Real Wedding: Marissa + Tory

“Tory and I met through my brother and  mutual friends, it wasn’t long before we fell in love. He proposed to me by taking me into the mountains to what I thought was a campsite bonfire with our friends, but instead I happened upon a path of roses and lanterns leading across a river bridge.

At our wedding reception we had small stars sprinkled on the tables with lanterns surrounded by flowers. Our colors were ivory, sangria, lavender and navy, colors that my husband and I picked together. And I love  sparkles, in the flowers, the shoes, the dress and the rings.  I made my wedding flowers myself and my mom made my veil, so they were both very sentimental to me. There were so many special moments, I loved stepping out of the Salt Lake City Temple to the cheers and excitement of all our friends and family. My bridesmaids laughing with me and helping me get ready, and of course sharing smiles and kisses on a gorgeous day with my wonderful husband.

Photography: Jessie and Dallin
Reception Venue: The Grand View

Most Original Utah Wedding Gifts: Featured on Good Things Utah

Welcome to gift-giving season! Sure, devices are essentials for emails, texting and Amazon Prime, but not wedding-gift shopping. When it comes to scoring a wedding gift that will last for anniversaries to come, think outside the electronic box and opt for a more personal, local option. Where to shop? What to buy? You’re guaranteed a perfect find at one of these hot, local boutiques.

New Orientation: fine china for the modern couple

Don’t let the the term scare you. Made from porcelain, fine china is surprisingly durable, dishwasher safe, easy on the eyes, and ready for daily use. For over 30 years, New Orientation has honored engaged couples by displaying their chosen place setting for gift buyers to see for themselves. Can’t buy the whole set? Offer a partial gift card to apply to build the place setting over time. What if you didn’t get the whole set on wedding day? Save your gift registry for future birthdays and anniversaries.

 

 

New Orientation displays your setting so your wedding guests can see what you’ve chosen
From L to R: Kate Spade Laurel Street porcelain dinner and salad plates and cereal bowl, $19-22/each; Bernardaud Louvre porcelain dinner and salad plates and cereal bowl, $31-$49; Bridesmaid bag, $10; Necklaces, $24-$28/each; “Bride to Be” crown, $15; Flatware caddy, $37; All available via New Orientation, Foothill Village, SLC

Glass House: local artwork and funky home decor

Nothing sets the tone for a new house like a fabulous piece of artwork. Glass House is filled with splashy modern art pieces—all original from local artists—and edgy, trendy decor. Even if you don’t have $2K to invest on a piece of artwork for the lucky couple’s new home, offer a gift card for partial amount or go in as a group.

A look inside Glass House’s showroom in Millcreek
Lambswool blanket, $190; Gold one finger, $160; Balloon dog bookends, $55; Courtney Young (local artist) original art, $160, Glass House, Millcreek, SLC

O.C. Tanner Jewelers: Barware for them, lockets for her and sports memorabilia for him

Gift your guys a piece of sports history with O.C. Tanner Jeweler’s latest collection of cufflinks, wallets and bottle openers. For your mom, his mom or your line of gal pals, choose a silver sterling locket they can wear on wedding day and beyond as a formal statement or with a favorite pair of jeans and tee.

Just in: cufflinks and wallets from University of Utah football games and bottle openers made with the Huntsman Center basketball floor, O.C. Tanner Jewelers, SLC
Copper pitcher, cups and koozies, $120/set (or sold individually); Venetian glass “twigs” champagne or ice bucket, $350; University of Utah game-used football wallet, $100; University of Utah Huntsman Center floor bottle opener, $85; Sterling silver locket; $625; Tudor watch Black Bay on distressed leather strap, $3,10o, O.C. Tanner Jewelers, SLC

True Gentlemen Supply: a tie…AND a jacket

A tie, pocket square and cufflinks are a groomsmen given. Want to really knock it out of the park? Gift your guys—dad included—with custom-tailored jackets. Not only will they all look superb at the altar, the jacket will become attire to wear long after the reception.

 

Mix and match isn’t just for bridesmaids anymore. Groomsmen are getting in on the action, too.
Custom blazers range from $500-$1,200; True Gentlemen, SLC
Setté silk necktie, only 21 of each ever made, numbered like a piece of original artwork. Truly a gift to remember. Call for pricing. True Gentlemen, SLC

Catch me live on Good Things Utah right here.

Real Wedding: Thalia + Ryan

Thalia Condo and Ryan Nielsen Wedding

Traditional Catholic Italian Wedding at the Cathedral of the Madeleine

The Couple

Utah musician, Thalia Condo, originally from Ecuador, first connected with Ryan Nielsen, a New Yorker native back in 2011. Ryan and Thalia met through a mutual friend, and had their first date at a coffee shop. 

 

“We talked for hours about music, and we liked each other a lot,” Thalia says. “Our shared love of music is what really connected us. I was recording my first CD when I met Ryan, and he helped me with some of my guitar chords.” 

Thalia and Ryan are both musicians. Ryan is also a mechanical engineer. Thalia lovingly refers to him as an “engineer by day and musician by night.”

 

Thalia moved to Utah from Ecuador to get a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Utah, and worked in marketing for some time before deciding she wanted to pursue music full-time. 

 

The Proposal

Four years after that first date, Ryan proposed during a trip to Italy. The couple took a trip to Europe together, and Ryan had planned to ask for Thalia’s hand while in Paris, but the weather didn’t cooperate with his plans. Once in Venice, the pair got lost exploring and decided to take a gondola ride. Thalia was excited about the romantic ride and hopped in with a gondolier named Manolo, who whistled and pointed out historical buildings and areas in a thick Venetian accent. 

“It was the perfect moment,” Thalia says. “The sunset cast the most beautiful shade of colors across the houses, and they looked magical. The next thing I know, Ryan grabs my hand and I could feel him trembling. He began telling me why he loved me and then asked me to marry him.” 

Thalia looked up at their gondolier and said “Manolo, I think he is proposing.” She said yes, and Manolo quickly dropped them off at the pier to celebrate. Thalia and Ryan then went into a store that made custom masks for Hollywood movies. 

“I knew they cost thousands in the U.S., so I took it as a sign that we needed to buy them. So we did,” Thalia says. The masks later made an appearance on their big day. 

 

The Wedding

The couple were inspired by Pippa Middleton’s royal wedding. 

vows cathedral of the madeleine

altar cathedral of the madeleine“We loved the concept of a traditional catholic wedding, since both of our families are Catholic,” Thalia says. 

aisle cathedral of the madeleineRyan was still in school during their two-year engagement, and got a job in Michigan after graduating. He had no choice but to move, so Thalia stayed behind and planned the wedding alone. 

entrance cathedral of the madeleineOriginally, Thalia and Ryan thought of returning to Italy for the wedding, but they knew not everyone would be able to make it. Instead, they chose the Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City to harness the Italian-Catholic ambiance. Friends and family from several cities were able to attend, and the vows and music were in three different languages: English, Latin and Spanish. 

visit cathedral of the madeleine

exterior cathedral of the madeleine


“We wanted to use the masks we bought in Venice in the wedding, but weren’t sure how we were going to incorporate them,” Thalia says. “Then one day it clicked. The masks reminded us of a theatre play, so we held our reception at the Capitol Theatre on the rooftop.” 


Thalia and Ryan are both foodies, and wanted local cuisine as a part of the gathering.

The couple decided on two dinner options: one vegetarian and one meat dish. 

“I have been a vegetarian for almost 20 years and Ryan is not. We figured it would be a great idea to have options for both our vegetarian and our omnivore friends.” 

Before dinner they presented hors d’oeuvres with assorted cheese and crackers, tomato basil bruschetta and fresh seasonal fruit. Before dinner, guests dined on a salad of mixed greens with cherry tomato, glazed pecans and pomegranate vinaigrette, Ryan’s favorite. The first dinner option consisted of tri-tip steak with chimichurri sauce and grilled chicken with sherry mushroom sauce, accompanied by a side of lemon herb rice or roasted heirloom tomatoes.

The vegetarian option was roasted bistro vegetables and spinach raviolis with sherry sauce. 

Their poppy seed lemon cake made an impression, and Thalia says their guests still talk about it! 

The Music

The ceremony featured Mr. Gabrielle Terrone from Rome, Italy playing at the cathedral with the breathtaking voice of cantor Tyler Oliphant from the Utah Opera. 

The Nielsens were set on live music at their outdoor reception, so they had a full jazz band performing during the dinner and party. 


“We had all our guests dancing to old Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Billie Holiday and many other classics. 

Advice for Brides

Thalia recommends that brides “enjoy the ride, [because] the day goes by so fast that you barely have time to eat or talk to all your guests. Enjoy planning, don’t stress out and have fun!”

Thalia and Ryan were married on September 2, 2017 and had their honeymoon in South Africa the same month at a Safari in Pilanesberg.

ryan & thalia | august 2, 2017 from MØØNSTRUCK PICTURES on Vimeo.

 

Photography: Carolina Lindsay

Ceremony Venue: Cathedral of the Madeleine

Reception Venue: Capitol Theatre

Gown: Hayley Paige

Suit: Jos. A. Bank  

Floral Arrangements: Native Flower Company

Rentals: Hoopes Events  

Veil, Shoes and Bride accessories:  BHLDN

Crown: Mignonne from Paris

Masks: from Venice, Italy

Rings: Etsy

Love Sign Marquee Lights: Caitlyn Ricks

Invitations: Design Lotus

Entertainment: Kevin Flynn and the Svengali Jazz Quartet

Videography: Moonstruck Pictures

Vintage Car: Antique Limo Utah

Catering/Cake: Rockwell Catering

Drinks/Bartending: Cheers and Swizzles

 

 

Fête en Blanc Review: White Hot Design

 

 

written by Val Rasmussen

photos by Pepper Nix Photographers

Take it from the pros who know: White design is hot.

If you want to know what’s next in party design, look no further than the Utah Bride & Groom magazine’s annual White Party. Whether you’re planning a luxe hotel reception or small dinner party, this year’s “Fête en Blanc” showcases the hottest design trends you’ll want next year.

Get those Pinterest boards ready for: White done right. Fête en Blanc boldly goes where no Utah party has ever gone before.

2019 Wedding Trend #1: Book a local architectural gem.

Want to really impress your guests? Go big with the venue. In its short life, the Natural History Museum of Utah has quickly become one of Salt Lake City’s crowning architectural achievements. Departing from the dark and dated museums of yesteryear, the award-winning, LEED-certified icon not only rests it’s copper-clad walls against the city’s foothills, it overlooks a city that locals are so obviously attached.

2019 Wedding Trend #2: Roll out the white carpet (of flowers).

Sure, white flowers are a timeless wedding tradition, but Kellie Jackstien of Artisan Bloom (shown below) ditches the loose leaves and vines in favor of high-impact lush groupings. Esprit Raw Flowers (our favorite local bloom wholesaler) shipped in crisp white blooms—like anthurium, hydrangea, hyacinth and roses from South America—to roll up stairs, sprout out of geometric vases, and cover Couth Booth‘s photo backdrop wall.

 



 

2019 Wedding Trend #3: Get creative with your dress code.

What does one wear to a White Party? You guessed it. Truth be told, I have wedding “friendors” tell me months prior to the White Party that they are already looking for their outfit. It’s a big deal. Because guests must know what to wear anyway, ditch the common “formal” or “informal” request, in favor of “white cocktail attire” or “luncheon florals” or “James Bond sexy” or “Western chic.” Need help in customizing a dress code for your party? Ask your planner. I’m sure they have plenty of ideas up their “white cocktail attire” sleeve.

White Party partners Artisan Bloom‘s Kellie Jacktien and Fuse‘s Mara Marian

White Party partner Mary Crafts-Homer (second from right) with her Culinary Crafts team

   


White Party partner Diamonds Direct

2019 Wedding Trend #4: Craft a menu to arouse every sense.

If you’re hungry, you may not want to read further.

Honestly, I don’t know how caterers do it, but the Culinary Crafts team does it right. Every nibble these days must be perfectly balanced. Sweet and savory. Fresh and filling. Luxurious and budget-conscious. But most of all, cuisine (and cocktails, too) must arouse every sense—sight, taste, smell, touch and sound.

Sound is the story to tell behind every morsel. Whether its locally-sourced, taken from a family recipe, inspired by travels, or sampled from favorite restaurant, a well-rounded 2019 party menu reveals the hosts personalities.

Roasted mushroom cap with house-made kimchi
Razored beef bruschetta with caramelized onions, golden raisin chutney, gorgonzola spread

Sweet pea pesto and roasted tomato on bruschetta

Fresh Utah apple slice with artisan cheese, drizzle with honey and micro greens

Roasted corn cake with spicy mango chutney, cumin cream, and cilantro garnish
Shrimp shooter with gazpacho sauce and lemon zest; smoked salmon and curried egg on rye crostini; polenta and pecans with candied persimmon; skewered watermelon with mint, feta, and balsamic reduction

  

Cache Toffee Collection

Cakes by Socorro
Retro Rentals

2019 Wedding Trend #4: Up your rental game.

Let’s take a moment of silence to let go of the drab party rentals of the past: standard round tables, fold up chairs, polyester linens, clear glass vases and faux-concrete pedestals. Remember those? Yikes.

Thank heavens Eclective Hive recently waltzed into the Salt Lake Valley with a cool breeze of rental collections. Choose from daybeds, hammock, bars, benches, structures, and more in styles like art deco, industrial, Parisian or global.

 

    

2019 Wedding Trend #5: Hire the pros.

One might think that by running a bridal magazine, we would know how to plan our own party. Sure, we know pretty when we see it, but it’s a another ball game when it comes to logistics. Enter Fuse Weddings & Events.

Fuse has done so many events, they have it down to a science. Producing a experience takes more than an eye for design. Crowd flow, vendor timing, parking, space planning, signage, lighting and audio doesn’t equate with most DIY planners. Party “pretty” is a mere sliver of what these pros do. Take our advice: Hire a wedding planner. It will save you time, headaches and, best of all, they’ll keep you on budget.

Once you’ve hired a planner, they can help you select the rest of your party team. Want to know some of our favorites? They’re all listed at the bottom of this post. Good luck and congratulations!

Fuse Weddings & Events

This year’s sponsors include:

Venue: Natural History Museum of Utah // Catering: Culinary Crafts // Planning & design: Fuse Wedding and Events // Floral design: Artisan Bloom // Esprit Raw Flowers // Photography: Pepper Nix // Videographer: Chris McClain // Entertainment: Dave Bowen Orchestra, TapSnap and Couth Booth // Rentals: Eclectic Hive // Treats: Cakes by Socorro and Retro Rentals // Invitations: Ann Elizabeth Print Studio // Jewelry: Diamonds Direct

 

White Party 2018 from Chris McClain Productions on Vimeo.

Raise The Curtains with an Eccles Theatre Wedding

The hottest ticket in Salt Lake City? The Eccles Theatre. Downtown’s new showstopper not only brings in Broadway hits and the biggest names in comedy and music, it also happens to house grand party spaces. Hosts can choose from intimate outdoor patios overlooking Main Street, the theater’s Grand Lobby or even the stage itself. No kidding.

If hosting a wedding inside a modern architectural icon seems daunting, fear not. Steal these style-savvy design tips from Michelle Cousins of Michelle Leo Events and caterer Cuisine Unlimited. Michelle helped Utah Bride & Groom roll out the red carpet for 275 wedding vendors inside Eccles Theatre’s Grand Lobby.

 

Also, play up the surrounding environment. “The Performing Arts Center is such an open and contemporary space that we wanted the event design to have the same contemporary feel with a splash of elegance,  keeping in line with Utah’s wedding industry,” Cousins says.

Green and gold are white’s best friends. “By adding a splash of green to the overall color palette, the event design offered depth to the otherwise white space of the theater lobby,” says Cousins. “Pops of gold provided warmth to the space and complemented the rich tones of the mostly-green centerpieces. Geodes paired with air plants, succulents and lush greens elevated the scene,” she says of the table décor provided by Decoration Inc. “String-art signage, table numbers and a paper-floral backdrop for photos offered visual appeal and a creative approach to an otherwise traditional element.”

Finally, it’s okay to play with your food. Action stations allowed guests to customize their meals. Various stops offered hand-scooped cookie dough, build-your-own caprese, potato gaufrettes with caviar, smoked salmon tea sandwiches and pork belly with Brussels sprouts.

–

For more inspiration, check out our magazine! 

Real Wedding: Russell and C-Moc

What makes a wedding special is all the details and personality that a couple brings to their big day. One of our favorite weddings was that of Russell and C-Moc, who truly showed us that the key to making your wedding perfect is in the details.

cmoc_russell_wedding_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Caty Gainer Photography

The Mood

Since the beginning, they wanted their wedding to reflect their personalities, interests, and cultures. With the help of Christena Buonforte, of Snowbird Weddings, Russell and C-Moc planned their special day with a little bit of flair and excitement.

“Working with them was so refreshing. Weddings are meant to be personal and it’s our job to help couples make their day all about them. From the cotton candy machine to the Mariachi band, everything about their wedding screamed Russell and C-Moc,” said Christena.

cmoc_russell_wedding_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Caty Gainer Photography
cmoc_russell_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Caty Gainer Photography

The Wedding

Their big day was anything but boring. The beautiful location coupled with the fun, non-traditional touches made it a memorable day for everyone. The ceremony was emotional as C-Moc and Russell shared personal vows to one another amidst all their dear family and friends. After the outdoor ceremony, all the guests and even the grooms, had fun tapping into their inner child with cotton candy, pinatas, and ball pits throughout cocktail hour and the reception.

cmoc_russell_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Caty Gainer Photography
cmoc_russell_wedding_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Caty Gainer Photography

When asked about personalizing a wedding, Christena commented, “It’s the little touches that make your wedding day feel truly like an expression of yourself and your partner. As a couple, be sure to dig down into both of your personalities because that’s what truly makes the celebration memorable. Not only for you, but for your guests as well!”

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that will cater to your personality then a Snowbird wedding is for you. To learn more about weddings at Snowbird, find them on our vendor listing or check out their website.

Featured Image above: Caty Gainer Photography

 

Vendors:

Flowers & Decor: Holly Parkin
Cake: Snowbird
Cotton Candy booth: Pink Beehive Cotton Candy

A Colorful Approach

There was a time when color used to be considered a risky approach when garbing a groom. It was guaranteed to attract attention—and not always the right kind. Today, however, men-of-the-moment are fashionably sporting a variety of haute hues during the big day, and the statement they make is one of pure, personalized style.

Electric blue, salmon, emerald and burgundy are the hot hues of the season. Paired with any bridal gown, vibrant jackets, trousers and suits provide a fresh take on a groom’s getup. Say goodbye to grey and hello to color.

True Gentleman Supply

@TrueGentlemenSupplyCo

Visit True Gentlemen Supply Company’s new flagship boutique in Sugar House. Stocked with suit samples, thousands

of fabric options and a tie wall, the haberdashery has a lounge area and big screen TV that invite guys to watch the big game while shopping for their big day.

“Green has been all the rage this year and is expected to continue to be throughout next year,” says Trapper Roderick, owner of True Gentlemen Supply Company. “You will start to see more aggressive textures and patterns in green suits. They’re a great choice because the color is clean and fresh yet simple and noticeably unique.”

Red suits are great year-round for making a bold statement instead of opting for a wild pattern,” Roderick says. “A black shoe dresses it up, while a brown shoe makes it more casual. A jacket can also be worn as a blazer with jeans.”

True Gentleman Supply | Photo by Cassandra Farley

“Blue is a great look for a casual wedding or for your everyday business casual attire. The blazer is a half-linen, half-wool blend from our Ariston collection (on opposite page). The blazer starts at $1,599,”  Trapper says. “This plaid look can be worn with jeans or a pair of blue slacks depending on the mood you want to give off.”

Utah Woolen Mills

@UtahWoolenMills

In 113 years of business, Utah Woolen Mills has never ceased to amaze Utah’s evolving fashion scene. For 2018, UWM adds Tom Nox—starting at $395—to their strong lineup of designer offerings. “We aren’t sacrificing quality of luxury, we’re still the same strong brand,” says stylist Taylor Hawkins. “We just want everyone to be able to be a part of UWM.”

“The olive suit has been dormant for the past decade, but man, it is back and more beautiful than ever,” Hawkins says. “Olive is such a great color for most people’s skin tones, too. If you’ve passed on olive before, rethink it. It will give you a great color that’s outside the basic navy, charcoal and gray.”

Like olive, the colors and styles of the 70s are back. Burgundy suits satisfy two important categories for today: casual and formal. If you take a look at this man (above), his suit looks very casual and fun, but if paired with a white tux shirt and black bow tie, he could steal the show at any wedding.”

“Bright blue has been around for a couple of seasons but is still a must. Brighter blue suits have so much life and color and versatility,”  Hawkins says. “They can be used in any business setting, around the office, at corporate meetings and especially at a wedding. Blues blend so nicely, making them really easy to combine patterns and colors in shirts, ties and pocket squares.”

 

“This medium-blue twill cloth in a windowpane pattern is worn as a sport coat and paired with a light blue trouser that echoes the shade of the check in the jacket,” Yeats explains. “I like this paired with a chocolate silk knit tie and a spread-collar oxford shirt.”

@Beckett & Robb

“Grooms have more options than ever before to find the perfect color for their weddings. As the days of the rented black tux come to an end, grooms everywhere are experimenting with color and seeing the freshness it brings,” says Beckett & Robb co-owner and CEO Jason Yeats. “Reputable tailors now have access to every color imaginable in wool, linen or cotton.”

A Prince of Wales patterned jacket in a bold shade of purple definitely pops. “Broad-peaked lapels add to the strength of this look. This top works with navy trousers and a navy silk grenadine tie,” Yeats says.

Yeats’s top tip for grooms? Wear complementary separate jacket and trousers rather than a two-piece suit. He says, “Breaking up a louder color has a way of toning down the look while still making a statement.” Investing in custom pieces is wise because they can be worn long after the wedding.

“Here’s a royal blue hopsack jacket in wool and silk, paired with a cotton/linen off-white, trouser. Solids are more formal than patterns, making this pairing somehow both playful and elegant,” says Yeats, who adds a navy grenadine tie and dark loafers to anchor the look.

Get Ready to Strike a Pose with Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth

Thinking about renting a photo booth for your wedding day?

Here at Utah Bride & Groom, some of our favorite wedding memories have come from the photos we’ve taken in photo booths. Photo booths are a versatile way to add personality and entertainment to any wedding. From DIY to rentals, there are plenty of options out there to make it seem like an overwhelming part of wedding planning. We met with Pamela Godwin from Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth to talk about their pride and joy, Lucille, and advice for couples considering a photo booth. Here’s what she had to say.

 

Tell us a little more about Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth and Lucille, of course

“Lucille is a 1956 canned-ham camper and the star of Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth Company. Named after the I Love Lucy star, she is as glamorous on the outside, as she is hilariously fun on the inside. Not only does she fit right in at weddings, she’s great at any other swanky event.”

“She’s also roomy! An entire wedding party can easily fit inside and you won’t find any boring paper props, either. Sideshow is all about giving wedding guests a truly unique experience. Although Lucille is a photo booth, a better modifier might be ‘portrait studio’. We capture the heart and the abstract quality of each person who sits down in Lucille. That’s when a photograph stops being a picture and transforms into art.”

How does Lucille work?

“Lucille is not an automated experience. She’s personal and customized to fit your special day! The bride and groom can either hand pick their props from our large selection or let us choose for them. On your big day, our attendants will be there to assist guests every step of the way. Instead of the traditional photo booth picture strips, we give each guest a 6X8 print to take home as their wedding favor. Digital images are made available on our website to download for free as well.”

Sideshow_vintage_photo_booth_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth

Why should a couple rent a photo booth for their wedding?

“Photo booths offer a lot of bang for your buck! They provide entertainment for your wedding guests as well as a special gift they can take with them to remember your day.  Plus, if you choose a company that offers digital copies in addition to prints, it serves as a visual guest book, too.  There’s something really special about an album of all of your closest family and friends having a blast at your wedding.”

What is the best way for couples to personalize a photo booth for their big day?

“Start by choosing a photo booth that fits your personality. Think to yourselves: Are we more traditional or unique? Do we prefer vintage or modern? Then choose props that fits your theme and that your guests will have fun with.”

“Make sure your photo booth rental has options to include your names and wedding date on each of the prints. Adding a logo or text on them are a great way to personalize your guests’ keepsakes.”

Sideshow_vintage_photo_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth

Do you have any advice on incorporating a photo booth into a wedding reception?

“It’s great if you can position the photo booth adjacent to the dance floor, but this isn’t always an option at event venues. If there is only room for it in a hallway or outside the venue, make sure you have plenty of directional signs indicating how to find it.  Ask the band, DJ, or whoever oversees making announcements to explain where the photo booth is located, announce when it opens, and give your guests warning before it closes.”

“Most guests love taking photos, especially if they’re not too keen on dancing. But those who are reluctant usually are persuaded if they see other people trying it out first. Lucille has a TV monitor outside so people can see what’s happening live inside the photo booth. It’s just another way to create entertainment for your guests and encourage them to take a turn!”

Do you have any advice for couples shopping for a photo booth rental?

“Not all photo booths are created equal! Make sure you are comparing apples to apples when you look at pricing. Make sure to ask the following: Can they set up without disturbing the ceremony? How long will they be there? How many attendants will there be to interact with guests? What do the prints look like? Can they include your names on the prints? Are digital copies included? Can guests easily access the digital copies? Are the props customizable?”

“Decide what your priorities are for your photo booth and remember that the lowest price doesn’t necessarily equal the best experience. Ask for a contract that details exactly what you are getting when you put down your deposit. Don’t forget to ask for references because a rude attendant can ruin your reception for your guests!”

Sideshow_vintage_1_utah_bride_groom
Photo Credit: Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth

Any fun photo booth tips that you can share with us?

“If your grandparents or other special older relatives are attending your wedding, try to set aside time to take a photo with them in the booth.  It makes for a funny, sweet memory.”

 

Are you looking for the perfect photo booth for your wedding reception or engagement party? Sideshow Vintage Photo Booth is a versatile option to fit your party’s needs. Check out their website for more details.

 

 

Top Ceremony and Reception Centers in Utah

Photographer Pepper Nix reveals Utah’s most opulent and jaw-dropping ceremony and reception centers.

After the big yes, it’s time to decide on the big where. Fortunately, Utah has many different venues—from sleek contemporary structures to rustic ranches and everything in between.  But how to choose? Industry insider and photographer Pepper Nix offers a behind-the-scenes look at her favorite venues, along with expert tips and tricks for each site.

grand america, top reception centers
Photo by Pepper Nix

GRAND AMERICA

Take a look at SLC’s downtown skyline and one hotel stands out: Grand America. “The Grand” houses regal courtyards, elegant ballrooms, Italian crystal chandeliers and rich tapestries. There’s nowhere else like it in Utah,” Nix explains. “It’s so easy to marry here. You and your bridesmaids can get ready in a spacious two-room suite with floor-to-ceiling window light. One room houses your squad and the makeup artists, while the other room performs as the bridal closet. I have enough room to shoot the ‘getting ready’ shots, while the bridesmaids drink mimosas, feast on The Grand’s gourmet cuisine and bond during hair-and-makeup time.”

The Grand suits couples who love formality. In terms of photo opportunities, Nix says, “It has a very indoor studio feel with multiple backdrops, traditional furnishings and tons of gorgeous directional light.” Wintertime holiday lights and summertime formal gardens enhance stylish weddings.

cushings cabin, reception venues utah
Photo by Pepper Nix

CUSHING’S CABIN
and EMPIRE CANYON LODGE

Deer Valley’s legend runs as deep as its roots in mining. With over 2,000 acres to choose from in Ski Magazine’s 2018 #1 ski resort, what is Nix’s preferred ceremony spot? “By far, my favorite ceremony location in Deer Valley is Cushing’s Cabin,” she says.  “The view to the west overlooking Guardsman’s Pass is breathtaking, plus the west-facing ceremony site means that the chairlift ride to Flagstaff Mountain at 9,100 feet will win over your guests. After the ceremony, you ride back down and have a fabulous reception at Empire Canyon Lodge.” Winter brides at Deer Valley also can enjoy sleigh rides and Deer Valley’s famous Fireside Dining menu.

reception centers, st. regis utah
Photo by Pepper Nix

ST. REGIS

This mountain contemporary resort is synonymous with comfortable luxury. With large ballrooms, spacious patios and mountain views in every direction, couples have many options. Nix’s favorite spot? “A west-facing ceremony on the Mountain Lawn provides the perfect background for your pictures. The St. Regis also has an excellent flow for your guests: the ceremony on the Mountain Lawn, cocktail hour on the Mountain Terrace (with a traditional Champagne sabering performance by the wait staff), followed by an outdoor reception on the Astor Terrace. The Astor Terrace is large enough that you can tent it and still provide your guests views of the mountains well after the sun has gone down.” The funicular ride and celebrity sightings—Elvis Costello, Tori Spelling and Kim Kardashian—add to the sensational experience from dawn to dusk and beyond.

STEIN ERIKSEN LODGE

Overlooking Bald Mountain at Deer Valley Resort, Stein Eriksen Lodge [named after the famed Olympic medalist and Utah’s favorite adopted Norwegian, Stein Eriksen] is known throughout the world for its attention to detail and world-class service. Nix’s favorite ceremony location? “You guessed it,” she says. “The west-facing Flagstaff Deck at Stein Eriksen photographs perfectly. From there, your guests walk along a flower-lined pathway to the new Stein Eriksen ballroom with an entire wall of windows that faces west, so, during dinner, your guests can enjoy the sunset.” Celebrity sightings include Conan O’Brien, Earth Wind and Fire and Summit County resident Katherine Heigl.

reception centers utah
Photo by Pepper Nix

MONTAGE

As one of Deer Valley’s newest mountain resort venues, Montage flaunts ski-in, ski-out access, the largest spa in Utah and five—yes, five—dining options, including a pub with its own bowling alley (ideal for a late night after party). Nix’s favorite ceremony hub at Montage is the Grand Lawn overlooking Park City that centers around a fire pit. If a ballroom isn’t your thing, a reception inside the Vista Lounge restaurant offers cozy furnishings, high ceilings and roaring fireplaces. “The custom chandeliers were designed to make it feel homey and cozy, which is incredible considering the 20-foot ceilings,” Nix says. Celebrity sightings include Justin Bieber and Mitt Romney.

reception centers, ceremony utah
Photo by Pepper Nix

LOG HAVEN

Generations of Utah fine diners call Log Haven their go-to spot for celebrations. Surrounded by Millcreek Canyon’s wildflowers and waterfalls, this rustic-yet-refined log mansion has been honored by national news sources, including Forbes and USA Today. But what hits home for the local crowd is Log Haven’s induction into Salt Lake magazine’s 2017 Hall of Fame. “It’s only 15 minutes from downtown,” Nix explains. “I adore the images I capture of the west-facing meadow overlooking the pond. It has incredible light, ducks in the pond and picturesque pathways leading to the ceremony.”

LA CAILLE

The French restaurant nestled at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon is the perfect marriage of savory food and botanical delight. The in-the-know photographer’s fave spot for a ceremony at La Caille is on the lush green lawn next to the vineyard. “La Caille has the best view of Little Cottonwood, and the east-facing ceremony overlooking the canyon is a pretty spectacular backdrop for your photos.” From the vineyard ceremony, guests walk to an upper patio for cocktail hour to enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres in the shade of magnificent trees, all the while enveloped in the canyon’s magnificent views. La Caille’s Grand Pavilion is the stage for a grand reception celebration. “The grounds are so extensive and varied that I could shoot here for 12 hours straight and not shoot the same thing twice. Plan on extra time for portraits in all the locales.”

ceremony and reception centers, ranch utah
Photo by Pepper Nix

BLUE SKY RANCH

As I-80 West winds beyond the Park City turnoff, one may think they’re driving into unknown wilderness. The hamlet of Wanship—15 minutes east of Kimball Junction—hides a 3,500-acre wooded paradise with lodging, barns, a whiskey distillery and dramatic landscapes. Blue Sky Ranch is a western-inspired getaway for the cowboy, yogi, fly fisherman, equestrian or sports shooter. Nix says, “Yet again, I gravitate to the west-facing ceremony site on their outside patio. What I love about Blue Sky is how the inside of the barn is authentic and Western. I love the rustic hardwood floor and the rope chandeliers. It’s on private land so the band can, and does, play until midnight. They only do one event per weekend, so it is very exclusive. You can do anything here from black tie to mountain chic to cowboy casual.” 

The New Hotel (and Bar) Your SLC Wedding Party Will Actually Love: AC Hotel

Picture this.

You finally check “Find downtown SLC venue” off your wedding checklist. But, wait. Before relief sinks in, you think, “Where will our guests stay? Where can we meet up for cocktails? What’s hip and close to the center of downtown?” Don’t panic. Utah’s newest hotel—AC Hotel Salt Lake—has your wedding party covered.

Sure, it’s a big-business hotel chain, but this Marriott brand— founded by Spanish hotelier Antonio Catalan—provides the weekend warrior boutique offerings. The hotel flaunts local cuisine, minimal design, and walkable access to downtown culture. Located on the corner of 2nd & 2nd (225 West 200 South) downtown, AC Hotel’s 164 guest rooms are in the center of the city’s expanding art district.

“AC Hotels complements the spirit and culture of downtown Salt Lake City by providing a chic experience, exceptional beverage and food offerings, local art and culture, and a comfortable working and gathering space,” says AC Hotel Salt Lake‘s general manager Jared Steere. “This grand opening gives us the opportunity to take a moment and celebrate the culmination of the hard work and dedication of so many people who have helped breathe life into this beautiful hotel.”

AC Hotel Salt Lake General Manager Jared Steere (center) chatting with Christie Marcie (Salt Lake magazine) and Kelli Fratto-Bland (Love Communications)

AC Hotel’s Campfire-Inspired Smoked Manhattan

Bar Demonstration at AC Hotel Salt Lake from Salt Lake Magazine on Vimeo.

So, what’s in it for party hosts?

Well, cocktails—paying homage to Robert Redford, Butch Cassidy, Thelma & Louise, Dumb & Dumber and The Sandlot—lure out-of-town partygoers into Utah movie history. To boot, the AC bar is happy to create custom cocktails for any engaged couple. The bar also serves up local distilleries like Five Wives and High West, alongside local cuisine from Creminelli and Caputos. Our team happily tasted crafted blends of their signature AC Hotel Gin & Tonic, Smoked Manhattan and Espresso Martini.

Utah’s inspiration doesn’t stop at the bar.

The design is flocked with Beehive State symbolism. Downtown street grids inspire the artwork, our Great Lake’s salt influences a white-and-black color palette, and our state flag sparks a beeswax wall form behind the check-in counter.

  

 

 

 

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