St. Regis, Deer Valley January 11 Planning & Design by Michelle Leo Events Photographs byMegan Robinson
The Couple
Seattleite Ryan and Salt Lake native Rebecca met as many couples in romcom films do—on the beach. But instead of meeting eyes during a slo-mo sunset scene, Rebecca was hard at work training as a professional slackliner as Ryan looked on. After a mutual friend introduced them, training sessions turned into conversations, dinners, drives along the PCH and eventually, an engagement.
Seven years into their partnership, Ryan began planning an epic proposal during a trip to the Big Apple. While Rebecca was whisked away to an impromptu nail appointment, Ryan set up an intimate candlelit dinner in a suite overlooking Central Park. Rebecca returned to enjoy a chef-curated four-course meal with her closest circle, and afterward Ryan made a speech reflecting on their New Year’s Resolutions. He’d accomplished them all but one: to marry her. In a rush of happy tears, Rebecca exclaimed, “of course I’ll marry you!”
The Wedding
St. Regis’ elegant atmosphere and ski-in ski-out access met the couple’s desire for adventure-meets-refinement during their wedding weekend. To take full advantage of Utah’s legendary winter scenery, an outdoor ceremony featured a mirrored aisle and berry-hued florals on all sides. As Rebecca floated down the aisle in a romantic ballgown by Leah de Gloria, soft snowflakes fell from the sky, marking the moment with winter magic. “Our guests even asked if we had paid to have the snow made,” Rachel laughs. “We hadn’t—it was pure magic.”
The Party
To up the ante, the reception area was embellished with Gatsby-level finery. Decadent gold and black made up the wedding palette, infused with pops of tropical green and pink to evoke a 1920s Havana speakeasy. As guests arrived, they were greeted by a “bouncer” dressed in full roaring ’20s attire who knocked on a secret bookshelf to open and reveal the lavish party within. Each detail told a story of secret indulgence; tarot-themed table assignments, flair bartending, casino tables and a Champagne wall. Once Rebecca changed into a flirty feathered party dress—The Charlie by Leah de Gloria—it was time to start the party. Live music kept revelers on their feet late into the evening, and the after party ensued in the sultry-lit Deer Crest Room. The following morning, wedding-goers enjoyed the ski haven by carving turns down Deer Valley’s award-winning terrain.
Don’t dull your personality on your big day. Irene + Co Events demonstrates how to let bold color and whimsical design land gracefully with careful attention to detail.
Photographs byMorgan Leigh photography
Be Bold
For the couple with heaps of personality, why diminish it on your biggest day? “Your wedding day is the day to embrace all of the ‘muchness’ that you are,” says event planner Irene Katzias.
For this setup, Katzias lets decor get loud with unapologetic color and out-of-the-box design.
“For the ceremony arch, I wanted it to be something natural, fun and free—like it was growing right out of the ground.” And, in contrast to the modern-edged facade of The Venue at The Ranches, this organic design, bursting with pink peonies and vibrant orchid accents, is the perfect mix to add a sense of whimsy.
Inside, Katzias skipped the tabletop arrangements and instead enlisted Mille Fleur Design to custom-build a stunning tree as the centerpiece of the reception space. “I am seeing more couples embrace installations,” she says. “It’s a way to be more impactful with the budget, and allows guests to have a one-of-a-kind experience.”
In another tradition-bucking move, this team skipped the traditional handheld bouquet in favor of a modern approach that turns bridal florals into a chic accessory. Against a sleek columnar gown with pearl details, an arm-band floral arrangement hangs on with laid-back ease, acting as sculptural art while allowing the bride’s hands to be free for greetings and glass-clinking.
Set the Tone
Your wedding paper suite is the ideal opportunity to showcase your personality and unique event vision before the celebration even begins. In this collection, the colors, patterns and textures of the wedding day make a ‘sneak peek’ appearance. Vibrant fuchsia trim and print are the first introduction to the event. Inside the punchy envelopes, playful pattern teases the linens to come on the big day, and a pearl-adorned vellum overlay mimics the sleek bridal gown.
“I love playing around with texture for an elevated finish,” says Katzias. Later, those textures come back into play on the tables: rose gold flatware, and elegant-edged Eleanor plates from Indigo Event Rentals lend softness and subtle elegance atom the linen’s bold pattern.
Day to Night
The designer’s fluency in top-notch detail doesn’t just apply to paper, and comes in handy when preparing for a day-to-night event. “You have to plan ahead for the move from natural light to evening lighting,” Katzias says. “Preplanning helps curate a very intentional story with lighting, and gives your evening design so much more depth.” Rather than relying on glaring fluorescent lights after the natural sunlight fades, bring your own lighting plan to set the mood. Here, a combination of stylish table lamps, glowing orb lights and strategic spotlight and uplighting lend a formal air to the dinner setting.
Katzias also crafted an elevated experience for this event’s afterparty. Oversized metallic inflatables, a plum-colored dessert stand, a sleek light-tunnel photobooth and an innovative DJ/saxophonist combo make for an interactive and unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.
Bridal looks that embrace the dramatic and bold—firmly claiming your place as the star of the show
Today’s modern bride is welcoming the limelight, celebrating her big day and all the events leading up to it with spotlight-forward bridal photography, impressive venues and, naturally, unforgettable gowns. This collection of bridal styles, styled by Kori Laurel and captured by photographer Heather Nan, pulls back the curtain on the larger-than-life styles that are characterizing this wedding season’s leading ladies. Jewelry provided by O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
SITTING PRETTY
The bubble skirt is here to stay, and for good reason: undeniable star power and dimension. Whether floating down the aisle or lounging around, the Charlotte gown by Zuri Bridal delivers a double-take-worthy dose of volume.
Walters Faith 5-row tubular earrings in 18k yellow gold, $3,895; Roberto Coin Love By The Inch 5-station diamond necklace in 18k gold, $3,180; O.C. Tanner Collection round 3k oval diamond engagement ring; Rahamiov 18k yellow gold bangle with 3k oval diamond inset. Additional pricing available upon request.
A LEG UP
Delicate lace tights add whimsical flair to the shapely Leighton gown by Watters, $2,795, crafted from luxurious mikado fabric concealing a bold waist-high slit in the folds of its ballgown skirt. Bayco Oval & Rose cut diamond ring in platinum, pricing upon request. Select Watters gowns available via Fantasy Bridal, Murray. Inquire with store for style availability.
THROW IT BACK
A versatile two-piece set by Moira Hughes, starting at $3,500 from Renee Atelier, ensures a truly one-of-a-kind bridal ensemble. Here, the Tempeste Bodice—featuring an elegant button closure and hand-sewn beading detail—teams with a full raw silk skirt for drama from every angle. Ole Lynggaard Pearl Jacket earrings with shooting star diamond studs in 18k gold, $13,600 set; O.C Tanner Collection 2.4k custom engagement ring in 18k yellow gold. Additional pricing available upon request.
PRIMA DONNA
With a drop waist and billowing organza skirt, Watters’ A-Line Felicity gown, $2,000, exudes both elegance and sensual sophistication. Veil via Kori Laurel collection. Ole Lynggaard Wild Rose earrings in 18k gold, $6,600; O.C. Tanner collection 2.4k custom engagement ring in 18k yellow gold, pricing upon request. Select Watters gowns available via Fantasy Bridal, Murray. Inquire with store for style availability.
ALL IN
Take advantage of the spotlight with a face-framing cathedral veil—the perfect accessory to take your ensemble from basic to high-fashion. Fili gown with topper by Watters, starting at $2,395, available via Fantasy Bridal, Murray. Mariana Hardwick cathedral veil from Renee Atelier Bridal, SLC. O.C. Tanner Collection 1.5k Round diamond engagement ring in 18k gold, $14,000.
LAYERED UP
LEFT: Embrace bridal elegance with the Elle column gown by Alyssa Kristin, crafted from intricately-textured floral jacquard. Then, for added luxury, wrap up in the design’s Italian mikado overskirt: fashion-forward and overflowing with romance. Memoire Pave huggie hoop earrings in 18k white gold, $2,000. Select Alyssa Kristin designs available via The Bridal Studio, SLC. Inquire with store for style availability.
RIGHT: Embrace a vintage vibe with this light-catching inset engagement ring in classic yellow gold. O.C. Tanner Collection Round 1.5k diamond engagement ring in 18k yellow gold, $14,000.
DEARLY BELOVED
Charm never goes out of fashion. Case in point, this 1980’s vintage lace column gown with pearl-detail puff sleeves embodies all the sweet style a 2026 bride could dream of. Gown from Lovers Bridal. Mikimoto Dangle pearl earrings in 18k yellow gold, $6,500; Bayco Oval & Rose cut diamond ring in platinum, pricing upon request.
STRIKE A POSE
Structure, sparkle and contrast combine in this high style combo from Grace Loves Lace.
LEFT: The Aurora topper, from $600, adds sculptural edge to this otherwise sweet and sparkly sheath. With delicate ruching an asymmetrical drop waist and a flowing train, this addition is all about visual impact.
MIDDLE: Ashoka 2.08k diamond engagement ring in platinum, $4,600, via O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
RIGHT: The Amandine gown, $3,600, features a full column of delicate corded lace and hints of glitter for a feminine finish.
SWEPT AWAY
Capture every windswept photo-op on your big day with face-framing bangs and a billowing accessory like the Sheridan gown and cape by Casablanca Bridal. Pasquale Bruni Petite Garden Flower earrings in 18k white gold, $7,000; Ashoka 2.08k diamond engagement ring in platinum. Additional pricing available upon request. Select Casablanca Bridal designs available via Fantasy Bridal. Inquire with store for style availability.
A MINI MOMENT
For your reception, why not slip into something just as dazzling as your ceremony gown? These fun-filled miniature gowns each pack a punch of glitter for your afterparty look.
LEFT: Ravella Mini by Grace Loves Lace, $2,000; Choker topper via Renee Atelier Bridal; Bayco Oval & Rose cut diamond ring in platinum, Bayco Rose cut 2.25k diamond earrings in platinum, $18,000, from O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
RIGHT: Camille Mini by Grace Loves Lace, from $1,600; Pasquale Bruni .66 carat Petite Garden Flower earrings in 18k gold, $7,000, from O.C. Tanner Jewelers.
Select Grace Loves Lace designs available via The Bridal Studio, SLC. Inquire with store for style availability. Jewelry via O.C. Tanner Jewelers
skip the chocolates this year and head downtown to beloved restaurants, many of which are offering special Valentine’s Day lineups. Just make sure to snag a reservation, as everyone is taking their love out on the town this year—you’ll be glad you thought ahead. Here’s what’s got our eye, with special recommendations marked by a pink heart.
Tiramisu, truffle, and raspberry serve as decadent attractions at Bambara this year. Immerse yourself in a multi-course evening saturated with wines and elevated pairings. Indulge in an apple-accompanied hamachi crudo, pan-seared halibut, caviar, and macarons—or anything else from across their exclusive menu. $95 per person.
Valter’s Osteria
Romance in the heart of the city just isn’t complete without lemon gelato from Valter’s, topped with flaky salt and fresh local honey. I’m getting ahead of myself—favorite instalate and entree dishes include prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe drizzled in honey and lemon angel hair pasta.
This seasonally-stocked Italian offering is anything but humble. A full Valentine’s tasting menu will be available for the holiday with optional wine pairings. Taste the vineyards of Tuscany and relax with your sweetheart. $145 per person (optional wine pairing +$75).
Log Haven💗
Experience Three Nights of Romance at Log Haven this year for live music with a natural view to stun city-dwellers and visitors alike. Log Haven promises an exclusive special offering of holiday indulgences Feb. 13-15. Prices start at $80.
Tucked away in the red rock walls of St. George, this sprawling Resort is hosting incredible Valentine’s Day activities. Indulge in a decadent evening meal at Basalt for a special pre-fixe menu featuring fresh ingredients. Enjoy steak and exclusive desserts in the night air. $115 per person.
Franck’s💗
Vanilla gelato topped with caviar? Say no more. Franck’s offers a five-course tasting menu for the holiday, from Feb. 13-15. A fusion of sweet holiday flavors and savory classic plates, their thoughtful culinary creations are sure to impress your Valentine. $165 per person.
Pago💗
Pago offers a special menu this year. With tasting options including griddled pumpkin bread, candied hazelnuts and a variety of familiar and exotic proteins, they’ve thought ahead with an offering of plates to share. $120-$175 per person.
Sundance Mountain Resort 💗
With a special menu for each of their restaurants this year, Sundance Mountain Resort has a romantic offering for any couple. At the cozy Foundry Grill, guests can expect a customized pasta experience with an enormous range of options, such as …. Standout desserts include chocolate strawberry tarts, chocolate mousse, ganache, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Over at the elegant Tree Room, expect a three-course tasting meal featuring risotto and Wagyu in incredible house-made sauces—with trifle for a treat. $115 per guest.
Montage Deer Valley
Enjoy an elegant dinner at Apex. A curated menu, fine wines, and the romance of Deer Valley’s most breathtaking views await you—and they’re ready to sweep you off your feet! Yama Sushi also offers an intimate foray into the culinary art of sushi preparation.
Tuscany💗
A four-course prix fixe menu is slated for Valentine’s Day at Tuscany. Butter-poached sable, shrimp ceviche and European desserts beckon you to this gorgeous getaway of a restaurant. $140 per person.
Seasonal alpine flavors await at Goldener Hirsch, where an exclusive multi-course menu is complemented by scenic mountain views. This chef-curated lineup will stun your date, and so will your drive to it. $225 per person.
La Caille💗
Whisk your sweetheart off to the French countryside (without leaving the Wasatch Front) with a special evening at La Caille. On Feb. 13 and 14, this stunning chateau is cooking up oysters in pomegranate and rose, ratatouille, and even a chocolate salad. $165 per person. There’s more to love—indulge in a wine tasting. La Caille will host tastings on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. By reservation only!
Hearth and Hill Sugarhouse💗
Enjoy a multi-course menu featuring trout, hanger steak, and vanilla bean panna cotta at Hearth and Hill this Valentine’s Day. With an elevated-casual atmosphere, Hearth and Hill makes its Park City sister proud. Experience the open windows and city ambience of this new Sugarhouse location. $79.95 per person.
Laurel Bar & Brasserie💗
The Grand America’s newest addition, this French-inspired eatery will wow your date. Laurel represents a new wave of chic hotel dining with a difficult-to-beat urban backdrop and truly elegant dishes. This year, the Grand America offers an overnight Valentine’s Day experience. Stay at the Grand and indulge in a chef-curated prix-fixe dinner for two at Laurel. Seats are limited–act fast! Prices start at $45.
Finca💗
This restaurant offers fine Spanish cuisine with timeless flair. On Valentine’s Day, enjoy a tasting menu at their 15th & 15th Location. Priced at $95, a $35 wine pairing is also available.
Cozy Valentine’s Day Dining
The Little America Hotel💗
Throughout February, all three of The Little America’s dining concepts—Lucky H Bar, Lucky H Buffet, and The Coffee Shop—are preparing exclusive cocktails and mocktails for the holiday. The local-favorite Coffee Shop will offer a traditional three-course dinner with a contemporary twist Feb. 13-15. Enjoy filet mignon, salmon, and a beautiful dessert at this quaint restaurant in the heart of Salt Lake. $52 per person.
Grub Steak
Grilled lobster tail served with herb-roasted asparagus and other savory options are on the menu at Grub Steak this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy a western ambiance with a variety of soups and other cozy offerings in the canyon.
Sunday Brunch at Laurel Bar & Brasserie
Feel like staying in for a cozy holiday with someone special? Take February 14th for yourself—and show up to Sunday Brunch at Laurel (9 a.m. – 1 p.m.). This decadent experience offers a buffet-style luxury breakfast with Grand America favorites. $69 per person (children welcome at a discounted price).
20th Holeand Float Black Desert Resort 💗
20th Hole is featuring a curated menu paired with golf simulator experiences. Get competitive with your date, sip on handcrafted drinks, and relax at this twist on a romantic night. Enjoy live entertainment at FLO, where special goodies include champagne packages with sweets and exclusive Valentine’s cocktails.
This social stop is hosting a surprise prix fixe menu on Valentine’s Day. The open atmosphere and chattable rooms you’ll find here make for the perfect meld of fine foods and relaxed mood. Be sure to make a reservation so you don’t miss out. $68 per person.
Magleby’s💗
Join this beloved bakery for a prime rib buffet. On Feb. 14, both of their locations will offer cocktail shrimp, a seasonal catch and a house-made dessert buffet. $79-89 per person.
Small, Affordable Delights in Salt Lake
ROCTACO
They may not be putting on Valentine’s festivities, but this hole-in-the-wall (literally, it’s down an alleyway) boasts eats like you wouldn’t believe. Favorite tacos to sample include the G.O.A.T. and the Jimmi Churri.
Muertos Cantina💗
Sit down inside or out at this delicious Mexican eatery. Standouts include the strawberry horchata and churro desserts (we hear there’s a special twist for Valentine’s Day).
Desserts
Gourmandise💗
Order a stunning spread of Valentine’s pastries from Gourmandise. While this French cafè takes the real holiday off, they won’t let you go empty-handed—visit their site to get some goodies to pick up the day before. Banoffee loaf cake with brown butter icing, heart-shaped raspberry vol au vent, and specialty pink raspberry cakes are calling your name. Locations in SLC, Draper and American Fork.
Délice💗
Delice presents yearly offerings of Valentine’s goods that are hard to live without. Visit on the holiday to grab a sweet treat from this year’s exclusive lineup.
Stay over with your sweetheart at one of three secluded cottages on the properties of this Salt Lake icon. Find reservations at this site. Don’t forget to swing by the Les Secrets bar for exclusive holiday libations, or get creative at their Wine and Paint Nights, hosted every Wednesday this month in the glass house. For [price] you get everything you need.
Deer Valley is cooking up some fantastic classes this Valentine’s Day. On Saturday, Feb. 7 at 3:30 p.m., join the Deer Valley Café to learn cake decorating techniques like frosting flowers and icing writing. Can’t make that one? On Sunday at 3:30 p.m., you can join the staff for a class on making carrot cake from scratch. Pick up a new skill and make something sweet for your sweetheart.
On Sunday, Feb. 8 at 3:30, join a Carrot Cake class at Deer Valley Café and learn the basics of baking from scratch. Culinary experts will share and reveal the secrets behind the resort’s famed carrot cake, a perfect treat for Valentine’s Day.
The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
Kisses & Fishes 2026 is sure to impress. Wander through the azure halls of the aquarium and enjoy some bubbles of your own. For $72 each, you and your sweetheart can enjoy a delicious buffet and wander the aquarium from 6:30 to 10 p.m. General admission ($30) is also available but does not include food. Libations will be available for purchase at the event. Note that this event is 21+.
Enchanting, romantic and deeply sentimental, designer Hannah Ruth Zander premiered her latest bridal collection during her “Toast of the Town” runway presentation hosted by the Commercial Club in downtown SLC
Photography by Carly Duke, Sarah Robinson and Olivia Jones
With an emphasis on storytelling and sustainability, Zander crafts her collections by upcycling vintage pieces and reclaimed materials to create one-of-a-kind bridal gowns that evoke a skillful mix of timeless glam and nostalgic beauty.
In her latest release, Zander reinvents classic styles by taking elements that would otherwise feel dated, or even sappy, and bestows them with fresh life through imaginative applications and elevated technique; polka dots, layered frills and heart motif details all had their spotlight on the runway.
“I wanted this collection to feel joyful, sentimental, and deeply personal to my style,” says Zander. “These dresses have lived a life before, and now they get to be part of a new story. I hope they inspire people to dress up fully for the moments that matter, because life is a party and you are the toast of the town.”
If you’re a romantic who loves vintage details and a splash of avant-garde flair, this collection might have the gown for you. Explore more of Zander’s work here, and if you are interested in renting a gown, submit your inquiry to hannahruthzander@outlook.com with the event date and look of choice.
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, the days ahead are the time for card writing, reservation making, and gift-shopping (perhaps for something shiny). For a breathtaking gesture with a bit of Utah flavor, consider ordering a specialty bouquet from one of many talented floral vendors around the state. See below for a full roundup of Utah florist Valentine’s Day deals!
Utah Florist Valentine’s Day Deals 2026
Merci Floral
As seen in our 2025 Fashion Feature, Merci Floral is breaking out the beauty once again. Their Valentine’s popup sale includes wrap bouquets and arrangements, starting at $80. Browse the bouquets at mercifloral.com.
Every Blooming Thing (A Utah Bride Preferred Vendor!)
EBT in SLC has a lineup of modern twists on classic romantic gestures all lined up to make you look good this year. Whether you are looking to spend $65 or $300, the Every Blooming Thing team has a stunning classic option ready for you. See the full collection on their site here.
Cactus & Tropicals (A Utah Bride Preferred Vendor!)
Let your love bloom with a little help from Cactus and Tropicals. Make V-Day perfection with a selection of a bouquet, blooming basket, or custom arrangement.
2735 S. 2000 East, SLC l12252 Draper Gate Drive, Draper 7696 lS Main Street Midvale 84047
Jolley’s Gifts and Floral
Not only does Jolley’s Gift and Floral in SLC have a huge array of floral options to wow your lover, but this year they also are featuring a full lineup of Valentine’s-inspired decor and vases for any pink-loving lady.
If you’re looking for something more unique during this holiday of love, Native Flower Co. has gifts from bonbons to blossoms and everything in between. Gifts range from $10-$185. Delivery available. Online ordering for Valentine’s Day ends on 2/13 at 3pm.
Orchid Dynastyhas a collection of unique flora including orchids, succulents and much more. This year’s lineup includes a variety of unique bouquets that are sure to stand out this holiday. Most prices for their flowers and arrangements in their ‘Gifting’ collection range from $50 to $300. Delivery available.
Rich and colorful, moody and marvelous! Blooms & Co.’s oh-so-classic rose bunches are available now, ranging from $70-$100. Available from 2/9-2/14. Place you pre-order now on their website.
With arrangements from $50-150, Provo’s quaint flower stop Bloomique is breaking out the classic Valentine’s hues for swoon-worthy gifts. Browse all their offerings on their site.
Have a specific look in mind? Pick your color palette and let Suncrest handle the rest! With bonbons and bouquets from $75-$175, these bunches are sure to impress. Not a fan of the traditional holiday flowers? Pick up a vibrant green shower steamer, packed with fresh eucalyptus and live greens.
A bride’s summer garden wedding dreams come true at Quiet Meadow Farms
Photography by Modern Lens Studio
The Couple
Financial advisor Karsten and soon-to-be counselor Makayla met during their studies in Ohio. Today, the couple calls Millcreek home. After three years together, Karsten was ready to surprise his love with a picnic proposal at Granite Park. Before the picnic, Makayla and Karsten spent the day enjoying the marine life at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Draper. By the time the couple got to the park, Makyla had developed a hunch that Karsten was planning something, but when she did not recognize any of the cars in the parking lot, her suspicions waned.
Makayla and Karsten walked together through the frost-dusted park until they reached the center of a field. Makayla heard a camera shutter and spotted their friend out of the corner of her eye. “That’s when I knew it was really happening,” she says. Karsten proceeded to get down on one knee and asked Makayla to marry him, to which she enthusiastically said “yes!”
The Wedding
Inspired by a photo she saw of a brightly-colored floral arch, Makayla crafted a “Summer Garden Party” wedding design centered around a hot pink, brilliant orange and butter-yellow color palette with soft blues and neutral tan accents. At Quiet Meadow Farm in Mapleton, the expansive views and spacious outdoor fields won the couples’ heart and provided the perfect foundation for Makayla’s summer garden dreams.
At the end of the aisle, Makayla met her groom in a fit-and-flare gown embellished with delicate beading and lace details. To complement his bride, Karsten wore a custom cream-colored suit with a floral boutonniere that matched her bouquet. Beneath an arbor adorned with pink, yellow and blush roses, the couples’ church group leader officiated their vows and announced their union as husband and wife.
The Party
Friends and loved-ones were greeted to the party by a polaroid guest-book and an elegant mirror that doubled as a seating chart. Following the ceremony, R&R catering served pulled-pork, brisket, baked beans and mac’n cheese for dinner. For dessert, Makayla and Karsten shared a red velvet Bundt cake while guests enjoyed a variety of Bundtinis and assorted cookies.
To kick-off the festivities, the newlyweds performed their first dance to Louis Armstrong’s “La Vie En Rose.” which was followed by a father-daughter dance to “You’ll Always Be My Baby” by Alan Jackson and a mother-daughter dance to “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. When the special dance numbers had concluded, the couple and their guests reveled in a night of line-dancing and yard games.
The Honeymoon
After tying the knot, the newlyweds set off to The Bahamas where they enjoyed their first adventure as husband and wife.
The Bonneville Salt Flats provide texture and volume to a photographer’s vision
The salt flats are the perfect location to create something magical. Embracing the free nature of this landscape, Kelsey and Jake of Honeybee Weddings photograph a couple beneath the warmth of the setting sun, featuring the salt flats as its own character within the love story.
“Enter Paityn and her partner—absolute magic makers on the Bonneville Salt Flats. With the endless horizon, crunch of salt underfoot, and that cinematic glow of golden hour, we created the kind of images that remind you your love story can be as bold and uncontainable as the landscape itself,” says Kelsey.
This shoot embraces neutral tones and relaxed movement. This easy-going approach allows for the couple’s love to shine. An old-time cruiser was provided to help the couple find relaxation in the shoot, giving the couple the opportunity to let go and explore. Set against the open landscape of the salt flats, the cruiser gives a rebellious edge ultimately providing the couple free reign of the space. Enjoying each other in the moment, the couple’s joy leads them to where they are going next. “Honestly, it’s proof that your elopement or session doesn’t have to be cookie-cutter. It can be adventurous, bold, and unapologetically you,” says Kelsey.
Paityn bursts into the shoot like a firework. Covered in sparkles and a flowing, loose gown with star-shaped beads draping down. The shimmering sparkles within the gown resemble the twinkling sand on the flats. With matching sunglasses and hair pulled back, the couple embark on their adventure in the light of the setting sun.
Together, with laughter and love in their eyes, they take free reign of the environment surrounding them and give into the moment. This, Kelsey emphasizes, is a key part of the shoot. “This wasn’t just about pretty photos—it was about crafting an experience that inspires other couples to throw out the rulebook and embrace their own adventure, whether that’s cruising in a vintage ride, popping champagne in the desert, or simply leaning into the joy of being together,” she says.
Love blooms in this garden-inspired wedding design at Moments on Main
Photographed by Coley Cook Photography and Modern Lens Studio, this shoot captures a glimpse of spring. With neutral tones and natural movement, these photos come to life with florals as a supporting character in the couples’ love story. Jessica Reynolds of Duet Flower Studio curated the floral arrangements and says gardening inspired the design. “Gardens are where I best enjoy nature,” she says. “Most gardens by definition aren’t totally natural or wild, but they’re a form of nature that has been shaped with strategy and intention.”
Photo by Modern Lens Studio
The careful placement of the flowers and moss emphasizes the growing love between the couples. As the flowers bloom, so too does the chemistry between the bride and groom. There, stillness is found within the elegance of the couples’ stature, creating an image of grace alongside the natural elements of the floral decoration. The flowing gowns of each bride cascades onto the floor. Each gown has a different shape and style, just like the bouquets carried by the brides. Each blossom brings a feeling of new beginnings, a vivid image in which each couple shines through. This brightness and flirtatious tone was Reynold’s intention.
Photos by Modern Lens Studio
“Antique hydrangeas made up the bulk of the piece because they’re such a dependable workhorse,” says Reynolds. “They don’t wilt, they’re generous in volume, and full of moody, romantic tones. I paired them with light pink roses to bring softness and a refined edge to the design. The overall look is both structural and romantic, and it nods to the monochromatic, mono-bloom trends I’ve admired in other designers’ work, while still staying true to my style.”
The environment is designed as if the flowers are purposefully growing into the tables, walls, stairwells and floor, showcasing love in bloom. “I placed blooms in intentional groupings so each flower and texture could have its own moment to shine, just as I would in a garden design. Groupings give the eye places to pause and appreciate each element,” says Reynolds.
Photos by Coley Cook Photography
Alongside the mossy gardens, fireworks shine above, beside and between the couples, showing sparks flying in each intimate shot. An arch of light shining around the couples also adds a sense of belonging and togetherness between each couple. Each fixture invites the natural world inside, combining both delicacy and simplicity which creates an environment of comfortability in the picture.
Brides Paige and Isabelle tied the knot among the natural majesty of Grand Tetons National Park
Photos by Bella Alder Photography
The Couple
Full-time students and employees at Space Dynamics Laboratory in Logan, Utah, Paige and Isabelle have stuck by each other’s side since day one. They have been together for over two years and were engaged nine months ahead of the big day. Their proposal had two sides, both having planned a big event without the other’s knowledge.
One proposal, planned by Paige, took place at sunrise on New Year’s Day. With the rings hidden inside her shoes, Paige knelt down on one knee, and surprised Isabelle in the light of the rising sun. On Valentine’s Day,Isabelle reciprocated the proposal in the courtyard of the Grand America Hotel with family and friends by their side.
The Wedding
With dreams of a small, outdoor wedding, the two chose Grand Tetons National Park for an intimate and memorable celebration among their closest friends and family in the crisp, fall air.
From the mountain backdrops and poetic and natural landscape, the event was everything they had imagined. With friends donned in purple by their side and family in the pews, Paige and Isabelle were officiated by a close friend and said their “I dos” in matching white Converse. They both said the space had a spiritual connection that made this a special, momentous occasion.
Following the wedding was a luncheon at the Ranch House at Colter Bay within the park. The restaurant usually doesn’t serve large parties, but for Paige and Isabelle, they couldn’t resist. The staff created a private space for the party and served a custom menu. After lunch was served and the cake had been cut, Paige and Isabelle set off for their honeymoon in Cancun.
The Honeymoon
A week spent away in paradise was all the couple had in mind for their first week in married partnership. While there, they enjoyed good food and good company. It was their first time at an all-inclusive hotel, which they said was “amazing” and “did not disappoint.” They explored Chichén Itzá, tasted local cuisine, held monkeys and even swam with whale sharks.
