What to Wear to you Engagement Session During Utah’s Winter

Winter engagements in Utah can be a magical experience, with snow-covered landscapes providing a breathtaking backdrop for your special day. However, the chilly weather can make it tricky to choose the perfect outfit that's both stylish and practical for your engagement session to celebrate you and your love getting married! Here are some tips to help you dress for your winter engagement session in Utah.

Utah Lake Engagements in February

1. Layer up

   Utah winters can be bitterly cold, so layering is key. Start with a warm base layer like thermal underwear, then add a sweater or cardigan. Finish off with a coat or jacket to keep the cold at bay. This way, you can easily adjust your clothing if you get too hot or too cold.

2. Opt for warm fabrics

   Choose fabrics that will keep you warm and cozy. Wool, cashmere, and faux fur are great choices for a winter engagement. They're not only stylish but also practical for keeping you warm in the cold temperatures. Additionally, consider wearing thermal leggings or pants to keep your legs warm.

3. Choose practical footwear

   Make sure your footwear is practical and warm for the winter weather. Boots are a great option for both style and practicality, with many styles available to match your outfit. Be sure to choose boots with good traction to prevent slipping on icy surfaces.

4. Accessorize

   Accessories can elevate your outfit and add some extra warmth. Consider a cozy scarf, hat, and gloves to keep you warm and stylish. Be sure to choose accessories that complement your outfit, rather than clashing with it.

5. Stick to earthy tones

   Winter engagement photos often have a natural, earthy vibe. Choose colors that will complement the winter landscape. Think earthy tones like beige, brown, green, or navy, which will blend in nicely with the surroundings.

6. Don't forget your partner

   Make sure your partner's outfit is also appropriate for the winter weather. Consider coordinating your outfits to create a cohesive look. You can even match your colors or choose complementary colors to make your photos pop.

In conclusion, dressing for a winter engagement in Utah requires a balance of style and practicality. Layer up with warm fabrics, choose practical footwear, accessorize, and stick to earthy tones. Don't forget to coordinate with your partner for a cohesive look. With these tips in mind, you'll be ready to create unforgettable memories on your special day.

Wedding Venues in Provo, Utah

Utah is a beautiful state with breathtaking landscapes and stunning vistas; I seriously have fallen in love with this state since moving here for school. Provo, located in Utah County, is a charming city that offers a variety of wedding venues for those seeking a perfect backdrop for their special day. From the majestic mountains to elegant reception halls, Provo has something for everyone. As a Provo, Utah wedding photographer, here are some of my favorite wedding venues in Provo, Utah.

1. The White Shanty

The White Shanty is a rustic and elegant wedding venue in Provo, Utah. This beautiful venue features a 1920s renovated white barn that provides a perfect mix of modern amenities and a vintage feel. The venue has a spacious indoor reception area that can accommodate up to 250 guests, and an outdoor ceremony space surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful mountains. The White Shanty offers customizable packages that include a bridal suite, tables, chairs, linens, and a day-of coordinator.

1. Sleepy Ridge Weddings

Sleepy Ridge Weddings is a premier wedding venue located in the heart of Utah Valley. This venue offers stunning views of the Timpanogos mountains, beautiful gardens, and a charming reception hall that can accommodate up to 400 guests. This one is on my bucketlist for SURE. The reception hall features a grand ballroom with chandeliers, a spacious dance floor, and beautiful decor. Sleepy Ridge Weddings also offers a full-service catering team and a customizable package that includes a day-of coordinator, linens, tables, chairs, and more.

1. The Brick Room

The Brick Room is a unique wedding venue located in the heart of downtown Provo. This beautiful venue features exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and vintage decor. The Brick Room is perfect for couples looking for a more intimate and unique wedding experience. The venue can accommodate up to 200 guests and offers a variety of customizable packages that include tables, chairs, linens, and a day-of coordinator.

1. Sundance Mountain Resort

Sundance Mountain Resort is a breathtaking wedding venue located in the Wasatch Mountains. This luxurious venue offers stunning views, elegant reception spaces, and a variety of outdoor ceremony locations. The resort features several reception venues, including the Redford Conference Center, which can accommodate up to 300 guests. Sundance Mountain Resort also offers an award-winning catering team, a variety of customizable packages, and a range of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy.

1. The Provo Library at Academy Square

The Provo Library at Academy Square is a stunning wedding venue located in the heart of Provo. This venue features a historic and elegant reception hall that can accommodate up to 300 guests. The library also offers a beautiful rooftop garden that provides a perfect setting for outdoor ceremonies. The Provo Library at Academy Square offers customizable packages that include a day-of coordinator, tables, chairs, linens, and more.

Provo, Utah offers a variety of beautiful wedding venues that cater to different tastes and preferences. From the rustic charm of The White Shanty to the elegance of Sundance Mountain Resort, there is a venue for everyone. The key is to choose a venue that aligns with your vision and budget, and work closely with the venue team to create a truly memorable wedding day.

How to Have a Beautiful Christian Wedding

A Christian wedding is a sacred and meaningful celebration that brings together two people in the bond of holy matrimony. As a Christian Wedding Photographer, here are my tips to help make the day as special and meaningful as possible.

1. Seek guidance from scripture: A Christian wedding should be centered around the teachings of the Bible. Start by reading passages that relate to marriage, such as 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which describes the characteristics of love. Also, consider including Bible verses that are meaningful to you and your partner in your ceremony.

2. Choose a meaningful location: Many Christian weddings take place in a church, which provides a spiritual atmosphere and a connection to the community of believers. However, if a church setting is not for you, you can also choose a park, garden, or other outdoor location that has special meaning for you.

3. Involve your pastor: Your pastor or minister will play an important role in your wedding. They can offer premarital counseling, help you plan the ceremony, and provide guidance on how to incorporate your faith into your wedding. After all, a wedding is the start of your marriage. Make sure not to get swept up in the chaos of planning a wedding and remember that your relationship with each other and God comes first.

4. Personalize your ceremony: Your wedding ceremony should reflect your individual beliefs and values. You can add meaningful rituals, such as lighting candles, exchanging rings, or planting a tree to symbolize your commitment to each other.

5. Incorporate music: Music is an important part of any Christian wedding. Consider choosing hymns or gospel songs that hold special meaning for you, or that you have a personal connection to. You can also ask a choir or soloist to perform during the ceremony. In high school, I sang with my chamber choir for an alumni’s wedding and it was incredible getting to be involved in such a special occasion.

6. Include prayer: A Christian wedding should include prayer as a way to ask for God's blessing and guidance on your marriage.

7. Focus on love: Above all, a Christian wedding should be focused on love. Love for each other, for God, and for all people. This love should be the foundation of your marriage, and should be celebrated on your wedding day and throughout your lives together.

Christian weddings are a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate your love for each other and your commitment to God. By incorporating scripture, prayer, and meaningful rituals into your ceremony, you can make your wedding day a day to remember forever.

Utah’s Most Beautiful Temples to get Sealed in

Utah is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities, but it is also home to some of the most stunning temples in the world. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, getting sealed in one of these temples is a significant milestone. As a member and lover of architecture, I can vouch for the temples in Utah and their beauty. Here are some of the most beautiful temples in Utah to consider for your sealing ceremony that will make you feel like you are getting married in a castle.

1. Salt Lake Temple

The Salt Lake Temple is undoubtedly the most famous and iconic temple in Utah. Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, this temple is a symbol of the Church and its pioneer heritage. Completed in 1893 after 40 years of construction, the temple's grandeur and intricate details are breathtaking. Its beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and stunning gardens make it an ideal location for sealing ceremonies. A classic choice.

Provo City Center Temple

1. Provo City Center Temple

The Provo City Center Temple is a beautiful example of adaptive reuse and probably my favorite temple EVER. Originally built in 1883 as a tabernacle, it was severely damaged by a fire in 2010. Instead of tearing it down, the Church decided to convert it into a temple, preserving the historic structure while making it a beautiful and functional space for temple ceremonies. The result is stunning, with a blend of old and new architecture, elegant details, and modern amenities.

1. Bountiful Utah Temple

The Bountiful Utah Temple is located on a hillside in the beautiful town of Bountiful. The temple's design is inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, with its striking white towers and beautiful landscaping. The interior of the temple is equally stunning, with beautiful murals and intricate stonework.

1. Logan Utah Temple

The Logan Utah Temple is a beautiful, historic temple located in northern Utah. The temple's exterior is made of stunning white granite, and the interior is filled with beautiful artwork, murals, and elegant details. The temple's stunning grounds and gardens provide a beautiful setting for wedding photos and other special events.

1. Draper Utah Temple

The Draper Utah Temple is a newer temple, completed in 2009. It is located in a beautiful mountainous setting and has a modern, elegant design. The temple's beautiful gardens and fountains provide a peaceful and serene environment for your sealing ceremony.

1. Payson Utah Temple

The Payson Utah Temple is a small but beautiful temple located in Payson. The temple's design is inspired by the local natural surroundings, with intricate stonework and beautiful gardens. The temple is a perfect place for a more intimate sealing ceremony.

In conclusion, Utah is home to some of the most beautiful temples in the world, and they provide a stunning backdrop for sealing ceremonies. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern design, each of these temples offers unique and beautiful settings to make your sealing ceremony memorable.

Types of Wedding Venues in Utah

Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life, and choosing the right venue is essential to making your day everything you've dreamed of. The venue sets the stage for the entire day and sets the tone for the entire celebration. In this blog, we will explore the different types of wedding venues in Utah and help you choose the perfect one for your big day.

Outdoor Wedding Venues

Outdoor wedding venues offer a stunning and natural setting for your wedding day. Whether you choose a garden, or vineyard, outdoor weddings offer a romantic and intimate atmosphere. You can exchange your vows surrounded by the beauty of nature and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. With Utah’s mountains, salt flats, and Red Rocks, there is not a lack of beautiful scenery to enjoy the day. The main advantage of an outdoor wedding is that it provides ample space for your guests to mingle and dance. However, you will need to have a backup plan in case of bad weather, as outdoor weddings can be affected by unpredictable weather conditions.

Barn Wedding Venues

Barn wedding venues are becoming increasingly popular and offer a unique and charming setting for your wedding day. These venues are often rustic and cozy, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Barn wedding venues can be decorated in many different styles to suit your tastes and provide a perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. They often offer plenty of space for both indoor and outdoor events, making them a great choice for both intimate and larger weddings.

Ballroom Wedding Venues

Ballroom wedding venues offer a classic and elegant setting for your big day. These venues are often spacious and luxurious, providing the perfect setting for a grand celebration. Ballroom wedding venues are ideal for large weddings, as they can accommodate many guests comfortably. With stunning chandeliers, plush carpets, and beautiful decor, ballroom wedding venues offer a touch of glamour and sophistication to your wedding day.

Hotel Wedding Venues

Hotel wedding venues are a great choice for those who want a convenient and all-in-one venue for their wedding day. These venues typically offer a range of facilities, including a ballroom, a restaurant, and guest rooms, making them ideal for destination weddings. Hotel wedding venues are also a great option for those who want to enjoy a luxurious and stress-free wedding day, as they often have a dedicated team to help with the planning and preparation.

Backyard Wedding Venues

Often, you already have the perfect backdrop for your wedding right in your backyard! Backyard weddings are beautiful and intimate and meaningful. You will have to consider parking, toiletries, and ceremony arrangements, but a backyard wedding can be so beautiful if done right. Especially if you are opting for a intimate dinner with close friends and family, a backyard wedding can be a cheap alternative and allow for more creative freedom!

Choosing the right wedding venue is essential to making your day everything you've dreamed of. Whether you want a classic ballroom, a charming barn, or a stunning outdoor setting, there is a venue to suit every style and budget. Take the time to research different wedding venues around Utah and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Remember, your wedding venue sets the stage for the entire day, so choose wisely!

How to Elope in Utah

Eloping can be a romantic and intimate way to tie the knot, without the stress and expense of a big wedding, and Utah provides the perfect backdrop to do so! Here are some steps to help you plan a memorable elopement in the beehive state.

1. Decide on a location: The first step in planning an elopement is to choose a location. Consider what type of environment you envision for your big day and start exploring locations that fit that vision. With Utah’s diverse landscape, decide if the Red Rocks in St. George, mountains in Provo, streets of Downtown Salt Lake, or salt flats are the best fit for your special date.

2. Choose your date: Once you have a location in mind, pick a date that works for you and your partner. Elopements are often more flexible in terms of scheduling, so you can choose a date that holds special meaning for the two of you or that fits your schedule.

3. Obtain the necessary permits: Depending on the location of your elopement, you may need to obtain permits or licenses, especially if you are hoping to do something in one of Utah’s State Parks. Do some research on the requirements for getting married in your desired location and make sure you have everything you need in order to legally exchange vows.

4. Invite your closest family and friends: While eloping typically means a smaller, more intimate wedding, you may still want to invite your closest family and friends to be a part of your special day. If so, make sure to give them enough notice so that they can make plans to attend.

5. Hire an officiant: Unless one of you is ordained, you will need to hire an officiant to perform the ceremony. Look for someone who aligns with your values and beliefs and who can help create a personalized and meaningful ceremony for the two of you.

6. Hire a photographer: An elopement may be more intimate, but you'll still want to capture the memories of your special day. I may be biased on this topic but, hiring a photographer to capture the moment is a great way to preserve the memories of your elopement for years to come.

7. Make it official: After the ceremony, be sure to obtain a marriage certificate and have it filed with the appropriate government office. This will ensure that your marriage is legally recognized.

8. Celebrate your newlywed status: Finally, take some time to celebrate your newlywed status! Whether it's a romantic getaway or a small gathering with family and friends, enjoy the start of your life together as a married couple.

Utah’s Capitol Building

Eloping can be a beautiful and intimate way to get married without the stress of wedding planning, but it does come with it’s own challenges. By following these steps, you can plan a memorable and stress-free elopement that is tailored to your unique vision and relationship.

Where to Elope in Utah

If you're looking to elope in a place that is surrounded by natural beauty, Utah is an ideal location. Since moving here for school at Brigham Young University, I’ve been so inspired by the diverse landscape the state offers! The state is home to a wide range of stunning landscapes, from towering red rock formations to snow-capped mountains, making it an excellent choice for adventurous couples who want to get married in a picturesque setting.

• Arches National Park

Arches National Park is a fantastic place to elope if you love desert landscapes. This national park boasts over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, making it a unique and unforgettable location to exchange vows. Whether you choose to get married at Delicate Arch or one of the many other beautiful spots in the park, your wedding photos are sure to be breathtaking.

• Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is another great option for those looking for a dramatic natural setting. The park is famous for its hoodoos, tall spires of rock that were formed over millions of years by the forces of erosion. The park's amphitheater is a popular spot for elopements, with its sweeping views of the canyon and the hoodoos.

• Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of Utah's most popular parks, and it's not hard to see why. The park's soaring red rock cliffs, winding canyons, and lush greenery make it a beautiful place to say your vows. There are many spots within the park that are ideal for elopements, such as the Weeping Rock trailhead or the Canyon Overlook Trail.

• Snowbird Ski Resort

If you're planning to elope in the winter, Snowbird Ski Resort is an excellent option. This ski resort is located in the Wasatch Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The resort's chapel is a popular spot for weddings, but there are also many outdoor locations to choose from, such as the summit of Hidden Peak or one of the many scenic overlooks.

• Sundance Mountain Resort

Sundance Mountain Resort is another great place to elope in Utah. This resort is located in the Provo Canyon and offers a variety of stunning locations for your ceremony, including a rustic wooden bridge, a babbling stream, and a wildflower meadow. The resort also has several restaurants and lodges where you can celebrate with your loved ones after the ceremony.

Utah is a wonderful state for elopements, with its stunning natural beauty and variety of landscapes. Whether you're looking for a desert landscape or a snow-capped mountain, there is something for everyone in this state. From national parks to ski resorts, there are countless locations to choose from for your special day. Hope this helps!

Virginia Engagement Session Locations

Engagement photos are a special moment in time to capture the love and excitement of a couple before they get married and Virginia is a state that offers many beautiful and unique places to take engagement photos. Growing up in Virginia, I have loved going back and finding new places to take photos. Here are some of the best places to consider when planning your engagement photography session:

1. Colonial Williamsburg: This historical city is a perfect backdrop for engagement photos with its charming colonial-style buildings and stunning gardens. The streets and buildings offer a picturesque backdrop for capturing memories that will last a lifetime.

2. Great Falls Park: Great Falls Park is a beautiful location for outdoor engagement photos. With its scenic views of the Potomac River and the surrounding countryside, this park provides a romantic and natural setting for capturing memories.

3. Skyline Drive: Skyline Drive is a scenic road that runs through the Shenandoah National Park. With its stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and rolling hills, it is the perfect place for a scenic engagement photo shoot.

4. Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens: The Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens is the former home of George Washington and offers a stunning location for engagement photos. With its beautiful gardens, rolling hills, and views of the Potomac River, it is a romantic and historical setting for capturing memories.

5. Richmond's Canal Walk: Richmond's Canal Walk is a popular location for engagement photos. This scenic walkway offers beautiful views of the James River, and the city skyline, making it an ideal location for capturing memories of your special day.

6. Leesburg's Oatlands Plantation: Leesburg's Oatlands Plantation is a historic estate that offers a picturesque location for engagement photos. With its stunning gardens and rolling hills, this location is perfect for capturing memories in a romantic and historic setting.

7. Norfolk Botanical Garden: The Norfolk Botanical Garden is a beautiful location for outdoor engagement photos. With its stunning gardens and scenic views, this location provides a romantic and natural setting for capturing memories of your special day.

8. Maymont Park: Maymont park is an easy choice when considering where to take engagement photos. The park has many different styles of scenery and accessible bathrooms which makes it very easy to look like you had your photos taken at two different locations! I personally love the gardens and architecture in the Italian and Japanese gardens.

Virginia is a state that offers many beautiful and unique locations for engagement photos. Whether you're looking for a historical, natural, or scenic setting, Virginia has something to offer every couple. Choose the location that best captures the essence of your love and commitment, and you'll be sure to have memories that will last a lifetime.

What To Wear For Your Engagement Photos

It’s a time to celebrate your love and document this exciting chapter in your life!! Engagement sessions are my favorite sessions to photograph because it is often the first time you and your significant other have had photos taken together and it’s so incredible being able to document the beginning of forever! With that, it is normally to feel a little anxious about being in front of a camera, so it's important to feel confident during the session. Here are some helpful tips I give my couples before sessions.

1. Coordinate, but don't match: One of the biggest mistakes that you can make during an engagement session is dressing in outfits that are too matchy-matchy. Unless you are very intentional about it, like the all-denim trend going around, it will feel like a flashback to the early 2000- and not in the good way. Instead, opt for coordinated outfits that complement each other but still have their own unique style.

2. Dress for the location: The location of the engagement session can also influence what you should wear. Imagine the location is a painting and we are painting you into the painting- you don’t want to look out of place. If the session is by the beautiful Utah mountains, for example, wearing whites, greys, greens, and blues would compliment the colors already existing in the scenery. Fabrics that are more natural, like linen, and that flow more would be appropriate to highlight the beautiful breezy nature of the mountains. To contrast, if you are taking photos in an urban landscape, like downtown Provo, more edgy and contrast will make you look like you fit in. Leather jackets, fire dresses, and boots will compliment the straight lines and contrast in the city.

3. Consider the season: The season in which the engagement session takes place will also play a role in what you should wear. If it’s summer, lightweight and breathable materials such as cotton and linen are ideal. Also keep in mind if you are extra sweaty; you want to be comfortable during the session and nothing is worse than knowing you have a pit stain. As a sweaty gal, antiperspirants are your best friend ;) If it’s winter, consider layers and warm fabrics. Hand warmers are also incredible.

4. Choose comfortable shoes: Even if you have the most stunning outfit, make sure they are already broken in- you don’t want to get blisters. Choose shoes that you can walk and move around in comfortably, especially if the location requires a lot of walking or standing.

5. Accessorize wisely: Accessorizing can add a pop of color and personality to your outfit, but don’t overdo it. Keep it simple with a few key pieces such as a necklace, earrings, or a scarf.

6. Be yourself: Most importantly, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. This is your engagement session and it should reflect your personal style and the love that you share. I live by the 5-5 rule. If it is something that you have loved for the past 5 years and could see yourself loving for the next 5 years, that’s it!

In conclusion, the key to a successful engagement session is to dress in outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. There is no reason to buy something new! Wear what makes you- YOU! By following these tips and putting your personal spin on your outfits, you'll have beautiful and timeless photos to look back on for years to come.