Camera shy? Don’t be. Before you schedule a bridal session this spring, there are a few things to keep in mind. We get it. This may be one of your first times “modeling” in front of the camera and before you fret, think of what great preparation this is for the big day. All wedding images—from bridals to the “I do”—are investments you’ll have your entire life, so be sure to invest in good planning first.
Wishing for magazine-worthy images? Let photographer Jadie Jo help with these three tips for nailing bridal portraits.
THINK SMALL
You don’t always need a big, wide open area for bridal photos. This session was done in a small studio. With a little creativity and some fun details, you can still have a gorgeous, unique bridal session.
HIRE A DESIGNER
Brides don’t always think to use a wedding designer for their bridal or engagement session. A designer isn’t only for the wedding day, they are there to make any session you’re having perfect and unique to fit your style. For this session we worked with Fox Heron Collective, who hand died and painted the tapestry for a backdrop. Their creative touch really set the feel for this session.
BE YOU. BE UNIQUE.
Brides, don’t be afraid to do things differently. If you have a unique idea for your bridal session or wedding, it doesn’t hurt to run things by your photographer and/or designer, no matter how simple or extravagant it may be.
Lemon’s high acidity means it can help slow food spoilage—that’s why a toss in lemon juice keeps cut fruits from browning. But because its natural acidity is always appealing, there are several ways to preserve lemon flavor itself—freeze lemon juice in ice cube trays, for instance, or dry lemon zest. Here are two of the most delightful recipes that make your lemon last, one sweet, the other savory.
Sweet: Lemon Curd
Lemon curd is the mayonnaise of the pastry kitchen—it keeps a few weeks if it’s refrigerated, it adds unctuous mouth feel and a gentle tartness to whatever you add it, and it’s incredibly versatile. Also, it’s easy to make.
3 large lemons
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 pound unsalted butter, room temperature
4 extra-large eggs
Juice of 3 lemons
1/8 teaspoon salt
Peel the lemons carefully with a lemon peeler—you only want the yellow zest, not the white and bitter pith. Process the pieces of peel with the sugar until they are well blended. Cream the butter and beat in the sugar-zest mixture. Add eggs, one at a time, then add the salt and lemon juice. Put the mixture in a saucepan and cook over low heat until it’s thick. Cool to room temperature and store, covered tightly, in the refrigerator. Keeps about a month when refrigerated.
How to use lemon curd:
A dollop of lemon curd topped with one of whipped cream dresses up a pound cake or angel food cake instantly.
A spoonful in a baked tart shell can be topped with whipped cream or meringue for a mini lemon pie.
Make a graham cracker crust, spread it with lemon curd and top with fresh berries.
Use it as a cake filling for yellow or white cake; ice with vanilla buttercream.
Savory: Preserved Lemons
Preserved lemons are gaining popularity in American kitchens along with other Mediterranean seasonings. Their unique zesty flavor adds brightness and interest to many of your regular recipes—wherever you might add lemon juice or zest to a savory dish, just chop and stir in some preserved lemon.
5 lemons
1/4 cup salt
1 cinnamon stick, broken in a few pieces
3 cloves
5 to 6 coriander seeds
3 to 4 black peppercorns
1 bay leaf, crumbled
Freshly squeezed lemon juice, if necessary
Quarter the lemons from the top to within 1/2 inch of the bottom, sprinkle salt on the exposed flesh, then reshape the fruit.
Place 1 tablespoon salt on the bottom of a 1-quart sterilized mason jar. Pack in the lemons and push them down, adding more salt and the spices between layers. Press the lemons down to release their juices and make room for the remaining lemons. (If the juice released from the squashed fruit does not cover them, add freshly squeezed lemon juice—not chemically produced lemon juice and not water.) Leave some air space before sealing the jar. Let the lemons ripen in a warm place for a month, shaking the jar daily to distribute the salt and juice. To use, rinse the lemons under running water and remove and discard the pulp, if desired. Preserved lemons can keep up to a year.
“I do simple things, but I think there’s beauty in it.” -Sandra Oblad, Bridal Designer
Sandra Oblad is a local bridal gown designer who will be showcasing her 12-piece collection for the first time ever, in the 2017 Utah Fashion Week bridal show.
Sandra grew up in Argentina and moved to Utah at age 23. Though English is her second language, fashion design has always been her lifelong dream. When Sandra was in the first grade and just 6 years old, she constructed doll dresses out of her mother’s leftover fabric and sold them to her friends.
“I have fun with it and I love putting things together… I love that I can draw something on a piece of paper and make something out of it,” she says.
While Sandra herself never obtained a degree in fashion design, her mother had taught Sandra all there was to know about the fashion industry.
“She [Sandra’s mother] was actually my best teacher. I was lucky to learn how to create patterns from her,” Sandra says.
After Sandra and her love of sewing moved to Utah, she became a wife and a mother. She designed and created clothing for herself and children.
“My mom was very strict when I made clothes for myself, they had to be perfect,” she recalls.
Utah Fashion Week is Sandra’s breakthrough into the realm of fashion and she’s been working on this collection since October. Sandra felt that she was a little late signing up for the show and had concerns about making the deadline, but Utah Fashion Week contacted her and liked her creations, so they worked with her to get her set up and ready for her debut.
“I’ve made prom dresses for girls in the neighborhood and family and friends, but I never took it anywhere until I found out about Utah fashion week,” she said. “I was online, and it popped up and I thought, what is that. I wonder how I can do it.”
Sandra feels a little concerned about putting herself and her designs out there, but she knows that it’s her talent and she hopes to show us the beauty in her creations.
“It’s a good way to put a girl head over heels. I’ve been so excited, but it’s also – hey, I can do this,” Sandra says about her work in Fashion Week.
She continues, “I love women and how we look when we feel beautiful. Because, we are just beautiful as we are.”
Courtney McOmber — Model
Courtney McOmber, model for Utah Fashion Week, Modeling a dress by Janay Robison.
“I will be walking for 8 designers in each different showcases, Tuesday through Saturday,” says Courtney McOmber, a model for Utah Fashion Week.
“I had modeled one of Janay’s [one of the founder’s] dresses for a styled shoot with Courtney Tipton before, so when I attended Utah Fashion Week Gala,” she said.”My date was in charge of the suits for the runway, so it was fun to connect with her! It was at the gala that I met the designer, Afa Ah Loo, who asked me to come to the model casting so I could walk for him. To my surprise, multiple designers wanted me!”
“People should expect an incredible show! Our state has so many passionate, driven, creative designers who have really put their heart and souls into their collections. Viewers will experience an incredible runway that cuts through the crowd in a unique way, providing every audience member the opportunity to see the designs up close and really have an amazing experience,” she said.
Courtney has modeled previously, however this is her first time modeling for UFW.
“This is my first year doing Fashion Week and I’m excited! I’ve done runway a multiple times in past years but never an entire week of it,” she said. “I’ve just loved meeting the designers and seeing their designs come to life! It is so fun to be a part of.”
Something many people might not know is that Utah was represented by multiple designers in many of the New York Fashion Week events.
“The talent here is real and not to be overlooked,” —Courtney McOmber
Janay Robison — Founder, Designer and Organizer
Image: Mike Johnson Photo Dress: Janay Marie
“I was one of the one’s who founded Utah Fashion Week, in 2014. It began as Provo Fashion week and has developed into what it is today, ” said Janay of JanayMarie Designs and Founder of Utah Fashion week. “Natalie workman is the other founder.”
“We started it because there aren’t many outlets for designers to show their work in Utah. It’s nice to have an all-encompassing show to showcase different types of designs,” Janay said.
Image: Elisha Braithwaite Dress: Janay Marie
The mission of UFW is to reveal the abilities and talents that local designers possess. They have created outstanding works and pieces that will be highlighted in this year’s show. There are a vast amount designers in the Utah industry, some who are just starting out and others who are more seasoned.
This year’s show will feature not only local designers, but some from the East Coast as well. Designers from Ohio, Idaho, Michigan, California and Utah will showcase their work in this week’s event.
“They’re [fashion designers] are coming from all over the country which is exciting,” Janay said.
“Quite a few [designers] have gone to fashion school and many are self-taught. We even have Project runway junior team designers…it’s incredible,” Janay said.
If a designer is interested in entering their collection in UFW, there is a bit of a process involved.
First, Janay recommends filling out an application online via UFW’s website. Janay advises hopefuls to follow the various social media platforms where they will announce when applications are accepted.
“We like to show a lot of different styles of clothing, we go through the applications and then they [designers] will go to live applications so we can see them [their pieces] in person, Janay says. “Which is a really fun part about being a producer of the show… We get to see pieces before the public get to see them.”
The collections are spread out and matched so that each piece and collection compliments one another in order to create a dynamic and unified flow for each show.
“We cast the models—we hold model casting calls, most of our models are not represented by professional modeling agencies,” Janay said.
“Model trainers spend hundreds of hours with the models, working on their walks etc. Hair and makeup, will look at what designers have stated what they want for their models, and hair and makeup artists are matched accordingly,” Janay said.
“There are lots of things going on behind the scenes,” she said.
Behind the scenes. Courtesy: Janay Robison
The Bridal show will spotlight approximately 8 – 15 looks, offering a large variety in each show. There will be custom designed apparel for all aspects of those involved in a wedding, ranging from flower girls to bridal parties to suites and tuxes and of course, wedding gowns. There are 7 – 9 designers, each showing between 8 and 15 looks.
As for those who plan to attend the show, Janay suggests dressing in something that you feel fashionable and unique in.
Doors open an hour before the show begins. Flour and Flourish, a local vendor, will be selling sweet treats beforehand.
Following the show, there will be a step and repeat available for guests to take pictures in front of.
March 20 and 21, there will be pop up shops located in Trolley Square, where local vendors who sell clothing will also sell looks straight from the runway to the public.
Utah Fashion Week runs from March 14 – 21 with varying events and times. The Bridal Show is Thursday, March 16, 2017. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit Utah Fashion Week’s website.
Janay Robision of JanayMarie Designs and Co -Founder of Utah Fashion Week. Image: Elisha Braithwaite
From the end of World War II through the 1960s, Americans had a passionate love affair with the highway. The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956 spawned thousands of miles of interstate highways connecting every major city. Never mind that the initiative was spurred by fears of nuclear war—it provided unfettered coast-to-coast mobility for everyday Americans and generations grew up romanticizing the open road.
Photo Credit: Explore Desert
But these days we’re trading in the pavement to explore something wilder with our automobiles. Perhaps it’s because a Prius doesn’t elicit the same visceral reaction as a ’57 Bel Air. Or maybe it’s because cheap air travel is available with a few smartphone clicks. All I know is drivers want to explore the untamed side of the Beehive State without being limited to the paths a 1950s bureaucrat thought you ought to drive. Whether you tag it #VanLife or #Wanderlust, more people than ever before are venturing off the beaten path. Utah has an unrivaled wealth of unpaved roads and trails through every quadrant of the state, so it’s time to find the right rig for you and keep exploring where the sidewalk ends.
#VanLife for the Everyman
The hashtagging of vacation adventures may leave many of us nauseated, but there’s no denying that the #VanLife revolution is here to stay despite any Luddite concerns. But one pothole lies before many would-be off-road nomads—the $55,000 or more necessary to buy custom Mercedes Sprinter Vans. Salt Lake City’s Basecamper Vans solves this by offering a fleet of campervans ready for safari.
Basecamper Vans
Matt Wolski started Basecamper Vans in 2012 after spending plenty of time traveling around in his own 1990 VW Vanagon. Though “iconic and enjoyable,” as Wolski says, the Vanagon showed its limitations by throwing a rod while ascending Colorado’s Red Mountain Pass. Basecamper’s fleet consists of Chevy Express vans with modern safety features and plenty of power to tackle steep mountain grades, and they recently took delivery of two Dodge Ram ProMasters that feature elevated ceilings. Search through the range of vehicles and features on Basecamper’s website to find the right van for you. Wolski, who builds all the van interiors, is adamant that Basecamper does far more than just provide you with a sweet ride. “Our goal is to build and rent the vehicles we like to use on our own trips and also provide local know-how for customers who want to explore zones that aren’t the obvious tourist destinations. Our vehicles will get you there. You just have to do the rest.”
And pets are welcome. Vans make it possible to bring your four-legged friend on a ski, bike or climbing adventure, thanks to the extra space and ceiling vent fans that keep your vehicle cool. Basecamper Vans rentals start between $99 and $169 per-day depending on the season.
Some of us have perfectly functional vehicles already, and it seems a bit ostentatious to think we need a well-adorned van to luxuriate in the out-of-doors. That said, finding an ideally situated campsite while on the move can be a bit onerous. Tepui’s rooftop tents are the perfect middle ground for those of us straddling the fence. I was a bit skeptical upon first seeing the unfurled contraption atop a late ‘90s Subaru on a random side road near Moab, but as I continued driving around in darkness looking for a suitable pull-off to throw up my tent, I was overcome with envy. The thought of simply pulling over and unfolding an elevated, comfortable home away from home is enticing, and that you can put one on any beater rig with roof racks is the cherry on top.
Photo Credit: Nate Lepp
Tepui has been in business for seven years, and they’ve recently hit the big time after winning five awards at the OR show in 2015 and being praised in a slew of publications from Outside to Popular Mechanics. Founder Evan Currid first encountered the tents while on a trip to Venezuela, where locals had rooftop tents made of plywood and canvas that were comfortable and functional. Currid set out to improve and modernize the design, and Tepui has ushered in a new wave of rooftop camping for the masses with tents available at your local REI.
Now any vehicle can become an adventure mobile with a set of roof bars and a Tepui tent. Tepui’s 2-person tents start at $925, and their new hard-shell White Lightning tents start at $3,800 and are made in the USA.
If you spend any time in the Utah desert, you’re bound to see folks ripping around on dirt bikes loaded up with camping gear. Straddling a dirt bike may not be for everyone, but we spoke with Nathan Rafferty, president and CEO of Ski Utah and all-around dirt-bike badass, to find out what it’s like to use an off-road motorcycle as your adventure rig.
“On a motorcycle you’re much more immersed in the experience. You feel the temperature and humidity, and you can smell your surroundings,” he says. “I got started after watching this Netflix documentary series Long Way Round about guys from all over who rode adventure bikes. By the fourth episode I bought a used motorcycle on eBay.” Rafferty believes it’s the most rewarding way to take advantage of what Utah offers. “The coolest part about this state is there’s such a wide variety of terrain.”
“The dress must follow the body of a woman, not the body following the shape of the dress.”
—Hubert de Givenchy
Dear, Mothers of soon- to- be brides and grooms, search no longer — you asked, we answered. Look and feel your best with these style tips from your wedding fashion experts at Utah Bride & Groom.
Color blocking and high contrast around the waist creates a slimming effect at the midsection. Look and feel stunning in this long-sleeved black and white gown by Tadashi Soji. Neiman Marcus | $508.
A belted dress will accentuate the tummy and enhance your hourglass figure. The embellished neckline of this cocoa colored La Femme woven faille gown will also highlight your décolletage. Ooh la la. Neiman Marcus | $478
Lace draws in the eye to your most desired characteristics while a mermaid cut elongates the waistline creating a sleek, classic look. Tadashi Soji | Neiman Marcus | $508
Vertical lines elongate while an empire waist helps to conceal the tummy. A sequined top also accentuates the neckline | Kay Unger New York Evening Gown | Neiman Marcus | $199
Lighter colors call attention to the areas they touch and accentuate an hourglass shape. A sequined lace bodice adds a hint of glamour while the coordinated three quarter sleeve jacket finishes the look for a polished and refined combination. Alex EveningsSequin-Lace Gown. Macy’s | $179
A short dress is great for showing off a nice pair of stems. Draw attention to your favorite feature in this navy colored gown by SL Fashions. The embellished, high collar and flowing chiffon attached cape overlay, creates a graceful and elegant look— short dresses are also great for a summer wedding. Macy’s | $119
Off the shoulder and illusion neck line dresses enhance the neckline and collar bones. Look and feel glamorous in this chic Illusion boat neckline with sweetheart bust gown by Decode 1.8 | Dillard’s | $248
Dresses aren’t your thing? Opt for this airy chiffon cape with gemstones. Pair with a black tank, black skinny jeans or leggings, and heels for a sophisticated yet comfortable style. Calvin Klein | Macy’s | $48
BHLDN gowns have long been on our radar. Their boho-chic frocks can rock mosts Utah weddings from formal, hotel ceremonies to casual, ranch receptions. Now’s your chance to take these lovelies for a spin.
WHERE: Anthropologie at City Creek, 50 South Main Street #214
WHAT: Calling all brides: BHLDN is coming to you! Join us in North Carolina, Ohio, Michigan, Colorado and Utah in a series of bridal trunk shows to view the BHLDN spring 2017 collection. View the latest wedding dress trends and try on your favorite gowns. From beaded, bohemian gowns to modern, sleeved dresses there’s something for every bridal style! Gorgeous fur wraps will also be in attendance for brides having a winter wedding, while stunning beaded capelets will be the perfect toppers for spring weddings. Be sure to RSVP – we can’t wait to see you!
“You can really focus on texture and foliage with monochromatic colors,” explains Soil & Stem’s Nicole Land, who just recently returned from a floral workshop in New Zealand. “You don’t need a green-base bouquet. This plum branch is that special element you can’t buy.” Ornamental plum foliage—foraged straight from Land’s garden—not only adds a shade of burgundy, but it also shapes the entire bouquet comprised of peonies, ranunculus, roses, carnations, heather and hellebore. “I love the diagonal feel of the shape,” she says. “It’s meant to be held comfortably at an angle, to cascade comfortably at her side or in front of her.”
When shopping for downtown venues in Salt Lake City, these two hip locales are must-sees. Salt Lake Hardware Building and Rye Diner & Drinks flaunt edgy, urban spaces ideal for couples looking for a non-ballroom wedding experience.
Fuse Weddings & Events invites brides, grooms, moms, dads, and wedding vendors to experience both venues this Thursday.
WHEN: Thursday, March 9th
TIME: 4:30-7:30 pm
WHERE: Salt Lake Hardware Building, 155 North 400 West, SLC
RSVP: events@SLCHardware.com
WHAT: Experience Salt Lake Hardware Building‘s open industrial space, hors d’oeuvres by the venue’s newest approved caterer The Blended Table, linens by Creative Coverings and the newest rentals from Diamond Rental. Salt Lake Hardware Building can seat 250 for a formal reception or host 350 for a cocktail reception.
WHERE: Rye Diner & Drinks, 239 South 500 East, SLC
RSVP: ignite@fuseweddingsandevents.com
WHAT: Enjoy downtown’s hippest venue—along with a cool drink and menu samplings. The restaurant is ideal for a small wedding, rehearsal or any pre-wedding gathering. Rye can seat 75 or host 125 for a cocktail reception.
One afternoon we went to visit Quiet Meadow Farms in Mapleton, Utah. This beautiful venue is nestled near the mountains and as we walked through the orchard we were inspired to do a fun Farmer’s Market themed inspiration shoot.
We used fresh fruit and vegetables in fun design elements, including the bouquet and centerpiece. And with delicious pies, and a cake with the most amazing and delicate sugar fruits and veggies how could it not turn out perfectly?!
No lace. No beads. No problem. This simple sheath walks down the aisle, then waltzes into the reception with uncomplicated elegance. Phalaenopsis orchids add interest and a pop color.
And pets are welcome. Vans make it possible to bring your four-legged friend on a ski, bike or climbing adventure, thanks to the extra space and ceiling vent fans that keep your vehicle cool. Basecamper Vans rentals start between $99 and $169 per-day depending on the season.
“On a motorcycle you’re much more immersed in the experience. You feel the temperature and humidity, and you can smell your surroundings,” he says. “I got started after watching this Netflix documentary series Long Way Round about guys from all over who rode adventure bikes. By the fourth episode I bought a used motorcycle on eBay.” Rafferty believes it’s the most rewarding way to take advantage of what Utah offers. “The coolest part about this state is there’s such a wide variety of terrain.”
Chiffon gown with gathered natural waistline and v-neckline with rhinestone shoulder straps, $425,