HIGH BROW: EYEBROWS ARE BACK

written by: Christie Marcy

Trends come and go. One generation’s Brooke Shields is another’s Cara Delevingne, but one thing is for sure—brows are back.

Vanessa Lavey, owner and brow stylist at Big City Brows in Sugar House, says there’s a good reason for that. “The brow is the frame of the eye and your eyes are the first thing people see when they meet you,” she says.

“It is all about a big eyebrow right now,” Lavey says. “You do have to have genetics to make that happen, so I work with clients to determine what they want and what’s possible.”

Lavey says there’s a lot that goes into a good brow—waxing, tweezing, trimming, tinting and microblading among them. “There’s some subtleties,” she says. “It’s about your face, your brow bone, your brow color, volume and texture. My job is to ask, ‘What is the maximum amount of drama and beauty we can bring to your face?’ ”

“Every hair matters,” Lavey says with a laugh. “I really love helping women to look great without a lot of makeup. Then they can just feel pretty and go on with their life.”

It’s not just brows. Big City Brows also works on eyelashes, forgoing the ever-popular lash extensions and focusing on a temporary procedure called the Lash Lift. “It  puts your natural lashes on display and lifts your lashes up and out,” says Lavey. “Your natural lash is actually being styled, too, now.”

Fake fuller-looking brows with Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel, available in 3 shades, $24.00, sephora.com

Lavey’s tips for great brows:

1. “Less is more.” Less work, that is. “Don’t overdo it. It’s better to be a little bit messy.”

2. “If you’re doing your own maintenance, don’t get so close to the mirror. Ask yourself what your brows will look like from a normal distance and look at yourself from farther away. Some of those hairs that look messy close up are really part of your shape.”

3. “Don’t just let your hair stylist do your brows—find a great eyebrow stylist. Even an awesome hairdresser is going to wax your brows really fast and without attention to detail. They are an expert in hair. Go to an expert of brows.”

774 E. 2100 South, SLC, 801-970-5555, bigcitybrows.com

Cruising with the Cocktail Caravan

written by: Andrea Peterson                    photos by: JadieJo Photography

Objective: Make Yummy Drinks. Destination: Where the Party at.

You won’t find sleeping bags inside this camper. Your hiking boots and fishing tackle are going to have to stay outside. There’s only room in this metal bungalow for martini glasses, tasty bitters and a large assortment of spirits. Rebuilt from its bare bones up, this 1960s Shasta trailer has been fully restored and turned into a complete functioning mobile bar. This bar is on the go and headed to a party near you.

Throwing a party? Getting hitched? Need to win over the executives? Or just wanting to gather family for a fun time? The Jack Rose Caravan is one of Utah’s only mobile bars for hire. Unlike other bartending services, the trailer is fully equipped with running water and ready to roll out or, shall we say, roll into the good times.

According to owner Burt Hoagland, “the mobile bar scene is huge in Australia, New Zealand and parts of Europe right now, but it hasn’t really caught on in the States.” He wants to change that.

Hoagland is no bar-hopping college kid. He’s got deep roots in the industry. His grandfather owned a bar for 25 years and his uncle owned several watering holes in and around Salt Lake and Park City, “I’ve been in the industry for a lot of my life and I have a passion for making events memorable,” he says.

The bar’s staff is trained in traditional bartending and can create whatever type of bar best fits your event. They’ve thawed cold ski bunnies with steaming hot-cocoa bars in the winter and encouraged executives to loosen their ties with refreshing alcoholic lemonade drinks infused with essential oils. And don’t worry—they can also shake up a classic martini.

The entire Jack Rose team has many years of bartending and service experience. “The recipes are mainly traditional craft cocktails. But we always get together and put our own spin on things and come up with our own recipes as a group. We spend a lot of time online, researching new trends and making sure we offer the best quality out there.”

Right now Hoagland’s favorite cocktail is a Strawberry-Raspberry Mojito. But catch him after last call and he’ll admit he’s traditionally been more partial to the whiskey drinks.

“Jack Rose is definitely a craft cocktail bar, but we also do much more,” says Hoagland. If your stomach starts growling, Jack Rose offers food options. They recently partnered with Caputo’s to offer meat and cheese boards during cocktail hour.

 

This saloon on wheels may shortly turn into a thirst-quenching fleet to allow for more events throughout the year. Hoagland says they will “travel anywhere in Utah and the surrounding states if our clients are willing to pay for travel and a few other expenses.” But for now—with just the one trailer—the calendar is filling up fast. For booking you can go to jackrosecaravan.com/contact or call 801-671-5155.

Tip Tuesday: What is a makeup Primer and why should I use one?

written by: Emily Lopez of Em’s Beauty Bar

So what is a primer anyway? And does it really make a difference? Primers offer a smooth layer between your skin and your foundation. No matter your skin type, it helps smooth over skin to fill in fine lines, wrinkles, pores, dryness/oiliness, or any imperfection you may have, helping to give you a flawless finish to your makeup. Primers also help your extend the wear of your makeup (an absolute must for brides!). Always apply serums and moisturizers to clean skin first, then prime (a little goes a long way generally. A pea size amount is a good rule of thumb) and then your skin is prepped for makeup! Can foundation Primer be used on your eyes? In my opinion, No. Primers made for your face are a little too thin and slippery. I recommend getting a separate Primer made specifically for eyes.

(Photo credit: MT Photo & Film)
 
Here are a few of my favorite, tried-and-true makeup primers:

Vibrant Villa – A Bold Colorful Wedding

Bold is back and braver than ever. Megan Chytraus of Perfect Statement and photographer Claire Marika reveal the how-tos of a hosting a red-hot fiesta.

Pack a Punch
What better season than spring to roll out the red carpet for a Latin American-inspired scene boasting bright hues and whimsical patterns? “I love this color-packed playfulness,” says designer Megan Chytraus of Perfect Statement. “What a blast to play with vibrant colors and patterns. Plus, it’s so different from the clean and simple palettes we’ve seen in the past few years.”
be creative and carefree “Open your pinata to find your seat.” Bet’cha never heard that one before. Chytraus prompts guests to their seats with mini pull-string “pinatas”—white paper lanterns, actually—dressed with streamers and ribbons. Names written in calligraphy formalize the tone a bit, while keeping the look fun and casual.


Get Prickly

Move over succulents, here come the cacti. Succulents are enjoying their moment, but cacti—like rabbit ear, prickly pear and echinocactus—take a tablescape to the next level. “We created the fun and playful feeling of a bright Mexican fiesta without compromising on the romantic and classic style details a couple would want for their wedding,” says Chytraus of her workwith Sax Romney florist Ed Kubicek. Textural blossoms including dahlia, aster, thistle and pincushion protea boost the lively mood.

Stay Focused
With so much color, pattern and texture, how does one avoid a cluttered clash? “Choose your focal points,” Chytraus says. “Using a simple canvas—like the simple wooden table here—allows more room for smaller components, such as the place settings, to stand out.” Setting the scene, the Springville Museum of Art provides an elegant, easy-on-the-eyes backdrop.


Change It Up

Sure, you can use one gown to take a bride from entrance to exit, but why not have three? Chytraus suggests a simple backless gown for the ceremony, a vibrant red dress for the reception, and a sassy short dress for the send-off.

See more inside the

The Details

Photography: Claire Marika, Sandy
Design: Perfect Statement, SLC
Invitations: Lynn and Lou, SLC
Floral Designer: Sax Romney, SLC
Venue: Springville Museum of Art, Springville
Cake: Vanilla House Bakery, Mapleton
Model: Daisy Piedra
Hair and makeup: Pretty Edgy, SLC

Photo Op: Golden Hour Romance

Justin and Gabriela’s love goes beyond high school sweethearts. They met in 7th grade. Lucky for the two of them, they school scheduling stars aligned and they ended up in a class together. Slowly, their feelings for each other grew from friendship to more and Justin and Gabriela began dating in high school. “We have been together for 7 years and look forward to many years to come,” Gabriela says.

There are two times of the day that add romantic lighting to ones engagement and wedding photos—just after sunrise and moments right before sunset—otherwise known as the golden hours.  The light is redder and softer than when the sun is higher in the sky. Thankfully for photographer Brianna William’s clients, her favorite time of the day comes long after one would have to get up early in the morning. “I love shooting between 7:30-8:30pm, it has the absolute best lighting,” Williams says. “And the temperature is always nicer—which makes the couples more relaxed and not sweaty.”

“The location for [Justin and Gabriela’s engagement sessions] has the perfect trees for the light to come through,” Williams says. Although lighting is key, Williams believes it is most important to make sure the couples just always make sure the couples are relaxed & know what kind of poses you’re expecting from them. “Always start off the shoot with movement. Get them running and laughing and then the rest of the session they’ll be comfortable with each other.”

Just because this time of day is a favorite among photographers doesn’t mean it is always the easiest to capture on film. According to Williams, “The hardest part is not getting to harsh of light. You have to stand in the perfect spot.” But add an adoring couple into the mix and magically romantic photos are easily expected.

DETAILS

The couple: Justin Ayala and Gabriela Rodriguez

Photographer: Brianna Williams Photography

Location: Green Canyon, in North Logan,UT

Instagram: @bwillsphoto

Facebook: @bwillsphoto

Pastry Perfection: Utah Wedding Cake Trends

‘Eating good food is my favorite thing in the whole world. Nothing is more blissful.” –  Justine Larbalestier

[Featured image from Cakes by Katelyn]

There are so many things to be wowed about when it comes to a wedding: the couple’s love, the gorgeous gown, the epic venue, the merry entertainment and the taste-teasing menu. Be it a casual barbecue-inspired buffet or formal-plated meal; the wedding dining experience almost always ends with one thing: an impressively-designed, architecturally-built, meticulously-concocted wedding cake. Here are some great ideas for your upcoming nuptials.

‘Let them eat cake!’ is one phrase every wedding guest can’t wait to hear. Give your guests something sweet to look forward to—a minimalist inspired wedding cake that’s easy on the eyes and taste buds. Read more here.

Cake by Le Loup Cakery.

A multi-tiered confection does not just appear out of nowhere. It takes time, detail and years of experience to create. Grand America’s Executive Pastry Chef Xavier Baudinet checks off each one of those on the list. Chef Baudinet excels at pastry, chocolate, gelato and confectionary with ease and skill. Read more here.

Cake by The Grand America Hotel and photo by Brushfire Photography.

Bold is back and braver than ever. What better season than summer to roll out the red carpet for a Latin American-inspired scene boasting bright hues and whimsical patterns? Read more here.

Photography by Claire Marika and cake by Vanilla House Bakery.

Summer weddings are perfectly timed for a farm-to-table flair. Fresh fruits and vegetables aren’t limited to cuisine. They can be used in decor as well, including bouquets and centerpieces.  Top delicious pies and cakes with delicate sugar fruits and veggies for extra farm-fresh taste. Read more .

Decor by Sage & Thistle, cake by Bake Me a Kake and photo by EK Studios Photo & Video.

Though it’s customary to watch the bride and groom cut their wedding cake, some guests might leave slightly disappointed wishing they had one last sweet bite to end the night. Lucky for them, gone are the days of leaving a reception with a less-than-satisfied sweet tooth. Try having scrumptious treats that not only serve as the perfect wedding favor, but also fulfill those late night cravings. Read more here.

Ruby Snap Cookies

Real Weddings: Snowy Mountain Engagement Session

Cameron Scott Kiser & Lisa Marie Wojcik

Cam and Lisa were introduced by Lisa’s cousin Gerry in 2011.  At the time, he and Cam were roommates. Cam had just finished school and started working as a physician assistant at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. On one of his rare nights off, Gerry persuaded Cam to meet up with Lisa and her friends at a bar. Cam and Lisa immediately hit it off and found they had many common interests: one being Utah—his home state and her favorite place to ski.

They had a good first date, but life got in the way and they fell out of touch. Fast forward three years to Lisa’s 29th birthday where, again, Gerry persuaded Cam to come out, this time to Lisa’s karaoke party. Drawn to her “amazing” vocal skills, Cam fell for Lisa all over again. Lisa was impressed with Cam’s rendition of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” and a text the next day led to a second first date. 

Cam proposed to Lisa on June 22, 2016 at one of their favorite spots in Manhattan, Carl Shurz Park. Afterward they went to the restaurant where they’d had their second (first) date where both of their families were waiting. Cam’s family had flown in from Utah to surprise everyone.

When it came to engagement photos, Cam and Lisa knew Utah was the natural choice. Having grown up in Olympus Cove and later Cottonwood Heights, Cam has a special connection with the area. Lisa, a New York native, learned to ski at Snowbird when she was six years old, and has been going to Park City Mountain resort every year since.

Lisa immediately fell in love with Whitney’s work at Grey Girrafe. Originally Whitney had suggested shooting at Jordan Pines, but with a big winter storm rolling in, changes had to be made—and fast.  They ended up driving a little way back down the canyon to another beautiful spot: Storm Mountain.

Cam and Lisa live on the Upper East Side in New York City. She is the director of marketing at her family business, Beacon Adhesives, and Cam is a physician assistant for Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Edwin Su at Hospital for Special Surgery. The wedding is on August 26, 2017 at Guastavino’s in Manhattan. They look forward to celebrating their new life together with their family, friends, and loved ones.

This engagement photoshoot took place over Thanksgiving weekend at Storm Mountain up Big Cottonwood Canyon. “We weren’t planning on shooting in the snow but, as it often happens in Utah, Mother Nature had a different idea,” photographer Whitney says. “The couple had flown in from New York City for this shoot, so rescheduling wasn’t really an option. “We decided to brave the snow and make the most of it. As cold and snowy as it was, we were the only ones out there shooting, which created a really intimate and peaceful atmosphere. Spending that time together and getting to know this fun and adventurous was so enjoyable, and is why I do what I do.  It was a very unique and memorable experience, and we got some equally memorable photos.”

Get to know the photographers

“We are Whitney and Alan Wilbur. Married. Three boys. No sleep.

We want to make creative and authentic images for you. We love to collaborate with unique, soulful folks who are as excited as us about making great photographs. Since we launched in 2010, we have been lucky to meet and work with hundreds of couples. Many have become dear friends.

We have a very laid-back, observational approach to photographing weddings. For us, it’s all about the personality of our clients, and the individual character of their day. Our method is just letting things unfold naturally and responding creatively.

We are based in Salt Lake City, and shoot weddings and events all over Utah, the West Coast, and throughout the world.”

Grey Giraffe Photography

whitney@greygiraffe.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/greygiraffephotography/

Can’t get enough of Utah winter wedding inspiration? We’ve got plenty right here. 

Agricultural Wedding

Locally-harvested cuisine from Utah’s top five caterers.

Farm to table isn’t new. For years, menus have boasted local food for good reasons: it is undeniably fresh, environmentally friendly (saves transportation costs) and supportive of locally-owned business.

What is new is entire wedding menus filled top-to-bottom with locally-grown gourmet offerings, not just a single dish. From appetizers and salads to entrees and desserts, five Utah caterers prep their favorite farm-fresh dishes.

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This Season’s Honeymoon Hues and Fashion Ideas

The choice isn’t always black or white. Color is the story. You are the main character.

Flame: Liebeskind Red Bag, Flight ($248); Dolce Vita Red Heel, Flight ($148); Smith & Colt Red Nail polish in “Psycho Candy”,  C Two by Cake ($19)

ChromeLoeffler Randall Metallic Loafer, Namedroppers ($99.99); Large Silver Envelope, Banana Republic ($24);  Silver Small Clutch, Banana Republic ($68); Silver flat Aquatalina, Panache ($375); Silver bracelets Miansai, Cake ($220 each)

GreeneryBaggu Green Backpack, The Stockist ($42); Shoe, Jeffery Campbell, Anthropologie ($49.95); Frank & Eileen Green Belt, Panache ($155); Anna Trzebinski Ostrige Scarf, Farasha ($1,950)

Primrose Yellow: Marc Jacobs Bag, Namedroppers ($246.99);  Camper Yellow Sneaker, The Children’s Hour ($130); Yellow Sunglasses, Anthropologie ($38)

Dogwood: Pink Clutch, Koo De Ker ($42); BKR Pink Water bottle, C Two by Cake ($35); Free People heel, The Children’s Hour ($148); Pink Hat, Koo De Ker ($24): John Russo Nail polishes in “Mineral” and “Air,” Farasha ($18)

Lapis: Basil Racuk Paperbag, Farasha ($234); Kate Spade clutch, Namedroppers ($100); Jennifer Fischer Sunglasses, Namedroppers ($246.99); Jeffery Campbell velvet mules, Mary Janes ($109)

See more inside the 2017 May/June Issue.See more inside the .

DETAILS

Photos by: Adam Finkle

Styled by Farasha: Madeleine Marie Ewell & Yvonne Colvin

Art Direction by: Jeanine Miller

the Bachelorette Party

For centuries before a wedding the groom has been celebrated. Bachelor parties began with the spartans, but bachelorette parties were nowhere to be found. It wasn’t until the 1960s and the rise of feminism that women realized, WE DESERVE TO PARTY TOO! Now a time honored tradition—bachelorette parties—can be anything from the wild nights we see in movies to a quiet night in.

This brings us to you. You offered to plan the bachelorette party, the bride’s last night of freedom. But… now what? Have no fear, we are here to help with some steps to guide and inspire the perfect night for the bride and her girls.

Courtesy of The Bach

Theme

First thing’s first, the theme. Think of the bride here, is it going to be a ‘glamping’ getaway (Conestoga Ranch), a wild night on the town (hit up Downtown SLC or Park city), a spa day (Basalt Day Spa) or a night in? Some themes can be as basic as the bride’s favorite color or era (vintage, hippies, sixties). Before you get anything planned from here make sure you talk to the bride and know what she wants and is comfortable with—a little blushing can be fun but all out risqué isn’t for everyone.

Courtesy of Shop Stag and Hen

Style

Next comes the style, will you have a color scheme or dress code? A little guidance can be nice, but make sure everyone can still wear what they are comfortable in (some cute stores: Apt. 202, Unhinged, The Stocklist and White Elephant). Having something matching like shirts, socks or bags can make for some fun pictures and to get some fun attention if you decide to go out (design some at Bridal Party Tees or check out Etsy).

Courtesy of How Sweet Eats

Pre-gaming

Pre-gaming; this sets the mood for the whole night so make sure you have fun! Get the girls ready together. Have a good collection of treats (theme appropriate of course) and some yummy drinks to get the party started. While you’re doing each other’s makeup and hair or sipping on something fruity, don’t forget to play some good music (our favorites include: P.Y.T. by DJ John Gibbons, Run the World by Beyonce and Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper).

Courtesy of My True Blu

Where to Go and What to Do

Where you go and what you do really depend on the theme you chose. The options are endless, play some party games at home or make it a relaxing oasis for a spa day, take a pole dancing class at La Bombe SLC, go to Wiseguys Comedy Club to laugh all night or hit some bars and clubs (Bourbon, Twist, and Sky SLC are some ideas).

Courtesy of Camille Styles

How to End the Night

After a whole day or night of fun the group is bound to be exhausted. This is where you can decide to part ways or have an old fashioned slumber party. End the night cuddled together reliving old memories and talking about the new ones you just made. The Bride’s last hurrah is sure to be her dream come true as long as she’s with her girls.