, vineloreut.com Floral: Sweet Afton Floral, sweetaftonfloral.com; and Decoration Inc., decorationinc.com Photobooth: Utah Jive, utahjive. com; Rentals: Diamond Event & Tent, diamondevent.com and Indigo Event Rental, indigoutah.com; Dessert: Sheer Ambrosia Bakery, sheerambrosia.com; DJ: Dj Russ Powell, powellweddingsevents. co m; Saxophone: Jarom Christensen Music, @jaromchristensenmusic Content: The Champagne Edit, champagneedit.com; Video: Knotsing Events, knotsingevents.com Marquee Letters: Marquees by SPP, snappopparty.com; Title Sponsors: Sysco, sysco.com; Black Desert Resort, blackdesertresort.com; Other Sponsors: Metro Music Club, metromusicclub.com O.C. Tanner Jewlers, octannerjewelers.com; Elements of Sage, elementsofsage.com; Cache Toffee, cachetoffee.com; St. Regis Deer Valley, srdvdining.com
Host, Event: WIPA Utah, wipa.org/utah; Designer: Irene + Co Events, irenecoevents.com; Venue, Catering, & Bar: Grand Hyatt Deer Valley, .hyatt.com/grand-hyatt/ en-US/slcgp-grand-hyatt-deer-valley ; Photographer: Becca Photo, beccaphoto.co; Videographer: Runaway Vows, runawayvows.com Linens: Creative Coverings, creativecoverings.com; Floral Design: Artisan Bloom, artisanbloom.com Florals: Esprit Raw Flowers, espritrawflowers.com; DJ Hybrid band: DJ Cam Reeve, djcamreeve.com; Live Painting: Painted by Kelsey Jane, paintedbykelseyjane.com Rentals: Diamond Event & Tent, diamondevent.com; AV & Lighting: Wasatch AV, wasatchav.com Seating Installation, Photobooth: Snap. Pop. Party., snappopparty.com; Paper Goods: Confettiology, confettiology.com; Violinist: String FX, @cristaviolin, bookstringfx.com; Easel Structure: Kaushay Co Events, kaushay.co Dance Floor wrap: Salt Lake Dance Floor Wraps, @saltlakedancefloorwrapsco; Sax: Kenny Fong, @saxofong Guitar: Brady Bills, @bradybills
WIPA UTAH GALA
GRAND HYATT DEER VALLEY | JANUARY 10, 2026
Photographs by BECCA PHOTO
Hosted by the Utah chapter of the Wedding Industry Professionals Association, this annual gala was a chance to recognize longstanding members of the association, welcome newcomers to the industry, and foster lasting connections between vendors of all disciplines. Inspired by the timeless paintings of Van Gogh, the evening sported moody navy and striking gold decor thanks to the sharp eye of designer Irene Katzias of Irene + Co Events.
1. WIPA Utah’s 2026 Board. From Left: Julie Walker, Ruby Jane Events; Erick Miner, Miner Music DJ; Reese Stockman, Beauty by Reese; Elyssa Anderson, Elyssa Anderson Hair and Makeup; Mark Miller, Copa Bar Service; Kaushay Ford, Kaushay Co Events; Breanna White, Breanna White Photography; Miranda Thompson, Snap Pop Party; Jill Savage, Floral Rhapsody; Morgan Powell, Morgan Leigh Photography; Sarah Baltz, Sparkle Photography; Jeff Stirland, Peak Sound UT; Megan Bartholomew, Utah Bride & Groom magazine; Kaitlynn Putnam, Sweet Afton Floral; Mitch Ross, Perfect Beat Productions. 2. The evening’s dynamic seating chart included personalized paintbrushes for each guest. 3. Inside the gala, the event design included rich blue tones, vibrant gold florals and brush-stroke projections on every wall.
Taylee Graham, Jenna Sims, Ileana Brown, Sofiia Shuvalova and Paige Moedt of Wasatch AV 5. Crista Shoemake of StringFX gets a custom-painted gown by Kelsey Jane Fisher of Painted by Kelsey Jane
Uncommonly perfect
Start your lifetime of memories together in the heart of Millcreek. We invite you to create unique experiences and customizable activities alongside our dedicated event team.
The Grandview at Millcreek Common is located on the top floor of Millcreek City Hall, featuring breathtaking views and an outdoor deck overlooking the Wasatch mountains.
Each event includes access to a state-of-the-art sound system, tables, chairs, and customizable interactive lighting. For an even more memorable experience, guests can rent the entire skate loop and plaza at Millcreek Common, adding fun group activities such as roller skating, ice skating, or climbing to their special day.
“THIS CELEBRATION INSPIRED A FLAT LAY that integrated the day’s aesthetic with the evening’s energy. Just as each couple is intentional with the details of their day, I’m intentional in how I capture them, creating images that allow them to re-experience how the night felt as it unfolded. That’s why after-party images have become a personal favorite of mine.”
- PHOTOGRAPHER CHRISTIE Q ON THE ART OF THE AFTER PARTY FLATLAY
