Everything is more vibrant, more magical, under the sea. Something about the mysterious allure of the unknown and the quiet serenity of waves draws some further into the deep end. The same thing could be said about love. The rising crests of passion and swells of joy call to the spirit of the ocean. Capturing the two in action would seem impossible, if it weren’t for the creative minds of talented photographers and stylists. Taking place in the vivid Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, Utah based photographer Lissa Chandler created an underwater inspiration shoot akin to a nautical fairytale.
FIT FOR A PRINCESS
“There’s something so magical about aquariums – the way the light moves, the water, the feeling of being part of another world,” says Chandler. Here, an aquamarine ring shines with the glow of aquarium light. Sea shell accessories and vibrant blooms are reminiscent of a certain seafaring princess.
THE SETTING
“With micro weddings on the rise, I wanted to plan a styled shoot that felt super romantic in an unexpected place. What spot’s more unexpected (and gorgeous!) for an elopement than a shark tunnel? This location was so enchanting and the colors were amazing! Wanting to tie in shades of blue, green, and purple found within sea water, we pulled these colors for inspiration with decor, flowers, the cake, and even the groom’s suit. The pearls on the bride’s dress reflected the ocean as well and, with all this combined, we were able to create a unique shoot that felt super secluded and other worldly all while being a few minutes away from a bustling interstate. It was a dream!”
SPECIAL EFFECTS
In addition to a lively backdrop of curious sea creatures, the moving water cast a playful light on the shoot. Detailed shots shone even brighter, and even flat surfaces gain a sense of depth. “Light is so important in photography, of course, but water and light together combined can create so much romance,” Chandler says. “This was definitely the case at our shoot and I love the overall feeling of peace and charm that our final photographs evoked.”
“Your guests are there to celebrate your love and your journey as a couple,” says Michelle Cousins, owner of Michelle Leo Events. “The best way to create a memorable wedding after party for your loved ones is to tell the story of your love.” For example, the groom, Wesley, is from Tennessee, so Cousins made sure to incorporate whiskey into the cocktail menu.
“A photo booth is the perfect way to make sure your guests have a personalized souvenir from your event,” Cousins says. Not only did Michelle and Wesley include a photo booth for their guests, but they also added personalized koozies that their friends and family still use. “I’m all about finding the little details that tell a couple’s story because that’s what guests will take away from the event,” Cousins explains. “The key is finding things your friends and family will really connect with, so instead of turning to Pinterest or Instagram to find inspiration, look inward. Consider who you are as a person and who you are as a couple, and then make those the key details.”
Photography by Cameron Clark
ADD SOME SPARKLE
“Whether you’re 5 or 55, sparklers bring out the kid in all of us,” says Cousins. “They’re such a fun addition to a send-off, and the guests absolutely love them. Michelle and Wesley got married on the Fourth of July, and the sparklers were such a fantastic way to keep the evening’s fireworks going all night long.”
Photography by Cameron Clark
KICK OFF YOUR HEELS
“You’ve planned this incredible party for your friends and family, and sometimes a wedding dress isn’t the most comfortable thing to dance the night away in,” Cousins says. After you’ve officially tied the knot, Cousins recommends kicking off your heels and changing into a second, more comfortable bridal look. The newlyweds added an extra special touch to Michelle’s reception look with personalized jean jackets for the bride and her bridesmaids. “Michelle and Wesley are such a fun, casual couple, so the jean jackets felt so true to them as a pair,” Cousins says.
Photography by Cameron Clark
KEEP THE PARTY MOVING
Work with your wedding planner to ensure smooth transitions from one wedding day event to the next. “Your cocktail hour should be just that—an hour—and should flow seamlessly into your reception, where there should be, at most, 30 minutes between courses,” Cousins explains.
Photography by Cameron Clark
OFFER AFTER-PARTY HORS D’OEUVRES
After the plated dinner, Cousins shined a light on Wesley’s Tennessee roots once again with a tasting menu that included fried chicken sandwich sliders. “Your guests have spent an evening working up their appetites on the dance floor,” says Cousins. “Take Wesley’s cue and offer them a personal favorite in the form of a late-night food station.”
If a picture is worth a thousand words, these gowns are worth a million. From sparkles to lace, bishop sleeves to strapless silhouettes, the design is in the details.
Clothier Cody Hoppes and photographer Heather Nan share in-the-know insight for picture-perfect prêt-à-porter. Whether you’re going for a classic, modern or an altogether out-of-the-box look, these local pros offer some tried-and-true men’s fashion tips that will ensure solid style for the groom and photogenic wedding photos.
“Menswear is ever-evolving,” says Hoppes, sales manager with UWM Men’s Shop in Salt Lake City. Photographer Heather Nan agrees, but points out one timeless component: tailoring. “Tailoring is key when it comes to formal menswear,” says Nan, who has snapped countless dapper grooms. That doesn’t mean renting is out of the question, Nan says. “Rentals have stepped up to get men better suited. They offer slimmer choices and more options than ever before. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to try out options.” And if you’re opting for fast fashion in lieu of haute couture, Nan advises prioritizing flawless tailoring.
“Don’t be afraid to add subtle hints of your personality,” says Nan. “Consider your pocket square or your shoes prime opportunities to bring some individuality to your ensemble.” This year, Hoppes predicts patterns will make a comeback. “Patterns offer people an opportunity to show off their individual style,” he says. “People are ready to get dressed up and stand out in a crowd, and we’re excited to make it happen.”
What to wear? “It all comes down to what kind of celebration you’re having,” Nan explains. “The key is to consider location and season.” A black tie affair calls for a tuxedo or a formal suit, but a more casual occasion can lend itself to a great sport coat sans tie. “My favorite textures and tones right now are rich, saturated browns during fall or winter and blue hues for the spring and summer,” says Hoppes. “There is something so timeless about a blue suit. It will never be out of style.”
If you choose to go the casual route, Hoppes is excited to introduce you to the Safari suit. “Not only is it a perfect summer staple item, but it can be paired with pants in any pattern imaginable,” he says. Pattern offers grooms the ability to make a statement, according to Nan. “When it comes to groomsmen, sometimes I think it’s better for them to have coordinated looks and for the groom to stand out with his own individualized ensemble,” she says. “Obviously there should be some level of coordination among the men, but adding a little special something like a different pocket square, stand-out shoes or a distinctly toned tie can add visual interest to the altar.”
So, what’s on trend this year? According to Hoppes, it’s all about bold, saturated warm tones. “This is going to sound crazy, but brown is going to have a huge moment. In the right tone, it can be a stunning suit or sport coat. We’re not talking about your dad or grandpa’s brown,” he says. The bottom line, Hoppes explains, is talking to an expert about exactly what you want. “We’re here to make you look perfect on your wedding day. Bring us your ideas and we can work together to perfect your look.”
Cold and refreshing orange punch cocktail with orange slice on color background. summer drink.
“Cocktail hour is all about bringing people together,” says Casey Metzger, founder of Top Shelf Services. According to Metzger, the key to creating camaraderie is giving your guests something they share in common, which is where thoughtfully personalized beverages become the stars of the show.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR COCKTAILS
“First thing’s first, consider the journey you’ve been on as a couple and work backwards from there,” Metzger says. “Where did you meet? What vacations have you been on? What’s your favorite thing to do as a pair?” Answering these questions and getting to know your bartenders will help them create your meaningful, authentic cocktail combinations. Because this process can be lengthy, Metzger offers his clients their own wedding workbook. “Couples can take this notebook with them when they go out to the bar and jot down aspects of the experience they enjoy. Then, we can use that information to create cocktails that compile their absolute favorite flavor profiles.”
BRING ON THE BEVIES
“The key is hiring bartenders with the chops to get beverages flying off the shelves,” explains Metzger. “When it comes to cocktail hour, a couples’ number one concern is that the ceremony is going to end and their guests are going to swarm the bar only to wait around empty-handed.” Promptly delivering drinks with flavors that will turn heads is essential to a remarkable guest experience. “That’s where the hours of prep work we do behind the scenes really come in handy. We’re ready to get the couple’s signature drinks in the hands of each and every attendee the moment the bride and groom exit the altar.”
MIX IT UP
From the glassware to the garnish to each cocktail’s clever name, your bar service offers limitless opportunities to put your signature on the event and leave guests reminiscing about the evening for years to come. “My advice is to enjoy the process,” says Metzger. “This is your opportunity to offer your family and friends an unforgettable evening. At the end of the day, they’re all there to celebrate you. The more personalized, the better.”
A self-described “biased historian,” wedding photographer Pepper Nix captures memories in their most ideal form. Between adjusting cakes to find just the right lighting to orchestrating intimate first looks, Nix is a perfectionist in the way you’d hope your wedding photographer would be. During her 20 years in the industry she has risen to the top of the industry as a decorated photographer and has been named Utah’s Best Wedding Photographer since 2012. Her work is regularly featured in Utah Bride and Groom, and other publications including The Luxe Pearl, Every Last Detail and Ruffled.
To celebrate her career and showcase her work in this year’s issue, we spoke with Nix about her intricate preparation process, her dedication to the craft and the evolving wedding photography industry.
Utah Bride & Groom: Tell us about how you got started in photography. What sparked your passion?
I had done photography in high school and in college, and I just had fun with it. I enjoyed having a perspective, I enjoyed being able to create art by pushing a button. I just remember being in college and someone asked me to shoot their wedding. He and his fiancee came and both proposed, they got down on their knees and said “‘please be our photographer!” The night before, I was so stressed out. I mean, this is a really big deal. If I screw this one up, like, this is really, really bad. But then I did it. And it was so great.
It was so wonderful to capture real emotion. I thought to myself, “this is what I want to do.” Maybe it just feeds my ego, because they are going to keep these photos for the rest of their life. They are going to be passed down to their grandchildren and become part of family lore. It’s very meaningful, if that makes sense.
UBG:You once dreamed of being a National Geographic photographer. What changed? And do you pursue nature photography in your free time?
Well, the National Geographic shots that I loved were never of birds and trees; they were always of people, like the famous portrait of an Afghani refugee with green eyes that just show everything she’s been through. And so everything I wanted to do with National Geographic had to do with documenting people. But what changed was when I started learning about the photographers themselves, and what it takes to get an image. They all lived in other parts of the world for years at a time and they didn’t get to see their family.
So after that first wedding photography gig, I realized I wanted to do something meaningful, and I could do that with weddings. I had this moment in college where I had to pick a discipline, and I made this declaration one day to the universe: “I am a professional wedding photographer!” It was an interesting decision, because at the time there wasn’t a place for that specific type of photography in education.
UBG: What do you mean by that?
There were no classes on wedding photography. It was all commercial based,like here’s how to photograph a tennis shoe and here’s how to photograph a watch. But I didn’t care about making a piece of steak look appetizing, I wanted to do something that was meaningful.
UBG: That’s an interesting observation, that there was really no traditional pathway. Is that something you’ve seen a shift in throughout your years in the industry?
The barrier to entry is much lower. I started in 2001, and everyone who was in the industry at the time was in their 40s, 50s or 60s and they were pretty much all men. Part of what changed is that cameras are so much lighter. Taking away that physical barrier brought so many women into the industry. Also, going digital meant that you don’t have to have professional experience or go to school for photography. With technology now, you can look at a picture that didn’t turn out so well, and examine the settings to make it better next time. And so the industry now, I think, is mostly women—young women.”
UBG: Between passionate moments shared during weddings to an up-close flower feature, you truly shoot every detail associated in a wedding. How does your approach and process differ depending on what you are shooting?
The way I’m going to approach something is always considering how the person or object will appear flattering. When it comes to brides I’m thinking “okay, the lights coming through here, I’m going to have her turn this way.” When it comes to cakes or flowers, it’s just the same thing. I’m forever rearranging things and being very hands on.
I like to think of myself as a biased historian. I don’t know what kind of drama was going on during your wedding day. I don’t know if your maid of honor was getting high in the bathroom and someone had to carry her out. Whatever’s going on that’s crazy, I don’t have to show that. I’m not a strict photojournalist, because no one really wants that—they want to have the best, most wonderful version of their wedding day, right? And when you show your great grandchildren who weren’t there, all they have to know is that everything was perfect and you were in love.
UBG: Take us through what steps you take on a typical shoot. How do you prepare beforehand? Is there a normal routine you follow on the day of?
Weddings and funerals are the time where everyone’s emotions are really heightened. And one thing I’ve found is that group family photos at these events are not a time for creativity. So before the wedding, I work with the bride and together we prepare a list of the exact family shots that she wants. I never want to have someone say “Oh, did you get a picture of me and my grandma?” and I’m like, “Who? What? You had a grandma?” So whatever is on the list I make sure to get, and the same goes for what isn’t. For example, I can work out beforehand if the bride is estranged from their dad and this is the first time they’re seeing him in 15 years, so I don’t force a photo.
UBG: I never thought about the intimate family relationships you have to navigate as a wedding photographer!
Yes, and sometimes brides will accidentally leave things off when making a shot list. So I look very closely at relationships and family dynamics. Like, maybe the bride has a second mother figure that we should plan a shot around. It’s something quite important that I’ve learned over the past two decades I’ve spent in the industry. If someone is accidentally left out of a picture, or they didn’t get a picture they wanted,it causes some hurt and resentment that just festers. So, anything I can do to make people feel loved and not feel awkward.
UBG: Do you have a favorite or most memorable project?
I gotta tell you, I love the first looks. It’s something I orchestrate, thinking about location, lighting, privacy. And wow, that moment where he sees her for the first time, it always makes me cry. It is an honor and a privilege to be there to witness this very intimate, private moment between two people who are going to be facing life together. There’s going to be layoffs and moves and all of these horrible, heartbreaking things that they are going to be facing together but they’re so ready to do it.
Planning by Michelle Leo Events.
UBG: What piece of advice would you offer for brides to be?
Know it’s not going to be perfect. No matter how much planning you do, something’s not going to be perfect, and how you respond to that will set the tone for the day. As long as you go into it with the attitude of “hey we’re gonna try and make this a perfect day, but something will go wrong and we are going to laugh when it does.” Like maybe you forget the bride’s shoes and she has to walk down the aisle barefoot. That’s hilarious!
UBG: What about advice for new photographers?
For photographers starting out, I’d say just do it. There is no degree you have to have. I mean, I was rejected several times from programs at the University,and looking back, I am the only person in my class who is a professional photographer. So when someone tells you no, do some creative thinking and get it done. Also, make friends with everyone! The people who were servers when I started are now the general managers and event coordinators. Most importantly, if you’re going to be a wedding photographer, have fun. Because you’re getting paid to go to a party!
Photographer Pepper Nix
You can find more of Nix’s work in the 2021 issue of Utah Bride and Groom Magazine. Read more photographer profiles here.
Your wedding day should symbolize who you are, which means sometimes soft neutral tones work perfectly and other times you ought to stray from the classics. Michelle Cousins, founder of Michelle Leo Events, makes the case for bright shades, vibrant hues and bold patterns, no matter the season, venue or vibe.
Photo by Megan Robinson
CUE YOUR HUES The first step to choosing a color scheme for your nuptials is factoring in the celebration’s star: you. “Evaluate who you are as a person and who you are as a couple,” Cousins says. “Ask yourself how your family and friends would describe you, then determine how you want your colors to make everyone in attendance feel.” Your palette plays an important role in setting the mood of your party, so consider the style and atmosphere you’re hoping to accomplish, as well as tones that help tell the story of your relationship.
Photo by Megan Robinson
DO OR DON’T: TONAL TRENDS Everyone has a Pinterest board, so it’s easy to get carried away with ideas you see in other weddings. But just because you love a fresh or unexpected idea online doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for your wedding. “You want your color palette to reflect who you are, not what year you got married,” Cousins says. “You’re going to spend the rest of your life with these photos. It’s one thing to be inspired by art and design; it’s another to base decisions solely on of-the-moment aesthetics.” Ask what colors make you happy, and go from there.
Photo by Heather Nan
MIX AND MATCH If you find a venue that you love, but it clashes with your colors, you can either switch up a hue or two in your palette or neutralize the venue. “There are many ways to counterbalance unwanted elements in a venue,” explains Cousins. “From draping the perimeter of the room with minimalistic, natural linens to providing soft lighting in neutral tones, there are always ways to customize a venue and make it work for you.”
Photo by Betsy Newman
PICK A PLACE “Once we determine in which season the wedding will take place, we can start curating the vibe and the venue,” explains Cousins. When couples begin the planning process with specific designs in mind but with no place to put them, Cousins uses their wish list to perfectly pair them with an event space. “For example, if a couple knows they want adventurous pops of color in their palette, I might suggest 4U Ranch (pictured) or River Bottoms Ranch because their neutral color schemes provide a blank slate that won’t compete with stand-out hues.”
Photo by Pepper Nix
MAKE UP YOUR MIND “The final decisions on your big day should all come down to who you are as an individual and as a couple,” says Cousins. “If a bride describes herself and her husband as happy, bold, quirky or lively, in my experience they tend to be drawn to the warmer, bolder, ‘happier’ tones,” Cousins explains. “Wherein the couple who describes their dream wedding as something timeless and romantic tends to be drawn toward cooler, moodier tones with an abundance of classic whites.” And remember, there are no “right” hues—the best picks will be the ones that excite you most.
Chari and CJ River Bottoms Ranch, Midway. Sept. 27 Photography by Branson Maxwell
Photography by Branson Maxwell
TEAMING UP
Chari, a track and field Olympian who competes for Team USA in the heptathlon, and CJ, who works for Booster Fuels—a gas and oil company—met in college as fellow athletes on the Utah State University track and field team. The two became best friends and, after spending so much time together, fell in love. The couple has been together ever since.
Photography by Branson Maxwell
Photography by Branson Maxwell
DINNER, DRINKS & I DO
After seven years together, CJ decided it was finally time to pop the question. The couple was dating long distance at the time, and they decided to meet up in Utah. They went to La Caille for dinner, and when they stepped outdoors after their meal, Chari was greeted by a camera crew outside the restaurant. As the pair walked toward the garden’s bridge, Chari could hear a musician playing one of the duo’s favorite songs, and CJ asked his future wife to dance. Their last stop was at the gazebo, where the pair kept dancing before Chari noticed rose petals falling all around her. When she turned around, she realized that she was surrounded by her friends and family, who looked on as CJ got down on one knee and proposed. After Chari said yes, the pair—accompanied by their nearest and dearest—headed back to La Caille, where they shared drinks and desserts and celebrated their engagement.
Photography by Branson Maxwell
Photography by Branson Maxwell
THE BIG DAY
The pair became smitten with the venue, River Bottoms Ranch, at first sight. “We loved it the second we saw it,” Chari says. “Everything was perfect, from the inside of the barn to the incredible scenery outside.” In order to achieve the intimate, romantic and mountain-inspired wedding of their dreams, they chose hues of blush, taupe, champagne, ivory and sage to give the celebration a natural, light and romantic aesthetic. One of the most memorable inclusions for Chari was John Beck, the couple’s officiant. “He’s one of our all-time favorite people and has been in CJ’s life since he was ten years old,” says Chari. “He’s been there for us throughout our entire relationship and was the perfect person to marry us.”
Photography by Branson Maxwell
Photography by Branson Maxwell
THE FIRST DANCE
“Our first dance was to ‘Perfect’ by Ed Sheeran,” Chari says. The pair added a personal touch to the performance by choreographing the dance themselves, and they had so much fun creating that special moment. “The dance was simple and wonderful, and we still do it every single time that song comes on. It’s such a sweet song, and it illustrated our relationship so perfectly.”
Photography by Branson Maxwell
Photography by Branson Maxwell
SPECIAL MOMENTS
After 11 years together, the pair wanted to create a story that felt unique and personal to them, so they included special, personalized touches. They served Aggie Ice Cream—a fan favorite at their alma mater, Utah State. The bride also attached her garter to a football, which she threw across the room to her groom. They also added a fun experience by trading in traditional ring bearers for “ring security,” fully equipped with sunglasses, earpieces and personalized name tags.
