First looks have been becoming more popular over the years, and for good reason. Capturing the moment you first lock eyes with your partner is incredibly special. Having the privacy to embrace emotions is often lost when you wait to have a big reveal walking down the aisle, but in an intimate first look, both partners are free to release happy tears or share a passionate embrace. Some grooms even break out in dance or shout to the sky in thanks. Still not convinced to do a first look? Consider these five reasons to include one in your wedding photography:
Nerves will be running high on your wedding day, especially if you are someone who tends to sweat the small stuff. Take some of the stress out of your big day by sharing a private moment with your partner. Seeing each other beforehand will allow you to know what to expect when you meet at the altar and give you the freedom to be fully present in the moment.
Photo by Hights Photography
You’ll Have More Photos
There is nothing worse than looking back on your wedding only to find a lack of photos reflecting special moments. Scheduling a first look with a skilled photographer gives you even more opportunities for quality photos. The three of you can also coordinate free of the distractions of wedding guests and wedding-day buzz.
Photo by Hights Photography
Feelings Will Only Get Stronger
Some brides worry that if their spouse sees their gown before they walk down the aisle, there will be less passion when they say “I Do.” The reality is that seeing each other before the ceremony only strengthens the bond between you and your future spouse. Some couples say they felt like they were in a dream during the first look. The second time they lay eyes on each other is when it really sinks in that they’re looking at their forever partner.
Photo by Hights Photography
You Will Capture Real Emotion
On the day of your wedding, it’s safe to say that all eyes are on you. For couples that tend to feel shy when they are the center of attention, showing emotion can feel terrifying. By taking the time to share a private moment before the ceremony, you and your partner are free to indulge in whatever emotion comes your way. Whether you both burst into tears or laugh in happiness, the right photographer captures the unfiltered emotion in the most meaningful way.
Photo by Hights Photography
You Can Get Photos Done Before the Ceremony
Block out an hour or two before your ceremony to take photos of your first looks. Doing so will allow you to add touch-ups to your makeup and gown before you walk down the aisle. Many brides are doing their first looks days ahead of their wedding to avoid scheduling conflicts. If you plan on doing a makeup and hair rehearsal, adding on a brief photoshoot is a great use of time and styling.
You can find more bridal photography inspiration here.
Known as the adventure capital of Utah, Moab is a popular elopement location. Offering breath taking vistas and red rock backdrops, it’s the perfect place to say your ‘I do’s.’ The desert locale is also home to five incredible National Parks like Arches and Zion—ideal locations for outdoorsy couples. But before you pack up and head into the desert, we’ve gathering the ultimate guide on eloping in Moab.
PICK THE RIGHT SEASON Southern Utah is known for scorching summer temperatures, and no bride wants to sweat through her gown. Plan your elopement in the early spring or late fall for the best photos and experience. Keep in mind that from April to May is the high season for tourists, so you’re likely to have some out-of-town bystanders at your wedding if you choose to elope in a National Park.
APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE Before you say your vows in the backcountry of Moab, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. Both parties must apply for the license at the County Clerk’s Office located in Grand County. After your elopement, your officiate must sign, date and return the license within 30 days to the Grand County Clerk.
PICK A LOCATION Spanning five unique national parks and an endless array of remote locations, Moab offers something for every kind of couple. Keep in mind that most outdoor locations will require a permit and enforce restrictions on ceremony size and wedding décor. For an open-air ceremony, popular venues include Arches National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. Arches allow up to 25 people depending on which viewpoint you choose, and the permit required is $185. A permit to marry in Dead Horse Point park is $60, although the price varies depending on the size of your guest list. As an added plus, Dead Horse Point is also dog friendly!
Moab also boasts plenty of less rural venues, like Castle Valley Inn Bed and Breakfast, Whispering Oaks Ranch and Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa.
LEAVE NO TRACE The cardinal rule of eloping in Moab is to leave the land just as you found it. Preservation laws are strict in Southern Utah, and trashing the venue will land you with hefty fines. Leave No Trace principles revolve around one simple phrase: “Pack it in, pack it out.” Whatever you bring that isn’t natural to the area should be taken with you, including biodegradable flowers. It’s also best to refrain from bringing in structures and furniture that can harm the land. Instead, opt for boho-chic rugs and collapsable arches that are easy to break down.
Find more information about outdoor locations in Utah here!
For most pet owners, their dogs are valuable members of the family. So, of course, it only makes sense to include them in their celebration of love. Adding pups to the guest list is a common theme in relaxed weddings, and some couples even integrate their four-legged friends in the ceremony itself. To celebrate man’s best friends and highlight some of our favorite fluff-filled nuptials, we offer advice on including Fido on your wedding day.
Check with your venue Before you plan your ceremony with your pup, make sure your venue allows four-legged friends. Most outdoor settings are pet-friendly, but it’s always best to check with the manager before bringing in your dog. You should also ask about any potential hazards present at the venue, like toxic plants or pesticides.
Set reasonable expectations Consider your dog’s temperament when casting them in your wedding. Some pups play perfect ring-bearers, while others are better suited to sitting in the crowd. You want your dog to be relaxed and well-behaved during the ceremony, not a distraction.
Cast their role If you decide to cast your dog in a meaningful role, don’t be afraid to get creative. Have someone in your wedding party walk with them down the aisle as the Pup of Honor; make sure to decorate the leash to fit your wedding theme. Or, give them the task of holding the basket while your flower girl playfully tosses the petals. Of course, you should use flowers that are safe for dogs, just in case they decide to sneak a bite.
Prepare your pup Before the big day, let your dog explore the venue and acclimate to the surroundings. If possible, bring them to the rehearsal so they can get used to what will be expected of them during the ceremony. If you plan to dress up your pup in a dashing tuxedo or cute booties, try it out a few times ahead of the wedding. If they can’t stand the ensemble, you might want to consider opting for a simple getup instead.
Establish a handler While you are busy saying “I do,” make sure your dog has a designated caretaker that will attend to their needs. The handler should be able to keep track of feeding time and identify signs of stress should your pup become overwhelmed. Always keep a kennel on hand in case your dog needs a quiet break from the celebration.
In Utah, there’s no shortage of incredible outdoor landscapes to make into gorgeous photos. For epic engagement and formal galleries, try on some of these iconic Beehive State locations for size. Whether your vision is a romantic mountain vibe or the adventure tied to southern Utah’s red rocks, these hidden gems are sure to take your photoshoot to the next level!
1. Tony’s Grove, Logan Canyon, Logan
Photos by Kevyn Bruce Photography. For the couple that wants a little bit of everything: mountains, trees and serene lakeside shots are a cinch up Logan Canyon.
2. Bear Lake, Garden City by Billow and Mull
Photos by Billow and Mull Photography. If you and your love are looking for more of a lakeside adventure, why not travel to the quaintest lake town in the state?
3. Green Canyon, Logan
Photos by Brianna Williams Photography. All pines, all over is the name of the game up Green Canyon in Logan. For a simple backdrop and moody colors, head to this spot.
4. McPolin Farm, Park City
Photos by Erin Kate Photography. A truly iconic mountain destination of Utah, shooting at the White Barn will make your save the dates look like a classic postcard. The aspen trees make for a perfect neutral backdrop and there’s plenty of room to explore. Keep an eye out for this lovely couple’s full wedding, to be featured in December!
5. Pigeon Water, Duchesne County Utah
Photos by Tarrin Monson Photography. Pigeon Water Spring is a hidden, Eastern Utah gem with some of the most perfect mountain peak views you can find. Simple, majestic and elegant – what more could you ask for?
6. The Great Saltair, Salt Flats, SLC
Photos by Jadie Jo Photography. If you want the shoot’s focus to be completely on you, head to another Utah icon: the Salt Flats. A plain white background leaves the eye to wander to the most important elements – your faces!
7. Storm Mountain, Big Cottonwood Canyon
Photos by Grey Giraffe Photography. Towering rock faces, huge Utah peaks, and the two of you. For epic backgrounds on your photos, hiking up Big Cottonwood is a must. Be sure to wear a pop of color, as this bride-to-be smartly chose, so you don’t get lost in the natural beauty.
8. Solitude Resort, Big Cottonwood Canyon
Photos by Austen Diamond. Two ski bums in love plus the greatest snow on earth equals gorgeous and cute as a button engagement photos!
9. Provo Canyon Meadows, Provo Canyon
Photos by Branson Maxwell Photography. Many locations in Utah are moody and ominous (which works for many couples), but if bright and joyful is closer to your aesthetic, the Provo Canyon Meadows in spring will be your perfect match.
10. Sand Dunes, Nephi, Moab + Zion.
Photos by Jessica Janae Photography. Utah might just be one of the prettiest desert areas around – why not take advantage of the rolling hills of sand we have right at our fingertips?
11. Arches National Park, Moab
Photos by Emily Klarer Photography. Nothing is more iconic than Utah’s red rock landscapes down south. Take an adventure to visit Moab’s major arches for a bohemian vibe in your photos.
12. Zion National Park, Springdale
Photos by Magnolia & Ember Photography. A different kind of mountain landscape appears once you enter southern Utah, from fir trees to sagebrush and red ledges. Elegant but still wild is the name of the game, here – sound like you?
A coffee shop wedding performed on New Year’s Eve by the former Park City Mayor Dana Williams (who is a barista at the coffee shop) certainly differs from a conventional ceremony. Fortunately for couples planning their big day, there are no longer definitive rules to follow and every wedding has the potential to be as unique as the couple being united. That was especially true for Lindsay and Ryan who had two weddings: one in that Park City coffee shop and a second rustic wedding that included their new bundle of joy.
Lindsay and Ryan celebrated the birth of their son Ford in the midst of planning their formal wedding at Copper Moose Farm in Park City. Instead of making the day about just the two of them, they designed the event around their family of three. Four-month-old Ford wore a suit matching his dad’s and, following the wedding ceremony, was baptized by the officiant before the same guests who gathered for the wedding.
Photography by Carla Boecklin
Having a rustic chic wedding on a farm was “a direct reflection of the bride,” says Sarah Berry of Fresh Events. “Lindsay wanted to honor the beautiful setting and space. The goal was to have a sophisticated, chic and sustainable wedding.”
Photography by Carla Boecklin
This harvest-abundant farm is rich with familial metaphors—nurture, sprout, grow—and provided an ideal backdrop for Lindsay and Ryan’s casual party. “Dinner was served family-style on long farm tables,” Lindsay says. “We used ingredients that were fresh, local and sustainable including flowers that were harvested from the farm.” Blossoms graced the centerpieces on tables set beneath a white tent pitched inside the 3-acre farm at 7,000-feet elevation.
Photography by Carla Boecklin
“Everything we selected to incorporate into the wedding was authentic,” says the bride. “It truly represented who we are.” Lindsay—a triplet—walked down the aisle with her two brothers, a touching nod to the passing of their father. Ryan, a former professional musician, took to the stage to play first with his new wife and then with the band “that brought the house down,” says photographer Carla Boecklin.
Photography by Carla Boecklin
Lindsay’s advice to couples planning a wedding: “Make sure your wedding reflects who you are. Find a venue and size that feels right,” she says. “And most importantly, find an amazing photographer who captures all the special moments so you can relive them over and over again for generations.”
There’s a reason summer is deemed wedding season. Sunny days and warm nights are ideal for joyous celebrations—plus, the season turns every venue into a luscious backdrop for photos. To make the most of your summer wedding, we’ve gathered our favorite unique details to incorporate in your ceremony and reception.
Instead of a regular cocktail hour, treat your guests to an adorable mini gelato bar. The cold desert is ideal for beating summer heat and makes a memorable addition to your reception. For added charm, mix up the flavors or offer an adult-friendly version that includes boozy berries.
When dressed in colorful frocks and flower crowns, a flower girl is akin to a summertime sprite. Instead of choosing just one flower girl, include all the youngsters in your special day. There’s nothing cuter than seeing several bubbly children skip down the aisle while tossing petals every which way.
For the non-traditional groom, succulents offer a striking contrast to the usual floral boutonnieres. The incredible variety of colors and styles appeals to every kind of groom. Succulents are also drought-tolerant, making the perfect choice for an eco-conscious summer wedding.
It’s no surprise that summertime ceremonies can be sweltering. Offer your guests a complimentary parasol to shade them during your nuptials. The charming sunshades make one-of-a-kind party favors, and can be customized to commemorate your special day.
For a special photo opportunity and added whimsy, incorporate a decorative swing in your reception. Adorn the swing with vibrant florals and colorful bows to evoke the feeling of a carefree summertime celebration. Your guests will be lining up for their chance to relive childhood memories, and you will have unique photos to look back on for a lifetime.
Ditch the typical cooler and serve beverages in a canoe instead. The boat can store a much larger quantity of drinks and adds a rustic flair to your ceremony.
Photography: Britt Chudleigh.
Decadent chocolate cakes are better served during the cooler seasons. For a summer wedding, consider a lighter flavor like lemon curd or raspberry buttercream. Top your cake with seasonal fruit and florals like plums and daisies for added appeal.
During cocktail hour, there is no better pairing than drinks and a stylish charcuterie board. An assortment of meats and cheeses is perfect for summertime snacking, and offers a range of options for all diets. Offer warm-weather favorites like caprese fixings and sweet berries for an eye-catching board.
Take advantage of Utah’s many waterscapes for a stunning summer bridal session. Ponds are particularly vibrant during warmer months. When preparing for a photo session, make sure to pack plenty of bug spray and a change of clothes—you never know if your betrothed will give you a playful push into the water.
Elisha Braithwaite is the type of photographer that can make anyone appear like a seasoned model. Warm and accepting, Braithwaite puts her subjects at ease in front of the lens, allowing her to capture them in an authentic light. Over her five years in the industry, Braithwaite has photographed weddings, elopements and local businesses. As a wedding photographer, Braithwaite showcases the unique relationships of each couple and personalizes each shoot to reflect that connection. Her photographic style finds the perfect balance between editorialized styling and honestly capturing intimate moments, so each image serves as a true-to-life time capsule for each couple.
To showcase her talent and work in our 2021 issue, we spoke with Braithwaite about her hands-on approach to photography, her unique editing style and favorite projects.
I grew up in Davis County, studied fine art at Snow College, and started my business right out of college. I was at a turning point of deciding whether I wanted to intern for a fashion photographer and continue my art education, or stay home and explore some different options. I stayed home, met my now fiancé, quickly fell in love and started photographing weddings. That’s where I found meaning and fulfillment in using my photography skills to bring happiness to others through documenting weddings.
UBG: Tell us about how you got started in photography. What sparked your passion?
My interest in photography started when I realized there weren’t many photographers who offered hands-on guidance and direction. Growing up I rarely had comfortable photographic experiences. School, family, and senior portraits all felt assembly-lined where photographers offered little direction and expected you to perform like a model. I wanted to cultivate a hands-on photographic experience for everyone, especially “regular folks” so all could feel comfortable and have a positive experience. I got into weddings after falling in love myself and becoming more fascinated with other people and the different connections they had that were celebrated through their wedding.
UBG: You work in many different fields: weddings, portraits, landscapes, lifestyle and editorial. What is the full range of projects you work on?
My main projects are weddings, engagements and family photos. But I also work with a lot of small local businesses doing brand work. Unlike a lot of commercial work, the type of business photography I do really highlights the story of the business owner and the journey they’ve been on to find success. In my work both in weddings and the commercial field, people are inviting me to get a little deeper into their experience, and allow me to make something authentic to them.
UBG: How does your approach differ depending on the subject matter?
It depends on the project and client. My shooting and editing style for weddings is fairly consistent and I shift my posing style depending on what the client prefers. Some wedding clients prefer a more editorial look while most prefer a more candid documentary approach. My approach with businesses is completely different. Each business gets a customized photo style/edit so their branding photos are unique to their business.
UBG: Looking through your Instagram, your editing style is usually high in contrast and somewhat moody. How would you describe your aesthetic?
I gravitate towards light and colors that feel neutral and calming which is why I like a higher contrast, slightly moody or less vibrant type look. But I do want couples to look back and instantly recognize their wedding in the photographs. I try to keep the exposure and colors true to how it was that day. I try keeping editing to a minimum and don’t use presets to stylize my images.
UBG: Do you have a dream venue to shoot for a wedding?
My dream venues for Utah would be 4U Ranch and Amangiri. I love the colors and the feeling that they have created and cultivated there. I love River Bottoms Ranch as well; I would do every wedding there if I could.
UBG: Do you have a favorite or most memorable project, either wedding related or not?
Several years ago I photographed an elopement style wedding overlooking a rural part of the Grand Canyon. The couple initially wanted loved ones to join them but realized logistics would be difficult and ended up hosting a more traditional wedding at Under Canvas Zion by Cause We Can Events. The day after their wedding I hopped into their jeep and drove about six hours over rough dirt roads and boulders to a secluded spot overlooking the grand canyon. They exchanged vows and held the little ceremony they initially wanted. We took portraits up until the sunset and ended up camping overnight. These types of intimate experiences with couples are often the most memorable. I had another recent experience just like this where the couple brought me and their videographer (Shades of Jade) to Alstrom Point. We camped through a severe rain and snow storm, it was such a neat experience.
Recently I photographed one of my favorite weddings. The couple had a courthouse wedding ten years ago and skipped the celebration. The other night they held a ceremony above Deer Valley where they exchanged vows and rings in front of their three children. A rainbow appeared when the bride and her children walked down the aisle, badgers played in the background, and moose roamed around us from a safe distance. It was one of the more in tune with nature weddings I’ve ever done and it was full of so much emotion.
UBG: Do you have any upcoming projects or shoots that you can share with us?
I have a wedding happening in Northern California in August that I am really excited about just because it is so intimate. Everything is very personal to the couple, they are getting married in their mother’s garden which is usually a gathering spot for the whole family. I feel particularly important because the couple have told me they consider me as one of their loved ones, and they just want me to relax and enjoy the ceremony as much as possible. It’s those types of people that make me most excited about what I do.
UBG: What is one piece of advice you would offer an engaged couple?
I would advise them to stay true to themselves in their celebration, and I would advise them to be intentional in what they’re celebrating and why. I think so many couples get wrapped up in traditions, but it’s important to include the details that speak to your relationships. Find what reflects you as a couple, and infuse as much of that into your wedding day as possible.
Each season, top designers in bridal couture offer their interpretation of nuptial fashion. From embellished ballgowns to polished pantsuits, their exclusive designs offer something for every kind of bride. In their 2021 Fall/Winter bridal collections, designers offer corseted silhouettes and floral detailing. Many make nods to natural beauty while putting a contemporary twist on timeless styles. Among the many impressive gowns, we chose our favorite standout designs for some fashion-forward inspiration.
“Embrace.” Photo courtesy of Ines Di Santo
“Smitten” Photo courtesy of Ines Di Santo
Each gown in Ines Di Santo’s Fall 2021 collection shares a story of romance and meaning. The playful ball gown dubbed “Embrace” offers textured 3D floral detailing and feminine off-shoulder sleeves. On the opposite spectrum, the sophisticated “Smitten” features a square neckline and a detachable cape.
Look 7. Photo Courtesy of Zuhair Murad
Zuhair Murad channels three distinct feminine presences in their Fall 2021 bridal collection. Ranging from daring to free-spirited, Murad offers nuptial splendor in off-white shades and sparkling embellishments. We are particularly fond of this contemporary gown featuring symmetrical tulle trim and artful details.
Photo Courtesy of Galia Lahav
Paying homage to the prima donnas of ABBA, Galia Lahav named their Fall/ Winter 2021 collection “Dancing Queen.” Celebrating both unbound freedom and resplendent elegance, each gown in the collection features flowing figures reminiscent of ballerinas. The line pays particular attention to bodices, including this corseted gown carefully beaded with floral designs.
BR2142 Photo Courtesy of Costarellos
BR2124 Photo Courtesy of Costarellos
In their Fall 2021 collection, designer Christos Costarellos reinterprets feminine elegance with layers of lace and satin. From sweeping necklines to collared bodices, the collection exudes timeless style with a modern flair. The many shapes and designs offer something for every bride. Among our favorites are a belted lace gown and a silk trumpet-style garment.
“Indra” Photo Courtesy of Savvanah Miller
Once again, Savannah Miller celebrates timeless design and individuality in her 2021 bridal line. This delicate matte gown, named “Indra”, offers both elegance and functionality. The chiffon fan sleeves are detachable, perfect for an aisle-to-dancefloor celebration. Interspersed pearl beads give the dress a fashion-forward edge, while a full train adds timeless nuance.
Photographer: Greg Alexander
Photographer: Greg Alexander
From French designer La Métamorphose Couture comes a decadent line of gowns for the multifaceted bride. The Fall/Winter 2021 “Madame Butterfly” collection delivers a femme fatale edge to your special day. From ultra sexy jumpsuits to classic mermaid shapes, we can’t get enough of this glittering collection.
“Emma” Photo Courtesy of Lihi Hod
Israeli designer Lihi Hod designed a collection of romantic yet playful silhouettes in her 2021 collection. Named “Emma,” this strapless off-white gown features luxurious draping and a cheeky high slit. The sweetheart neckline and figure-hugging corset offer a feminine shape, while hidden pockets add modern flair.
“Aurora” Photo Courtesy of Markarian
Markarian’s “Aurora” is a delicate ensemble of floral lace and a two-tiered skirt. Sheer shoulder-capped sleeves attach to the structured bodice, offering a flirtatious feel to the elegant silhouette. Both timeless and sophisticated, the empire waist speaks to the classic bride.
“Elliana” Photo Courtesy of Marchesa
“Everlee” Photo Courtesy of Marchesa
Marchesa’s Fall 2021 collection is playful, romantic and statement-worthy. Featuring twirl-worthy skirts and embellished veils, each gown in the collection celebrates bridal beauty. We love every style in the line, but particularly a sleeved gown with a sheer neckline and floral detailing. Of course, we had to mention a classic ball gown with a feathered skirt.
“Melissani” Photo Courtesy of Naeem Khan.
Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, Naeem Khan’s Fall 2021 collection tells a whimsical story of escapism. From jumpsuits to dramatic capes, the line is perfect for brides seeking a non-traditional look. “Melissani” features unique windowpane embroidery and a deep V-neck. The long sleeves accentuate the pattern and shape, featuring saturated hues and shining sequins while spotlighting the standout neckline.
“Marjorie” Photo Courtesy of Sareh Nouri.
Sareh Nouri looks to 1920s style and romance in her autumn collection. Featuring applique lace and silk hand draping, each gown offers timeless grace. Among our favorites is “Margorie,” a soft trumpet gown with overskirt detail worthy of royalty. The square neckline and lace detailing are perfect for brides seeking age-old appeal.
“Royal Jewel Jumspuit” Photo Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf.
“Tafffeta Volant Dream” Photo Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf.
In their Fall/Winter 2021 bridal line, Viktor&Rolf offers an array of airy silhouettes and sculpted garments. For brides seeking a sleek pantsuit, the Royal Jewel Jumpsuit is a standout option. Featuring an embellished collar and a low-cut open back, the sleeveless jumpsuit is chic yet feminine. We also had to mention the eco-friendly gown “Taffeta Volant Dream.” With a voluminous tiered skirt and fitted bodice, it’s a modern interpretation of the classic ball gown.
Hear an echo? Hello, hello, hello? Don’t let the cavernous party rental warehouses scare you. Event rentals include tables, chairs, linens and tableware that are economical as well as eco-chic. For the budget-minded, rentals save money over purchasing, and for the eco-conscious, the items are reusable again and again. But how do you avoid your bash looking like everyone else’s? Three Utah wedding designers offer advise on ways you can personalize your party rentals with lively colors, fun fabrics and fragrant blooms.
Tag, You’re It
Brynn Larson of Blooms & Co. hung paper tags in varying hues of gray from a gilded manzanita branch. Using a folding chair she rented from Diamond Rental, Larson added dahlias, scabiosa, pincushion protea, exploding grass and fragrant jasmine. Finally, Larsen’s artful penmanship inscribed “bride” and “groom” on each pre-cut sign from Papersource with a white felt tip marker.
Bright Ideas
Crystal Tatton of Every Blooming Thing is so-so on soft hues. “I’ve been loving the vibrant colors and they photograph better,” she says. With that in mind, Tatton took a rustic folding chair rented from Event Masters and draped it in a fuchsia shawl with bright yellow pompoms. This chair won’t be missed dripping with mokara orchids, coxcomb and zinnias in bright, bold colors.
Front Row at Fashion Week
Carrie Parker of White Ginger Events makes it work—to use Tim Gunn’s famous line from Project Runway—with a runway-inspired ball gown look. Taking a classic Chivari chair from RSVP Party Rental, chairbacks are capped with a polka dotted satin fabric and pinned with a dainty chiffon ruffle. Simple roses and calla lilies don’t detract from the fancy fabric or the simple frames reserving this VIP spot for the day’s queen.