Mara Mazdzer’s success can be attributed to years of hard work and an uncompromising sense of dedication to her community. Her strong character and commitment to inclusivity and helping others–from clients to local non-profits to community organizations–is one of the many reasons her business is so special.
This commitment to inclusivity landed her a gig as the planner for one of Utah’s first same-sex weddings, just before they were legalized across the country. That very couple was the first same-sex couple to be featured in a Utah bridal magazine, right here in Utah Bride & Groom. And, although Mara is proud to have been a part of that, she doesn’t see it as anything out of the ordinary. “My job is to tailor the wedding to the couple – whether they’re gay or straight – it’s a celebration of their love.”
“This wasn’t a gay wedding,” Mara explains, “it was a wedding. Just because you’re gay doesn’t mean you need a gay doctor. They’re just weddings. They’re people.” As simple as you may see that statement today, it made waves in 2013. Which, in Mara’s opinion, is what being an ally is.
Mara is steadfast when it comes to creating a safe space for any and all clients, from the vendors she chooses to work with to the people she hires.
“Do you remember that cake shop in Colorado in 2012 that wouldn’t make a cake for same-sex clients?” Mara asks. “People were so shocked because it was being brought to their attention, but to be honest, that wasn’t all that unusual. I related to the couple. I’d had couples come to me claiming they’d never anticipated having a wedding planner but because they kept meeting dead-ends, they didn’t feel like they had a choice. They needed an advocate.”
As time went on, Mara dedicated herself more and more to allyship and advocacy. “I knew that being a champion for all members of my community meant rethinking core components of my business,” she explains. “For example, when I looked at the paperwork I was having clients fill out, I started to see all of the missed opportunities for inclusivity.” Mara immediately sat down to neutralize the wording to ensure that regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, no one felt alienated or left out.
To businesses that wish to be more inclusive, Mara suggests seeking out ways to make potential clients feel heard and accepted. “For me, being a good ally really comes down to listening. I pay attention to people that know more than me and take notes,” she says. “One of my favorite resources for that is Equally Wed.”
Clearly Mara’s listening skills have been paying off. This year, the Equally Wed Awards, which honor the best LGBTQ+ inclusive vendors and venues in the wedding industry, awarded her the top spot for the Equally Wed Award in the “ Planner Category.”
“It’s the seemingly small things like that that add up to make the difference,” Mara explains. “It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being authentic.”
Equally Wed is an international online LGBTQ+ wedding magazine, book and education resource for LGBTQ+ couples and LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding professionals. “Within our inspirational content, we focus on wedding planning, real weddings and engagements, marriage equality news and spotlights gay-friendly LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding vendors.”
Farm Fresh, family style meals for a party of six or 600.
Homemade beef stew by Blended Table’s chef Alberto Aguilera.
Get moving! Family-style eating–be it from an action station or as a table centerpiece–lets guests choose their own culinary adventure. Flaming skewers? Oh boy. Local ingredients? Delightful. A passed-down family recipe? Heartwarming.
Food trends come and go, but certainly some favorites stand the test of time. On the other hand, some crazes are too piping hot to pass up Whether you choose a tried-and-true dish or one that’s all the rage, the gang from Blended Table teaches us that all parties must offer one thing for certain: the freshest ingredients from multiple local farms passed around the table with familial love.
Tried and True: Serve up a Family Recipe
“Growing up in Mexico, it’s all about cooking and culture,” says Blended Table chef Alberto Aguilera. He grew up in Alesso, Guadalajara where his family served up savory stews for most celebrations. “I learned how to make this dish as a child,” he explains. “I use ancho chiles, guajillo chiles, garlic, roasted tomatoes, onions and seasoning. Then, I put a paste on the meat, sear it, then slow cook for four to five hours.”
Chorizos and beans round out the traditional stew. “I like refried beans, but you can do whatever you like,” he says. Aguilera sprinkles Queso fresco and cilantro on top, then serves Mexican rice and corn tortillas on the side. “Toppings can be pickled red onions, cabbage, radish, cilantro and avocado. Whatever you want, really.”
Beef stew can be served all year round!
Tried and True: Bring a Basic Back to Life
“Nicoise salad ingredients have changed dramatically since the 1950s,” explains Blended Table co-owner Emery Lortsher, referencing her well-used edition of the Joy of Cooking cookbook. “It used to be only four or five ingredients, but today, there arriver 15 ingredients. The salad has actually been around since the early 1900s. You don’t see it a ton, but we’re getting more and more requests for it because it’s so pretty.”
“Today, we added salmon instead of tuna. We didn’t do egg or creamy dressing here, but you can do whatever you like. It can be any flavor for anybody. You can even go vegetarian with just the potatoes and the egg,” she says. Here, the salmon is poached, so it can be easily served at room temperature for picnics or outdoor parties on a hot day.
When should I serve a Nicoise Salad? The spring and summer seasons are best. For a fall version, incorporate hearty root veggies.
Tried and True: Modernize A Traditional Salad
Reinvent the cheese wheel. “A few years ago, Caputo’s started making burrata in-house, and we all fell in love with it. We started making a tomato and burrata salad, then later, we added grilled peaches,” Lortsher says.
How does Caprese differ from a burrata cheese? “Burrata has a milder flavor and a softer texture. The flavor profile is a little bit sweeter. Caprese’s mozzarella is almost a flavorless cheese, whereas burrata has its own little sweetness,” she explains.
Lortsher favors a traditional dressing. “We change it up, but a classic balsamic is ideal. A lemon vinaigrette or a lemon shallot is good too, but I lean toward the classic balsamic.” Toss right before serving, Lortsher recommends. “Often we’ll toss the greens first, then lay the components on top. Sometimes hosts like the dressing and toppings served on the side.”
What about a cold-weather option? Add stone fruit–like apricots, nectarines and peaches– in the fall. For winter, a Caesar salad, with grilled potatoes and polenta, makes a great alternative to the fresh, seasonal salad.
Unique and New: Super-Sized Charcuterie Board
Served as an appetizer or as a finale like the Europeans do, charcuterie offers an entertaining dish. The platter conveniently works as a table centerpiece, too. “It’s all very interactive. Guests like something to do and talk about while they’re sitting. It’s fun for everyone to play around and mix and match. I like this and this, but I don’t like that and that,” says Blended Table’s Rachel Astin, who likes to add local goodies including Creminelli meats, Beehive cheeses, dried fruits, figs and nuts.
Unique and New: Greek Platter
Go Greek and gather ’round the finest feta you can find. Lemon, rosemary and parsley flavor dolmades, hummus, roasted red peppers, artichokes, mini cucumbers and white beans. “For formal events plated service is great, but I think it’s on its way out. People love the more casual communal feel of a grazing board,” Astin says. Lortsher agrees. “It also gives guests an opportunity to try things that you might not try on a big plate.”
Unique and New: Grazing Asian-Style
Fire up the tabletop and turn takeout into a culinary treat. “These yakitori skewers are meant for four to six people to share and grill together. You can incorporate shrimp, chicken, or beef with different sauces,” Lortsher explains. Grilled shishito peppers, seaweed salad, black sesame mocha, pork dumplings, grilled baby boy chow, black radish, enoki mushrooms, pickled plums, chicken yakitori skewers, veggie spring rolls and peanut sauce offer assorted options for all taste buds.
Can Utah’s most rustic venues handle an Asian style? “Absolutely,” Lortsher says. “We’d alter a few items and the way they’re presented, but it definitely works.”
Want more food inspiration? Check our archives here!
Seven years ago, AJ graduated high school and got a job at a local 7-11. Because his new boss owned multiple locations, he couldn’t train AJ himself so he asked his daughter, Neha to step in and train his newest employee. Neha trained AJ and worked alongside him and before long sparks were flying between the two. Neha agreed to go on a date with AJ and five years later, AJ got down on one knee in a time-honored Sikh ring ceremony and popped the question.
Last summer, after a year-long engagement, Neha and AJ assembled 200 guests from all around the world and embarked on a traditional five-day-long Sikh wedding celebration.
The pair had pre-wedding celebrations at Fountain View Event Center and held their reception at Talia Event Center, but when it came to the ceremony itself, Neha and AJ kept it traditional and got married at the Sikh Temple of Utah. “That is where we both attend weekly church,” Neha explained, “and where we feel closest to our religion and our community.”
Neha and AJ chose to hold a traditional Sikh wedding and selected red and gold for their clothing and decor because of the time-honored cultural significance the colors hold.
The menu included what Neha considers “must-haves for Indian weddings” such as butter chicken, gol gappe and mango lassi.
And on the agenda, “plenty of dancing,” Neha explained. “If there’s one thing about Punjabi culture, [it’s that] we definitely get down and dance all night long. We are known across India for our dancing, drinking and partying it up.”
Once the wedding ceremony was over, Neha, AJ and their guests were ready to do just that! “Our first dance was to a romantic love song and then we quickly switched over to Punjabi dance music and our families joined us on the dance floor,” Neha said.
Utah landscapes–born from sand, stone and salt–inspire noteworthy, minimal suites sure to delight your guests.
Life truly is elevated in Utah. No other state can brag about its slot canyons, arches, salt flats and mountains like we can. Utahns are surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty that inspires party scenes big and small.
But with so much inspiration, how can a party host cut through all that inspirational clutter? Allison Baddley of La Fête Floral & Events says to keep it minimal.
“Abundance is out,” Baddley says. “It is easy to go overboard and weave too many thematic elements into the big day. Don’t try to cram everything onto your stationery because it will detract from the important information. Timeless and simple always wins.” So, let’s tidy-up like Marie Kondo does and focus on only things that spark passion.
Embrace Organic Hues
“This invitation marries blush, Burt Sienna, black and natural white to create an earthy palette,” says Ann Jager with Ann Elizabeth Print Studio, a one-of-its-kind boutique in Murray that houses both digital and traditional printing presses. “We chose modern typefaces to reflect the contemporary mood of the color palette and to reflect the style of this lovely couple.”
Jäger recommends ordering five to ten percent more invitations than you think you will need to avoid the expense of printing a second batch. Additionally, to conserve budget, not all pieces require expensive printing methods. “For instance, use offset or digital printing for your RSVP card and splurge for letterpress on the invitations.”
Q: In addition to the invitation and RSVP card, what else do I need to complete the suite?
A: “Creating a customized postage stamp can add a lot of personality and style,” Jager says. “If you have the budget for it, a map of the area or illustration of the venue is a memorable design element.”
Layer for Minimalist Luxury
“Inspired by the crunch of the salt beneath your feet and the mountains on the horizon, this invitation suite captures the beauty of Utah’s salt flats through layers of texture and a soft color palette,” says Kacey Lauchnor of Twelve 30 Creative.
“The modern laser cut monogram on the invitation allows the flowing lines of the Thai-marbled paper liner to show through, providing a shifting cameo as it is removed from the envelope. The cards layer over the invitation, mimicking the way the mountains rise over the salt.”
Q: How can we control the guest list?
A: Be specific when addressing the envelope. “Don’t address the invitation to ‘The Howells’ if you only wish for ‘Mr. and Mrs. Howell’ to attend,” says Lauchnor, who also recommends creating a spreadsheet. “It allows you to track how many invitations you will need so you can order appropriately.”
Give Them a Geography Lesson
“This invitation suite was inspired by Utah’s diverse landscape, specifically the red rocks of Southern Utah,” says Mikyla Marie Manu of Ink and Press Co. of her textural paper play. “This suite features a minimal design with a highlight on typography. The minimalist design emphasizes the mix of texture used with the invitation suite cards and envelopes.”
Q: Where do we put our registry info?
A: “There are really only two places that are acceptable: your bridal shower invitation and your wedding website,” Marie Manu says. She also recommends paying a few extra dollars for a self-hosted domain. “That way, you don’t have to include square space.com or theknot.com.”
As the wedding players in Utah’s 2020 Best of State Winners are celebrating their wins in quarantine, they also await word on whether or not their annual Best of State Gala will proceed as planned for July 2020.
Congratulations, all! We can’t wait until we get to celebrate you in person.
So, without further ado here are Utah’s 2020 Best of State Wedding Winners:
Pepper is one of our favorite photographers, with her crisp, bright style gracing the pages of Utah Bride & Groom over several seasons.
About Pepper, as told by Logan Walker, second shooter: “Pepper founded her company as a hungry college student hoping to earn enough to pay for film, paper and ramen noodles. Fast forward now to almost 800 weddings later, a dozen Utah, National, and international awards, and loving every minute of it! She is a brilliant business woman, a massively talented photographer, a mover and shaker in the wedding industry community and THE BEST BOSS EVER!”
The Grand houses so many of our favorite things in Salt Lake City: treats, relaxation and gorgeous spaces! We are so thrilled that they were given accolades in not one – but FOUR – categories this year!
“As you would expect, The Grand America’s wedding professionals are on hand to help oversee every detail of this memorable day, and we are more than ready to assist with floral decor, romantic lighting, entertainment and photo and video services. From planning a day of pampering for the bridal party in our Grand Spa to orchestrating a dazzling reception in the Grand Salon, our wedding professionals are dedicated to making your dream a reality of elegance, imagination and style.”
Talk to the team at The Grand about hosting your perfect wedding!
From industry galas to real weddings, local markets and our very own White Party, the menus from Culinary Crafts never fail to take an event to the next level. Their Best of State titles now number in the 20s: We love seeing them winning their well deserved accolades yet again!
“A 20+ time Best of State winner, Culinary Crafts is a food driven, full service, custom event catering company, striving to make Utah an outstanding place to celebrate. With our planner and catering team by your side, you can relax, indulge, and truly enjoy your wedding. Check out our website, peruse our online reviews, and please give us a call. We’d love to talk with you!”
Many a real wedding feature includes a breathtaking pastry by Ale at Carrie’s Cakes! Always the towering floral masterpiece, no wedding is complete without a Carrie’s Cakes finish, if you ask us!
“Ale grew up in Brazil. She has fond memories of baking and cooking with her mom. She has kept the desire of learning by taking many baking courses throughout the years both nationally and internationally. She started cake decorating in 2007 as a hobby. Since then, she has joined her love for baking with decorating which brought her to work with Carrie (the founder) in a profession she loves. Together they’ve worked on a wide array of cake projects. Ale’s passion is shown through her work by having her cakes taste as good as they look.”
Have you ever seen a prettier barn property? As one of the newest venues in the state, River Bottoms Ranch has certainly made its mark as a must-have party location. We are in love!
“The barn at River Bottoms Ranch is nestled along the Provo River corridor surrounded by incredible mountain views in every direction. Our newly built white gambrel barn offers a one of a kind combination of luxury and timeless style creating the perfect backdrop for your wedding celebration. RBR has a long list of amenities to heighten your wedding experience including our gorgeous bridal suite, grand staircase, rustic grooms room and lodging. Enjoy an unforgettable day or live the RBR experience for an entire weekend with friends and family gathered round.”
If you need a get-on-your-feet or a classy soiree wedding, look no further than Utah Live Bands! Representing over 30 wedding musicians, they are sure to have a mood that is just right for you. We are so excited for their three Best of State 2020 titles.
“As Utah musicians ourselves, we know the ins and outs of the entertainment industry. Utah Live Bands serves Utah and the surrounding states in your entertainment needs including corporate events and Utah Weddings. We have produced huge multi-million dollar events all over the world as then turned right around and provided a small wedding band in Utah. Large or small, Utah Live Bands means experience and reliability. By hiring us, you can rest assured that the entertainment, audio-visual and production portion of the evening will be executed just the way you intended.”
Get your guests up and ready to party with the best DJ in the state this year! We always look forward to events hosted by Rob- they are sure to be a hoot (exhibit A: Kali Chris and Allison Baddley’s dance-party enthusiasm above.)
“We give you the personalized service you deserve for your wedding celebration event, including providing free consultations prior to signing any contracts. Every couple is unique, which is why we meet with you in person to review your wedding event vision. Our trained MC DJs help keep the evening flowing smoothly and keep you concentrating on the most important detail – having the time of your life!”
Chris has captured countless real weddings and industry events during our runs, and we always love the perfect moments he puts to film. Congratulations!
“I specialize in documenting once in a lifetime events. Your wedding day is something that will be one of the days in your life that you remember for a long time to come. We can all look back and pick out certain days, when something happened, and we remember it like it was yesterday. Your wedding day is one of those days.”
La Caille is undeniably one of the most stunning restaurants in the state- which makes it perfect for a luxury wedding! The grounds, the property, the greenhouse; we love every inch, and every item on their classic menu.
“Located on 20 elegant acres at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, La Caille offers an unmatched experience and atmosphere. The restaurant, Grand Pavilion, and gardens all provide spectacular settings for your dinner or private party. Stroll through the three-acre vineyard, enjoy a canyon breeze on the patio, host an unforgettable event – La Caille is your perfect place.”
Get your guests home safe and sound with these pros! We are so proud of them for all they do to provide for the industry and our state’s wedding community!
“Four Seasons Concierge isn’t just another Park City transportation company — we are so much more! The transportation industry has been saturated with an abundance of third-party businesses that claim to be first-class and reliable. Stick to the fact and ride with Four Seasons Concierge, Park City’s “Highest Rated” and “Most Reviewed” transport service. Our elite drivers take getting from point “A” to point “B” to a whole different level of service. Let us help you experience Utah and most importantly — make your visit stress free.”
One of Utah’s event masters. We have worked with Michelle Cousins on real weddings and styled shoots alike for years, and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Utah Bride & Groom’s pages wouldn’t be the same without her creativity, detail-driven design and show-stopping ideas. We love you, Michelle!
“Michelle Leo Events is an award-winning event design and planning firm specializing in local and destination events, providing services for a myriad of events including but not limited to:
-weddings
-social soirees
-corporate events
-private parties
-editorial styling
Whether you live in Utah, are planning a destination event here, or plan to celebrate in another great location, MLE is dedicated to providing a custom, personalized experience that delivers unforgettable and memorable results.”
Contact Michelle and start planning your dream wedding!
We are head over heels for Thanksgiving Point’s lush garden backdrops. We couldn’t agree with this award more!
“Whether you’ve dreamt of a grand affair or an intimate gathering, your special day at Thanksgiving Point will be enchanting, unforgettable, and one-of-a-kind. Choose from a variety of beautifully appointed rooms with sweeping garden views or create the garden party of your dreams.”
Ingrid & Chris had a rom-com worthy meet-cute: Ingrid went into OP Rockwell for a post-hike drink and struck up a conversation with the handsome bartender.
“I was not really interested in dating, and didn’t live in Utah at the time, but Chris changed my mind with his kind spirit, cute smile and killer bartending skills,” Ingrid says.
After two years of dating bliss, Ingrid won two limited permits to hike The Wave and Chris knew this was his chance. He got the blessing, the ring (which belonged to Ingrid’s grandmother) and a bottle of champagne hidden in his backpack and hiked alongside Ingrid until the two reached the perfect view. Ingrid said yes, and the duo celebrated with PB&J sandwiches and champagne.
THE WEDDING
These lovers made it official on September 28, 2019 in the perfect Utah ceremony at Rotary Park, Park City.* Beautiful mountain views and a shady grove that Ingrid called “the church of aspens” served as the backdrop for the vows and ceremony. Heather Thomas, a pastor from Missio Dei church in Salt Lake City, performed the ceremony.
The reception moved the party to Rockwell Listening Room on Main Street, just up the stairs from the bar where Ingrid and Chris first met. OP Rockwell brought the love-at-first-sight back to life, as the couple took bridals to reminisce the first bar meeting. The drink Ingrid first ordered from Chris – called the Foxtrot – was the signature cocktail at the reception.
*Rotary Park is not an official wedding venue. Park city residents can reserve the area for small gatherings for a fee. All décor must be packed in and removed day-of.
The Mood
Celebrating Utah easily became the theme of the event, with an autumnal palette of rich burgundy, deep blues and glittering gold.
“Many of our guests came from out of town so we wanted to show off the best that a Utah ‘mountain town’ has to offer,” says Ingrid. And with that came a relaxed, ski-town vibe that only swanky Park City can provide.
Ingrid’s line was packed with her best ladies (3 sisters and two sisters-at-heart), and Chris chose his best woman (his good friend Alex Hess), as well as a lineup of friends and cousins to back him on his big day.
THE MENU
“Our caterer (Paul Serpe, owner of Hidden Peak Dining) is a friend of Chris’ and we entrusted him with the menu,” shares Ingrid.
A focus on seasonal, local ingredients – and Chris & Ingrid’s easy-going personalities – drove the Utah-centric menu. Appetizers included burrata, vegetables and dips and olives, while dinner consisted of sprouted ancient grains, wild greens salad, local roasted veggies and a carving station with fennel roasted pork loin and marinated New York Strip steak with a chimmichurri sauce.
Consistent with the party mood, the dance party snacks were mini sub sandwiches and a late-night wing bar.
The Party
Wing-fueled guests busted their moves to songs from DJ Leo Bottrill, while the bartenders with Nice & Easy kept the Foxtrots and other liquid goodies flowing all evening long.
Chris and Ingrid shared their first dance to Louis Armstrong’s classic “La Vie en Rose,” but kept the party alive with a cut to Lizzo’s “Juice.”
Not forgetting a single element of hosting, Ingrid and Chris also included several dessert options for their guests: a small carrot cake for the couple’s cutting, larger gluten-and-dairy-free almond cake for family members with allergies and coffee service with each from La Barba. Cakes were made by Emily Carper and Becky Rosenthal of the Vintage Mixer.
See more of this laid-back, love-filled celebration:
We rounded up wedding professionals from all over Utah and had them break down their wedding rescheduling policies so that you don’t have to.
Like most industries, the wedding industry is feeling the weight of this pandemic. Across Utah, wedding professionals are trying to figure out how they can create magic for their clients and sidestep potential stress and financial loss for their beloved brides and grooms all while trying to keep their businesses afloat.
And, we get it – everything feels complicated right now – so we’re going to keep this simple.
Part 1: Breaking down two common themes across reschedule policies
Part 2: Advice from wedding professionals
Part 3: Round-up of simplified reschedule policies from wedding professionals across Utah
Part 4: Commentary from real 2020 brides who rescheduled to weekdays in 2021
PART ONE: COMMON THEMES
Theme 1: In 2021, weekdays will be the new Saturdays.
Many businesses are transferring retainers paid for 2020 weddings to 2021 weddings scheduled for Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at no additional charge.
Hot take: Saturday weddings might be overrated. Thursday and Friday offer you extra days with your out-of-town guests and Sundays offer you peace and quiet.
Pro-tip: Don’t forget about holidays. Fourth of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Veteran’s Day basically provide bonus Saturdays.
Theme 2: If at all possible, try to keep your wedding in 2020.
Many businesses are offering to transfer retainers paid for 2020 weddings to later dates in 2020 with no additional fees.
TL;DR: For the most part, you’ll only pay an additional retainer if you move your 2020 wedding to a Saturday in 2021.
PART TWO: ADVICE FROM WEDDING PROS
“Maybe it’s time to bring back the reception line? 6 feet apart and no shaking hands, but imagine how the bride and groom will get to see every guest. We have the room here to have a line of couples 6 feet apart snaking around the property! A masked catering staff can tray serve them a beverage while they’re standing in line.” -Donna Urban, 4U Ranch
“We have worked with some couples to decrease the guest list and add back in items that had been eliminated based on cost to truly give them their dream wedding.” Tonya Hoopes, Hoopes Events
“On the day couples originally planned to get married, they can plan an elopement with a few friends and family members. Then they can have the real celebration with all of their friends and family in 2021.” -Elise DeLeon and Sarah Tucker, Marae Events
“Be flexible. Understand things have changed for everyone. I can’t think of anyone in the wedding business here in Utah trying to be opportunistic, so just be quick to communicate and change and you’ll have much more positive outcomes.” Ryan Hinman, Ryan Hinman Films
Vendors across the state are adjusting their Utah wedding rescheduling policies to accommodate couples impacted by Coronavirus. Scroll through our list to see what your vendors are offering:
Michelle Leo Events: 2020 couples who reschedule to later dates in 2020 OR Sunday – Friday in 2021 OR any day of the week November – April will not be charged any additional fees. 2020 pricing will be honored in 2021. May – October Saturdays in 2021 will incur additional fees but 2020 pricing will be honored. | @michelleleoevents
4U Ranch: 2020 couples can reschedule without paying a rescheduling fee and will pay the 2020 rate in 2021. | @4uranchevents
River Bottoms Ranch: 2020 couples who reschedule to later dates in 2020 OR Sunday – Thursday in 2021 will not be charged any additional fees. | @riverbottomsranch
Kristen Packard Artistry: 2020 couples who reschedule to later dates in 2020 OR Sunday – Friday in 2021 will not be charged any additional fees. 2020 pricing will be honored in 2021. | @kristenpackardartistry
Pepper Nix: 2020 couples who reschedule to later dates in 2020 OR Sunday – Friday in 2021 OR any day of the week November – April will not be charged any additional fees. May 31 – October 11 Saturdays in 2021 will incur additional fees but 2020 pricing will be honored. | @peppernix
Hoopes Events: Anyone that postpones has two years from their original date to rebook. As long as a member of the team is available, they will move a wedding date to any day of the week at no additional charge. | @hoopesevents
Ryan Hinman Films: For April – December weddings, retainers will be moved to Sundays – Fridays and non-holiday weekends at no additional charge. For January – March weddings, retainers will be moved regardless of the day of the week. | @ryanhinmanfilms
Utah Live Bands: Couples can push their retainer to available dates in 2020 OR weekdays (Sunday – Thursday) in 2021 with no additional charge. Fridays and Saturdays in 2021 will incur a new retainer. | @utahlivebands
Marae Events: To the end of December 2021, whether it’s a weekday or a weekend, Marae Events will not be charging additional fees for rescheduling. | @maraeevents
Culinary Crafts: As a larger company, Culinary Crafts can take multiple events in a day, so as of right now they are allowing clients to reschedule to a later date without any penalty. The retainer clients have paid is going to carry over to a later date with them. | @culinarycrafts
Cactus & Tropicals (venues): Offering refunds to everyone who wants a refund. Clients may re-book based on availability of the venue. Note: Refund is paid in three installments. | @cactusandtropicals
Nice & Easy: Whether it’s a weekday or a weekend, Nice & Easy will not be charging additional fees for rescheduling. | @niceandeasy.co
Ember SLC: 2020 couples can change their wedding date with no additional fee as long as the new date is within 12 months of the original. If a couple chooses to postpone/reschedule then they will receive credit for everything paid so far. Cancellations will be given a 50% refund. | @emberslc
Fuse Weddings & Events: 2020 couples who reschedule to later dates in 2020 OR Sunday – Friday in 2021 OR any day of the week January – May 1 and October 17 – December 31 will not be charged any additional fees. Clients who choose Saturdays May 1 – October 16 2021 will forfeit their 2020 retainer. @fuseweddingsandevents
Chantel Lauren Bridal: Chantel Lauren Bridal is waiving all rush fees on made-to-order wedding gowns for 2020 brides. In addition, Chantel Lauren will be selling off-the-rack samples for under $1000. Alterations on Chantel Lauren gowns will also be completed on a “need to wear” basis to ensure brides get their dream gown fitting perfectly for their wedding in a timely manner with no additional fees. | @chantellaurendesigns
If you are a wedding vendor and would like your policy to be included in this round-up, please email me at maddie@utahbrideandgroom.com.
PART FOUR: REAL BRIDES
“We really appreciate the clients who have chosen to take advantage of the no-cost options MLE has provided. By booking a weekday or Sunday, our clients enable us to keep prime booking dates available for new business in 2021 which is vital to our survival of this pandemic. The clients don’t pay anything extra by selecting a weekday or Sunday date, and we can remain available for new business making it a win/win for all involved.” -Michelle Cousins, Michelle Leo Events
One of Michelle’s 2020 brides, Alexia, postponed her wedding to a Friday in 2021, which meant that not only did she not have to pay additional fees, she was also able to keep all of her vendors! “There is always a silver lining,” Alexia says. “The pandemic has become part of our love-story, so experiencing our big day after everything that has happened will be that much more special.”
And, we have to mention Kristen Packard who got married on a Thursday and says it was the best decision she’s ever made. She picked Pioneer Day which landed her a few extra days with all of her out of town guests and fireworks every year on her anniversary.
Springtime in Utah means birds are chirping, cherry blossoms are in bloom and wedding bells are in the air. We’ll admit, spring feels a little different this year from the confines of our homes, so we’re talking a walk down memory lane to remind us not of what we’re missing, but of what’s to come.
In 2014, Celeste walked into her college dorm room to find Sterling sitting on her couch chatting with one of her roommates. Little did she know, the two would reconnect three years later over commonalities including knee surgeries and soccer. The friendship turned into romance and nine months later, the couple hiked up to a waterfall with Celeste’s parents where Sterling got down on one knee (insert knee surgery pun here). The pair is coming up on their two year anniversary this summer.
When photographers Huoy and Sarah spotted Salt Lake City’s cherry blossoms on a trip across Utah, they knew they had found the perfect backdrop for a sweet, romantic shoot. “The Garden Park Ward provided the perfect intimate setting with beautiful cherry blossom trees that surrounded our couple,” Huoy explained. Celeste couldn’t agree more. She described the venue as “a little piece of heaven right here in Salt Lake City.”
“The fluffy soft pink stems inspired us to create wedding inspiration with that same softness and romance. To highlight the cherry blossoms, we decided on a palette of peach and blush with soft styling touches including delicate lace on the wedding dress’s bodice and a loose chignon and flowy ribbon on the bouquet,” Huoy said.
The timeless watercolor aesthetic of this shoot was achieved by photographing the session entirely on film. According to Huoy, “We chose to shoot this entire session in film because we knew that it would capture the tones of the cherry blossom perfectly.”
Holy Trinity Cathedral & Natural History Museum of Utah, SLC
September 21, 2019
Photos by Jacque Lynn
The Couple
Michael asked Angelique to dance at a mutual friend’s engagement party at the Peninsula Hotel in Chicago. Angelique was living in New York City at the time, and Michael was residing in Chicago. They bonded over their mutual love for cooking, hiking, traveling and the beauty of their home state – Utah!
On the third anniversary of their first meeting, Michael asked Angelique to dance in an empty ballroom at the Peninsula Hotel to their favorite song, “Misty” by Mark Maxwell. He got down on one knew and asked Angelique to be his wife.
The Wedding
“We knew we wanted to get married in Salt Lake. Although neither of us had lived in Utah for years, we both consider it our home,” Angelique says. “Holy Trinity is very special to Michael, and his Greek immigrant grandparents were heavily involved in building the church which was completed in 1923.”
The Mood
Ghost chairs, dramatic uplighting, all-white flowers and acrylic signage delivered a sleek sophisticated mood and complemented NHMU’s vaulted ceiling, cement walls and bold architecture. Angelique’s gown–a strapless corseted bodice gown made of Mikado silk with an architecturally draped skirt–complemented the wedding aesthetic.
The Cuisine
“Over half of our guests were from out of town, and we really wanted to showcase fresh and local ingredients and of course, lamb, because we are Greek,” Angelique says. For the main entree, guests chose from Idaho steelhead trout fillet, red wine braised lamb shanks or quinoa and stuffed squash medallions with roasted vegetables and baby potatoes. “We also served local spirits including Three Wives Vodka, Beehive Gin, High West Whiskey and Squatters Beers. Our signature cocktail was a classic greyhound cocktail with grapefruit juice and vodka garnished with a sprig of rosemary.
The Party
“Ultimately, we just wanted to show our loved ones a good time. To us, that meant cocktails on the museum balcony overlooking Salt Lae City, heartfelt speeches, Greek flavors and late-night dancing. We are boo Greek Orthodox, and it was important for us to include elements of the Greek culture into our wedding day.”
Invitation expert Mikayla Marie Manu of Ink & Press Co gives advice for couples whose canceled weddings have made planning paper suites difficult.
Listen, we’re big fans of planning… we’re in the wedding industry for goodness’ sake! But these days, we’re getting a deeper understanding of that Robert Burns quote: “The best laid plans of mice and men go often askew.” So, we called upon local wedding expert, Mikyla Manu of Ink & Press Co. to get some advice for all the brides-and-grooms-to-be whose big days are eliciting some big Qs!
Q: What is the first thing I should do when postponing my wedding?
According to Manu, the first thing you’re going to want to do is send out a digital announcement. “I would send a digital announcement because, depending on your timeline, you probably need to get that info out as soon as possible,” she said. “And there is a shortage right now in getting products, so it’s tough to know a timeline on product turnaround for physical paper products.”
If you need help getting this done, we recommend reaching out to Mikyla at hello@inkandpressco.com; she is offering digital design services, regardless of whether or not you worked with her on your original stationery.
Q: Should I send out another printed invitation suite?
Manu has a few items you’ll need to take into consideration on this front.
Have you picked a new date?
If so, how soon is that new date?
“As your new date gets closer, I would consider sending out an updated RSVP card alone, or send out an entirely new invitation altogether,” Mikyla said. We recommend mailing these updates out six weeks in advance of your new date.
Q: What if my wedding is changing seasons?
Some couples who may need to change the season their wedding will take place in.
“I think that depends on the couple and how far along they are in the process,” Manu explained. “If they have their heart set on a May wedding, I’d advise them to just shift their wedding to May 2021.”
If a couple is going to change the season, they’re likely looking at an entire change in aesthetic, so it would be best to do that if you haven’t already been through the designing and printing process for your wedding stationery.
Q: How else can I keep my guests up to date?
Manu recommends either keeping your already existing wedding website as up to date as possible, or creating one if you don’t have one already. Keep on your digital announcement so you can keep your invitees in the loop dream up with the perfect solution to your wedding postponement.
Mikyla Manu is the founder, owner and designer of Ink & Press Co. in Utah. Along with Utah Bride & Groom magazine, her work has been featured in Vogue, BRIDES, Martha Stewart and more. You can find her on instagram at @inkandpressco and online at https://inkandpressco.com/.
All images were designed, styled and photographed by Mikyla Manu.
The Grand houses so many of our favorite things in Salt Lake City: treats, relaxation and gorgeous spaces! We are so thrilled that they were given accolades in not one – but FOUR – categories this year!
We are head over heels for Thanksgiving Point’s lush garden backdrops. We couldn’t agree with this award more!
*Rotary Park is not an official wedding venue. Park city residents can reserve the area for small gatherings for a fee. All décor must be packed in and removed day-of. 
Not forgetting a single element of hosting, Ingrid and Chris also included several dessert options for their guests: a small carrot cake for the couple’s cutting, larger gluten-and-dairy-free almond cake for family members with allergies and coffee service with each from 
