Winter 2018
of Utah
Marissa & Sean at The Atrium
Cover Feature on Page 8
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Contents Page 8
Cover Feature: Marissa + Sean ...................8 Brooke + Mitch............................................16 Brooke + Jerry.............................................20 Wedding Cakes............................................24 Wedding Photos Checklist ..........................30 Tasia + Kevin...............................................34
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Kylie + Chris................................................38 Choosing the Perfect Caterer.......................42 Sylvia + Colby.............................................46 Dania + Jaron...............................................50 Questions to Ask a Florist/Floral Gallery....56
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Wedding Dress Shopping Tips ....................60 Hayden &+ Tilynne.....................................64 Andi + Brock...............................................68 Nikole + Jake...............................................72 Choosing a Venue........................................76
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Credits Page 46
PUBLISHER Premier Weddings CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS OF REAL WEDDINGS Heather Ellis Photography Jenisse Photography Laura Griffiths Photography Stephen Alexander Photography Sugar Rush Photo & Video
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A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Alexander Cross Photography Ama Photography & Cinema C. Baron Photography CamillaRain Photography CHARD Photography Elly’s Photography Frances Photography Ivy Weddings Jonathan Ivy Photography Kaley Elaine Photography Krista Lee Photography Kristyn Hogan Photography Lacy Dagerath Photography Mark Thomas Photography Nyk+Cali Wedding Photographers SD Photography ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Email Nick Thiele at nick@premierweddings.com
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Cover Feature
Marissa & Sean Photographer: Jenisse Photography
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Featured Vendors photographer / JENISSE PHOTOGRAPHY venue / THE ATRIUM florals / FLOWER PATCH dress / SWEETHEART BRIDAL cake / SAM’S CLUB planner / JENNY KRUGER suit / JCPENNY hair / ASHLEY CURTIS makeup / KIERA MALLORY rings / RYAN’S DIAMONDS
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Photo Credit: Ama Photography & Cinema
EXQUISITE SHOT
Brooke & Mitch Photographer: Heather Ellis Photography
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Featured Vendors photographer / HEATHER ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY ceremony venue / SALT LAKE LDS TEMPLE reception venue / THANKSGIVING POINT dress / MARY’S BRIDAL planner / MEGAN SAXTON florals / FLOWERS ON MAIN catering & cake / THANKSGIVING POINT CATERING, RUBEN AGUIRRE AND TEAM videography / JEREMY ANDERSON cake / MADISON HENSLEY CAKERY groom’s attire / MEN’S WAREHOUSE
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Brooke & Jerry Photographer: Jenisse Photography
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Featured Vendors photographer / JENISSE PHOTOGRAPHY venue / PUBLIK cake / STEPHS CAKES dress / BRIDAL BRILLIANCE caterer / CRAVINGS CATERING florals / FRESH DESIGNS FLORAL rentals / ALL OUT EVENT RENTAL tuxedos / THE RITZ TUXEDO photo booth / MASKAURA PHOTOBOOTHS officiant / PROMISED VOWS videography / EMILY BRAND FILMS vintage rentals / REFINED VINTAGE
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Photo Credit: CHARD Photography
CAKES & SWEETS
6 Things to Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Cake CHECK WITH THE VENUE
THE FROSTING
Some wedding venues don’t allow you to bring in an outside cake. It’s important to check with your wedding venue first, and find out if there’s a fee for not getting your cake through them. You’d be surprised how much it can cost per slice to make arrangements to bring in your own cake.
Buttercream cakes typically taste a lot better than a fondant cake. Fondant cakes are chosen by couples who want that perfect cake look that really adds to the overall look of your wedding. If you’re going for both amazing taste and beauty, then consider first frosting the cake with a buttercream frosting and then add a layer of fondant over the top.
SIZE IT CAREFULLY
WEATHER & LOCATION
You should have a good idea of how many guests you expect at your reception. Let your cake decorator know that, as well as how confident you are in that number. You want to avoid getting more cake than you need, but you also don’t want to be short handed. Take the advice of your cake decorator on this topic. They do this for a living!
Your options may be limited based on if you’re having an indoor or outdoor wedding.If you’re having your reception in July at a outdoor wedding venue, then you’ll need to avoid buttercream or whipped cream frosting. Nothing is worse than an icky mess that doesn’t hold up in warmer weather.
SHOP IT AROUND Wedding cakes are an important part of your wedding, and like everything else, you should shop around for the best service. The best service isn’t always just who has the lowest price. You want to know how easy it is to communicate with the cake decorator. You’ll also want to read ample reviews to know how others feel about their experiences. Photo Credit: Jonathan Ivy Photography
VENDOR COLLABORATION Many couples choose to put fresh flowers on their wedding cakes. If this is the case, you need to make sure your florist and cake decorator are able to communicate. Make sure you know whether it’s the florist or the cake decorator that’s going to add these final touches.
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Photo Credit: Lacy Dagerath Photography
Wedding Photo Checklist With the Bride
q Bride alone – close up and full-length q Bride touching up makeup and hair q Bride with mother q Bride with father q Bride with both parents q Bride with grandparents q Bride with siblings q Bride with maid/matron of honor q Bride with groom’s sister(s) q Bride with all bridesmaids q Bride with flower girls q Bride with entire immediate family q Bride with father waiting to walk down the aisle
With the Groom
q Groom alone – close up and full length q Groom with mother q Groom with father q Groom with both parents q Groom with Brothers q Groom with bride’s brothers q Groom with best man q Groom with all groomsman q Groom with ring bearer q Groom with entire immediate family
At the Ceremony Venue
q Officiant q Groomsmen seating guests q Registry attendants & greeters
Photo Credit: Nyk+Cali Wedding Photographers
q Seating of grandmothers q Seating of mothers q Lighting of unity candle by parents q Groom waiting at alter with best man q Processional of wedding party q Maid/Matron of honor walking down the aisle q Ring bearer walking down aisle q Bride and father before walking down the aisle q Bride walking down aisle with father q Bride being given away q Entire ceremony scene once everyone is present q Bride and groom at the alter q Exchanging of rings q Exchanging of vows q Lighting of the unity candle q Exchanging of the kiss q Announcement of Mr. and Mrs. q Recessional
After the Ceremony
q Bride with register attendants q Bride and groom with greeters q Bride and groom with readers q Bride and groom q Bride and groom with wedding party q Bride and groom with bride’s parents q Bride and groom with groom’s parents q Bride and groom with bride’s family q Bride and groom with groom’s family
PHOTOGRAPHY
During the Ceremony
Wedding Photo Checklist Reception Photos
q Bride and Groom’s entrance to reception q Bride and groom’s first dance – full length q Bride and groom’s first dance – close up q Bride dancing with father q Groom dancing with mother q Bride and groom talking with guests q Toasting q Bride and groom cutting cake q Bride tossing bouquet q Groom taking off garter q Bride with all girlfriends q Groom with all best friends q Candid reception photos q Guests preparing for bride and groom’s “going away” q Bride and groom leaving reception
Miscellaneous
q Wedding cake q Food table q Decorations q Musicians q Gift table q Decorated car q Bride’s bouquet
Photo Credit: Krystyn Hogan Photography
Photo Credit: Alexander Cross Photography
Tasia & Kevin
Photographer: Stephen Alexander Photography
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Featured Vendors photographer / STEPHEN ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY venue / THE OLD MEETING HOUSE hair / KAITLYNN ARNOLD dj / BOGGY ENTERTAINMENT videographer / BRIAN RICHARDSON
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Kylie & Chris Photographer: Sugar Rush Photo & Video
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Featured Vendors photographer / SUGAR RUSH PHOTO & VIDEO venue / HERITAGE GARDENS florals / KAREN J FLORALS dress / MALMROSE BRIDAL groom’s attire / EXPRESS hair & makeup / TAYLOR STALLINGS
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Tips for Choosing the Best Caterer Every bride wants to be a good hostess and provide enough tasty food and drink to keep their guests in good spirits. Therefore, the most critical decision you will make for your wedding is the caterer. They can make your wedding reception a dream or a nightmare. A good caterer can easily handle the preparation, service and clean up of the meal seamlessly. Many caterers also provide the rentals such as linens, dishes, and even tables and chairs as a service to their brides. Some even provide bartenders and cut and serve the cake. This one stop shopping experience can be valuable on saving time and money. First, contact your venue for a list of approved caterers. Some venues require you to use one on the list. Ask who they recommend. If your venue does allow outside caterers, begin asking for recommendations from friends and family. If you use a caterer that has never worked at that venue before, request a list of the requirements they have to meet in order to work on their property. Don’t sign on the dotted line until you have had a tasting. Once you have found one that makes your tastebuds happy, ask these 8 questions to finalize the details.
Photo Credit: Kurtis Kronk Photography
The service and atmosphere of the dinner hour is just as important as how the food tastes. Ask your caterer about the number servers they plan to provide for for your guest list. If you are having a buffet, you need one server for approximately every 20 guests. If you are having a plated meal, you can have one server for every 15 guests. Also, be sure their attire will match your atmosphere. You may assume the servers will be in black tie only to have them show up in the company polo.
Talk cocktails and cake. This is where you will need to do some logistical work among your venue, cake bakery and caterer. You will want to make sure you (and your vendors) are clear on who is doing what. You do not want to pay double for both vendors planning to serve cake and cocktails or worse, no vendor planning to do so. Bartending and cake service may be options your caterer provides. If you choose to utilize them, discuss each of these services and have your final decisions specified in your contract.
How is your pricing broken down (e.g. food, bar, tax, gratuity)? A caterer should be upfront and clear about exactly what is included in their quote. If you are unsure, ask for an itemized quote. Many brides have blown their budget at the end of the wedding when they find that service and tax were not included in their pricing. For a large wedding, those two items could be several thousand dollars.
CATERING
What is the ratio of servers to guests, and how will the servers be dressed?
What is your payment policy? While on the subject of pricing, discuss when and how you are to pay. Most caterers will require some sort of deposit when you sign your contract. You haven’t truly booked your caterer until this payment is received. It is also important to avoid late fees.
When is my final count date? The final count date is the last day to tell your caterer how many to prepare for. It will save you money and stress to have this number as accurate as possible. Make sure you are clear on this day so you can give the caterer the number.
What is your cancellation policy? There are a number of things that could come up that could cause you to cancel your caterer even if you are not calling off the wedding. Make sure you know the cancellation policy when you sign the contract. Think of it as Murphy’s Law wedding repellant.
What if my event runs over? Have this conversation with your caterer before all your guests are stuck in traffic. Again, no one plans for their wedding to run behind and the odds are, it won’t. But, just to be safe, ask about their policy just in case. Review question #6 for further explanation.
What is your policy on cleanup? This is probably the last thing every bride thinks of in wedding planning. First, have a discussion on exactly what is considered clean up and who will be responsible for this service. Then, clarify who will clean up and when the cleanup will occur. While you’re at it, discuss what to do with the leftovers.
Photo Credit: Jonathan Ivy Photography
Photo Credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography
Sylvia & Colby Photographer: Sugar Rush Photo & Video
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Featured Vendors photographer / SUGAR RUSH PHOTO & VIDEO venue / LOULAND FALLS florals / HOLIDAY HELPERS dress / THE PERFECT DRESS groom’s attire / MEN’S WAREHOUSE hair & makeup / DEVORE ARTISTRY
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Dania & Jaron Photographer: Heather Ellis Photography
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Featured Vendors photographer / HEATHER ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY ceremony venue / PROVO CITY LDS TEMPLE florals / THE FLOWER PATCH reception venue / QUIET MEADOW FARM dj / DJ JC cake / LOVE CAKE BAKE, MARY ELIZABETH HAMMOND dress / DAVID’S BRIDAL videography / JARED WORTLEY invitations / CORAL BELL STUDIO
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Photo Credit: Elly’s Photography
EXQUISITE SHOT
Questions to Ask a Florist 1. How much experience do you have doing weddings? 2. Have you done weddings at my chosen venue before? 3. Will my flower choices be in season? 4. Do you have a porfolio of your work? 5. Who is responsible for setup and delivery? Is there a delivery fee? 6. How long do you need to setup? 7. How do you price your floral arrangements? 8. What recommendations do you have to help maximize my budget? 9. How would you describe your design style? 10. When is payment due?
FLOWERS Photo Credit: Jonathan Ivy Photography
Photo Credit: Ivy Weddings
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Wedding Dress Shopping Tips Bridal dress shopping can be the ultimate girl time or a stressful experience. Even if you are a seasoned shopping aficionado, shopping for a wedding dress is a completely different experience. Fortunately, your bridal appointment will be successful if you remember these shopping tips.
DO: YOUR RESEARCH Build your confidence before shopping by gathering basic knowledge of wedding dresses. Do some simple research on dress styles and silhouettes, designers whose aesthetic matches yours and the colors you like best (yes, there are actually many shades of white). If you can communicate with your sales rep in her language, your appointment will be more successful.
DO: START SHOPPING EARLY Some brides will not start shopping until they have lost 10 more pounds. This is a mistake! The process can be stressful, and the added pressure of a tight deadline adds unnecessary drama. Try to begin shopping 9-12 months before your wedding. Pro Tip: If you are worried about a swing in weight, find a corset style gown.
DO: BRING A STRAPLESS BRA & PAIR OF HEELS If you want to see exactly how the dress will look, have these items handy. Some dresses will look completely differently with a good foundation or when they are lifted just an inch or two with a pair of heels.
Photo Credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography
You have always dreamed of a ballgown, but may be pleasantly surprised at how elegant you feel in a mermaid or A-line. Trust your bridal consultants and try on anything they suggest. Your dream dress may be homely on the hanger but gorgeous on you.
DO: YOUR RESEARCH Build your confidence before shopping by gathering basic knowledge of wedding dresses. Do some simple research on dress styles and silhouettes, designers whose aesthetic matches yours and the colors you like best (yes, there are actually many shades of white). If you can communicate with your sales rep in her language, your appointment will be more successful.
DO: START SHOPPING EARLY Some brides will not start shopping until they have lost 10 more pounds. This is a mistake! The process can be stressful, and the added pressure of a tight deadline adds unnecessary drama. Try to begin shopping 9-12 months before your wedding. Pro Tip: If you are worried about a swing in weight, nd a corset style gown.
DON’T: GET HUNG UP ON SIZE It is just a number. Wedding dresses do not run the same as your typical clothing sizes. Don’t let a tiny number in the tag stand between you and your dream dress. Remember your dress will probably require some alterations. It’s about the fit, never about the number.
WEDDING DRESS
DO: TRY ON DIFFERENT STYLES
DON’T: BRING YOUR ENTOURAGE Bring your trusted advisors--your friends and family that are encouraging yet honest. Do not bring a huge entourage because you do not want to hurt feelings. In this case, the appointment usually leads to confusion and conflicting opinions. It will be hard to focus on your true feelings on each dress.
DON’T: TRY ON A DRESS YOU CAN’T AFFORD It is worth repeating. Do not try on a dress that is outside of your budget, even if it is just to get a feel for a style or size. A $2,000 dress will never be able to compete with a $7,000 dress. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Stick to your price range. Pro Tip: If you are working with a low budget, go for a more simple gown and glam it up with a quality beaded sash or accessory.
DON’T: FORGET ABOUT ACCESSORIES AND ALTERATIONS Invest some time in choosing just the right accessories to complement your ensemble and of course, don’t forget to budget for them. Some brides put so much time and energy nding just the right dress and the rest of the details are just an afterthought. You may want a veil, ower crown or hair piece, jewelry, and a pretty sash or belt. Don’t forget about your shoes! You will de nitely need cute and comfy shoes! Your best experience will happen at the best bridal shop. Ask for suggestion to nd a shop that offers a great selection in your price range, and helpful bridal consultants.
Photo Credit: Ivy Weddings
Photo Credit: Lacy Dagerath Photography
Hayden & Tilynne Photographer: Laura Griffiths Photography
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Featured Vendors photographer / LAURA GRIFFITHS PHOTOGRAPHY venue / MEMORIAL HOUSE cake & caterer / HAVE PARTY WILL TRAVEL dj / LIFE OF THE PARTY linens / SPECIALTY LINENS photo booth / UTAH PARTY PIX florals / KRISTIN’S FLOWERS
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Andi & Brock Photographer: Sugar Rush Photo & Video
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Featured Vendors photographer / SUGAR RUSH PHOTO & VIDEO venue / CACTUS AND TROPICALS dress / BRIDAL EXPRESSIONS caterer / COSMOPOLITAN CATERER tuxedos / THE RITZ TUXEDOS
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Nikole & Jake Photographer: Heather Ellis Photography
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Featured Vendors photographer / HEATHER ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY venue / THE BUNGALOW catering & cake / THE BUNGALOW dress / BRIDAL CLOSET florals & decor / FLOWERS BY MILLI
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Premier Weddings of Utah // Winter 2018
Photo Credit: Ivy Weddings
CHOOSING A VENUE
Important Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue SCHEDULING AND ACCOMMODATIONS 1. Is my wedding date available? 2. How many other weddings are scheduled that day? 3. How many people can the venue accommodate? 4. How long will I have use of the event space(s) 5. I reserve? Is there an overtime fee if I stay longer? 6. Can I hold my ceremony here, too? If so, is there an additional charge? 7. Is there a bride’s changing area? 8. How much time is allocated for the rehearsal? 9. Is there room for a band and/or dancing? 10. Are there adequate bathroom facilities? 11. Is there a coat check? 12. Is the site handicap accessible? 13. Is there parking on site? If so, is it complimentary? Do you offer valet parking?
MONEY MATTERS 1. What is the venue fee and what is included in that price? 2. Is there a discount for booking an off-season date or Sunday through Friday? 3. How much is the deposit, when is it due, and is it refundable? 4. What’s the cancellation policy? 5. What’s the payment plan for the entire bill?
GENERAL QUESTIONS 1. Is there a backup plan for rain or inclement weather? 2. Who is responsible for setting up and tearing down the decor, and when will it be completed? 3. Does the venue have liability insurance? 4. Will there be security guards on site, or do I need to make my own arrangements?
Important Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue VENDORS AND SETUP 1. Must I use in-house caterers, or choose from a preferred vendor list? 2. If I hire my own caterer, are kitchen facilities available for them? 3. Can I bring in a cake from an outside cake maker or must I use a cake made on the premises? Is there a cake-cutting fee? If I use a cake made on site is the fee waived? Do you provide special cake-cutting utensils? 4. When can my vendors arrive for setup? 5. Are there any decoration limitations? 6. Are candles permitted? 7. Are tables, linens, chairs, plates, silverware and glassware provided? If so, is there an additional charge? 8. Can I move things around and decorate to suit my purposes, or do I have to leave everything as is? 9. Does the venue own sound equipment, or do I need to rent my own?
FOOD AND BEVERAGE 1. Are you licensed to provide alcohol service? If so, is alcohol priced per person? 2. By consumption? Are there additional charges for bar staff? 3. What is the food & beverage cost on a per-person basis? What is the tax and service charge? 4. Can I bring my own wine, beer or champagne, and is there a corkage fee if I do? 5. Can I bring in other alcohol?
Photo Credit: Alexander Cross Photography
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