Real Wedding: Log Haven Lovers

May 27, 2021

Eli&Sky-689 — Photo by Flying Gull Photography

Eli & Skylar
Log Haven & Square Kitchen, September 28.
Photography by Flying Gull Photography

LOVE AT FIRST SWIPE

Eli, an attorney, and Skylar, a med student, experienced a very modern meet-cute on Tinder. “Skylar was on a one-hour layover at the Salt Lake City airport when we matched,” Eli explains. After spending days chatting with one another online, the pair decided it was finally time to meet in person, so they made the leap and flew out to meet each another. After that, the pair’s first official date was in Cleveland, where they met up to attend a wedding. Little did they know, they’d soon be hosting nuptials of their own.

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU

After three years of dating, Eli decided it was time to tie the knot. “Eli left ‘12 Days of Christmas’ gifts on my porch and acted like he had no idea who was delivering these mysterious packages. He even pretended like he was helping me figure out who the anonymous gifter was,” recalls Skylar. But, by the twelfth day, the charade was up—the final gift was a ring.

MOUNTAIN MIMOSAS

“We wanted to have a brunch wedding at a venue where we could show off the mountains to our out-of-town guests,” Eli says. Because the two chose to tie the knot outdoors at Log Haven in order to capture Utah’s fall beauty, they chose subtle tones for their color palette in order to add to—rather than distract from—the autumn hues. They created a classic, minimalist atmosphere by cloaking the event in shades of black, white and antique gold.

THE AFTER PARTY

“We held a reception in the evening, and some friends who run a catering business called Island Hopper catered the celebration as a wedding gift,” Eli says. To keep the party going, the pair also served drinks crafted by Copa Bar Service. In the end, the couple enjoyed planning their celebration and hosting friends, but according to Eli, all of that faded away when he looked at his new groom. “Skylar is the best person I know and the best person I could have ever dreamed of meeting. The only thing I really remember with much clarity from that day is how lucky I felt that it was happening at all.”

VENDORS

Photography: Flying Gull Photography

Wedding Planning and Design: Belle Bodas Events

Brunch Venue: Log Haven

Reception Venue: Square Kitchen

Florist: Native Flower Company

Grooms’ Suits: J. Crew

Brunch Catering: Log Haven

Reception Bar Service: Copa Bar Service

Folk Band: Whistlin’ Rufus

Find more inspiring Real Wedding stories here.

Paper Goods Preparation 101

May 25, 2021

STATIONERY CHECKLIST
Most couples know the recognizable elements of a paper suite, such as invitations and thank you cards, but sometimes the smaller details that can set a celebration apart get overlooked. The following paper goods checklist will have you covered, from engagement to honeymoon.

BEFORE THE WEDDING
■ Engagement party invitation
■ Save-the-date card
■ Bridal shower invitation
■ Bridal shower thank you cards
■ Bachelor and bachelorette party invitations
■ Rehearsal dinner invitation
■ Welcome dinner invitation

THE WEDDING INVITATION
■ Outer envelope
■ Inner envelope
■ Invitation card
■ Website enclosure
■ Reception card (if held at a different location than the ceremony)
■ Directions/map card
■ Response card and self-addressed stamped envelope
■ Hotel accommodations card

AT THE WEDDING
■ Welcome basket tag ■ Ceremony program ■ Escort cards
■ Place cards
■ Table number cards ■ Menu cards
■ Favor tags

AFTER THE WEDDING
■ Thank you cards ■ Announcement

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 paper goods inspiration, click here.

Light Up the Night: Lantern Send-Off

May 20, 2021

Releasing a lantern decorated with hopes, dreams and wishes into the sky is an age-old custom that celebrates life and evokes feelings of renewal and inspiration. This timeless tradition, experienced alongside your love and your loved ones, creates an undeniably profound and unforgettable experience.

Lantern send-off — Photo Summer Soelberg

VENDORS
Gown: Chantel Lauren
Hair: Kali Chris
Makeup: Kristen Packard
Models: Leah Galloway and Noah Jarman

Explore more wedding inspiration here!

The View From the Top: Downtown Salt Lake City

May 17, 2021

Hardware Apartments wedding inspiration shoot. — Photographer: Michele Cozzens

When it comes to using bold geometric shapes, striking tones and daring details to create an unforgettable design, the team at Michelle Leo Events believes the sky is the limit. Their leader, Michelle Cousins, shares her tips and tricks for creating an out-of-the-box celebration sure to be the talk of the town.

GO BIG

“Colors, shapes and patterns can breathe life into your events,” says Cousins. “It’s your day, so don’t be afraid to express yourself.” For this party, Cousins opts for unexpected wedding hues, a choice that she says can pay off in a major way. “People tend to shy away from tones like black and yellow because they’re not necessarily traditional,” Cousins explains, “but when you showcase them in a form that complements your venue, they create a memorable aesthetic that’s sure to make your wedding stand out.”

Photo by Michael Cozzens at Hardware Apartments — Photo by Michele Cozzens

START STRONG

“An invitation suite is your guests’ first impression of your event, so it’s important for it to speak volumes far beyond the written details,” Cousins says. She encourages clients to work with a graphic designer to incorporate the overall mood of their celebration into the look and feel of the paper goods. For this celebration, Cousins worked with Twelve30 Creative to compose modern-contemporary imagery, from the stationery to the monogram. “We took inspiration for the monogram from the venue’s logo, which plays a prominent role in the architecture of the space.”

Yellow and pink invitations by Twelve30 Creative. Photo by Michael Cozzens. — Photo by Michele Cozzens

Downtown Salt Lake City — Photo by Michele Cozzens

FAVOR FAR-OUT FASHION

“You shouldn’t have to pull back on certain elements simply because you opted to be adventurous in other areas,” Cousins explains. “When done correctly, bold pieces complement one another.” The chartreuse pantsuit by JXA Fashion is a stand-out, but it elevates, not overshadows, surrounding elements.

SET YOUR SITE

The key to creating a city-chic style is finding the balance between masculine and feminine shapes then using them to reflect the urban elements of your chosen venue. The architectural elements of the Hardware Apartments’ rooftop—such as the arched floor-to-ceiling windows that allow for an expansive view of the city’s skyline—form the inspiration for Cousins’ use of angular components like the ceremony benches.

Blended Table — Photo by Michele Cozzens

Twelve30 Creative — Photo by Michele Cozzens

BRING IN BOTANICALS

Rather than opting for traditional florals, Cousins works alongside Artisan Bloom to err on the side of foliage that has a sense of belonging in a downtown locale. “Think about what you’d expect to see in a metropolitan space,” Cousins explains. “You’re much more likely to see a potted plant in green or other neutral shades being used to brighten up an urban environment.” To create a dynamic tablescape, she shines the spotlight directly on the floral design as it floats high above the place settings, providing contrast against the sharp lines of pink rocks chosen to mimic stones found in nearby fire pits.

Floral design by Artisan Bloom — Photo by Michele Cozzens

downtown salt lake city Catering by Blended Table — Photo by Michele Cozzens

Tiered cake by Flour & Flourish. Photo by Michael Cozzens. — Photo by Michele Cozzens

THE TEAM

Planners: Michelle Leo Events

Photographer: Michele Cozzens

Videographer: Ryan Hinman

Venue: The Hardware Apartments

Fashion: JXA Fashion Jen Shah

Rentals: Modern Display; Wild Event Studio

Catering + Bar Service: Blended Table

Cake: Flour & Flourish

Floral Designer: Artisan Bloom

Makeup: Kristen Packard Artistry

Hair: Kali Chris Hair and Makeup

Paper Goods: Twelve30 Creative

Jewelry: O.C. Tanner Jewelers

Models: Jordan Olsen and Aimee Jordan Sgro

For more wedding inspiration, click here.

Real Wedding: Nine Years In The Making

May 12, 2021

Allie and Rhett
Walker Farms, Lindon, October 13
Photographs by Heather Nan

Real Wedding Walker Farms — Photo by Heather Nan

A LONG TIME COMING
Allie, a master esthetician, and Rhett, a manager for Craig Peay Construction, first met when they were only 15 years old. Rhett was close friends with Allie’s cousin and the two became friends, but wound up parting ways until they reconnected at age 18. Once the pair rekindled their friendship, they started dating and have been together ever since. Rhett took Allie to a music festival for their first date. According to Allie, it was the best first date she’d ever had. “No wonder I married him,” she says.

wedding invitations, stationary, — *Photo by Heather Nan*

BBQ BLISS
After five-and-a-half years together, Rhett decided it was finally time for the duo to seal the deal. On May 24, 2020—at a barbecue hosted by Allie’s family—Rhett got down on one knee and popped the question in front of an audience of his soon-to-be bride’s entire family.

Allie and Rhett wedding — *Photo by Heather Nan*

THE BIG DAY
After a four-month engagement, Allie and Rhett tied the knot at Walker Farms in Lindon. “I knew it was the perfect place right when I walked in,” says Allie. “I looked up and saw the most beautiful chandelier.” Her favorite part of the venue? “Definitely the bridal room,” she responds. “It has the most gorgeous pink touches.” In order to achieve the boho, moody atmosphere the couple wanted for their nuptials, the pair chose champagne, soft pink and burnt orange for their wedding day color scheme.

ALL IN THE DETAILS
Allie worked with florist Artisan Bloom to make sure that the design details incorporated aspects of the couple’s relationship journey throughout the celebration. She added her favorite personal touch by incorporating pheasant feathers into the floral design. “My family is made up of hunting enthusiasts,” she explains, “so that was a nice way of including them on our wedding day, just like Rhett included them the day he proposed.”

MENU MUST-HAVES
“One of our favorite aspects of our menu was the steak served by Magleby’s Catering,” says Allie. “We also had beef medallions, mashed potatoes and sugared carrots, which were delicious.” The couple selected a bourbon vanilla cake from Carrie’s Cakes to top it all off.

SOURCES
Venue: Walker Farms

Event Planner: Michelle Leo Events

Catering: Magleby’s Catering

Floral: Artisan Bloom

Cake: Cakes by Alessandra

Photographer: Heather Nan Photography

Videographer: Ryan Hinman Films

DJ: Utah Live Bands

Makeup: Kristen Packard Artistry

Hair: Kali Chris

Paper Products: Twelve30 Creative

For more real wedding bliss, click here.

Sweet and Stylish: Little Sahara Engagement Shoot

May 10, 2021

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.

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.

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.

Find more inspirational engagement shoots here.

Bridal Beauty Buzz

May 6, 2021

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.”

makeup, Versailles Atelier Bridal — Gown from Versailles Atelier Bridal

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

May 3, 2021

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

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

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

GET CREATIVE

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

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

May 1, 2021

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.

“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

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.

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

April 29, 2021

mom — 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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