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

Real Wedding: Marla & Nathan

River Bottoms Ranch, Midway 

Nov. 5

THE COUPLE

Nathan first saw his bride-to-be, Marla, boarding a flight to Hawaii for a mutual friend’s wedding. The only problem was that she was there with her boyfriend. Three years later, Nathan and Marla reconnected on a blind date. “It wasn’t long before we knew there was something new and real special happening between us,” Marla says. 

Before their engagement, Marla and Nathan were together for an impressive 18 years, 14 of which were spent living an hour apart, separated by bumper-to-bumper California traffic. During that time, they suffered joy and pain together, including two breast cancer diagnoses for Marla. After the couple beat cancer, they finally moved in together and shared many more milestones, Nathan proposed at the summit of their favorite hike on Park City’s Iron Mountain—a moment marked by music, drinks, happy tears and a custom sapphire engagement ring. 

THE WEDDING 

“We always said if we were ever to get married, it would be in Park City in the fall.”

River Bottoms Ranch served as the perfect modern rustic setting for this artistic autumn celebration. “I am an artist, and I looked at the wedding as an art piece,” says Marla. 

Marla and Nathan tied the knot during an intimate, rainy-day ceremony under the venue’s pavilion, while an acoustic guitar played softly and mountain views sprawled in every direction. “The weather brought this unexpected beauty to the property and made for really unique memories of our day,” says Marla.

Marla walked down the aisle in a beaded ivory Rosa Clara gown and a flowing veil with pearl detailing. Blue earrings and a glittering blue heirloom bracelet borrowed from a friend served as the bride’s somethings old, new, borrowed and blue. The groom wore a dark navy plaid suit by Peter Millar, while the groomsmen were dressed in gray Ted Baker suits accessorized with Tissot watches. The bridesmaids, Marla’s nieces, wore gowns in jade and black, accented with alpaca shawls and live floral hairpieces. 

Artfully structured florals in rich burgundy, jade, blue and gold hues were key to the event design accompanied by cream-colored dried ferns. On the reception tables, Ikebana-style arrangements mixed luxe flowers, textured grasses and dried plants in a variety of complementary shapes, styles and palettes. Even each individual bridesmaid bouquet had its own unique color scheme and texture profile. “Each arrangement was a little piece of art,” says Marla. Peacock feathers appeared in the bridal bouquet, as well as on the family table in honor of Marla’s mother, who she lost to breast cancer. “We had peacocks growing up, and all of our friends and family have always linked my mother to anything peacock.” 

Bare wood tables stood as warm foundations for delicate burgundy gauze runners and swaths of glittering glass accented by candlelight. High in the rafters, the venue’s iron chandelier hung clad in colorful fall foliage. The reception design featured a variety of spaces for guests to socialize, including a cozy lounge area by the fire, food stations and bar tables adorned in Marla’s floral art pieces.

Artistic Wedding

THE PARTY 

When guests arrived, they were greeted with hot cider and spiced chai. At cocktail hour, bacon wrapped dates with smoked goat cheese and honey, mushroom arancini with truffle aioli, and similarly decadent appetizers circulated the room. Dinner featured small plate stations, offering made-to-order salads, short rib, artisan grilled cheese sandwiches and salmon entrees. Evident to all, the couple and the catering pros Culinary Crafts put just as much emphasis on the art of food as the art of design. 

Following the beautiful meal, DJ Rob Bennion pumped up the party with songs for all generations to dance to. The newlyweds performed their first dance to “Standing on the Moon,” sung live by Bruce Hornsby, and Marla and her father danced to “Your Song,” by Elton John, the mother-of-the-bride’s favorite tune.  

Vendors

Wedding Planning and  Design: Fuse Weddings and Events, fuseweddingsandevents.com

Photography: Breanna White Photography, breannawhite.com

Videography: Ryan Hinman Films, ryanhinmanfilms.com

Venue: River Bottoms Ranch, riverbottomsranch.com

Floral: The Potted Pansy, thepottedpansy.com

Catering: Culinary Crafts, culinarycrafts.com

Bar Service: Top Shelf, topshelfutah.com

Gown: Rosa Clara via H KLES Bridal Couture, San Diego, rosaclara.es/en 

Groom’s Suit: Peter Millar, petermillar.com 

Bridesmaid Gowns: Bill Levkoff, billlevkoff.com and Amsale, amsale.com 

Groomsmen Suits: Ted Baker, tedbaker.com 

Hair and Makeup: Leslie Lind, lesleylind.com 

Stationery: Minted, minted.com 

Ceremony Guitarist: Amanda Lynn Jones, amandalynnjonesmusic.com 

DJ: DJ Rob Bennion, echotalent.com/robbennion

Transportation: The Driver Provider, driverprovider.com


Find more real wedding inspiration here!

How To Dress Like Royalty on Your Wedding Day

Embrace full-fledged royal treatment when it comes to choosing your wedding day attire. From head to toe, you should feel like Queen of the Day!

UP TOP

We often hear regrets from brides who opt out of a little something extra up top on their wedding day – because what’s a better excuse for a floor-length veil or a bursting flower crown than the best day of your life? For this palace-ready look, wedding planner Tonya Hoopes and the gown aficionados selected a variety of headpiece accessories, from a glittering crown to a simply stunning cathedral veil.

Many out-of-the-box brides opt for a bespoke (and bepetaled) look for their big day. Here, white and blush-hued roses make a serious statement in an asymmetric flower crown arrangement.

SAY YES TO THAT DRESS

Could there be a better place to find your perfect princess gown than at a shop named after a palace? At Versailles Atelier Bridal, glorious gowns await the royal-minded bride ready to fall in love in the mirror.

This Adria gown by Julie Vino bridal is the stuff dreams are made of. A cinched corset bodice meets dramatic angles, a tiered full ballgown skin and flouncing puff sleeves for a look full of volume and visual interest.

FOOT FASHION

Step into another era in patterned bootie pumps designed by She is Cheval. Founded and designed by a girl you might know (hello, Ms. Paige) CHEVAL shoes are as special as the customer that wears them. Small batch and made in high-end facilities, CHEVAL’s premier collection strives to evoke a sense of confidence in taking fresh steps and always landing on your feet.

And with this beautiful blue pair, we’d say they met the ticket. “From the beginning, we knew we wanted to create detailed designer shoes that are distinctive, comfortable, and attainable,” says CHEVAL’s site.

DELICATE DETAILS

“Dripping with pearls,” the ultimate phrase denoting elegance and class. This team selected a luxuriously lengthy strand of classic pearls, paired with exorbitant gold drop earrings to perfect this princess ensemble.

Get more straight-from-a-Paris-palace inspiration from this Marie Antoinette Styled Shoot, as seen in our 2024 issue.

Vendors:

Planning and Design: Hoopes Events, hoopesevents.com

Photography: Morgan Leigh Photography, powellwe.com

Venue and Desserts: Homestead Resort, homesteadresort.com

Floral: Fleur and Stems, fleurandstems.com

Rentals: Diamond Event and Tent, diamondevent.com

Lounge Furniture: Utah Vintage Rentals, utahvintage.rentals

Stationery: Ann Elizabeth Print Studio, annelizabeth.com

Gowns and Accessories: Versailles Atelier Bridal, va-bridal.com

Hair and Makeup: Beauty by Reese, beautybyreese.com

Models:Marin Burraston, Brookelyn Tuckett, Kylie Anne

Tablescapes: Setting the Scene

tablescapes
Fresh florals and an artisan cheese board team up to create an eye-catching centerpiece. Photo courtesy of culinary crafts

Wedding pros’ tips for creating tablescapes that elevate your wedding to the luxury level.

When dreaming up the look of your wedding’s dining tables, the very first element to consider is your dining style. Work with your caterer to determine what best fits your event, as the style of service will affect your event’s flow, the amount of design space on the tables themselves and the number of tables needed in the venue. 

“Preselected plated dinners always require assigned seating to ensure each guest gets the correct meal,” explains Meagan Crafts-Price, Marketing Manager with luxury caterer Culinary Crafts. According to the pros, assigned seats thoughtfully arranged by the couple and their planner speed up the transition into dinner, ensuring every guest knows exactly where to go. 

The sweetheart table is rapidly gaining ground with modern couples as a chance to go all-in on lavish design. Photo by Ashlee Brooke Photography
Photo by Heather Nan

To elevate the look and feel of your reception layout, planner Michelle Cousins of Michelle Leo Events almost always recommends a mix of table shapes, sizes and finishes to create a striking visual impact. 

“Assorted table dimensions present opportunities to create a variety of designs, while providing a similar enough vein that they all complement each other,” she says. 

“In especially large spaces, this can be a very impressive look for guests to take in all at once.” 

Then comes the fun part: the trimmings. According to Cousins, when getting into the nuts and bolts of your table design, the linen is the foundation. Therefore, tablecloths and coverings should be the first step in your design journey. This allows you to anchor your design with a playful pattern or a bold color, if desired, without overworking the final appearance of the table. 

“I wish more brides were brave enough to utilize patterns in their event design,” says Cousins. “It will be more memorable, and it doesn’t have to be trendy. It’s all in how you use it.” 

When zooming in to the tablescape design itself, both pros agree that family-style dining is the service style that most heavily impacts your tabletop layout. 

Photo by Pepper Nix
Wedding planner Michelle Cousins encourages couples to embrace a mix of table shapes, as well as bold colors and patterns in their table designs. michelleleoevents.com
Photo by Kenzie Victory

“With a traditional family-style service in which platters are left on the table, you have to provide real estate for those platters,” says Cousins. “Often, that means you have to cut back on candles and floral.” 

But never fear—a reduction in traditional decor needn’t equate to ho-hum event design. Rather, catering pros like Price encourage couples to let the food deliver beauty to a tablescape. 

“Food is the social catalyst at your wedding,” Price explains. “Tablescapes that include food as part of their design provide an exciting way to get your guests to interact with each other.” 

tablescapes
Photos Courtesy of Culinary Crafts
tablescapes
Photo Courtesy of Culinary Crafts

While paring down or removing floral arrangements from tables altogether gives your catering team an empty canvas for creation, you don’t have to be without blooms. For alternative floral flair, consider suspending a lavish floral installation from the ceiling above.

“Giving us tables for use as pure culinary creative spaces makes the service itself a more elevated experience for your guests,” says Price. When it comes to service, Cousins agrees, “When platters of food double as the table’s decor, it gives vendors the cue to be very conscientious about presentation. The caterer becomes a designer, and all vendors must collaborate closely to make each table full and lush, beautiful and presentable.” 

You may also want to consider adorning your tables with gorgeously decorated cakes rather than centerpieces. Or for a banquet setting, you could opt for an impressive, table-spanning sprawl of charcuterie and artisan breads. Embrace the true spirit of “family-style” and let your guests interact by serving themselves and others from truly breathtaking platters of food. 

Regardless of service style, Cousins suggests a full place setting for every guest to heighten the level of design at a wedding reception. “The minute a table is set, it immediately looks like the couple spent more and thought more about it.”

And whether your celebration includes a family-style meal, buffet stations or a full-plated experience, individual place settings can be arranged accordingly to provide that final polish. “If detail shots and all the little things that go into a polished, finished look are a high priority to the couple, I suggest a plated dinner experience,” explains Cousins. 

So what elements actually compose a luxury plate setting? Michelle Cousins lists the proper ingredients: Most high-end settings begin with a charger stylized to match the event’s palette and mood. This is the largest item in each setting, and  it will add finalized sparkle to your table design. Atop the charger sits eye-catching china for each guest, but often only if family-style dining is your pick. “Plated dinners will see individual entree plates served to each guest, and buffet services typically host plates at each station as guests serve themselves,” Cousins says. 

Next, a napkin provides a wonderful opportunity to invite fresh color and pattern into your design. Then come the paper goods. 

tablescapes
No place setting is complete without luxurious layers: chargers, fine flatware, color-coordinated napkins and personalized paper are all must-haves for Cousins. Photo by Heather Nan

For plated meals and family service, a menu at each seat informs guests of what to expect of the meal. On your buffet or bar, menus can be customized and framed for a well-organized service flow. Paper elements can also include a tasteful place card, leading each guest to their designated seat with personalized flair. These stationery items are yet another layer of your design to help infuse your personal style. Cousins suggests repeating elements from your invitation suite for design continuity, whether it be the palette of your event, a personalized motif or even portraits of pets.

Once your table cloth or covering is determined—whether it’s classic white or something more daring–you then select your charger and china, followed by flatware and glassware. Floral and other statement design pieces become the final “wow-factors.” Each layer delivers a new level of beauty to your design, and a wedding planner’s trained eye can help establish an ideal balance of elements.

“Naturally, everyone wants to start talking about floral and candles, because that’s what the eye sees first,” Cousins says. “But from a design standpoint, that is the icing on the cake. Begin with the piece that people notice least, and let it serve as a prime backdrop for what’s most important.” 

These simple-yet-wildly-influential details—and the professional planner who imagines them— are the true mark of a luxury wedding. Increased thought and investment into each small vignette promises a more elevated and high-end experience.  

Clever combinations of crystal, candles and colorful blooms create unforgettable centerpieces on guest tables. Photo by Heather Nan
Photo courtesy of Culinary Crafts

YOUR WEDDING TABLESCAPE BLUEPRINT

1. Find Your Flow

Your event space, guest count and service style will be the biggest determination of your reception layout. Start there! 

2. Build Your Base

Begin with your linen selection to establish a firm foundation upon which to build the rest of your
table design. 

3. Ready, Set… 

Stack your settings with chargers, flatware, florals and fineries for
each guest. 

4. Final Fill 

Whether you delight guests with a full charcuterie centerpiece, dazzle with a dessert spread or show off with mountains of candles and blooms, choose a wow-factor as your final puzzle piece for a sleek and cohesive design. 

Photo by Heather Nan

“When platters of food can double as table decor, it gives vendors the cue to be conscientious about presentation. The caterer becomes a designer, and all vendors must collaborate closely to make each table full and lush, beautiful and presentable.”

Michelle Cousins, Michelle Leo Events

michelleleoevents.com

culinarycrafts.com


Inspiration for Utah Weddings

The Ultimate Guide to Inspire Your Veil Ideas

You’ve got the love, you’ve got the gown: now it’s time for accessories. From the short and sweet blusher to a show-stopping cathedral veil (and every luxurious length in between), let this bridal veil guide be your blueprint to sorting through your veil ideas and building your perfect wedding day ensemble. In a world of fleeting trends, veils remain timeless symbols of romance and femininity.

Veil Lengths

It may surprise you to learn that the bridal veil is not by any means a one-size-fits-all decision. Most bridal shops offer up to nine different lengths, each appropriate for different wedding themes and gown styles. Which is the best fit for you? First, let’s look at an overview, courtesy of Boda Bridal.

“Veils are more than just tradition, they’re about transformation. Veils give a certain je ne se quois to bridal looks; they bridge the gap between just wearing a wedding dress and feeling like a whole bride,” says the Boda Bridal team.

THE BIRDCAGE AND THE BLUSHER

NOVEAU, TANIA MARAS, $285

Whether you’re going for full vintage flair or just want the romantic veil-lifting moment included in your ceremony, add a birdcage veil or a blusher to your veil ideas roundup. A blusher is a shorter layer of fabric added to an existing veil, intended to float over the bride’s face before her vows, while a birdcage is a chin-length veil that can cover just the bride’s eyes on the day-of. Hello, retro-chic!

SHOULDER LENGTH VEIL

Like the blusher, the shoulder-length veil is the perfect way to add a bit of old-school style and visual interest to your bridal look, especially when jazzing up an elegant bun. A shorter veil is also a great option for the bride who wants the veil experience, but doesn’t want to cover any detail her gown may be showing off in back.

ELBOW LENGTH VEIL

Offering a touch of elegance and a bit more arm coverage for chilly mornings, an elbow length veil looks great with simple sheath gowns of all styles.

FINGERTIP LENGTH VEIL

Fingertip veils are perfect for accentuating waistline details – if you’re a corset gown gal, get the most silhouette bang for your buck with this length! The fingertip length is also great in a simple tulle design, for brides who want the drama but still want their gown design to be seen.

KNEE LENGTH VEIL

Drama and pizzaz without the weigh-down. What could be better? Keep your high style without the maintenance of longer styles.

WALTZ LENGTH VEIL

A lesser-known option, the waltz veil offers the bride a chance to have the ceremony elegance and formality she craves, without having to worry about bustling and hindered movement when it comes to reception time.

FLOOR LENGTH VEIL

veil ideas knee length

Full-length fabric to match your gown’s hemline, the floor gown enters the full-drama category with ease. Long veils are ideal for any style, but especially for brides wearing sheath or other sleek styles, and want to add more volume to their look.

CHAPEL LENGTH VEIL

chapel length veil ideas

Did you find the perfect gown design, only to be disappointed to learn it doesn’t have the train you’ve dreamed of? Enter the chapel veil. Extending a few inches beyond the hemline, a chapel veil can give your ceremony entrance the trailing train moment in a beautiful illusion while also saving you from bustling later on.

CATHEDRAL LENGTH VEIL

Regal. Dramatic. Show-Stopping. The cathedral veil length is the go-to selection for the princess bride. Add all your elegant visions in to a simple gown style, or go all-in on a ballgown with a veil that extends far beyond the end of your train for bridal beauty that just keeps on going.

UNIQUE VEIL IDEAS: DESIGNS AND CUSTOMIZATION

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with a classic tulle veil, the options for a totally unique look are endless. “Veils aren’t just about lengths – they’re canvases for your vision. Choose from options such as, Pearls, 3D Appliques, Lace, Glitter, Colors, Layers, Sequins, Embroidery, Pleats & more,” encourages Boda’s designers.

EDGES

One of the most common designs brides choose for their veil is an embroidered or textured edge, delivering visual interest to the hemline of a simple gown or even just for a bit of extra flair. Quick, add edgy drama to your veil ideas Pinterest board!

BLING

Whether it be through beading, glorious shiny texture, or bedazzled pearls and other gems, allow yourself the luxury of sparkle on the big day.

APPLIQUE

Bring on the lace! Hand-sewn appliqués take basic veils from template to full of personality. While most varieties include florals, beautiful designs such as birds, bows and beyond can make your accessory all your own.

COLOR

Who says all must be ivory on your wedding day? Include options pops of color in your list of veil ideas for a whimsical touch to your ensemble.

Get more help with your wedding planning with tips from the pros here.

Real Wedding: April & Ben

La Caille, Salt Lake City 

Oct. 22

THE COUPLE 

April and Ben met while attending law school at Chapman Law in Orange, California, where April grew up. Now both lawyers, the pair tied the knot in a beautiful fall ceremony in Ben’s hometown of Salt Lake City. Prior to the big day, they were engaged for two years after Ben popped the question while on a hike on a trail overlooking Salt Lake’s capitol building.

THE WEDDING 

The couple’s wedding day was a stunning blend of tradition and culture, classic colors and subtle nods to each of the newlyweds’ personalities. In La Caille’s atrium, Rev. Craig Gordon led a beautiful ceremony backed by an arch brimming with seasonal greenery and pristine white florals. The bride described the wedding design as a mix between the suavity of James Bond and the timeless beauty of Downton Abbey, two shows the couple enjoy. “We wanted to be true to ourselves with our design,” April said. “We put ourselves into all the little details.” 

Timeless Wedding

April walked down the aisle in a richly-beaded Erin Cole gown, with customized details including an oversized bow accent and trailing shoulder ribbons. The bride accessorized with Erin Cole jewelry and a shimmering coat of 24 Carat nail polish by Caronia—her late grandmother’s signature shade. Ben wore a stylish blue suit and chess-themed cufflinks (both bride and groom are avid chess players, and nods to the game made appearances throughout the event). 

Following the vows, the couple also incorporated a unity veil, candle, cord and coins as part of a Filipino wedding tradition called Las Arras, in honor of April’s heritage. Selected wedding sponsors helped with every element of the unity ceremony, offering more opportunities to include special friends and family members. 

THE PARTY 

This wedding’s menu is proof that a celebration at La Caille is never fully dressed without a show of talent from the restaurant’s talented chefs. Once seated at candle-lit and floral-laden tables, guests enjoyed a full three-course French meal, complete with five-onion soup, New York strip with caramelized onion and au gratin potatoes, and salted caramel pot de crème for dessert. The venue also provided a classic patisserie spread, including chocolate peanut butter tarts, coconut panna cotta and lemon cream tarts. As favors, guests each received a sampling of French macarons. For the final treat of the evening, the couple cut into a crème brûlée cake adorned with sugar Sego Lilies. 

Two signature drinks infused more of the couple’s personality into the festivities. A classic paloma, dubbed “The King’s Gambit,” paid homage to Ben’s favorite chess opening, while April’s drink, a sidecar called “The Twizzle,” celebrated her figure skating hobby. 

To celebrate the evening, DJ Eli Fillmore brought the party with a playlist of danceable classics. The bride and groom performed their first dance (choreographed by April’s brother) to a medley of love songs: “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” by Elvis Presley; “How Deep is Your Love,” by the Bee Gees; and “La Vie En Rose,” sung by Louis Armstrong. Afterward, a montage of childhood photos played while the pair danced with their parents. 

With sparklers in hand, the guests created a big exit for the newlyweds as they sent them off in style. On her way out the door, April donned a fur coat given to her by her aunt, a further nod to her heritage and loved ones. April and Ben plan to honeymoon in Europe.  

Vendors

Planning and Design: Belle & Co. Events, bellecodesignagency.com

Venue and Catering: La Caille, lacaille.com 

Photographer: M. Hart Photo, mhartphoto.com 

Floral: Fleurish Design, @_fleurishdesign

Rehearsal Lunch: Manoli’s, manolison9th.com

Gown and Bridal Jewelry: Erin Cole, erincole.com

Menswear: Suit Supply, suitsupply.com

Stationery Printing: Czar Press, czarpress.com 

Envelopes: Cards & Pockets, cardsandpockets.com

Rentals: The Shabby Chic Sisters LLC, theshabbychicsisters.com

Hair and Makeup: Beauty by Reese, beautybyreese.com

Videographer: Kale Fitch, kalefitchfilms.com

Cake: Flour & Flourish, flourandflourishcake.com

DJ and A/V Service: Allurish Audio, allurish.com

Transportation: Hall Utah, hallutah.com

Photo Booth: Clementine Photo Booths, clementinephotobooth.rentals

Officiant: Craig Gordon, @most_og 

Welcome Reception: Grand America Hotel, grandamerica.com


Find more real wedding inspiration here!