What is it like when a wedding professional gets married? COMPLETELY AMAZING!! That's what it is!!      I vote that it was the 2011 wedding of the year! 

I was privileged enough to be invited to the wedding reception of Utah's own Mary Crafts, owner of Culinary Crafts Catering. I will say it was the most amazing wedding reception I have ever been to-- beautiful surroundings, warm summer night, delicious food, mouth-watering drinks, and most of all a couple that you can tell was absolutely crazy about each other and was having the party and the time of their life! What an experience! Now you are a lucky audience because Mary herself wrote her thoughts about her wedding days - yes it was a 3 day event! She was nice enough to give me the intimate details that went into planning her own wedding and how it all turned out...

"It was an amazing experience to plan my own wedding after 27 years in the wedding industry and planning over 5000 weddings for all ages and styles of brides.  I was a little apprehensive to give love a second chance, but after finding Rick, there was no doubt he was what I needed in my life. As I said in our wedding vows, "You have seen more parts of me than anyone ever has.  From this space, we realized that neither of us are perfect, but we truly are perfect for each other".  Ten months later, our love grows deeper with each passing day.

Originally I had planned to host a small gathering at my home with hot dogs and hamburgers for a fun backyard wedding.  It wasn't long before I realized that simply was not happening...so many people  emailing and calling to say congratulations and how excited they were to attend our wedding....huh, were they even invited????  And then, those who said, "I can't wait to see what you are serving 'cause I know it will be the most amazing food ever!"   Hmmm....I guess an intimate group with hot dogs was out.

However, all was not lost as that is exactly how I began our 3 day celebration of love.  The rehearsal dinner was served in the backyard of my home with about 50 guests of our closest family and friends. This was the first time the two families had met, and the most important part of the day was to create a casual atmosphere where everyone was comfortable and welcomed.  I used my wedding colors of aubergine and citron, but added a touch of coral to create a more playful atmosphere that was perfect for my home setting.  We offered croquet, swimming, casual dining, and a run-through of the ceremony to complete the evening.  Guests were greeted with Utah artisan cheeses and artisan bottled beverages. And I got to have my hamburgers and hot dogs!  Add some great pulled pork, more homemade condiments that you can shake a stick at, and Lobster and Marscapone Macaroni and Cheese to take things up a notch, and voila--it's a party!  The evening ended with Ice Cream Sodas made with our house gelato and a whimsical interactive S'more bar with homemade marshmallows and ganache.

 

   

After the evenings festivities, I bid farewell to Rick and was off to the Montage Hotel with my daughter (maid of honor)

to spend my last night reminiscing with her and dreaming of tomorrow.   

                                       

Perfection is how I would describe the Montage and they attended to our every need.  The next morning, I awoke early, leaned over and touched my daughter's cheek, and slipped out of that big king bed to spend some quiet moments on the private balcony. The sun was just rising and the the setting could not have been more perfect.  I took pen in hand and wrote my wedding vows for the day.  I was amazed at how easily it flowed as I expressed my love and commitments to Rick...I was ready to start my big day.  I promised myself to live in each and every moment...not thinking of the past or worrying about the future...but each moment as if it were the only moment in time.  This thought kept me grounded for the rest of the day and loving every second.  Soon the entourage began to arrive...the make up and hair ladies, the photographer, the videographer, the vintage car driver...all gathering in our suite to share the day.  The room filled with laughter, joy, and anticipation!  It was a time I will never forget...for a moment in time, at age 57, I was Cinderella and my prince charming was waiting.  Finally my gown arrived only to discover it had fallen off the hangar and was a wrinkled mess in the bottom of the bag.  The Montage whisked my gown away to steam and press, and delivered it back in perfect condition.  This all made for a behind-time departure and 100 guests waiting for the ceremony, but I was not stressed...I mean, after all, I was the bride! I walked graciously to the awaiting vintage white Rolls Royce and enjoyed every step of the way.  I had been on the other side of things thousands of times, making sure every need of the bride was attended to, but this time it was me....and I was loving it.   

                                                          

The car drove down the long mountain lane at a magical destination called Red Cliff Ranch and I could see all the guests waiting in the arena and enjoying the classical guitar of Michael Luccarelli.  The limo pulled to the arena entrance where we waited for the procession to begin...Rick's son, then Rick, then the flower girls and ring bearer, my daughter, and then my 2 sons to escort me.  The door was opened and out I stepped... no one has ever felt more gratitude, more love, more joy than I felt at that moment when my eyes met Rick's.

Each son took an arm and together we made our way down the aisle to the waiting groom.  My boys kissed me on the cheek and gave me to Rick.  As the ceremony was set in the round, I was able to gaze around and see all the wonderful family and friends gathered for this special moment; all smiles, some tears, all love abounding.

    

Following the ceremony, hors d'oeuvres and lavender lemonade were passing while we mingled and laughed with guests.  Soon we were seated in the barn for the formal luncheon served family style.  It was the perfect blending of elegance and familiarity.  The special children's area with "glow in the dark" glasses, candy, and kid's menu was a huge hit, and the nanny I hired allowed the parents to enjoy the day.  The luncheon food was beyond perfection. I knew each bite was prepared with love by my staff and it was their gift to me.  Family prayers, toastings, laughter, sharing... I wouldn't have changed one thing!  The valet service was a very gracious touch and they placed a hand-made parting gift in each vehicle so all our treasured guest would know of our love and appreciation for their attendance.    

 

Rick and I were off for the Montage again in our Rolls but we didn't know what was awaiting us there. The suite had been tidied and cleaned by all my "ladies in waiting" of Reihl Events.  Hundreds of candles and thousands of rose petals covered our room, bathroom, and bed.  Sparkling bubbly, cheeses, chocolate dipped strawberries....they thought of everything. The rest of the day I will leave to the imagination...!

Breakfast in bed was arranged by the Montage and it was delish!  I loved our timeline as nothing ever felt rushed. The rehearsal dinner on Thursday evening.  The wedding ceremony and luncheon on Friday were from 11:00 am-3:00pm. We were able to enjoy our morning and left the hotel around 2:00 p.m. on Saturday to head for the reception.

A stop at Enizio was requested to make sure my makeup was perfection again and then off to a private estate up Mapleton Canyon.  Here's where I had my brief "Bridezilla" moment...when I arrived I was distressed to find the book "tree" had been forgotten and guests would not be able to leave their wishes for us....then a few of the table linens were in the wrong color and place...the stress was building...!  My son took me aside and said, "Mom, they are just linens...no one cares.  Everyone is coming to celebrate with you and Rick...it's is going to be the party of the century.  Don't let this ruin it."  Wise words that I had given a million times to other brides and now they were given

to me.  Rick took my arm and walked my down a small garden path, turned me, and kissed me on the forehead.  I felt the tension leave my body and I was in the moment with him.  Suddenly, all was right with the world again.  My son was right.  It was the party of the century.  Culinary Crafts did it again; feeding 500 guests some of our most creative items all cooked on site to the awe of the guests.  

        
 

 

  

 

I had a little surprise up my sleeve for Rick.  Just before our first dance, I moved to the stage and microphone to sing him a song.  I was afraid I would be too nervous but I found I only had eyes for him and it was like I was all alone in time with him. 

  

Another highlight of the evening, was when I asked all of my staff (and anyone who had ever worked for Culinary Crafts) to join on the dance floor for a high energy dance to "I Will Survive"!  Yes, we will; yes, we will!

 

As night settled on the estate, the tents were illuminated for a magical look and the glowing orbs in the lake created a mystical atmosphere no one will forget.  The final surprise came during our send-off as huge overhead fireworks lit up the night sky....glorious.  

     Thank you to all of the amazing people who organized such a beautiful wedding:

Photographers: Pepper Nix Photography, ZumaPhoto

Invitations and ceremony menu: Ann Elizabeth Custom Invitations

Cake: Carrie's Cakes

Rentals: Diamond Rental, Alpine Event Services and WIldflower Linens

Plan all 3 events, design and florals for Rehearsal and Ceremony: Riehl Events 

Reception design & floral: Scenemakers

Music & Entertainment: Michael Lucarelli  and The Joe Muscolino Band 

Transportation: Something Vintage Something Blue

Bridal Gown: Alta Moda Bridal

Hair and Make-up: Enizio

Ceremony escort cards: Pink Piggy Design

Rehearsal dinner and reception signage: Pixel Whipped Studios

Ceremony Venue: Red Cliff Ranch

Hotel: Montage Deer Valley

 

This was such a fantastic wedding that BrideAccess featured it on one of our TV shows! 

                                     

 

 

Do you want to feel like royalty? Look no further.  The St. Regis Deer Valley provides a beautiful backdrop for either a winter destination wedding or an outdoor summer extravaganza. I went on a tour at St. Regis so that I could blog about it and I have never been treated this well in my entire life! And I was just there for a couple of hours - not a bride or a guest staying at the hotel. They treat the brides with the upmost respect and work with you and your budget. If you want to give your guests the time of their life- have your wedding ceremony and/or reception here. It's only 35 miles east of Salt Lake City, Utah and your guests will gladly take the time to be in heaven.  

Situated in Deer Valley’s private Deer Crest community, The St. Regis Deer Valley provides the perfect setting for local and destination weddings. Just minutes from historic Main Street, home to the Sundance Film Festival, they pamper guests with refined service, premier amenities, and access to a world of year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, sledding, touring the 2002 Olympic Park, fly fishing, and mountain biking.

Dedicated to creating a culinary experience tailored to the refined tastes of the bride and groom, our Executive Chef and Personal Wedding Concierge invent unique menus and custom dishes that leave a lasting impression. From innovative small plates to sustainable dinner options, they source the freshest local ingredients, ensuring a beautiful memory that will last forever.

This mountain wedding venue is unique and beautiful. I highly suggest taking a tour so you can see what I'm talking about! In the mean time I will show you some pictures of a real wedding that Pepper Nix Photography did. Warning- it's breath-taking! 

                                                        

Request an appointment with a St. Regis Specialist and explore exceptional rates for your friends and family at The St. Regis Deer Valley. From custom flower arrangements to room décor to accommodations for your guests, our specialists will assure that each need is flawlessly met. They look forward to creating indelible memories for you to share on your wedding day.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR BRIDEACCESS -- St. Regis Deer Valley makes a beautiful backdrop for weddings of any size.  Many chose our location for a destination wedding and some will come up from the valley for a change.  Our staff makes the planning easy and stress free for all involved.  Chose a date in April or May, October or November and receive a great value.  Call us for personalized quotes.

We made it to the Elite 8!   Eight categories that involve some planning...   Check off the categories as you finish them (Score!) Make your dream team here! Options, options, options - I love options!! Now it's time for you to step it up big! This is not just any event - this is your wedding!  

So lets start with Event Consultants - If you hire one, the rest of this tournament is going to be much easier- it's like having the number one star on your team! We have 5 amazing companies to choose from. Give them a call to see what they can do for you. This can save you time and money - how can this save you money- well this isn't their first big game and they know where to go, who to talk to and what deals are out there for you.  Also they tie everything together so it is the best event that will be unique to you. There are many choices for you on how much help you would like and different charges for these services. This is not only a service for the wealthy- there is something for everyone. Look at each of their pages on BrideAccess, watch their videos and call them to better understand their fantastic services. 

 

_____  EVENT CONSULTANTS

 

  Forevermore Events

  Modern Display

   My Event Rental

   Riehl Events 

 

     The Noteworthy Event

 

Maybe you want to do some things yourself and need some decorations for your event. Some of the event planners also rent out their decorations - see I told you they can help you in many ways! Check out these fabulous options! There are also cool things like linens, water features and almost anything you can dream up!  The possibilities are endless... Kind of like the brackets in March Madness! 

 

_____Decorations & Rentals

  A & M Specialty Linens

  Aquafect

  Arbor Manor Reception Center

  Diamond Rental

  Forevermore Events

  Modern Display

   My Event Rental

   Riehl Events 

  Scenemakers 

  Under a Tuscan Moon

 

 

Beauty, Health and Fitness is something to start on as soon as you are engaged. Start eating right, taking care of your body, exercising and find ideas for hair, nails, make-up, etc. This is the day you want to look your best, so start preparing now. Try new things now instead of a week or two before the big day. Listed below are some experts to help you with this process. This is a hard category to completely check off now, because it is a work in progress until the big day.  We have all kinds of things in this category- massages (yes!), dance classes, hair and make-up, and exercise.  I have done all of these and they are all equally important- now and throughout your life. Have fun with this category!

 

_____  Beauty, Health and Fitness

 

  Bride Queen

   OolaMoola

 Quickstep Dance

 Richelle's Salon and Day Spa

 Treehouse Athletic Club

 

Oh wow! Another thing we need to get started on right away is the wedding announcement. As soon as you know your date you can send out your "Save the Date" cards and if you want a picture on your invitation think about that soon too. This list will give you the best 6 wedding invitation companies for you to consider. All of them do amazing work -  see who you feel fits your style the best. Remember they can help with all of your printed work- favors, name placement cards, thank you's, etc. 

_____ Invitations & Favors

 

 Ann Elizabeth Custom Invitations

  Bliss Design Studio

  Elegant Wedding Announcements

  Jaffa Printing Company

  Mike Bailey Printing

  Yaya Design 

 

This category is a fun one and your decision is going to be totally based on the theme and style you are looking to pull off on your wedding day. It's music and entertainment. It can go anywhere from a string quartet, a band, a DJ, etc. One thing is this piece of your BIG GAME is important. The entertainers we have are all very experienced and will keep the party going at the speed you want it to go. They will be your fun and your clock- one thing you probably didn't realize! They will help remind you that it's the time you wanted to cut the cake, throw the bouquet, have your BIG DANCE, etc. If you want to be totally entertained for the next hour or so - sit and watch many of their video's and hear the music they provide. Think all of this through with the atmosphere and mood you want for your celebration.  It's all good- it's all different! And it's all up to you! 

 

_____  Music & Entertainment

 

   Complete Music Video Photo

   Contemplative Piano by David Tolk

 Festival Sounds

  Joe Muscolino Bands 

 Laughing Gravy Entertainment

  Maywood String Quartet

 Michael Lucarelli

 Network DJs

  Public Opinions Soundstage

  The Groove Merchants

 Wedding DJ Productions

 

Nobody can get married without an officiant, so we better look into this elite group!  Three great officiants that will bring out your best wishes and pronounce you Man and Wife. This is what all of this madness is about anyway, isn't it !? 

 

_____  OFFICIANT

 

  Irene J Bozich

 Minister Lee

  Reverand Leslie Reynolds-Benns

 

Alright are you hanging in there? We have 2 more to go, but they are really fun ones- kind of like free throws!  

Flowers...  This ties in the decorations, your theme and the wedding colors you have chosen. Here are 8 elite floral shops ready to serve you and help you make the best of everything! Since we are talking about free throws, it reminded me of an idea that was given to me when I was married- The florist made my bridal bouquet but when I was ready to throw my bouquet, we traded it for another one that was made- and this was special because it was 24 red roses that were singles, so when I threw it there were 24 girls who got a rose! They loved it and it was a fun surpirse. Lets get on with this madness...

 

_____  FLOWERS 

 

   Best Buds Floral & Gifts 

 

   Bloomers Flowers & Decor

 

    Brown Floral 

 

  Flower Patch

 

  Flowers on Main

  Flowers Squared

  Scenemakers 

  Tri-Fecta Design

Tuxedos - you may have to take your man out of the game for a few seconds and ask him what he likes and tie it in with your colors, etc. Great options are found at these two tuxedo shops - you will find more choices than you have ever dreamed of. What uniform is he going to wear? Make sure your man shows up looking like a million bucks! 

 

_____ TUXEDOS

  Clarks Tuxedos

  Jim's Formal Wear 

 

That should give you some things to talk and think about until tomorrow!!  Go team!  Final Four Coming SOON!