17 Bridal Jumpsuits for Every Kind of Girl

June 24, 2022

For the brides trying to push fashion standards, here are some fashion-forward bridal jumpsuits that you can wear dancing at your reception or walking down the aisle.

BRIDAL JUMPSUITS FOR THE FASHIONISTA BRIDE

For the understated yet chic bride who wants to make a statement and keep it classy, here are a few bridal jumpsuits that combine traditional cuts with dramatic details. Each silhouette maintains simplistic charm by accenting a fitted frame with a touch of flair, whether that be an attachable sweeping skirt, draping overlay, hand-embroidered sequins, or a dramatic bow.

Sachin & Babi Poppy Jumpsuit Set, BHLDN. Photo courtesy of Anthropologie.

This set offers a two-in-one look with a classic tailored square-cut neckline and an attachable sweeping skirt, perfect for a bride who wants to switch up looks mid-wedding day.

Layered Strapless Crepe Jumpsuit, Safiyaa. Photo courtesy of net-a-porter.

This clean-cut bodice with smooth ivory draping is sure to flatter any body type. It features a sweetheart neckline with a boned bodice for structure and support for every bust size. The bold draping over one leg adds just enough drama to turn heads, both on and off the wedding aisle.

Hailey White Jumpsuit, Nadine Merabi. Photo courtesy of Nadine Merabi.

Beauty is definitely in the details with this hand-embroidered sequined jumpsuit. The figure-hugging shape creates a flattering modern look with a beautiful shimmer effect that will make you sparkle.

Margaret Silk Faille Jumpsuit, Alexia Maria. Photo courtesy of Alexia Maria.

Go big or go home is definitely a motto to stick to on your wedding day. This look takes a chic cigarette-style trouser and ties it together with a big beautiful silk bow. Perfect for the bride that wants to take a simple look and add a dramatic touch.

BRIDAL JUMPSUITS FOR THE MODEST BRIDE

For the brides looking for a little more coverage on their wedding day but still want to look beautiful and sophisticated, here are some looks that the modest bride is sure to love. Of course, modesty comes in different forms for every bride, but you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort, especially on your big day.

Sachin & Babi Connie Jumpsuit, BHLDN. Photo courtesy of Anthropologie.

This Sachin & Babi Connie Jumpsuit features thick straps with a plunging neckline to create the perfect combination of sophisticated and sexy. Its high waisted belt and breezy wide-leg pants create a comfortable and sleek look that will make you feel covered up yet elegant.

Beaded Bridal Jumpsuit. Photo courtesy of Versailles Atelier Bridal.

The beautifully detailed beads on this jumpsuit add the perfect touch to its modest shape. The cap-sleeves offer the coverage you might want, paired with a flattering v-neckline.

Boho Wedding Pant and Corset Jacket, VanillaWFG.. Photo courtesy of Etsy.

This classy corset-style jumpsuit combined with the sheer long sleeve top is the perfect way to have your cake and eat it too. The sheer fabric allows you to accent this strapless style top while still feeling covered up.

Enamored With You White Lace Wide-Leg Jumpsuit, Lulus. Photo courtesy of Lulus.

This jumpsuit is perfect for the boho bride with its lace and scalloped eyelash lace trim. The all-over lace atop a light nude lining creates a charming detailed touch for this simple silhouette. Again, pairing the thick straps with the v-neckline never fails to create a beautiful yet covered style.

BRIDAL JUMPSUITS FOR THE DARING BRIDE

As if choosing to wear a jumpsuit to your wedding isn’t daring enough, here are some bridal jumpsuits that are sure to push fashion boundaries and make the aisle feel like a red carpet. From beads, lace, and crystals, these brides love their daring details.

Altar Ego Jumpsuit, Anne Barge. Photo courtesy of Anne Barge.

This beautifully fit wide-leg jumpsuit is just the right amount of simple and flashy to make a statement. The plunging neckline and sheer bodice, accented with hand-embroidered pearls and crystals, is sure to steal the show.

The Ohanna Jumpsuit, Enzoani. Photo courtesy of Enzoani.

This intricately detailed sweetheart bodice, covered with west indie beading that trickles down the hips of the trousers, is perfect for a glamorous bride. The heavily beaded top combined with the sleek crepe trouser is exactly what you need to feel like your wedding is a runway.

Lola Blanc Feather Jumpsuit, Bronx and Banco. Photo courtesy of Revolve.

Nothing adds drama like feathers. The Lola Blanc Feather Jumpsuit with a fully feathered top adds just the dramatic impact a bride needs on her wedding day. It is perfect for a classic bride who wants to add a little excitement to their look.

The Allie Jumpsuit, Eva Lendel. Photo courtesy of Eva Lendel.

The Allie Jumpsuit lacks no flashy details with its decorated lace pattern top and puff sleeves. This jumpsuit will highlight any bride’s figure with wide-leg trousers that meet the top with a high waistband.

Patsy Jumpsuit, Rime Arodaky. Photo courtesy of Rime Arodaky.

The Patsy Jumpsuit combines fun and flirty with elegance and chic. The Italian lace and overlay skirt add a dramatic touch to the cigarette-style trousers.

BRIDAL JUMPSUITS FOR THE BRIDE THAT MEANS BUSINESS

For the bride who wants to take her wedding day fit from the aisle to the office. Whether you’re eloping at the courthouse or trying to achieve a sophisticated look at your wedding, here are some professional wedding pieces for your big day and your everyday.

The Napoli Jumpsuit, Eva Lendel. Photo courtesy of Alta Moda Bridal.

The decorated lace of the Napoli jumpsuit offers a pop of texture to this polished wedding look. The straight-cut ankle-length trousers meet the top with a high waistband to complete the perfect business-meets-bridal piece.

Margot White Pants and Blazer, Nadine Merabi. Photo courtesy of Nadine Merabi.

A two-piece pantsuit screams business, but add some feathers, and you’ve got a fun party outfit that will really make a statement on your big day. The best part about two pieces is that you get a three-for-one. After your wedding, these pieces can easily transition into wardrobe separates.

The Brooklyn Jumpsuit, Eva Lendel. Photo courtesy of Alta Moda Bridal.

This 70s-style pantsuit is the best mix of business on the bottom and party on the top. The sophisticated wide leg trouser paired with the sparkly sequin top is a match made to hit the dance floor.

Alima Jumpsuit, Ines Di Santo. Photo courtesy of Ines Di Santo.

The Alima pantsuit brings elegance to a new level with this sophisticated satin set. The satin material and draping details make for an effortlessly sleek look that can easily be worn on and off the aisle.

See some chic bridal jumpsuits in action.

For more bridal fashion inspiration click here!

How to Plan an Adventurous Wedding Weekend in Utah

June 23, 2022

In locales like India and Italy, multiday weddings have been the norm for generations. But here in the U.S., extending nuptial celebrations beyond the actual wedding day has caught on just within the last several years. The pandemic’s curtailing of gatherings is one reason for this trend, so for many, this year may be the first time in two years or longer they will finally feel comfortable traveling or attending a large gathering. Another reason many are embracing days-long celebrations is that the six or so hours that span Promost wedding ceremonies and receptions is simply not long enough for couples to connect with each one of their guests. Hosting a two-, three- or even five-day celebration also allows extended members of the couple’s families to really get to know and enjoy one another.

The key to a meaningful multiday wedding, however, is providing your guests with fun and accessible things to do. Following is a roundup of distinctly Utah activities that will make your extended wedding celebration one your guests will talk about fondly for years to come.

PEDALING THE WORLD’S BEST TRAILS

Park City boasts one of the best mountain bike networks on the planet. Let a guide with Jans Mountain Outfitters show you and your gal or guy pals the highlights on a guided mountain biking tour, tailorable for beginner to expert riders. Jans even offers guided night rides.

CASTING A BLUE-RIBBON WATERWAY

The Provo River boasts one of the West’s premier trout fisheries and runs through some of the most scenic landscapes in Utah. Hire a guide from Fish Heads Fly Shop in Heber City for a half or full day to show you and your group Provo’s most productive eddies.

BOOTING IT THROUGH THE WASATCH

Within spitting distance of downtown Salt Lake City are the Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, both riddled with trails replete with alpine meadows, high-altitude lakes and craggy peaks. A few of the most easily navigable and most rewarding are routes to Red Pine Lake and Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon and Lake Blanche and Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood Canyon. fishheadflyshop.com

Discover more wedding weekend activities fun for the whole family here!

Real Wedding: Lovestruck at the Lodge

June 21, 2022

Connor and Julia Wedding at Snowpine Lodge

Julia & Connor
Snowpine Lodge, Alta Ski Area, August 21
Photography by Camilla Binks

THE COUPLE
Though Connor and Julia grew up just three miles from one another in South Jordan, it wasn’t until high school that they met. Sort of. One evening while working her high school job at Cold Stone Creamery, Julia’s co-worker and friend encouraged her to send Connor a Facebook friend invitation. Connor accepted and the two messaged back and forth on Facebook and via text for what turned into several years. Connor finally worked up the courage to ask Julia out seven years after Julia sent her initial friend request. The day of their first date, Connor sent Julia flowers with a note that read, “7 years later…see you at 8.” That evening “we just clicked,” Julia says. “He was everything I was looking for in a partner.”

THE PROPOSAL
Connor likewise fell hard for Julia within days of their first date, and after they’d been together just six months, purchased an engagement ring for her. “My gut told me I was going to marry her, and I wasn’t nervous about it at all,” he says. With the help of Julia’s parents, Connor lured Julia to the airport where, on the one-year anniversary of their first date, he asked her to spend the rest of her life with him. After she said yes, the two left for another surprise Connor had arranged—a vacation to Monterey, Calif.

THE VENUE
Since most of Julia and Connor’s families are from Utah, they wanted to choose a wedding venue location where everyone could stay together and enjoy the mountains. Once they toured the newly renovated Snowpine Lodge, it became the obvious choice. Following the rehearsal, Julia’s bridesmaids threw her a bachelorette party in the hotel’s Snowpine Suite; and on the morning of the wedding, the women practiced yoga and relaxed by the pool and inside the hotel’s Stillwater Spa.

THE WEDDING
With 120 guests present, Julia and Connor exchanged their personally written vows on the Snowpine’s lawn under an arch flocked with pastel-hued roses, greenery and billowy white cloth. “I wanted our wedding to be very romantic and with neutral colors,” Julia says. “The Snowpine is so beautiful that I did not want to take away from what it had to offer, so we went with simple elegance.” Brandon Taylor officiated the ceremony, which included tying of three cords—one each to represent Julia and Connor and a third to represent God. The couple was attended by six bridesmaids, four groomsmen, two flower girls and one ring bearer. Following the ceremony, guests were served passed appetizers and drinks on the hotel’s lawn to the music of a string quartet. A seated dinner was served in the Snowpine Ballroom; the menu included a spinach radicchio salad and choice of braised short ribs, marsala stuffed chicken, pan-fried sustainable salmon or roasted cauliflower steak. The dessert course included a stone fruit crisp, Cold Stone Creamery ice cream and lemon wedding cake with raspberry filling. The couple’s first dance was to “More of You” by Magic. A DJ led the ensuing dance party. The bride, groom and several guests jumped into the pool at the end of the night just before the couple’s exit in a vintage Aston Martin.

SIGNATURE DETAIL
The couple served Cold Stone Creamery ice cream because it not only helped bring them together, but “it was also served in loving memory of my aunt and uncle, who owned the Draper Cold Stone Creamery location and passed away a few years ago,” Julia says. “They had always promised that they would serve Cold Stone at my wedding and I made sure to keep that promise.”

THE HONEYMOON
Julia and Connor went to Turks and Caicos, where they rode horses on the beach, snorkeled along the second largest barrier reef in the world, took a sunset sailing cruise and, most importantly, “relaxed and celebrated the start of our lives together.”

THE PLAYERS
WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN: Kate Elizabeth Events
PHOTOGRAPHY: Camilla Binks
CATERING: Snowpine Catering, Cold Stone Creamery
FLOWERS: Mille Fleur Design
VIDEOGRAPHY: Lokeni Productions
WEDDING DRESS: Allure, Fantasy Bridal
BRIDE’S SHOES: Dillard’s
BRIDEMAIDS DRESSES: Show Me Your Mumu Weddings, Called to Surf
BRIDEMAIDS ROBES: Harperland Design
GROOM’S & GROOMSMEN SUITS: Michael Kors, Malmrose Bridal
BRIDE’S SEND-OFF DRESS: Adrianna Papell Tuxedo Sheath Dress, Macy’s
MAKEUP: Makeup by Cherisa
HAIR: Sarah Schorr
STRING QUARTET: Green Light Booking
RECEPTION MUSIC: DJ Pauly
CAKE: Whitney’s Sweets
RENTALS & DECOR: Diamond Rental
TRANSPORTATION: Something Vintage, Something Blue

See more real wedding inspiration here.

Real Wedding: Red Dirt and Romance

June 16, 2022

Christina & TK
The Red Earth Venue, Moab, April 15
Photography by Jessie Lyn Photograph y

HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS

Christina and TK met through mutual friends in high school at the end of their junior year. What started as a simple conversation grew into more and even though they went to different high schools they were inseparable. Whether going to school dances, sporting events, lunch dates, or doing homework together, many great memories were made! But, of all these events the most substantial was Christina and TK applying and being accepted to the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Through the years, TK and Christina went on to pursue a Ph.D. in biochemistry and a career in the craft brewing industry, respectively which led them to living in different states. “But eventually enough was enough, and long distance needed to end!” says Christina. So in May of 2020, through a lot of help, friends support, mentorship from parents the pair were able to bring our lives back to Salt Lake City, Utah. “Utah is our home and a place that we find so special, full of love, and honest people who love the outdoors, each other, and the world around them.”

A SOUTHERN UTAH PROPOSAL

When Christina’s best friends Stasha and Ben suggested a tour of Utah’s National Parks, she immediately began planning an adventure of a lifetime—little did she know it would also be the beginning of a brand new chapter for both her and TK. Secretly, TK had told both Stasha and Ben that he wanted to propose at The Temple of the Sun and Moon, a very special place in TK and Christina’s hearts. After a day of exploring Cathedral Valley, the group made their way to The Temple of Sun and Moon where TK led Christina to a scenic spot on the ridgeline.

Lowering to one knee, TK said to Christina: “As the temple of sun and moon have stood by each other’s side for eternity will you stand by mine?” After she accepted, the group went on to celebrate a lifelong commitment of adventure together. The happy moment wasn’t even soiled when TK accidentally slipped on a loose rock back at the campsite. “He gained not only a fiance but the scars to prove it,” Christina says with a laugh.

MOAB MATRIMONY

Christina and TK tied the knot on April 15th of, 2022 at Moab’s rustic event space The Red Earth Venue. “The Red Earth Venue in does a perfect job capturing the open nature of the desert surrounded by red rock and cliffs, with a beautiful vista of both Arches National Park and the La Sal Mountains,” says Christina. “These attributes perfectly capture why we love spending so much of our time in the red dirt.”

OUTDOOR CHIC

“We wanted our wedding to feel like a desert party!” Christina says. To accomplish their vision of “outdoor chic” they dressed the venue with simple table designs, lots of hanging lights, coolers with beer, and an open dance floor. Both the ceremony and reception were held outside. “TK and I wanted to feel glam while our guests could understand why we spend so much time camping and embracing the desert.”

THE DETAILS

To embrace the warm hues of the surrounding desert, the bridesmaids wore revelry velvet dresses in red earthy tones, Dusty Rose, Terracotta, and Romantic Rose. The men wore Indochino teal suits and were complemented by matching Revelry velvet ties to the bridesmaids dresses. Christina’s bouquet had green succulents complimented by dusty orange and pink flowers.

After the ceremony, the wedding group enjoyed margaritas, tacos and dancing on the venue’s outdoor wooden dance floor. Christina and TK’s wedding cake was made by Baked by Rachel in Moab. “Rachel did an amazing job with our cakes, giving us a simple texture in the buttercream and decorated them with succulents! We had one large vanilla cake with fresh raspberry filling and raspberry buttercream. Then we had a small vegan lemon cake with fresh strawberry filling and vanilla vegan buttercream.”

VENDORS

Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Intimate Moab Weddings
Photographer: Jessie Lyn Photography
Second Shooter: Amanda Avery
Florist: Succulents for Hire
Venue: The Red Earth Venue
Rentals: Moab Event Services
Gown Shop: Alta Moda
Cake: Baked by Rachel Moab
Catering: Fiesta Mexicana
DJ: Kya Marienfield, @dj_sparklefists
Officiant: Stephanie Kravitz
Hair and Makeup: Sage & Stone Salon
Shuttle Service: Road Runner Shuttles
Couple: Christina Howard @steenzz_ and TK Coody @tk.cood

See more desert weddings here!

Tips for a Green Wedding

June 14, 2022

Wedding confetti in cone paper holders natural flower petals rea — Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

It’s no secret that weddings are not environmentally friendly. From the thousands of airline miles required to gather far-flung friends and family to single-use wedding attire to exotic floral décor and imported food and drink, the carbon footprint for even a modest event can be significant. But we submit that celebrating love is perhaps more important now than ever. As such, we’ve gathered three ideas for planning a carbon-conscious green wedding that doesn’t sacrifice style.

AVOID BALLOON INSTALLATIONS, FLOATING LANTERNS AND SPARKLERS

While balloon installations are having a moment, balloons take up to two years to degrade in a landfill and are dangerous to children and animals alike. A similar sentiment goes for fireworks, floating lanterns and sparklers, especially considering how high the fire danger is in Utah during the summer and fall. Instead, you can create festivity for your guests with a laser light show or biodegradable confetti to toss during your final exit from the reception.

USE POTTED PLANTS AS DECOR

Many exotic flowers travel thousands of miles from around the world before landing in a wedding centerpiece. Intermountain Plant Works offers sustainable and architecturally stunning potted trees, topiaries and succulents for event rental, along with design services. Another option is choosing a florist that, when possible, sources its blooms locally, like Native Flower Company, which also composts 100% of its post-event green waste.

REGISTER FOR CASH OR A PHILANTHROPY

Many couples are delaying saying “I do” until well after they’ve set up a household together, negating the practicality of registering for items like linens, kitchen appliances and dishes. Cash registries like blueprint.com allow guests to give couples funds toward a home, the honeymoon or the actual wedding. Other couples go the completely altruistic route by creating a registry through thegoodbeginning.com, allowing guests to donate to a cause or nonprofit in the couple’s name.

You can find more green wedding inspiration here!

Real Wedding: Best Friends Turned Soulmates

June 9, 2022

Kayman & Derek
River Bottoms Ranch, Midway, May 14
Photography by Braden Young Photo

THE COUPLE

Derek and Kayman met in their hometown, Orem, while they were both in junior high. Almost instantly they became best friends, which lasted through high school. “I actually took Derek on his first date,” Kayman says. After they both graduated, Derek took a job at Kayman’s father’s company and “one thing lead to the other and we started dating.”

THE PROPOSAL

After they had been together for just over a year and a half, Derek proposed to Kayman on Christmas Day. He began by playing a slideshow he’d made of pictures and memories from their time together up to that point. At the end of the slide show, he asked her to stand while he got down on one knee. “I was so excited that I just went straight in for the kiss,” Kayman says. “I guess he knew what my answer was!” Derek had also arranged for both of their families to sneak in while the slideshow was playing, and so after Kayman eventually said yes, a crowd of their loved ones came in to offer the couple their first congratulations.

THE WEDDING

Kayman and Derek wanted to host a wedding celebration with touches of both modern and traditional elements. With those parameters in mind, they were immediately taken with River Bottoms Ranch, where the venue’s crisp-white barn, serene pond and green horse pastures are all framed by views of Mount Timpanogos. Kayman, who freelances as a florist, chose a soft and lush color palette of golds, pinks, blues, greens, peaches, dark greens and burgundy to complement the venue’s bucolic setting. The couples’ ceremony was held outdoors in front of the property’s pond, between two luxuriant floral columns with still-snowcapped mountains in the background. A string duet provided ceremony music. Kayman was attended by her two sisters, cousin and two best friends. Derek’s groomsman were three of his older brothers, and his nephew served as the ring bearer. The flower girl was a close family friend whom Kayman affectionately refers to as her niece. Another of Derek’s brothers officiated. The couple was sealed in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Provo Temple the next day.

THE RECEPTION

Following the “I dos,” 100 wedding guests moved inside River Bottoms’ airy and light-filled barn to sit down at long, flower-flocked tables for dinner. The menu included Italian chicken pasta, filet mignon, Caesar salad, breadsticks and raspberry lemonade. The dessert course featured a beautifully modern, two-tier cake decorated with sugar petals by Flour & Flourish. One tier of the cake was Samoa flavored (like the Girl Scout cookies); the other, crème brûlée. Later, 100 more guests arrived for the reception where they were served sliders and fries, chocolate cake and Oreo, berry and strawberry cheesecake-pie shakes. The Diamond Empire Band provided music for dancing, which included Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” as a tribute to Derek’s family’s dedication to baseball; “All Star” by Smash Mouth—one of Derek’s favorite songs which Kayman asked the band to learn as a surprise to him; and “Nothing Can Change this Love” by Sam Cooke, which played during Kayman and Derek’s first dance as a married couple. The couple exited the reception in the bride’s father’s bright-blue 1950 Chevrolet. Two weeks after the wedding, Kayman and Derek moved to Texas where Derek is earning a graduate degree in physical therapy and Kayman is teaching dance at a competitive dance studio.

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Just before the ceremony began, Kayman and Derek took a moment to recite their vows to each other with no one else around. “It was something that we wanted to keep special between just the two of us,” Kayman says.

THE PLAYERS

Planning & Floral Design: Rachael Ellen Events
Photography: Braden Young
Bridal Gown: Alta Moda
Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka, zappos.com
Bride’s Send-off Dress: Dillard’s
Groom’s Suit: Jos. A. Bank Clothiers
Videography: Russell Alboroto
Catering: Magleby’s
Reception Music: Diamond Empire Band

Utah’s ranches make for some beautiful wedding backdrops. Here’s all you need to know about planning a ranch wedding.

Bridal Shower Inspiration at Sunday’s Best

June 7, 2022

Don’t get us wrong. We firmly subscribe to the notion that nothing says sophisticated like a wedding palette of blushing pinks, pastel blues, sage greens or champagne beiges. But just because these aforementioned hues epitomize romance doesn’t mean bright and saturated tones can’t be dreamy and stylish. For those a little timid about going full-tint at their wedding, however, Michelle Leo Events presents a vibrant way for color-conscious couples to have their cake—or in this case, brunch—and eat it, too.

Photography by Heather Nan

Zimmerman Concert linen and silk minidress.

A FESTIVE CANVAS

As soon as you walk through the door of Sunday’s Best, a seven-days-a-week-brunch spot located unexpectedly along State Street in suburban Sandy, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. There, shiny metallic gold hardware and boldly geometric tile merrily juxtapose with soft velvet upholstery and lively floral wallpaper. The restaurant’s vibe—combined with its deliciously creative food and cocktail menu—is unmistakably fun, cheeky and chic. In other words, an ideal location to host a memorable engagement party, bridal shower or post-wedding brunch.

LAYER IT UP

Using Sunday’s Best’s aesthetic as a starting point, Michelle Leo Events’ Event Planner Isabel Rokeach established an exuberant color story based in jewel-toned pinks, purples, teal and green with gold accents. Rokeach set half of the event tables with creamy, lattice-textured table linens, artistic watercolor-printed chargers and Sunday’s Best’s topaz-blue dining chairs. Other tables were set with velvety teal tablecloths, gold lattice placemats, dusty rose dinner plates and the restaurant’s mauve velvet chairs. Gold-toned silverware at all place settings provided continuity between the different yet complementary guest tables.

Molly pink dinner plate and aspen flatware by Wild Event Studio.

TOTALLY TONAL FLORALS

Taking cues from the black, magenta and gold floral wallpaper adorning the restaurant’s foyer, Decoration, Inc. created showstopping yet low-profile centerpieces in bright and cheery magenta, warm coral, deep red and bubble-gum pink. Floral varieties included garden spray roses, dahlias, anemones, peonies, orchids and nerine lilies.

MUCH MORE THAN EYE CANDY

To come up with delicious signature sippers that reflected the event’s vivid color palette, Rokeach didn’t have to look any farther than Sunday’s Best’s thoughtful cocktail program. The just-picked pink Strawberry Fields (bourbon, sake, mint and ginger beer) was served elegantly in coupes and Baccarat crystal Bubble Box champagne flutes, while the Sunday’s Best Spritz (grapefruit, cointreau, sparkling wine and yuzu) and a White Peach Bellini (white port, sparkling wine, seltzer and lemon) provided pops of sunset red and tangerine orange, respectively. And the paint-brush embellishment on the event invitations was repeated in the almost too-pretty-to-eat macaroons and hand-dipped chocolates Summer Time Sweets created for the event. “Through the use of layered textures, unique patterns and intentional pops of bold, flirty colors, this look captures a mid-century-modern vibe aimed at leaving a lasting impression,” Rokeach says.

Macaroons and hand-dipped chocolates by Summer Time Sweets. Engagement Ring by O.C. Tanner Jewelers.

THE DETAILS

PLANNING & DESIGN: Michelle Leo Events
PHOTOGRAPHY: Heather Nan
VENUE: Sunday’s Best
HAIR: Kali Chris
MUA: Kristen Packard Artistry
FLORAL: Decoration, Inc.
PAPER PRODUCTS: Rebekah Nicole Ink
MOLLY PINK DINNER PLATE & ASPEN FLATWARE: Wild Event Studio
COOKIES: Summer Time Sweets
BACCARAT CRYSTAL “BUBBLE BOX” CHAMPAGNE FLUTES AND ENGAGEMENT RING: O.C. Tanner Jewelers
DRESS: Zimmerman Concert linen and silk minidress
MODEL: Avrey Evans

See more wedding party inspiration here!

Celebration Makers: The Lodge at Blue Sky

June 4, 2022

Located 20 minutes from Park City, The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection, sits nestled in the Wasatch mountains on a 3,500-acre ranch. Surrounded by panoramic peak and valley views, Blue Sky offers an impressive and diverse selection of ceremony locations, both indoors and outdoors. “Each space showcases Utah’s wild elegance and profoundly reconnects guests with the natural environment at every opportunity,” says Cait Ferguson, Event Sales Manager for The Lodge at Blue Sky.

One of the largest venues is an 8,000-square-foot rustic barn that once served as the original indoor riding arena for Blue Sky, crafted from upcycled local barnwood. For more intimate gatherings, two mountaintop yurts each boast stunning mountain and valley vistas with expansive outdoor terraces for outdoor ceremonies, while a wood-burning stove keeps things toasty inside for private dinners or post-ceremony toasts. A log cabin dating back to the late 1800s serves as Blue Sky’s outpost saloon, and the adjacent high-alpine field remains popular for ceremonies, receptions or rehearsal dinners.

The team members of Blue Sky are genuine stewards of the earth, and have truly taken the theme of nature-based weddings to heart. Impressive sustainable practices are implemented with each event. Blue Sky uses zero single-use plastics; sources many of its ingredients from within 100 miles of the resort; grows most of its own produce, eggs and fresh honey at the female-led Gracie’s Farm; composts all food from Yuta, the signature restaurant (so that it can be used in regenerative farming initiatives); utilizes biodegradable clay discs at its world-class sporting clay range; and has its own wastewater treatment facility to thoroughly clean any wastewater before it gets returned to the earth. These examples are just a few in the long list of sustainability initiatives used at Blue Sky.

In today’s industry, couples have never-ending options for unique ways to exchange their vows and celebrate with their loved ones. Whether you are looking for an epic mountaintop elopement by helicopter, an intimate ceremony in the cozy fire-lit Yurt, or a large-scale celebration in the restored bar, Blue Sky has a setting to fit each couple’s signature style.

“I’m constantly inspired by our clients and talented vendors. Listening to their stories, being a part of the creative process and witnessing a vision come to life with our property as the backdrop is exhilarating.” —Cait Ferguson, Event Sales Manager

Ask the Expert

WHAT’S AHEAD

This pandemic has truly shown that with creativity and flexibility, anything is possible when it comes to celebrating love. This season, as couples continue with that passion, our team will also continue to curate the best possible guest experiences by infusing Western-inspired activities and meaningful moments into each celebration.

EXCITED ABOUT

We have truly loved the surge in micro-weddings and elevated elopements. Couples are more focused on what matters most: reconnecting with loved ones and forming lifelong memories. Smaller ceremonies are also not necessarily tied to weekends; intimate weekday celebrations are ideal and usually have more availability than Saturdays, which can book up quickly. Weekday ceremonies can be parlayed into a longer, more meaningful vacation for all.

FRESH IDEAS

Intimate weddings and elevated elopements allow you to get creative with your budget, leaving more room to spend on meaningful experiences to enjoy with your loved ones such as fly fishing, organic farm school classes or crystal bowl sound bathing meditation.

27649 Old Lincoln Hwy., Wanship | 435-336-6400

Click here to see a real wedding at this beautiful mountain venue.

Real Wedding: Midsummer Matrimony

June 2, 2022

River & Ian
La Caille, Sandy, June 19
Photography by Pepper Nix

THE COUPLE
River and Ian both grew up in St. George where they became high school sweethearts. “He actually asked me to be his girlfriend on a bridge,” River says with a laugh. Four years and a move to Utah Valley later, River returned home one day to find her house decked out in rose petals and fairy lights and a sign that read: “Put on your favorite outfit and meet me at the location I sent you.” Following the pin Ian had texted to her, the pair met at a bridge in Heber City where he finally popped the question. To many, the overpass might appear ordinary, but to the couple, it signifies the beginning of their love story. “It was so special and such a full circle moment!” River recalls.

THE VENUE

With the help of their planner, Michelle Leo Events, the couple was able to hold the wedding of their dreams just four months after getting engaged. Drawn by its lush garden spaces and sweeping views of Little Cottonwood Canyon, River decided La Caille was the ideal place for their midsummer matrimony. “It was truly a magical wedding that came together so perfectly in such a short time span,” she says. To complement La Caille’s lush and whimsical beauty, the wedding team adorned the space in a palette of blush pink, sage and cream. Brilliant white and green flower arrangements lined the grounds, while a canvas tent kept guests cool during the ceremony. The overarching theme of the alfresco wedding was “Soft, pretty and dreamy,” River explains.

THE RECEPTION

After River and Ian recited their vows and sealed the deal with a kiss, they joined their guests inside La Caille’s greenhouse dining room. The venue’s in-house catering team served a delectable, coursed meal beginning with a Caesar salad, followed by a choice of free-range chicken breast served with roasted fingerling potatoes, herbed carrots and rosemary jus or New York Strip with caramelized onions served with au gratin potatoes and grilled asparagus au poivre. Vegetarian guests were treated to an equally delicious alternative, wild mushroom herb gnocchi paired with heirloom carrots, celery, fennel, Utah farm-fresh corn and mushroom brodo. The feast was made more romantic by the sparkling lights of the indoor canopy and delicate tablescapes adorned with blush garden roses, cream sweet peas and eucalyptus strands.

SIGNATURE DETAIL

To satisfy the couple’s sweet tooth, they included a brownie bar with an assortment of tasty toppings. “Ian and I are not big fans of cake, and we actually always had brownies instead of cake at our birthdays,” River explains. Other reception favorites included the soda bar and signature drink menu, which consisted of a strawberry iced soda and a French cream soda.

FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE

River recalls a particularly heartfelt moment shared with her father. During the dancing portion of the evening, the father and daughter duo swayed to Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” “This was the song my mom had on the radio when they drove to the hospital to have me,” River explains. “It was very special and there were lots of tears.”

THE PLAYERS

Wedding Planning & Design: Michelle Leo Events
Photography: Pepper Nix
Stationary Suite: Minted
Other Paper Goods: Twelve30 Creative
Venue & Catering: La Caille
Rentals: Diamond Event & Tent
Bride’s Ceremony Dress: Fantasy Bridal
Bride’s Reception Dress: Pritchett Bridal
Hair & Makeup: Lesley Lind Makeup Atelier
Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal
Groom’s Tuxedo: Express
Groomsmen Attire: Generation Tux
Videographer: Jared Wortley Films
Florist: Urban Chateau Floral
Cake: Cake by Alessandra
Entertainment: Utah Live Bands

See more real wedding inspiration here.

How to Make the Perfect Wedding Film

May 31, 2022

“I approach every wedding as both the director and cinematographer of a mini-movie that, in the end, will hopefully make couples laugh, gasp and cry,” says Jared Wortley, wedding videographer and owner of Jared Wortley Films. Though his career path veered briefly to physical therapy after he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, Wortley has focused firmly on artistic visual storytelling for the last decade. Along the way, he’s learned what makes the difference between a simply good wedding video and a truly memorable one that a couple watches again and again throughout married life. “Much of it is about the prep that happens before the wedding day,” Wortley says. Here are his tips for making sure your wedding film is one you’ll always cherish.

CONSIDER EVERY MOMENT

“Wedding filmmakers generally work by the hour and so, to come up with a budget, I advise couples to think about the last event on their wedding itinerary and then work back from there,” Wortley says. He advises couples to think also about those events that are not part of the actual wedding day—shots like drone footage of the wedding venue, first-look images or the rehearsal dinner, when people outside of the wedding party traditionally offer toasts and well wishes to the couple.

WRITE YOUR OWN VOWS

“Repeating what an officiant says simply does not have the emotional power of original words that a couple reads or recites to each other on their wedding day,” Wortley says. He also encourages those who are giving toasts to prepare their speeches in advance rather than winging it.

CREATE A FIXED SPOT FOR TOASTS

Ensure that toasts make it to the final cut of your wedding film by designating a place at the reception where guests can go to give them. “A mic stand and a table to place a drink on is a great way to control both the lighting and sound,” Wortley says. “But we always have a remote mic on hand for the inevitable rogue groomsman who wants to rove around the room while delivering their toast.”

REMEMBER THAT LESS IS MORE

Wortley will often gather upwards of 12 hours of footage to create a single 10- to 15-minute wedding film. “My intent is to beautifully highlight the couple and their day but also leave the viewer wanting more,” he says. “I can certainly make a longer piece, but then viewers usually get bored.”

Read our tips for choosing the right wedding photographer here!

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