Real Weddings: Paige and Chris’s La Caille Garden Wedding

Garden Wedding

THE COUPLE

Utah natives Paige, a manager at Biolife Plasma Services, and Chris, a Software Engineer, met in their high school’s robotics club. Though they didn’t speak much at first because they were nervous, they both had crushes on one another. After a year of not talking, the two attended Rocky Picture Horror Show and have been best friends ever since. 

THE PROPOSAL

Chris’s elaborate and thoughtful proposal plan started with a call to Paige’s boss, asking for her to be released from work early. After having a “weirdly insistent” conversation with her boss, Paige was greeted by Chris, telling her to pack for a “staycation” in Portland. Chris continued to surprise her with tickets to the Broadway musical Hamilton and a weekend stay in a rejuvenating spa hotel in Oregon’s wine country. Chris finally popped the question over dinner after a relaxing spa day for Paige (and nerves so intense he couldn’t eat). The couple celebrated their engagement with a post-proposal late-night bite at In n’ Out so Chris could finally get something to eat.

garden wedding

THE CEREMONY

After a fourteen-month engagement, the couple was finally ready to tie the knot in a beautiful hand-tying ceremony at La Caille.

“La Caille was actually the venue of the first wedding that I had ever attended. I remembered the greenhouse and the compass mosaic on the floor and the beautiful gardens. Ever since then anytime I thought of ‘wedding’ it was La Caille that came to mind,” Paige said.

The wedding, which was witnessed by 170 people, took place on the venue’s luscious Vineyard Lawn and was officiated by Paige’s mom’s favorite winter weather expert, Craig Gordon, who even signed an autograph for the bride’s mother.

Paige was adorned in an a-line, off-the-shoulder wedding dress, a golden tiara and comfortable blue heels. Chris donned a chocolate-colored suit with their wedding date embroidered inside the blue lining and a red tie, to match the couple’s wedding colors. The bridal party matched their pearl necklaces with the groomsmen’s pearl tie-tacks.

By her side, Paige had her best friend from college, Morgan, her elementary school best friend, Sam, and brother-from-another-mother, Jack, along with her dear friend James who was stationed in Japan and not able to attend. Next to Chris were his best friend from high school, Rayden, online gaming friend, Chris, his friend, Tom, from high school and Chris’s sister, Rebecca. 

garden wedding

THE RECEPTION

After making it official, the newlyweds danced the night away at their reception in La Caille’s. The couple’s DJ played the song Planetarium from La La Land for the couple’s first dance, which they had been secretly choreographing since six months into their engagement.

The mouthwatering menu of the night included steak, green beans, pasta, chicken and the “best mashed potatoes [Paige had] ever eaten.” The signature drinks of the night were named after the couple’s two cats, The Lazy Hazel and The Bear Lake Monther (named for their cat Tobey whom they rescued while in Bear Lake). 

The happy couple’s wedding cake was made by the bride’s sister and was made up of a layer of rich chocolate raspberry cake and another of delectable strawberry shortcake, with matching cupcakes for the party’s guests to enjoy.

garden wedding
garden wedding

The reception was furnished with antique decor and books for the guest’s visual enjoyment. A seating chart made up of antique books helped guests to find their table. 

garden wedding

“We spent our entire engagement going to every antique shop (as well as sending our overly loving and patient family/bridal party as well) we could find to furnish the little décor items and find books to put everywhere,” Paige said. “I wanted it to feel like every item had a story (and a little magic) and that guests could pick things up and play with them. It was so fun to talk to guests and share the story of our centerpieces and décor.”

The couple had a final, private dance to Sufjan Steven’s Mystery of Love before riding into the sunset in a vintage white Ford Thunderbird. Guests were able to take home glass magnetic hearts, made by the bride’s mom, as party favors.

THE HONEYMOON

The honeymooners spent a week in Jamaica to relieve themselves of the wedding-day stress and to spend their first trip as newlyweds.

UTAH WEDDING VENDORS

Wedding Planner – Irene and Co. Events, irenecoevents.com

Venue – La Caille, lacaille.com

Photographer – Pepper Nix, peppernix.com 

Florist – Jolley Gift and Floral, jolleysgifts.com

Caterer – Lux, luxcateringandevents.com

Rehearsal Dinner Caterer/Venue – Caffe Molise, caffemolise.com

Bride’s Attire – Ania Bridal, aniabridal.com

Groom’s Attire – Wildwood and Company, wildwoodcompany.com

Stationery Suite & Other Paper Goods – Minted, minted.com

Rentals & Linens – Lux, luxcateringandevents.com

Hair & Makeup – J and L Makeup, jandlmakeup.com

Bridesmaid Gowns – Revelry, shoprevelry.com

Groomsmen Suits – Generation Tux, generationtux.com

Bar Service – Lux, luxcateringandevents.com

Cake – Paige’s sister 

DJ/Band – La Caille, lacaille.com

Transportation – Utah Vintage Cars, site.google.com/view/utahvintagecars


Inspiration for Utah Weddings

Real Weddings: Camille and Tommy’s Club Wedding

club wedding

COMMERCIAL CLUB, SALT LAKE CITY, MAY 20

Planning and Design by LA FETE FLORAL AND EVENTS

Photography by KATE OSBORNE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE COUPLE

Camille and Tommy’s love story is a modern “Hinge Happily Ever After.” After connecting on the online dating platform, Camille (a Salt Lake City native) and Tommy (a transplant from Littleton, Massachusetts) dated for seven and a half months before taking things to the next level.

Tommy had just moved to San Francisco and was visiting Camille in Utah during October when he decided to do something extra special. The pair took a drive through the Alpine Loop to admire Utah’s fall colors. They found a secluded path into a clearing, where they could take some photos and enjoy nature away from the canyon crowds. “We talked about how lucky we felt to be together, and then just as I was starting to wonder if we should go back to the car, Tommy got on one knee,” recalls Camille. “It was so special and private.”

THE WEDDING

The couple took their engagement photos at the Downtown SLC Commercial Club venue, and they immediately fell in love with the space’s old world details, from its vintage wainscoting to its towering ceilings and glittering chandeliers. “The white was the perfect backdrop for our colorful florals,” says the bride.

Camille approached La Fete Floral and Events with a self-described “color-explosion” vision for her big day, a vision that florist Allison Braddley expertly translated into playful arrangements full of eye-catching interest and texture. Lavender, pink and pale yellow were the main players in this palette, delivering a cool-toned spread to every corner, while still feeling upbeat and youthful.

club wedding

At Bonneville Glen, a fireplace arrangement in subtle pinks and purples welcomed the couple to the end of their ceremony aisle, where Camille’s uncle officiated. Cousins played violins during the family procession down the aisle, led by the couple’s niece Charlotte as the flower girl. “When it was time for [us] to exchange vows, we abandoned the [altar] and ducked aside into a little bit of shade, so we could soak in the moment instead of battling the heat.”

For the ceremony and pre-reception events, Camille wore a custom-designed wedding gown by Penelope’s Gowns, who also crafted the mother-of-the-bride’s wedding gown in the 1990s. “It was a dream to have Penelope make my gown and it turned out even better than I had imagined.”

The bespoke gown featured billowing tulle sleeves, a fitted v-neck bodice and flowing skirts in patterned lace. For a bit of shine, the bride also wore jewelry gifted to her by her late grandparents. Equally chic, Tommy donned a classic blue suit and pale blue necktie.

THE PARTY

Back inside the venue, guests enjoyed a catered menu of on-trend handheld items, from vegetable gyoza and a cantina-style salsa bar to BBQ pork steamed buns and gelato stations. Three signature mocktails graced the bar: pomegranate limeade with fresh mint, a blackberry basil mule and pineapple mint mojitos.

club wedding
club wedding

Primed for dancing, the bride swapped her custom gown for a dazzling sequin jumpsuit that fit the celebratory mood. Tommy and Camille’s personalized playlist was a crucial element of their wedding vision, so DJ Shane Taylor arrived on scene to showcase their curated tracks and keep guests dancing. The couple led festivities with a first dance to “Golden Hour” by Kacey Musgraves, and midway through the number the DJ invited their parents to join. Afterward, “My Girl” played over the speakers and every guest was invited to grab someone they love and join in on the fun.

THE HONEYMOON

Following their carefree wedding day, Camille and Tommy embarked on a honeymoon adventure to Riviera Maya, Mexico.

club wedding

VENDORS

WEDDING PLANNING AND FLORAL DESIGN: Allison Baddley, La Fete Floral and Design, lafetefloral.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: Kate Osborne Photography, kateosbornephotography.com

VENUE: Commercial Club, commercialclubvenue.com

CEREMONY: Bonneville Glen

GOWN: Custom by Penelope’s Gowns, penelopesgowns.com

RECEPTION JUMPSUIT: Eliza J, available via nordstrom.com

GROOM’S SUIT: Suit Supply, suitsupply.com

GROOM’S SHOES: Meermin, meermin.com

STATIONER: Sophie Baddley, @smartinedesign

HAIR AND MAKEUP: Kate Drinkwater, @imtalkingabouthair

CATERING: Culinary Crafts, culinarycrafts.com

CAKE: Granite Bakery, granitebakery.com

DJ: Shane Taylor, Life of the Party, life-of-the-party.com


Inspiration for Utah Weddings

Celebration Makers 2024: Beauty by Reese

As the focal point of attention at a wedding, it’s essential for brides to enlist the services of a skilled beauty specialist, one equipped with the talent and expertise necessary to craft a look ensuring that breath-catching moment when the couple first locks eyes.

At Beauty by Reese, owner and professional beauty artist Reese Stockman knows what it takes to make a wedding day unforgettable. 

With a plethora of expertise gained throughout 18 years in the beauty industry, she has the skills and vision necessary to create the perfect look to help couples feel like the best version of themselves.

As an industry veteran who got her start with MAC cosmetics, Reese knows how to spot trends and the innovative products needed to render an initial concept into a walking vision. 

“It’s such an inspiring time to work in the beauty industry. The products available are the best they’ve ever been. My kit has everything from Givenchy (luxury) to Nars (mid -range) to Elf (drug store) and each brand offers a specific value,” Reese explains.

In a state where beauty is in high-demand, she knows what a huge blessing it is for her to be a part of the Salt Lake City beauty industry.

2150 S Main Street Suite 105,
South Salt Lake 

775.200.6644

beautybyreese.com

@BBRbeautybyreese

“I’m able to see what styles are trending, so I can be certain that each and every look has my signature Reese look to go with those styles. It’s rare you’ll find my signature looks without a winged eyeliner sharp enough to slice through anything or a custom eyelash that just pops the eye perfectly.”

Reese Stockman, Makeup Artist

Ask the Expert

What’s Ahead:

As a proud board member of the Wedding International Professionals Association (WIPA), I’m excited to continue collaborating with the industry’s top professionals. Being a part of this elite networking community allows me and our vetted chapter members to operate and advance the ethical standards of the wedding industry.

Excited About:

Inspiration comes easy since I’m beyond blessed to be surrounded by so many talented people in this industry. That makes it impossible not to be inspired daily to push myself toward innovative directions for my career.

Fresh Ideas:

Find a new idea you love and work with someone who can blend it with your personal style. I love the response I get from clients when they see the new twist I put on classic ideas.

Read more about this season’s Celebration Makers here.

Non-Alcoholic Wine: Bubbles without the Buzz

non-alcoholic
VineLore bartender Alex Slater

Non-alcoholic wine is leading the trend in cocktail hour alternatives.

There are many reasons you might offer your wedding guests non-alcoholic beverage choices at your reception, but that doesn’t mean they can’t indulge in a glass of something special to match the occasion. Put down the Martinelli’s and Shirley Temples and, instead, consider non-alcoholic wine as an elevated alternative for non-imbibers.

Created by people who know and love wine, non-alcoholic vino embraces full-bodied flavor without the buzz. “It’s a compelling product that checks a lot of boxes for Utahns,” says Tracy Thompson, President and CEO of wine brokerage/non-alcoholic distributor VineLore.

After scouring the market for non-and-low alcoholic wine options since 2012, Thompson noticed a boom in the industry after 2020. Taking their cue from the growing demand for NA options, leading wine-producers now offer dealcoholized pinot noirs and sauvignon blancs. And for those who prefer zero residual alcohol, companies like Zilch have created bubbly grape beverages that never undergo fermentation. “There’s lots of innovation in this market,” Thompson remarks.

So go ahead, serve those bubbles during cocktail hour and a glass of cabernet with your reception dinner. Guests will appreciate the extra thought and will be encouraged to sip and savor on your special day.

THOMPSON’S TOP PICKS FOR NA WINE

Surely Sparkling Rose

Waterbrook Clean Cabernet Sauvignon

Zilch Brut Bubbles

Visit vinelore.com to discover more non-alcoholic beverages and find a local retailer near you.


Inspiration for Utah Weddings

Top Tips for Top-Notch Bridal Alterations

buttoning up a long sleeved lace wedding gown.
Jewelry: Missoma Gold Huggies earrings, O.C. Tanner Collection Athena 3-row band stacked with Precision Set eternity band with oval diamonds, O.C. Tanner Jewelers.

When it comes to wedding dresses, the focus is always on the finding. The process of seeking out and selecting the dream wedding dress is always front and center of the conversation. As it should be, right?

It’s a big, important process, and it’s a crucial part of having the wedding of your dreams. 

But still, there’s more to it than many people think. It’s not just about finding the right dress–that’s the first step. It’s about finding the right dress and finding the right alterations–that’s the real, less-discussed kicker. 

All it really takes is finding the right seamstress. 

And, lucky for you, Irene + Co Events has a go-to list of must-consider tips for sourcing a seamstress who can make your wedding dress dreams come true. Enjoy this advice from a pro!

Everything You Should Know About Bridal Alterations 

Photo by M Hart Photography

Pick & Buy Your Dress in Advance 

Of course, you can’t seek out a seamstress for a wedding dress you don’t have–so, yes, finding a wedding dress is the first step of it all. 

Here’s what I’ve got to say about sourcing a dress that makes you dizzy with excitement. 

  • Start the search about one year before you get married. Sure, it will take time to find the right fit. But mostly, this is because you’ll need ample time after you’ve found the dress for alterations and fittings. Plus, most gowns will need to be created and need four to six months for that process (unless you’re shopping off the rack, but I’ll get to that in a minute). If creating the dress takes a few months and altering the dress takes a few months, a year in advance is a great metric for finding the right dress. 
  • When you’re trying on dresses in-store, remember that you’re most likely working with sample sizes. This usually means dresses will be available in sizes 0-10, with the average amount running between 8-12. 
  • Wedding dress sizes are different than normal sizing, and they typically run small. So, someone who might be a 4 in jeans could be an 8 in bridal. Usually, the rule is to add two sizes to your normal clothes. 
  • Remember, bridal dress orders are final. Usually, there are no returns or exchanges, so make sure you absolutely love the design. 

Ask for Samples & Check Out Off-the-Rack Options 

Let’s say that your bridal shop doesn’t have a specific dress in stock, but they carry the designer you like. You can always ask for a special sample to be shipped to the store for you. The shop might not always oblige, but it’s usually worth an ask.

Alternatively, if you’re working with a shorter timeline and you need something quicker, try shopping off the rack for last season’s styles or discontinued looks. The plus side? These dresses are still absolutely beautiful and likely will just need a little attention from a good seamstress because they won’t be made specifically for your measurements.

Consider Your Realistic Timeline 

Photo via Chalo Garcia, Unsplash

The alterations process usually spans anywhere from 2 to 4 appointments. Once you’ve purchased your dress, the process begins. Here’s what this timeline typically looks like:

  • Appointment 1: A 30-minute to 1-hour appointment where your seamstress pins, tucks, and marks while you collaborate on what you’d like done to the dress and the fit. 
  • Appointment 2: Evaluate the current changes and see how the dress looks with these alterations made. Maybe the neckline changes pull the fabric in a way you didn’t expect. That’s OK, things happen. You’ll make notes and ask for adjustments from your seamstress.
  • Appointment 3: Try on your dress for final adjustments, and have it steamed and cleaned for your wedding day. 

For shorter timelines, it’s important to be realistic about alterations. You’ll likely want to pick a dress that fits you almost perfectly and requires minimal alterations. 

The best thing you can do is to be upfront and honest with your seamstress about your timeline from the start–this way, they can help you plan accordingly. 

Wedding Planner Pro Tip: Always wear your wedding shoes during your alterations appointments so you can see how the dress fits with them on. 

Think About Bridal Shops with In-House Alterations 

One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to choose a bridal shop that includes in-house alterations. Usually, if you have alteration questions about a dress during the try-on phase, the seamstress can answer these questions ahead of time so you can decide whether it’s a worthwhile purchase. 

Know Your Options 

Photo via Roberto Martinez, Unsplash

If you’re not sure what to ask for or how to alter your wedding gown, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some of the options. Remember, a talented seamstress can help you determine what needs to be done, but you might consider things like: 

  • altering a neckline 
  • adding or removing sleeves
  • changing the skirt fit 
  • adding a bustle 
  • including a detachable skirt 
  • creating a veil 
  • hemming 
  • taking in or letting out 

The average alterations cost anywhere from $500-$3,000, depending on what you’re looking for. The more customized, the more you’re likely to pay. Try to consider this in your budget when you’re purchasing your wedding dress. 

Detailed Questions are a Must Before You Decide on Your Seamstress 

Photo via Anna Kumpman, Unsplash

If you’re still in the process of finding a dress, we recommend asking your bridal shop these questions. If you’ve found your dress and are seeking out a seamstress, ask them these questions. 

  • Do you have an in-house seamstress who’s available for alterations? 
  • What is the current wait time for alterations? 
  • How long will this dress take to come in, and how long will it take to have it altered? 
  • How many years of experience does this seamstress have with bridal gowns? 

Trust the Process 

The best advice I can offer brides who find qualified seamstresses is to trust the process. 

Bring a trusted support system with you to each appointment (like your Maid of Honor, a friend, or a close family member) to help you have fun and keep realistic expectations.  

Your Wedding Planner Can Help, Too 

If you’re not sure where to start with the alterations process, remember that a qualified, experienced wedding planner can help you get things moving. They’ll likely know the best shops to check out, have great seamstress recommendations, and can ensure you’re moving on the right timeline for your needs. 
As a wedding planner who’s been in the business for nearly a decade, I’m here to help. Reach out anytime with questions about alterations, the wedding dress shopping process, or planning your wedding.

Real Weddings: Jacque & Austin’s Bright Summer Mountain Wedding

Summer Mountain Wedding at River Bottoms Ranch

September 16

Planning by Canvas Wedding & Events

Photography by Sarah Baltz – Sparkle Photography

THE COUPLE

Mountain Wedding

Jacque and Austin’s love story begins on a hot summer day in Arizona at a friend’s poolside birthday party. Austin attended the party to provide all the girls with some of his hard Kombucha, Bad Booch, and ended up staying to enjoy the dance party. “We all had a dance party in the hotel room to our favorite music, and it was so fun!” Jacque describes. Two months later, the couple started dating, and their life journey together began.

THE PROPOSAL

The couple celebrated Jacque’s 29th birthday on a snowy day in Park City, Utah. Austin had arranged an amazing birthday celebration, including a massage in the morning, lunch in the afternoon and a trip to a surprise location. After lunch and plenty of bundling up, the couple arrived at their surprise snowy destination, where Jacque’s friend Jannah and her husband Mike were waiting for them with their snowmobiles. The couple went on a beautiful snowmobile ride and, about 20 minutes in, stopped to take photos. That’s when Austin got down on one knee and proposed! Afterward, the couple visited Jacque’s parent’s house in Park City and celebrated their engagement with a nice family dinner.

THE WEDDING

With a shared love of the outdoors, River Bottoms Ranch was the perfect setting for Jacque & Austin’s romantic mountain celebration. The property’s natural late summer greenery, paired with soft but elegant florals made for a perfect whimsical day. The color palette, bursting with oranges, pinks and pale violets, was romantic and feminine yet heartwarming and vibrant for a powerful color punch against Utah’s mountain backdrops. 

Jacque wore a mermaid-style crêpe gown that made her feel timeless, elegant and comfortable enough to dance the night away. She had picked the dress from a store in Newport Beach, where she had dreamed of picking out her wedding dress ever since she was little. For the ceremony, Jacque also adorned a show-stopping cape from Erin Cole, a former employer of hers. The custom-designed accessory featured hand-sewn silk flower petals scattered down a cathedral-length bolt of soft tulle.

With Austin’s brother Max officiating, the couple exchanged heartfelt vows during the ceremony, leaving their audience in tears. Each of their mothers prayed over them, marking another precious memory for everyone in attendance.

Mountain Wedding

THE PARTY

The food was presented as an upscale backyard BBQ, in keeping with the late summer vibes. For appetizers, guests were served everything from grilled watermelon with arugula and balsamic bites to Carolina BBQ pork sliders with a mustard cider vinaigrette. The main course also offered a grilling station for guests to choose different meats and sides (including a much-visited macaroni and cheese station). 

From the bar the party guests sipped on signature cocktails, including High West whiskey lemonade, spicy margaritas, and, of course, the groom’s own Bad Booch!

For added interaction around the venue, each table was named after a different ski run, and seating was arranged by “Lift Tickets,” offering guests an engaging way to find their seats. When selecting her dream reception decor, the bride chose natural wooden tables adorned with forest-green glassware, beautiful summery florals in her bright, youthful palette and gold flatware.

At the end of the evening, the couple cut into a classic carrot cake with white buttercream, beautifully decorated with flowers that matched the décor of their venue. 

Jacque describes the couple’s first dance like a Dancing with the Stars performance. They both have a love for dancing and performed a custom-choreographed dance to Andrea Bocelli’s ‘Fall on Me,’ both in Italian and English. Mini tambourines and glow sticks were handed out to guests as DJ Dolph got the dance party started. Austin is also a yoga instructor and, at one point, was doing tricks on his head on the dance floor! It was a hilarious moment for everyone, fortunately, caught on film and photo for the ages. 

After the wedding, the couple spent five days winding down in Waikoloa Beach, Hawaii. 

Mountain Wedding

UTAH WEDDING VENDORS


Wedding Planner: Canvas Weddings & Events, canvasweddingsandevents.com

Venue: River Bottoms Ranch, riverbottomsranch.com

Photographer: Sarah Baltz – Sparkle Photography, sparklephoto.com/utah-wedding-photographer-sarah-baltz

Florist: Bushel & A Peck, bushelandapeckfloraldesign.com

Caterer: Culinary Crafts, culinarycrafts.com

Rehearsal Dinner Caterer/Venue: The Spur on Main Street Park City, UT, thespurbarandgrill.com

Bride’s Attire: Erin Cole Bridal, erincole.com

Groom’s Attire: Men’s warehouse custom suit, menswearhouse.com

Stationery Suite: Custom designed by the bride on MINTED, minted.com

Signage: MINTED, minted.com

Rentals: All Out Event Rentals, eventrentalutah.com

Linens: All Out Event Rentals, eventrentalutah.com

Hair & Makeup: Marisa Rose, @marisarosemph

Bridesmaid Gowns: Lulu’s, lulus.com

Groomsmen Suits: Men’s Warehouse, menswearhouse.com

Videographer: Kaye Shaye Film, kayeshayefilms.com

Bar Service: Top Shelf Services, topshelfutah.com

Cake: Flour & Flourish, flourandflourishcake.com

DJ/Band: DJ Dolph, djdolph.com

Transportation: Exclusive Excursions, parkcityactivities.info


Click here for more real wedding inspo!

Ready, Set, Glow: The Ins and Outs of Wedding Makeup

Makeup artist Reese Stockman shares her tips and tricks on creating your ideal wedding look.

It’s your wedding day and all eyes are on you. Put your best face forward with a makeup look that complements your unique features and allows you to shine from the inside out. Cosmetic connoisseur Reese Stockman of Beauty by Reese offers her top tips to help you find your perfect fit.

OPT FOR COMFORT OVER EXTRAVAGANCE

“It’s all about comfortability,” Stockman says. “A rock climber who never wears makeup is going to feel more natural in a minimal look, rather than the mom of three who wears makeup every day and is looking for a full glam.”

CLEAN GIRL MAKEUP VS. NEUTRAL MAKEUP

Despite the “No-Makeup” look sweeping bridal trends, most brides are actually looking for a neutral look. “The bridal blueprint is a sculpted eye and a nude lip with some flushed cheeks,” Stockman explains. Rather, traits of a true clean girl look are a healthy glow focused on the high planes of the face, fluffy brows and a wispy lash.

makeup
Reese Stockman of Beauty by Reese.
makeup

NEVER SKIMP ON SKINCARE

Whether you’re looking for a bronzed glow or a fully glammed face, Reese implores brides to start skincare early. “Makeup is 150% skin-centered, so you should start really honing in on your routine about a year ahead of your wedding.”

DON’T GO M.I.A. ON YOUR MUA

Out of all tips that Reese gives her brides, she cannot overstate the importance of a makeup trail. “Trials give brides the space and freedom to figure out what they like and what they don’t, without the pressure of the wedding day schedule, flustered bridesmaids and other factors.” For best results, Reese recommends scheduling a makeup trail eight to 12 months ahead of your big day.

makeup
makeup

REESE’S GO TO PRODUCTS

“These products are what my dreams are made of.”

Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter
MAC Black Mirror Paint Pot
Jaclyn Hill Highlighters
Fenty Gloss Bomb
makeup
Dior Lip Glow Oil
Benefit Brow Gel

Beauty by Reese, beautybyreese.com, @bbrbeautybyreese


Inspiration for Utah Weddings

4 Utah Venues to Give You the Gallery Look

Book your wedding at one of many museum venues around the state, and turn your big day into a work of art.

1. Springville Museum of Art, Springville


Courtesy Springville Museum of Art,

Replete with Spanish colonial-style architecture and classical art, Utah County’s historic gallery provides a vintage-influenced setting for the distinguished bride and groom. smofa.com

2. Natural History Museum of Utah, Salt Lake City

wedding art

PHOTO KENZIE VICTORY

NHMU offers unmatched views of the Salt Lake Valley, with a side of dinosaurs. Full of history, the building’s facades and architecture are art in themselves. Swaths of glittering windows, contemporary backdrops of angular steel and towering atriums showcasing the museum’s walkways are primed for your celebration. nhmu.utah.edu

3. Gallery Mar, Park City 

wedding art

COURTESY GALLERY MAR

A space for the modern couple, one of Park City’s celebrated contemporary art galleries stands ready to host your big day. Abstract landscapes, fascinating sculptures and intriguing art from all angles will decorate your reception while welcoming your guests in artistic style. What’s more, the gallery also offers an art registry to bring style to your newlywed nest. gallerymar.com

4. The Monarch, Ogden


COURTESY THE MONARCH

This loft gallery is located above one of northern Utah’s most bustling art centers. Indoor spaces provide a blank canvas of exposed brick and concrete, each ready to elevate your own creative adornments. The venue’s outdoor upper deck is surrounded by world-class mural art, offering a color-soaked backdrop for your wedding design. themonarchogden.com

Morning Glory: Host A Sunny Bridal Brunch for Your Maids

The wedding day promises many special memories for every bride. Why not make an intimate garden brunch with your bridesmaids one of them? 

Photos by Heather Nan

The sun is shining, the air is fresh and the morning is filled with the sounds of chirping birds. Imagine beginning your big day at a charming orangery as you and your bridesmaids celebrate with a special brunch set amongst lush gardens, colorful blooms and delightful decorations. This vision inspired an intimate and idea-packed party hosted at the Orangery at Tuscany Restaurant located in Holladay.  

garden brunch

MELLOW YELLOW

Staged inside the greenhouse, the table’s design mimics a soft morning palette with a symphony of seasonal yellow and green hues. An elegantly-patterned tablecloth serves as a charming foundation for a lively spread of florals, flatware and other fineries. Each bridesmaid is treated to a curated place setting composed of a classic white charger, a colorful daisy plate, a whimsically patterned napkin and a sweet, hand-lettered menu. 

Butter-toned blossoms and elegant tapered candles enliven the design of the table’s two bountiful centerpieces. A beautiful blend of cream and yellow blooms composes each arrangement—from full-faced peonies, roses and anemone providing a symphony of subtle color to tall and slender solidago and forsythia delivering height and dainty texture to the design. 

ON THE TABLE

A brunch setting provides a unique opportunity to explore menu options beyond the typical “steak or chicken” wedding fare. Served on the restaurant’s stony terrace, an array of local pastries and desserts are ready for the sunrise version of the cocktail hour. Sweet spreads like this can include something for everyone: crispy kouign-amann and bright lemon tartlets mingle with delicate macarons and peach buns dripping with sweet syrup. 

And because a wedding is a celebration, obviously cake must make an appearance. Also served on the patio, an elegantly simple frosted round is topped with a beautiful, ruffle-petaled sugar flower. Inside the Orangery’s greenhouse, every bridesmaid finds an individual miniature cake, each crowned with its own delicate edible daisy. 

FASHION-FORWARD

Flowers flourished beyond the gardens and iced cakes. Floral-patterned gowns were also in full bloom, boasting mixed patterns in tones of soft yellow and green as they dressed the bridesmaids to make this morning soirée as fashionable as it is fun. Of course, the deliciously diverse dresses deliver luster and life to the bridal party portraits, showing off a mix of styles capturing each maid’s personality. 

Not to be outshined, the bride pulls out all the stops with her bridal attire. In a be-pearled tulle gown by designer Christie Nicole from Frankie Jane Couture Bridal, she catches all eyes with billowing sleeves, hand-sewn floral applique, a plunging neckline and effortless, chic accessories.

Vendors

Photography, Art Direction & Styling: Heather Nan, heathernanphoto.com

Floral & Table Styling: La Fete Floral, lafetefloral.com

Jewelry: J. Brooks Jewelers, jbrooksjewelers.com

Hair: Kali Chris, kalichris.com

Makeup: Kristen Packard Artistry, kristenpackard.com

Venues: Tuscany Restaurant, tuscanyslc.com; Bellissimo Gardens at Tuscany, bellissimolovegarden.com

Flatware, Beaded Plates, Coups & Ruffled Napkins: Wild Event Studio, wildeventstudio.com

Pattern Linen & Napkins: Couleur Nature, couleurnature.com

Floral Earthenware: Bordallo Pinheiro,  bordallopinheiro.com

Colored Glassware: Hokku Designs, wayfair.com

Solid Linens & Chairs: Diamond Event and Tent, diamondevent.com

Paper Goods: Sophie Baddley, S Martine Design, @smartinedesign

Gown & Veil: Christie Nicole Bridal, frankiejane.com

Pastries: Gourmandise, gourmandise.com

Cakes: Flour & Flourish, flourandflourishcake.com

Talent: NIYA Models, niyamodels.com

Bridesmaid’s Gowns: Bernadette & Erdem, net-a-porter.com 

Bridal Clutch: Anya Hindmarch, net-a-porter.com

Shoes: Emilia Wickstead: net-a-porter.com


For more wedding inspiration, click here!

Embracing Vintage Wedding Dress Styles

Embrace vintage glamour with a full bridal ensemble from Lover’s Bridal, a vintage gown and bridal vendor in Salt Lake City.

“They just don’t make them like they used to.” A phrase echoing in our minds as we revel in this stunning, old-world bridal shoot with the perfect blend of vintage flair and modern beauty. Set at the historic Utah State Capitol Building, a team of brilliant vendors perfectly styles a 1990’s gown, proving that the modern and the old-school can go together hand-in-hand.

Up first, the gown. A form-fitted bodice makes for a beautiful bridal silhouette, accented with a dramatic cape detail. Attached to the shoulders with glittering brooches, the sheer cape is the perfect accessory for any era, making this look as timeless as can be.

Then come the accessories. This ensemble is accented by the ideal amount of sparkle: simple silver and pearl jewels, and pumps with a pop of modern pizazz. Sheer, pearl-bedazzled gloves deliver a healthy dose of classic fashion (to go with the cape, of course). And what better fit for a vintage gown than an equally classic, lace-edged veil for an unforgettable ceremony moment?

Finally, the finishing touches: glam is often the icing on the cake of any formal look. In this case, a simple and soft makeup look transforms this model into a blushing bride with a hint of glitter. For the locks, a perfect chignon with effortless face framing curls combines modern trends with a timeless style.

Enjoy more of this gorgeous gallery:

VENDORS

Photographer: Raquel Acevedo, @raquelacevedo.photo

Model: Maisie Lay, @a.maise.ing

Gown: Lover’s Bridal Vintage Gowns, @loversbridal

HMUA: Sarah Michelle Artistry, @sarahmichelleartistry