Wintertime photoshoots have their challenges, for sure. Scary driving conditions, freezing temperatures, not enough snow, too much snow, not enough light, too much light. And if you’re a skier, you get it. It’s not easy to nail a dreamy winter engagement scene.
Leave it to photographer Austen Diamond to perfectly capture Eric and Justine’s ski-centric romance. The duo fell in love on the mountain, so naturally, the two set their sites on those ski hills as the backdrop to their engagement session. Justine describes the scene.
My fiancé Eric is an avid skier and moved to Utah from New Hampshire in 2011. He was working as a sushi chef at Sushi Blue when I moved to Park City from Louisiana in 2013. I was trying to tick some items off my bucket list and learning to snowboard was on that list. We met when I started working in Sushi Blue as a server where Eric was a sushi chef. I knew right away that Eric was special when he, a skier for over two decades, was the only person willing to stick by my side all day learning to ride blues at PCMR, yes, even on powder days :).
It was very meaningful to me to have our engagement photos in the mountains since I think of meeting and falling in love with my fiancé in the beautiful snowy mountains of the Wasatch during winter. We’ve had fun dates at Solitude riding and skiing and even ice skating in their outdoor skating rink so we jumped at the opportunity to take our photos at Solitude.
Our wedding ceremony will be August 18, 2018 at the top of Empire Pass in Park City and mountain biking away down the nearby mountain bike trails (TG, Corvair, and Payroll). We’ll be having our reception in Washington Park down Parley’s Canyon with a southern style pig roast.
Need more winter wedding ideas? Check out Chill Factor.
Hair and makeup by April Benincosa | Photos by D’Arcy Benincosa
Sister team—photographer D’Arcy Benincosa and hair and makeup artist April Benincosa—runs Salt Lake’s City Style Bar for on-the-go gals needing blowouts, updos, waxing and makeup. The world-traveling women have seen their share of style in fashion-forward cities like Paris, Scotland and Tokyo and, luckily for us, bring their expertise to Utah brides seeking chic, elegant, romantic big-day looks. Up or down, side swept or straight, find a look that’s uniquely you. citystylebar.com
Add Nature
Nowadays, florals go beyond the bouquet. “One of the best trends over the last three years is hair artists tying the wedding day theme to hair and makeup. Taking blooms from your bouquet and working them into your hair brings cohesion to your entire wedding look,” says D’Arcy Benincosa. Take note: Desert heat zaps blooms fast, so have a bridesmaid remind you to swap out the blooms midway through the day.
Harness Your Inner Queen Bee
Bridal crowns became the new veil years ago, but practical brides soon discovered the Pinterest-gorgeous wreaths were often bulky and juvenile. “A favorite natural look of mine is tying blooms together to create understated flower crowns. Most high-fashion brides are finding that a big flower crown that circles the entire head is often too much for the big day,” D’Arcy says. “Try adding subtle hints, like a few fall leaves on the side of your bun, or a little vine twisted through a braid rather than huge roses placed all around your head. The larger crowns are going out of style, but the subtle hints of nature are truly a classic look to last through the ages.”
Bulk up
It’s taken some time, but women have finally embraced hair extensions as a part of our beauty culture. “With all the dyeing, cutting and teasing our hair goes through, it’s definitely hard to grow it long and luxurious,” D’Arcy explains.
“Luckily, today’s variety of hair extensions offer easy, affordable options and they can look incredibly natural. We rent Laced Hair Extensions for the day of your wedding, but you can also buy your own set from us starting around $300. These extensions are made from real hair, and we recommend getting them dyed to match your current color,” says the light blonde photographer who found extensions that match her own locks without the tedious dyeing.
“If you’re planning on wearing them often, we suggest bringing them into the salon or taking them to your own hair dresser so they can cut and layer them to blend in with your own locks. Please make sure your stylist is familiar with cutting extensions, otherwise they could cut them too short and you would waste your money. The extensions will give you that full, luxurious look you’re wanting on your wedding day.”
Take notes from your favorite celeb crush
Worried about looking too on-trend in your wedding photos years from now? “Look at what your preferences have been over the years, not only since you’ve been engaged,” says Benincosa. Grace Kelly and Marilyn Monroe brought on the classic set curls of the ‘50s. Meanwhile, Cindy Crawford’s ‘80s-inspired beach waves. “Some of the most classic looks we see are Kate Middleton and Nicole Kidman’s loose curls, Grace Kelly and Carolyn Bassett’s low buns and Jessica Biel and Gwen Stefani’s large chignons.”
Hire Wedding-Specific Stylists Who Use Quality Products
Wedding-day beauty requires an expert who knows what hair and makeup will last through the day. “A well-versed makeup artist will make sure you look your most lovely and will have high-end products that won’t melt off during the day. While getting a mid-day makeup touch up is recommended, educate yourself on supreme products,” Benincosa suggests. “Ask your makeup artist what line of cosmetics she uses, what kind of finishing spray and powder, and if she will prime your lips, eyes and face. All of these need different primers, by the way.
We love Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. Avoid the cheaper brands on your wedding day. The same holds true for hair. Make sure to look through the portfolio of images from the first to the last moment of the wedding day to see how the style has held up.”
With this ring, I thee wed. Now more than ever, there’s a ring for every guy’s personality. A groom has hundreds of options, whether he plays guitar or hikes the canyons, opts for traditional or modern or joneses for platinum over gold. Need help narrowing it down? We loop you in with these hot ring trends.
Rose Gold
The fashion world can’t get enough of this rosy-hued metallic.
1. 18k rose gold and platinum brush finish band, $2,050, O.C. Tanner Jewelers, SLC 2. 14k rose gold flat band with a brushed center and high polish rims, $1,385, Bennion Jewelers, SLC
Hammered
Perfect for an artist or outdoorsmen, this rugged-yet-refined option could be the one.
3. Titanium beveled edge band, $215, Ever-Rings, SLC 4. Two-tone flat band with hammered center in 14k white gold, $1,010, Bennion Jewelers, SLC 5. Handmade hammered sterling silver band, $85, Sharpwerks, SLC
Embedded
Customize a band with a favorite motif or noted Utah hot spot.
6. Titanium flat band with granite inlay from Little Cottonwood Canyon, $450, Ever-Rings, SLC 7. Titanium flat band with guitar string inlay, $450, Ever-Rings, SLC
Get your tickets to Utah Bride and Groom’s annual White Party before they are gone!
In partnership with The Natural History Museum of Utah, Fuse Wedding and Events, Eclectic Hive, and Culinary Crafts, Utah Bride & Groom magazine invites wedding professionals—caterers, photographers, planners, designers, musicians, retailers, venues and more—to enjoy an evening filled with the hottest trends, cuisine, décor and entertainment. You will not want to miss this event.
Come celebrate with Utah Bride and Groom magazine and mingle with fellow wedding professionals while sipping some wine, tasting delicious appetizers and enjoying the beautiful event space at NHMU. And don’t forget to snap a picture in our fun photo booths!
Did I mention we will also have a little surprise we are thrilled to announce?
What to wear
We ask all attendees to wear cocktail attire in shades of white.
Tickets to attend are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event, unless they sell out.
A limited number of tickets are available.
Advance tickets can be bought through EventBrite HERE.
__________________________
This year’s sponsors include:
Venue : The 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 // Music: Dave Bowen Orchestra
written by Ashley Baker | photos courtesy of Pritchétt Bridal
We already know that the latest trends in bridal makeup have made a shift toward a more natural look, but the pros at Pritchétt Bridal and I, collaborated to create this step-by-step guide to help you lovely brides achieve a natural, but oh-so glamorous style on your wedding day.
Side note did you guys know that Pritchétt Bridal is not only a great place to buy wedding gowns from, but it also has a full-service salon right in the shop? I know. I know.
OK, Back to business…
In this tutorial, HMUA’s Morgan Richins and Chandi Featherstone of Salon Pritchétt offer these expert styling tips and tricks for gorgeous hair and beautiful, natural looking makeup that I just can’t get enough of. Scroll on!
But First, Hair
You’ll need:
A curling iron or straightener
Bobby pins
Elastic hair ties
Hairspray
Directions:
1). Begin by parting your hair in the middle–this creates an illusion of longer hair.
2). Curl the hair in alternating directions using either the curling iron or straightener–this gives the appearance of thicker, fuller hair.
3). Braid a loose crown around your head to create an effortless boho look. Pin any loose hairs back and add a little hair spray. Voila!
“Brides should feel like the best version of theirselves on their wedding day. Creating a natural look that enhances your natural beauty is a great way to accomplish that,” says Richins. “Braids are fun to wear on your wedding day because not only are they elegant, they also create a secure place to pin a veil to. The natural glam look is all about enhancing what’s already there and feeling beautiful.”
To prepare your skin: First cleanse, then add toner, let dry. Then apply primer evenly.
“The most important step of wedding makeup is to prime and prep your face. Doing so will help your look last for hours through the wedding festivities. Also, I cannot stress how important blending is. Blending is key to making everything look softer and more natural,” Featherstone says.
2). Blend it evenly across the face and into your neck.
Note: Use a smaller sponge for hard to reach areas, such as underneath and around the eyes.
3). Use concealer to highlight underneath the eyes, down the bridge of the nose, across the forehead, and a line down the middle of the chin.
4). Blend, blend, blend!
Contour + Blush
Directions
1). After the highlighter, concealer and foundation have been blended in evenly, it’s time to contour your cheek bones, forehead, and jawline. Here’s a quick contouring tutorial, ICYMI. Remember to blend.
2). Highlight your face with shimmer and then add blush.
“For this look we went with a warmer tone because it enhances the model’s natural beauty,” Featherstone says.
Minimal of color can be magical, especially when a site is dark and moody. Leslie Price of Leslie Dawn Events and photographer Alixann Loosle enter La Caille’s deep forest at dusk to create a quiet design that caresses and calms. This enchanting retreat captures the charm of a captivating storybook romance.
Head into the Woods
Lucky for Utah couples, the mountains boast sensory delights like the smell of pine, the sounds of bubbling creeks and the caress of gentle breezes. Take La Caille, for example.
“La Caille is such a sensational venue,” Leslie Price of Leslie Dawn Events says. “The grounds are truly breathtaking with the lush greenery as a backdrop. It really brought out the shades of gray in the design palette.”
Master Moody Hues
Price harnesses wedding-day fantasy with a grown-up, fairy-tale flair. Enhanced by neutral-hued florals, moody lighting and organic materials, a forest nook channels a magical moment of delight with textural shades of gray—concrete, linen and ceramic. “Additionally, I pulled in matte gray candles to bring in softness and create a dim and mysterious aesthetic.”
Think Naturally
The cool hues of texture-rich and organic materials—concrete table, marble place cards and artisanal plates—create the intrigue of a mysterious and, of course, romantic setting.
“The stone swan seats are unique and added such an unexpected element to the table design,” says Price who capitalized on the garden’s existing table and benches.
Polish the Details
Avoid a breeze sweeping away programs and place cards by opting for stone instead.
“I love the idea of incorporating marble into the place cards instead of using classic paper goods,” Price explains. “I found lovely marble coasters and Karli Noel Calligraphy expertly wrote the names on them. I felt it finished off the design with a polished feel.”
Design Toward Dusk
Waiting to party past sunset has its benefits. Evenings provide cooler temperatures, while sunset shadows deepen the textures of bark, leaves and pods. “I love florals with texture,” Price says of dahlias, eryngium, andromeda and fern. “The Potted Pansy shows off textural blooms that don’t lose the soft romance we were striving to create.”
Flowers are one of the most beautiful components in a wedding. From the bouquet to table centerpieces, flowers are key to setting the tone for the entire day. We sat down with Kellie Jackstien of Artisan Bloom to talk everything floral. Here’s what she had to say.
What are your favorite blooms in season right now?
“I’m obsessed with Hellebores right now. They have great variation of color and despite their delicate appearance, they’re a fairly hardy flower which makes them a great addition to bouquets.”
Photo Credit: Logan Walker
As we begin 2018, what do you foresee happening with future trends in floral design?
“We’re seeing a slight shift away from the wild, bohemian style. It’s still relevant and beautiful but in a much more controlled way. Bouquets will be smaller and little more structured while the softer garden style blooms layered with foliages will create that whimsy and carefree element associated with bohemian design. Think “controlled chaos.”
Sometimes overlooked, but what’s your take on boutonnieres?
“Boutonnieres are such a small detail to any wedding day, but it doesn’t mean it can’t be a fun detail to focus on. When designing boutonnieres, it’s fun to involve the groom and incorporate his aesthetic. We often see the groom prefer really cool textures like eucalyptus pods, branches or herbs over something overly floral.
I prefer to avoid flowers that are crushable and have pollen. These flowers will not hold up throughout the day and the pollen will stain most fabrics.”
Photo Credit: Logan Walker
With brides getting married in various seasons, what types of flowers are seasonal year-round?
“More than you think. My favorites tend to be hydrangeas, roses, garden roses, lisianthus, ranunculus, and most greenery. We’re seeing more farms opening in other regions in the world to meet the demands of crops that are more seasonal, which is amazing. Good wholesalers are now sourcing peonies through the warmer summer months (as late as October) where as in years past, peony crops were limited to spring and very early summer. It’s impressive to watch these farms and wholesalers keep up the trends in with our industry.”
“Great question. A bride’s bouquet endures a lot during a wedding day. Not only is it out of water, it is picked up and put down frequently, faced with various temperature changes, and frequently crushed in loving hugs. Your bouquet needs to be able to stand up to all the stress. Some of our current favorite hardier blooms are ranunculus and garden roses.”
How do you work with people who have allergies?
“Allergens aren’t something your florist can ignore. It is one of the first questions I ask because we don’t want anyone to be uncomfortable on your wedding day. If we know in advance there are so many alternative foliages and flowers out there for us to find a similar replacement.”
Photo Credit: Logan Walker
What is your best advice for brides searching for a florist?
“Find a florist that you personally identify with because you want the experience to be enjoyable. Don’t be afraid of getting to know your florist and asking questions. The relationship you create with your florist will facilitate a more collaborative experience which is always fun.
Also, don’t be afraid to give your florist some creative freedom. There may be blooms or greenery that you have never thought could be incorporated into your flowers. Trust your florist because they are experts in the industry and will put out their best work for your big day.”
Looking for a florist for your wedding? To learn more about Artisan Bloom, find them on our vendor listing or check out their website.
Scenemakers has been helping couples plan their dream weddings in Utah for over 20 years. It’s a branch of the Modern Companies which includes companies such as Modern Expo & Events, and Modern Display. Since it’s launch in the 1940’s, Modern Companies and Scenemakers continue to be a leader in the wedding and event planning industry in the Mountain West.
At the time of this writing, Karley Parker was the Account Executive of Social Events at Scenemakers. We sat down for a Q&A with her to chat about her wedding planner weapons, favorite products and projects from last year.
BIO:Parker has a background in floral design, creates art on the side and loves to bring her client’s vision to life.
UBG: What’s your favorite day-of wedding planner weapon?
PARKER: Binder, water, comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
UBG: What’s a favorite wedding of yours from the last year?
PARKER: Savannah and Bridger are an artsy young couple that wanted to keep their wedding unconventional, so they chose a private residence in Alpine for their July 1st nuptials. This wedding was a favorite for its use of fruit mixed with floral. It was a hot day in July and having the fruit incorporated made it feel lush, unique and a perfect representation of summer.”
UBG: What local products did you use or could you use?
PARKER: “We used everything in our inventory, which we do rent out.”
2018 wedding trend alert: Vintage trailers are a thing.
This year, we have been spotting mobile trailers and campers at many of our favorite outdoor receptions. With warmer weather just around the corner, trailers are becoming the go-to option for many couples looking for a way to incorporate vintage glam into their special day.
Because of their retro look, these trailers and campers are becoming increasingly popular. They provide a great photo opportunity for everyone to enjoy. These trailers are also great because they can be more than a trendy photo booth. They can be mobile bars, hip lounge spaces, food trucks, and even DJ Booths.
Photo Credit: Retro Rentals
Retro Rentals, a vintage trailer rental service, brings instant elegance and sophistication to any event with their vintage trailers. Their trailer and camper models blend gorgeous design details and craftsmanship with sensible features to fit the style and needs of any wedding reception.
“They’re small and mobile, which makes it easier for them to fit into your event whether it is at a park, reception hall, or your parent’s backyard,” said Melanie of Retro Rentals. “Our vintage trailers bring such a unique aspect to receptions because they can create a more intimate flow to weddings and get the party going.”
Photo Credit: Retro Rentals
Vintage trailers and campers are a great and easy way to make a statement at an outdoor reception. Not only do they exude an hip, effortless style, they can be as flashy or understated as a couple wants. The trailers available at Retro Rentals allow endless options to personalize your big day.
Are you looking for the perfect vintage trailer for your wedding reception or engagement party? Retro Rentals have several available models to fit your party’s needs. Check out their website for more details.
“No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.” –Hal Borland
Brrrr…it’s cold out there. No, this isn’t the start to that famous early 2000 cheerleader romcom chant from Bring it On.
No it really it’s cold outside. We might be in the middle of a late winter, but the late season snow and below freezing temps are making up the difference. Unless you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, going outdoors for exercise between the months of November and early April is not an option.
Summer workouts are easy. Early sunrise—go for a cool run at the park. A little too hot in the afternoon—hit up the pool for laps. Long sunlit days—grab some elevation and hike around the Wasatch mountains at sunset. Winter workouts on the other hand, are hard. Let’s be real. How do you get yourself motivated when your bed is warm, the sun is still sleeping and the slippery snowy sidewalks present Mario Kart-like obstacle courses.
It really is easy to stay in shape during the winter months and be ready to rock your spring wedding.
Dress the Part
The worst part about the winter months is the winter weather. Be it the frigid temps or the frigid precipitation. According to lifehacker.com “dressing in layers, remembering to keep hydrated, and staying visible” are the key to a successful outdoor workout.
35° TO 45°F AND CLEAR- Wear tights or thin running pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and a vest. You may also need gloves when the temp gets near 35°F.
35° TO 45°F AND RAINY- Slim-fitting tights fare better in rain since they won’t get as droopy. A wool base layer will keep you warmer than a synthetic top since it retains warmth when wet. Wear a waterproof outer layer.
10° TO 35°F AND CLEAR- Wear technical underwear under your tights or pants and a long-sleeve shirt under an insulated jacket or vest. Wear gloves or mittens and a thin beanie.
10° TO 35°F AND SLEET- Wear tights, a water-resistant jacket, and a cap. Add water-resistant mittens to keep your hands from getting damp and cold.
–10°F AND CLEAR- Wear wool underwear and thick socks, tights, and running pants. To keep your core warm, go with a long-sleeve base layer under an insulated vest and windproof jacket. Wear a beanie and mittens.
–10°F AND SNOWY- Use the same cover-everything strategy as above for the bottom half. On top, wear an insulated vest and a water-resistant or waterproof hooded jacket over your base layer. Wear water-resistant hat and gloves.
Working Out, Outdoors
Now that you’re dressed, assume the position—ready, set, WAIT! Don’t go outside just yet.
The moment that blistering wind hits your face, you’ll be back in the house and under the covers before you know it. First, get yourself warmed up and ready to take on the cold.
According to Richard Cotton, PhD, an exercise physiologist and spokesman for the American Council on Exercise “It will be easier to make yourself go outside, if you warm up inside first.” Cotton says taking five to 10 minutes to get your heart rate up and warm the body such as jogging in place or jumping jacks will help elevate the frigid temperature shock that can come with stepping outside.
There’s also great news about working out during the colder months of the year. According to the Huffington Post, “As the body works harder to regulate its core temperature among the elements, you’ll burn a few more calories during your wintry workout compared to one conducted indoors.”
Take Up a Winter Sport
Okay, you’re dressed and finally outdoors. The hard part is over. The best part about living anywhere in the Salt Lake/Provo/Park City valleys is there are plenty of winter sport options to choose from.
Starting with there are 14 ski resorts in the state of Utah all within 20mins to a 3hour drive from the Salt Lake International Airport. You can downhill ski, cross-country ski or snowboard. According to Lifestrong.com, “A person who weighs 155 pounds burns 223 calories in half an hour of downhill skiing, according to Harvard Medical School. Someone who is 185 pounds burns 266 calories in 30 minutes of downhill skiing.”
If strapping yourself onto a pair of toothpicks and hurling yourself down the slick side of the mountain is not the sport for you, there are still a plethora of activities from snowshoeing, hiking or simply running. According to Men’s Fitness, “David Weck, the inventor of the BOSU Balance Trainer, suggests running in the snow as an activity that will be so intense that it will wear you down quickly, give you a great workout and get you back inside before your sweat has the chance to freeze.”
Tweak Your Diet
This next tip does take a little more effort.
It is very easy to slip up on our eating regemin. Holiday snacks and sweets kick already kick off the season into a downward spiral of yummy unhealthy goodness. So without worrying too much, it’s not about changing your diet or evening creating a new one, it is simply adjust a few ingredients.
According to Fitness Magazine, “Munch on healthy carbs in the afternoon before the sun goes down to stave off a splurge.” Studies show that the winter cravings come from the lack of sunlisht during the season which makes the serotonin in the brain less active. Thus, “too little of this mood-lifting chemical leaves you feeling tired and hungry,” says Judith Wurtman, PhD, founder of Triad, a Harvard Hospital weight-management center, and coauthor of The Serotonin Power Diet.
To help brighten your mood during the dark months, Wurtman recommends eating low-fat, healthy carbs in the morning “such as sweet potatoes, oatmeal with a sprinkle of brown sugar, and cinnamon toast” and then during the afternoon try “popcorn, soy crackers, or cereal” and for dinner, “opt for roasted potatoes, whole-grain pasta, black bean soup, or vegetable stew with barley.”
Create a Simple Daily Routine
According to Fitness Magazine, “Don’t settle on your sofa until you’ve completed your workout for the day.”
This is a really good tip. I know I am the first person to get home and through on sweatpants and an oversized sweatshirts. Even though it’s only 5 p.m., the sun has already been in bed for an hour so why not join in? Instead of jumping straight into your PJ’s, create a routine of putting on your workout gear. And even if the night calls for an evening on the couch, make it an active evening on the couch.
Mike Donavanik, a celebrity trainer in Beverly Hills, encourages you to also take commercial breaks. He recommends this repeating this circuit during every commercial break:
Nowadays, florals go beyond the bouquet. “One of the best trends over the last three years is hair artists tying the wedding day theme to hair and makeup. Taking blooms from your bouquet and working them into your hair brings cohesion to your entire wedding look,” says D’Arcy Benincosa. Take note: Desert heat zaps blooms fast, so have a bridesmaid remind you to swap out the blooms midway through the day.
