Sweet and Stylish: Little Sahara Engagement Shoot

Photos by Alexa Dotson @alexadotsonphotography

THE BEGINNING

It is not very romantic how we met, but our first kiss is a better story so I will tell that instead. We lived at the same apartment complex, and met through mutual friends. He was very kind and patient, and always there for me. He helped me get out an abusive relationship—he was my saving angel. During those first few week together, we spent days staying up nonstop talking and laughing. In one of our conversations I was joking about how every time a boy goes to kiss me I turn away and juke them. One night we were star gazing on our apartment complex rooftop cuddling and I was laying on Jordan’s right arm, and with his other left arm he guided his finger across the sky saying “ look there is a shooting star.” As he moved his hand pointing to the sky his face also turned toward mine. I got butterflies in my stomach because I realized he was going in for the kiss, and I shut my eyes, puckered up leaning in to kiss him. Then he goes “syke!” and turned away!!! We both started laughing. It was the first time a guy rejected me like that, and still to this day he keeps me on my toes and on the chase, which is what I need. We laughed about it for a moment and then shared our first kiss under the stars.

THE ENGAGEMENT

Jordan and I dated for three years before getting engaged, although we talked about it often. At one point, we even drew my dream ring together. On the day he popped the question, it wasn’t really on my radar, and that’s what made it special.

little sahara
little sahara

My family owns a beautiful piece of land up in the Uinta mountains where I have a lot of childhood memories, and it holds a special place in my heart. Jordan planned a weekend camping trip for us up their with his brother, and sister in law. One night, Jordan ask me if I wanted to go for a hike and watch the sunset. I actually filmed us walking, and the ring was in his back pocket (I slapped his butt and barley missed it). He took me up to the beautiful open meadow, and it was just us and the sunset. When we reached the top I hugged him, and heard his heart was beating so fast, and when I asked him why he said it was because we went on this long hike. He turned to me and said, “ Hey Sarah, I have a question.” Then he got down on one knee. I stifled a laugh when he slightly tripped over a baby aspen, but he quickly caught himself and said “Will you marry me?” I almost passed out and started crying. We hugged, and it was a little magical moment. Short but sweet, he pulled away with a grin and we made our way back to camp to show everyone the ring. Jordan is not a romantic so I was very proud of him for thinking of something so special. 

little sahara
little sahara

THE PHOTOS

At the beginning of December we took our engagement photos at the little Sahara at the sand dunes in Utah. It’s only a little over an hurs out of Provo, and you get gorgeous desert views without having to drive to southern Utah. I chose the location because of the landscape: Endless sand hills, less people, and I loved the idea of a more neutral color palette. You could dress in any color option and make the photos perfect. I wanted more of a modern western mood. Like not full out cowboy but more modern classy rancher vibes. Alexa, our family friend, was our photographer. We are so glad we picked her. I was so stressed, and she was really good at keeping the mood positive, fun, and reminding us to stay in love. Jordan hates photos, and the first thing he said after we left was “when do we get to take more?” We love her. 

little sahara
little sahara
little sahara

Find more inspirational engagement shoots here.

Bridal Beauty Buzz

Kate Giddings, owner and founder of Warpaint Makeup Academy, shares a list of must-dos for your wedding day hair and makeup. Follow this pro’s tips, and say “I do” to relaxing and enjoyable wedding-day prep.

PERFECT YOUR PREP
Arrive with your skin clean, exfoliated and moisturized so that your makeup artist is able to apply your cosmetics flawlessly.

TUNE UP YOUR TIMING
You can expect hair and makeup to each take 30-45 minutes per bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride, and you should anticipate each to take 60-90 minutes for the bride. Giddings suggests factoring in extra time if you have only one photographer documenting both partners’ getting-ready moments.

SELECT YOUR STYLE
To create the perfect look, consider your venue, gown and season. For example, a classic gown worn in a formal venue might coordinate best with an updo and a bold lip, while a boho gown in a more casual setting might pair best with loose curls and understated makeup. The most important factor here is your personal preference: it’s your wedding day, and you should look like you as much as possible.

SPEAK UP
It’s your day. If there’s something about your look that you want to change, let your makeup artist know. “I recommend having a trial run with your artist three to five weeks ahead of your wedding day, so that the big day itself can go off without a hitch,” says Giddings. “Start looking for images of makeup that you really like and bring them with you on the day of your trial run.”

Giddings’ Dos + Don’ts
Do use individual false lashes. For a more natural look, skip the lash strip and go with individual false lashes.
Do highlight your brow bone. Top off your makeup look with highlighter on your brow bone to make your eyes really pop.
Do assign touch-up duty to a bridesmaid. Ask this trusted bridesmaid to carry a lipstick, concealer, powder and buffing brush or sponge in her bag. These quick touch-up products will ensure your makeup remains flawless all day long.
Don’t wear SPF. If your photographers are using flash, avoid SPF, which will cause the flash to bounce off the skin and make you look washed out.
Don’t pile it on. Wedding photos are often taken in natural light. If you choose a heavy base, the makeup will look obvious—or worse—cakey.
Don’t go too trendy. The more faddish your look, the more dated your wedding photos will be in 20 years.


For more Beauty Buzz, click here.

Aisle Style: Natalie Wynn Gowns

STAND OUT

This whimsical A-line Natalie Wynn gown is for the bride looking to stand out from the crowd. Gown by Natalie Wynn.

GO BOHO

Natalie Wynn

Photo by Michele Cozzens

With lace detailing, Swish mesh, bell sleeves and a sweeping train, this classic-meets contemporary gown is perfect for a bohemian inspired event. Gown by Natalie Wynn.

SHOW OFF YOUR SOFT SIDE

Natalie Wynn

Photo by Michele Cozzens

From appliquéed bishop sleeves to blush floral lace, this dress offers elevated bohemian style. Gown by Natalie Wynn.

GET CREATIVE

Natalie Wynn
Photo by Michele Cozzens

This sleeveless V-neck gown offers brides the perfect opportunity to stick to the classics while offering out-of-the-box flair. With intricate lace-detailing and side cut-outs, this gown is edgy-yet-feminine and issure to make a statement.
Gown by Natalie Wynn.

PAIR PERFECTLY

Natalie Wynn
Photo by Michele Cozzens

Together, these gowns tell a love story with intricate lace detailing, whimsical design unconventional bridal styling.
Gowns by Natalie Wynn.


Find more aisle inspiration on our site.

Celebration Makers 2021: The Lodge at Blue Sky

The Lodge at Blue Sky

Imagine designing your wedding guided by a natural backdrop of breathtaking sunsets, alpine meadows and serene brooks. The Lodge at Blue Sky is nestled on a private 3,500-acre ranch in the Wasatch Mountains. Designed to reconnect guests with the natural environment in a transformative way, the exclusive retreat abounds in space for couples to spend meaningful time together with the ones they love in a unique, memorable and safe setting.

“Mother Nature is the focal point of all our wedding venues,” says Jessica Cook, area director of sales and marketing. “Our mountaintop yurt is perfect for elopements and micro-weddings. Couples can have an intimate sunset ceremony on the outdoor terrace followed by a private dinner thoughtfully designed by James Beard Award-Winning Executive Chef Galen Zamarra.”

Other options include The Tavern, an original 1800s cabin adjacent to a large alpine field, and The Arena, an 8,000-square-foot space that was once Blue Sky’s original indoor riding arena. “We love getting creative with locations, we have so much beautiful land to play with,” says Cook. And, to ensure an elevated guest experience, all events are fully supported by the seasoned experts on the catering and banquets team.

Guests can choose to complement their wedding experience with a romantic stay at the Lodge. They can also enjoy a sunrise breakfast horseback ride, crystal bowl sound bathing meditation or private dinner with a High West Whiskey tasting. “We want each guest to leave feeling inspired, expansive, rejuvenated,” says Cook.

The Lodge at Blue Sky

“Smaller weddings come with surprise benefits. Couples are more intentional now about how they spend their special day and how they choose to reconnect with those most important to them. We’re also seeing shorter engagements, which also come with perks. Some couples just aren’t interested in months of stress and planning anymore; they’d rather spend their energy on experiences and true connection” —Jessica Cook | Area Director of Sales & Marketing

The Lodge at Blue Sky

Ask the Expert

WHAT’S AHEAD:

Helicopter weddings. With our heli-adventure program, guests can go heli-fly fishing, heli-hiking, heli-mountain biking or heli-skiing. Access to remote terrain in the high Uintas makes this ideal for memorable elopements or small ceremonies.

EXCITED ABOUT:

Contemporary wedding gowns and suits adorned with subtle, nostalgic touches—a quiet nod to our distinctive Western heritage. Foraged straight from the property, wildflowers and fresh mountain sage incorporated into wedding design can also offer each celebration a unique sense of place.

FRESH IDEAS:

We ask quirky, esoteric questions of all of our guests prior to their arrival to ensure that their experience is truly bespoke. Knowing as much as possible about each guest helps us suggest great experiences that they might not have originally considered.

The Lodge at Blue Sky

27649 OLD LINCOLN HWY., WANSHIP | 435-571-0349 | AUBERGERESORTS.COM/BLUESKY


Explore more Blue Sky weddings here.

Mother’s Day Gift Guide: The In-Law Edition

Feminine leisure and relaxation flat lay overhead, sunday morning brunch, Mother's Day, birthday or Valentine's celebration.

Finding a gift for loved ones is never easy, and moms can be particularly difficult. As an added layer of stress and confusion, purchasing your first offering to your new mother-in-law can feel like an impossible feat. You aren’t yet sure of her taste, and making a good impression is high on your priority list. Not to worry, Utah Bride and Groom has combed local shops to offer a curated gift list that every in-law will appreciate. Whether she’s an adventurous eater or a trendsetting fashionista, we’ve got Mother’s Day gifts fit for every type of in-law.

mother's day
Photo courtesy of The Stockist

1. Pamper and Relax Bath and Body Kit from The Stockist  

Every mom deserves a day of relaxation, and this lavish kit delivers exactly that. The bundle includes lavender-infused products like soothing bath oil, hydrating eye cream and pillow mist. Purchase in-store or online
875 E 900 S, SLC | 801-532-3458

Photo courtesy of Every Blooming Thing

2. Simple Arrangement From Every Blooming Thing 

You can never gift wrong with a colorful floral arrangement. Every Blooming Thing designs playful and unique bouquets for holidays, formal events and impressing your mother-in-law.
1344 S 2100 E, SLC | 801-521-4773

Photo courtesy of Alice Lane

3. Sting Tray by Alice Lane 

Both versatile and stylish, a rose-toned tray makes a classic addition to a bare coffee table or kitchen island. More designs available in-store and online.
602 E 500 S, SLC | 800-423-7757

mother's day
Photo courtesy of The Children’s Hour

4. Lana Red Block Heel from The Children’s Hour

Give the gift of timeless fashion with this cherry red strappy block heel. Crafted by Free People, your mother-in-law will appreciate the quality leather and padded insole. Purchase available in-store or online.
898 900 E SLC | 801-359-4150

Photo courtesy of The Stockist

5. Strawberry puffy tablet sleeve from The Stockist

Every accident-prone person should have a tablet case, especially moms on the go. This sweet strawberry sleeve from The Stockist is adorable and functional. Purchase available in-store or online.
875 E 900 S, SLC | 801-532-3458

mother's day
Photo courtesy of Cactus and Tropicals

6. Succulent arrangement from Cactus & Tropicals

For the in-law with an affinity for foliage, a colorful succulent arrangement makes a thoughtful impression. Cactus & Tropicals select one-of-a-kind cacti and succulents for each arrangement, and includes a greeting card and care instructions with each package. Find them in-store or online. Delivery services are available for select locations.
12252 Draper Gate Drive, Draper |  2735 S 2000 E, SLC | Cactusandtropicals.com

Photo courtesy of The Bar Project


7. A Nightcap courtesy of The Bar Project

The Nightcap from the Bar Project is a home cocktail experience that includes recipe cards and unique ingredients. Each box comes with enough syrups, dried garnishes, citrus and mixers to make nine to 12 cocktails, and recipes for three unique drinks. Sign up for a subscription or purchase a one-time shipment at thebarprojectslc.com

mother's day
Photo courtesy of The Fox Shop

8. Rectangle Charcuterie Board from The Fox Shop

Handcrafted from reclaimed oak, a charcuterie board from the Fox Shop doubles as a decorative kitchen centerpiece. Each board is made from unique found materials, so no two pieces are alike. Find more styles at the Fox Shop storefront 4696 S. Holladay Blvd., or on their site thefoxshop.co

Photo courtesy of Utah Taste Off

9. Utah Taste Off kit

Test your in-law’s taste buds with this unique locally sourced kit. Each month offers a variety of unique food categories like the Queso Kit or Cookies & Cream Kit. Simply pre-order your preferred bundle online and pick it up at a marked location. Tasteoff.com 

mother's day
Photo courtesy of Foundation Goods

10. Honeycomb Throw Blanket from Foundation Goods 

A chic and cozy throw blanket is essential to getting through rainy spring days. Gift your mother-in-law a blush-toned throw from Salt Lake’s own Foundation Goods and she may never leave the sofa again. Available in stores at 67 E. Truman Avenue, or online foundationgoods.com

Photo courtesy of Caputo’s

11. Virtual “Tour of Spain” cooking course from Caputo’s.

Led by artisan chefs at Caputo’s Market & Deli, this virtual class explores Spain’s rich tradition of food. The course costs include a tasting kit sent to your home ahead of time, as well as a full retail package of each item. The Tour of Spain takes place on May 7, you can explore and purchase more virtual classes on their website. Caputos.com 


Explore more gift inspiration on our site.

The Suite Life: Wedding Stationary

PREPARE PUNCTUALLY
“Your wedding is a life event that will continue to have significance for generations, and the tangible manifestations of your celebration are so important,” says Sean Bradley, owner and director of Tabula Rasa. To ensure the preparation process goes off without a hitch, he emphasizes the importance of timing. “You can never start too soon, but you can often start too late,” says Bradley, who recommends ordering each and every paper product at least six months before you want it to be in your guests’ hands.

wedding stationary
Ink & Press Co. Photographs by Adam Finkle & Mikyla Manu

ASK THE EXPERTS
“There is a formal traditional structure to the wording and phrasing of invitations,” explains Bradley. The key is to find the perfect balance between aesthetically pleasing and informative. “We give that advice and guidance at no additional charge. Trust a professional who has the experience and expertise to guide you in how to phrase your paper suite properly,” he says. According to Mikyla Manu, owner of Ink & Press Co., key phrases can help indicate the formality of your event to invitees. “There are definite rules and best practices when it comes to creating your wording. For example, ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith request the honor of your presence’ implies a black tie occasion, whereas ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith invite you to celebrate the marriage of’ is indicative of a less formal affair.”

wedding stationary
Ann Elizabeth Print Studio. Photographs by Adam Finkle & Mikyla Manu
wedding stationary
Ann Elizabeth Print Studio. Photographs by Adam Finkle & Mikyla Manu

PERSONALIZE YOUR PRINTS
Experts can offer advice on the touches that will make your paper goods stand out, Manu explains. “I recommend clients tell their story in the details, like envelope liners, vintage postage or a monogram that can be used on their websites,” she says. Another way to personalize your paper goods is by adding unexpected elements to your suite. “We’re seeing more texture and use of color in the actual paper selection versus the ink colors,” says Jenner Lehr, digital marketing director for Ann Elizabeth Print Studio. “We’re finding that people are eager for a tactile experience with everything being digital.”

wedding stationary
Ink & Press Co. Photographs by Adam Finkle & Mikyla Manu

OVER ORDER
“Under-ordering is the ultimate no-no,” says Bradley. He believes purchasing between 10-25 extra invitations will ensure that
you’re perfectly prepared. “When ordering, I highly recommend ordering an additional 10-15 percent more than the planned mail-to count,” says Lehr. “We find that couples’ guest lists continue to change throughout the wedding planning process,” she explains. “Plus, it doesn’t hurt to have extra for keepsakes.”

wedding stationary
Ink & Press Co. Photographs by Adam Finkle & Mikyla Manu

SOURCES:

Ann Elizabeth Print Studio Photography: Adam Finkle, AJF Photography Styling: Lauren Brady, Saucy & Kitsch Hand Calligraphy: Allison McClanahan, Wildwood Calligraphy & Post

Ink & Press Co. Photography: Mikyla Manu, Ink & Press Co. Styling: Mikyla Manu, Ink & Press Co. Hand Calligraphy: Mikyla Manu, Ink & Press Co.

For more wedding stationary inspiration, click here.

Stormy Bridals at Arches National Park

Southern Utah has always been held near and dear in the hearts of photographers, especially wedding photographers. The contrast between red rock, wide open skies and white bridal gowns produces an inevitably striking photo. Arches National Park is particularly known for it’s awe-inspiring formations, making the perfect setting for a unique bridal shoot. When couple Wendy and Ashley visited the park in the past, they felts drawn to its raw untamed beauty and decided it would be the perfect spot to tie the knot. While Southern Utah is typically thought to be an arid location, the brides were met with icy winds and stormy skies. Both the couple and photographer Haley Nord saw the troublesome weather as an opportunity for an unforgettable shoot. “I love the way the Southwest looks in a storm,” says Nord. “It magnifies the intensity of the space, and provides a beautiful contrast to the softness of two people in love.” Moody skies seem to amplify the passion between the couple as well, and the impact can be through each image. In one striking photo, Nord notes the feeling of connection to both nature and each other that is captured. “There is this one shot where they are looking at each other, and I love how everything else melts away in that photo.”

“We broke up the day up between sunrise and sunset so they had an opportunity to warm up and have lunch with their family.” Photo by Haley Nord.
Photo by Haley Nord.
“When we went to the second location, both Ashley and Wendy seemed struck by the place.” Photo by Haley Nord.
“I always aim to highlight both the way two people fit together, and in a larger sense, how we all fit into the larger landscape.” Photo by Haley Nord.
Photo by Haley Nord.
The couple chose accents of burgundy and white in their natural-inspired florals. Photo by Haley Nord.
Photo by Haley Nord
Photo by Haley Nord.

VENDORS
Photographer: Haley Nord
Florals: Wild Floral
Venue: Arches National Park


Explore more desert bridals here.

Natural Beauty: 8 Wild Outdoor Shoots

As one of the most outdoor-driven states in America, it’s no surprise many Utah couples choose to say their “I dos” surrounded by nature. Whether on top of a breathtaking cliff in the red-rock-laden landscapes of Moab or within a vibrant forest deep in the Rockies, Utahns have pledged their love in a range of wild sceneries. Perhaps it’s the devastatingly stunning photos that arise from the raw beauty of the outdoors, or maybe tying oneself to another is more special under the watchful gaze of mother nature. Whatever the reason, we love everything about outdoor nuptials. 

This Earth Day, we’re revisiting some of our favorite real weddings, inspiration shoots and standout photos that celebrate nature in all her wild forms. 

Photo by Brushfire Photography

Deer Valley Resort offers endless opportunities for mountain majesty, like this bride becoming one with the woods. Grassy slopes and vast views promise a memorable engagement shoot.

Outdoor Photography
Photos by Jacque Lynn Photography

Little Sahara and The Dunes provide a serene setting for a summer bridal shoot. Featured on our 2019 cover, this sun-drenched inspiration session showcases the importance of desert-friendly practices, such as choosing drought-friendly floral arrangements. Water-wise blooms like cottage yarrow, blushing bride protea and foraged Utah grasses make a unique bouquet while lessening the strain on Utah’s dwindling water supply.

Outdoor Photography
Photo by Jarom & Shanessa Photo + Film

An adventurous elopement in the heart of southern Utah highlights the diversity of landscapes available to couples. Enveloped by grand views and red rock, these two make their vows where none but nature bear witness.

Camp Sarika by Amangiri
Photo by Heather Nan

Camp Sarika by Amangiri is a vast array of untouched desert landscapes. This 2021 inspiration shoot offers a glimpse into splendid seclusion—the perfect place for a deeply personal bridal shoot.

Outdoor Photography
Photo by Hawkeye Photo by Ashley

Utah fiercely embraces all four seasons, and so do winter-loving couples looking for a blustery adventure. Shot in the woods next to Silver Lake, this snowy shoot exemplifies wild elegance. Towering pines are instantly recognizable to any savvy Utahn, and provide a sense of comforting privacy to these lovebirds.

Photo by Kayla Swayze

Mystical and enchanting, this woodland inspiration shoot is wildly alive. Forest shoots are incredibly popular in Utah bridal photography, and the untamed beauty of Rocky Mountain backwoods elevates the aesthetic to ethereality.

Photo by Brianna Vail

An outdoor photography roundup would not be complete without mention of the Salt Flats. Something of a blank canvas, the lake bed is open for interpretation to each new couple. For these two, the stark beauty of endless white seems to reflect their love as it is—boundless and eternal.

Outdoor Photography
Photo by Sparkle Photography
outdoor photography
Photo by Sparkle Photography

This real wedding graced our glossy pages in 2020 and remains a top alpine inspiration. The couple traveled to Sundance Mountain Resort where they planned a ceremony tucked deep in the vibrant forest. Guests took two chairlifts to reach the stunning location where the duo read their vows. Joining the musings was a surprise guest—a handsome llama the groom offered as a surprise gift to the bride.

These magnificent nature shots would not be possible without the existence of raw untamed beauty inherent to Utah’s landscape. To ensure the longevity of Utah’s natural wonders, take care to practice eco-conscious outdoor photography.


Find more outdoor wedding inspiration here.

Real Wedding: Laid Back Elegance at Blue Sky

Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding
Photos by Heather Nan Photography

Layne and Vince
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Wanship. June 27
Photographs by Heather Nan Photography

NEW YORK STATE OF MIND
Vince, an assistant coach for the Utah Jazz, met Layne, a real estate agent for Summit Sotheby’s International Realty, while the two were in college at Miami of Ohio and became friends as fellow student-athletes. After graduation, the duo reconnected while Layne was living in New York City and Vince, who was working for the Minnesota Timberwolves at the time, was in town for a game. They had dinner together and stayed in touch, which led to the pair starting a long distance relationship.

Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding
Photo by Heather Nan Photography
Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding
Photo by Heather Nan Photography

ONE FINE MORNING
After the pair—who had been friends for a decade— had dated for four years, Vince decided it was time to pop the question. He surprised Layne with a trip to New York, where the duo spent the first half of the trip in the Hamptons seeing Layne’s favorite musician, Donavon Frankenreiter. Then, they headed to Manhattan, where they visited Layne’s friends and went to their favorite spots around the city. “He proposed in front of my old apartment in West Village, and then took me to eat breakfast at Tiffany’s,” Layne explains. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s is my favorite movie, and I truly felt like Holly Golightly. It was the most magical week of my life.”

Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, wedding party, navy bridesmaids' dresses
Photo by Heather Nan Photography
Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, blue and navy color scheme, bride's shoes and jewelry
Photo by Heather Nan Photography
The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, blue and navy color scheme, groom's rings, cufflinks, and bowtie
Photo by Heather Nan Photography
Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding
Photo by Heather Nan Photography

TIME AND PLACE
“We chose The Lodge at Blue Sky for our venue,” says Layne. “The day after we got engaged in NYC, we came back to Utah and the next morning we had breakfast at High West Distillery at Blue Sky Ranch. We started looking around the site and saw Blue Sky’s lodge. The moment we arrived, I fell in love with the venue.” In that moment, Layne realized this was the perfect place to host an intimate weekend with her closest friends and family. In keeping with Blue Sky’s color scheme, the pair chose sky blue and navy. According to Layne, “sky blue perfectly mirrored the beautiful, picturesque clouds and navy felt like such an elegant addition.”

The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding
Photo by Heather Nan Photography
Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, sky blue and navy color scheme, wedding table arrangement
Photo by Heather Nan Photography

EASY ELEGANCE
“For our wedding design, we went for laid back elegance,” says Layne. “The setting at Blue Sky is enough to take your breath away, so I wanted everything to feel pretty natural. We utilized the theme of the horseshoe throughout because they symbolize luck for my family; we have one in every room in our house, and I wear a pendant around my neck that Vince bought for me.” In addition to horseshoes, the pair included crystals as a spiritual touch. “Crystals were our way of bringing out our personalities,” says Layne. “It was so important that we incorporated things that are special to us.”

The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, sky blue and navy color scheme, signature cocktails, floral arrangement
Photo by Heather Nan Photography
The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, sky blue and navy color scheme, wedding table arrangement, crystal table placements, wedding floral arrangements
Photo by Heather Nan Photography
The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, sky blue and navy color scheme, simple wedding cake, easy elegance
Photo by Heather Nan Photography

THE FIRST DANCE
“Our first dance was to ‘Shine’ by Donavon Frankenreiter because we saw him sing live in Montauk a few days before Vince proposed, and it just became our song,” says Layne. “I also had a mini bridal shower in Park City, where we got to see him sing last spring.”

Layne and Vince wedding, The Lodge at Blue Sky, June wedding, Utah wedding, sky blue and navy color scheme, first dance
Photo by Heather Nan Photography

Wedding Planner: Mara Mazdzer, Fuse Weddings and Events

Décor and Custom Signage: Fuse Weddings and Events

Day-Of Stationary: Fuse Weddings and Events

Photographer: Heather Nan Photography

Venue: The Lodge at Blue Sky

Lodging: Auberge

Florist: The Petal Coop

Rings: Tiffany & Co.

Cake: Tulie Bakery

Guest Favors: Chip Cookies

Bride’s Gown: Chantel Lauren

Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin and Loeffler Randall

Groom’s Suit: Bespoke Custom Clothing

Bridal Fashion Stylist: Styled by Sammy

Outdoor Rentals and Custom Neon: SceneMakers by Modern Display

Linens: Creative Coverings

Calligraphy: Made by Jen

Makeup: Jill Marie Peterson

Hair: Stephanie Brinkerhoff

Flower Girl Fashion: Chantel Lauren

Ceremony and Reception Talent: Greenlight Booking


Find more inspiring Real Wedding stories here.

Dreamy Salt Flats Bridals

The Salt Flats are already an iconic location for bridal photos, and Kristianna McGee brings her own editorial interpretation to the beloved landscape.

Photos by Kristianna McGee Photography

VENDORS
Photographer: @kristiannamcgeephoto
Content Day: @aubreebellephotography
Models: @casbryn
Florals: @harperflorals
Dress: @eleanorsbridal
Presets: @aubreebellepresets


Dive into more inspiration shoots here.