Haley Cunningham of Everbloom Preservation turns bouquets, boutonnieres and accessories into brilliant, one-of-akind keepsakes.Photo courtesy of Everbloom Preservation
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.”
Sheer Ambrosia Bakery is about more than dessert; it’s about connection.
Photos Courtesy of Sheer Ambrosia Bakery
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.
Photo Courtesy of Sheer Ambrosia Bakery
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.
Photo Courtesy of Sheer Ambrosia Bakery
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.
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.
Taking a page from the Stein’s book of bold palettes, abundant color is a driving force in making this design sing. Photo by Pepper Nix
Planning & Design by Soiree Productions Photographs by Pepper Nix
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 full-skirtedz ensemble. And speaking of skirts—this design sports a dramatic two-meter train of billowing silk satin, capturing light from all angles.
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. Photo courtesy of Mecca Bar Co.
Mecca Bar Co., not only serves drinks but creates moments worth remembering.
Photos courtesy of Mecca Bar Co.
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.
Photos courtesy of Mecca Bar Co.
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.
Photos courtesy of Mecca Bar Co.
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.
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.”
Photo by Leluana Photo; Photo courtesy of Pro Proposals Co.
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.
The timeless elegance of La Caille made the perfect backdrop for Keyana & Matt’s classic black and white palette. Photo by Christie Q Photography
La Caille, Sandy September 14th Planning & Design by Hoopes Events Photography by Christie Q Photography
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.
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.
Photo By Pepper Nix
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.
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.
Cherry on Top
Photo by Lewis Stevens
Fashion guru McKenzie McKeene crafts custom, one of-a-kind veils and accessories to put the finishing touch on any bridal ensemble. Whether your look needs some simple sparkle or a dramatic cathedral veil moment, McKeene can design a piece that is undeniably ‘you.’ mckenziemckeene.com
Base Layer
Courtesy of Mentionables
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
Strut Your Stuff
By Morgan Leigh Photography
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
Every Blooming Thing owner Robert Upwall believes that flowers should do more than decorate a space; they should reflect who a couple truly is.
Unlike many florists that chase trends, Robert Upwall’s creative philosophy remains rooted in authenticity.
Photos By Pepper Nix
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.
Photo By Pepper Nix
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.
Mara and Martine drew inspiration from Mara’s bridal bouquet to craft a floral-forward gin with coriander, rose hips, lavender, jasmine and peony. Photo credit Sara Sergent.
As a “Warden Rectifier” member of the London Gin Guild, Sara Sergent is the Master Botanical Distiller of Alpine Distilling, 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.
Photo by Sparkle Photography
Through an immersive two-and-half hour journey, couples learn beginner-friendly 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
Find more unique gifts for your wedding day, here!
