Celebration Makers 2024: Utah Live Bands

When it comes to managing musicians and entertainers in the Beehive state, Utah Live Bands is the premier choice for event planners looking to elevate their clients’ experiences through exceptional music.

With roots in Utah’s music scene extending back to his college days, owner Michael Tobian has curated an impressive repertoire of diverse musicians-for-hire over nearly twenty years.

Knowing what it takes to bring a wedding to life, Tobian has been chosen as the 2024 President of the Wedding International Professionals Association (WIPA), a tremendous industry stamp of approval for clients searching for professional musicians. 

While they might be located locally, Utah Live Bands’ musicians are a sought-after choice for celebrity and luxury weddings spanning the globe. 

As the winner of 49 Best of State Awards, their reputation is founded on unparalleled quality. Still, their in-state competitive pricing model is a standout feature.

Tobian’s expertise is recognized within the entrepreneurial sector. He has been honored by Utah Business Magazine as one of the ‘40 under 40 Utah Business Leaders’ for several businesses and attributes Utah Live Bands’ continued success to exceptional customer support.

“We have excellent customer service! We typically provide our clients a quote within an hour of inquiry and we are kind and helpful to them through the process. We work regularly with all the planners and venues in Utah and really care deeply about the success of the event. If you read through our many Google reviews, you will see that our customer service is a huge testament to our longevity of being in business for nearly twenty years,” Tobian remarks.

3397 N. 560 West, lehi

800.447.2576

utahlivebands.com

@utahlivebands

“The nice thing for our clients in Utah is that they are getting world-class, national bands for around half the price they’d normally charge because, being based in Utah, the events are in their backyard.” 

Michael Tobian, Owner

Ask the Expert

What’s Ahead:

We’re in the midst of a significant growth phase. We just finished building our new offices and showroom and are also expanding the level of service we offer at each wedding. These days, in addition to entertainment, we often provide staging, pipe and drape, AV, lighting, videography services, ceremony live streaming and some decor elements. This allows us to add to our client’s experiences, making things easier for our clients and planners alike, as they can rely on a single vendor with whom they have a high level of trust and are able to provide many of the services that would otherwise require a lot of coordination between multiple companies.

Excited About:

Helping to elevate the quality of events in Utah. We have excellent planners, vendors and talent in this state. We are just thrilled each time we get to be a part of a successful and well-executed event!

Fresh Ideas:

Don’t underestimate the value of choosing the very best wedding professionals to work with on your big day! Your wedding will be one of the few most memorable moments of your life and at the end of your event, you want to be able to tell yourself that you were so glad you chose who you did to pull it off!

Read more about this season’s Celebration Makers here.

Real Wedding: Emma & Lane’s Double Day Wedding Party in Salt Lake City

Emma & Lane took to Bellissimo Garden and Cottonwood Country club for a wedding celebration full of personality and surprises.

THE COUPLE

Orem native Lane and England-hailing Emma first connected online, and met up for a (very successful) first date. “We had such a good time, we closed down the restaurant,” shares Emma.

While Emma knew she had just found the best tour guide for her (relatively new) home of SLC, Lane was head over heels and was determined to show her he was also her best tour guide for a happy life. After two years of dating, Lane took Emma back to the speakeasy where they first met up, then on a stroll through downtown’s library plaza. While reminiscing about their first date, Lane got on one knee and proposed with Emma’s grandmother’s ring. As no surprise – she said yes!

THE WEDDING

During their courtship, Emma and Lane frequently dined together at Tuscany restaurant. “[The location holds] many happy memories for us,” says Emma. “The setting is beautiful and the food, delicious.”

Opting for a classic black and white color palette, the couple made the focus of their big day all about the entertainment of their guests.

Emma arrived to their garden ceremony in a ruby-red vintage fire engine, flanked by both her parents in cream attire. With help from a friend, Emma had selected a stunning strapless wedding gown, accessorized with sheer gloves, a claddagh necklace from family in Ireland, with earrings and a hand-made veil, both gifts from her mother.

The bride followed a bridal party of two little flower girls and three page boys (a product of their blended families) down the aisle. At the altar, she met Lane and began their vows with Rev. Anita Gordon. After the ceremony, an intimate friends-and-family dinner took place on the Tuscany restaurant patio, fulled with elegant greenery. After a luxurious meal, guests enjoyed a German chocolate cake made by the mother of the groom.

The following day, guests and family joined at the Cottonwood Country Club patio for a classic summer menu, followed by a gelato bar and cocktails.

Wedding planner Irene + Co paired elegant floral linens with billowing tented fabric to keep guests shaded throughout the evening. Everyone was greeted by acrobatic performers throughout the event space. Later, wedding band Sonic Chic brought the life to the party for the reception where guests sipped on Pineapple martinis, Maple Whiskey and various mocktails as they enjoyed the celebration.

VENDORS

Wedding Planning and Design: Irene + Co Events, irenecoevents.com

Photography: Morgan Leigh Photography, morganleighphotography.net

Ceremony Venue: Bellissimo Gardens, bellissimolovegarden.com

Officiant: Rev. Anita Gordon, utahweddingminister.com

Floral: Cactus & Tropicals, cactusandtropicals.com

Ceremony Music: Utah Live Bands, utahlivebands.com

Ceremony DJ: Powell Weddings and Events, powellwe.com

Cake: Lois Critchfield Cakes

Fireworks: Lantis, lantisfireworks.com

Firetruck: Utah Fire Museum, utahfiremuseum.com

Reception Venue: Cottonwood Country Club, cottonwoodcc.org

Reception Band: Sonic Chic, greenlightbooking.com, @sonicchicband

Lighting and Draping: Positive Event Design, positiveeventdesign.com

Live Performers: Darla Day, Aeris Aerial Arts, aerisaerial.com

Live Painter: Painted by Kelsey Jane, paintedbykelseyjane.com

Invitations: Twelve30 Creative, twelve30.com

Linens: BBJ La Tavola, bbjlatavola.com

Rentals: Summit Party Rental,

HMUA: J&L Makeup, jandlmakeup.com

Real Wedding: Sedona and Tavin 

Photos by Jackie Siggard

The Couple: 

Sedona and Tavin met in high school but their friendship was short-lived after Tavin moved back to California that same year. As fate would have it, three years later Sedona attended college at San Diego State University. With them both being in California, they reconnected and eventually started dating. Five and a half years later, Tavin took Sedona to dinner, hoping for a private moment by the fire to pop the question. After realizing how busy the restaurant had gotten, and knowing Sedona wanted an intimate proposal, he had to quickly pivot the proposal. Panicked, he dragged her around the mall until he came to a quiet spot and got down on one knee. Tavin explained the situation after she had said yes, and told her that he “wanted to start the new year by proposing to the love of his life.”

The Wedding:

Eight months later the couple tied the knot at High Star Ranch, in a beautiful outdoor ceremony. Their officiant, Michael Greenfield, is someone who has been in Sedona’s life since she was a young girl and officiated her bat mitzvah, confirmation and now her wedding day. Sedona explains how special it was for her to have him there saying it “was so significant to my life and really made Tavin a part of that. It was just so full of love and was amazing. It was a jewish ceremony so it had a lot of fun and meaningful traditions.”

Sedona wore a timeless, beautifully fitted, strapless gown from Blushing Brides Boutique; and white, lace shoes from Kate Whitcomb. Sticking to a classic, timeless theme, her bridesmaids wore simple and elegant, champagne colored dresses. “I didn’t want to fall victim to any trends or something that was going to look outdated in the future,” Sedona explains. 

The Party:

At the reception guests enjoyed signature drinks: espresso martinis, tequila pineapples and old fashions. Following a meal of honey glazed salmon, pasta with a choice of marinara or alfredo sauce, stuffed portobello mushrooms and salad, Sedona and Tavin graced the floor with their first dance. They danced to Gimme Love by The Elovaters and at the end, their wedding party joined them with custom signs and glow sticks, dancing to Gimme Gimme Gimme by ABBA. The cake was as traditional as the rest, white with vintage piping around the three layers, flavored red velvet and lemon.  

The Honeymoon:

Following the wedding, Sedona and Tavin stayed at Sundance Resort for a few days. They plan to go on an official honeymoon to Bali next year. 

Vendors:

Wedding Planner – Ari Hodges, West Coast Creatives SLC

Venue – High Star Ranch

Photographer – Jackie Siggard

Florist – Silver Cricket Park City

Caterer – Brown Brothers Catering

Rehearsal Dinner Caterer/Venue – Hearth and Hill 

Bride’s Attire – Blushing Bridal Boutique 

Groom’s Attire – Tuxedo Junction

Linens –  High Star Ranch

Hair & Makeup – Morgan Fay, Brooke Ray, and Sam Dawes

Bridesmaid Gowns – Birdy Grey

Groomsmen Suits – Tuxedo Junction 

Videographer – Jackie Siggard

Bar Service –  High Star Ranch

Cake – Granite Bakery 

DJ/Band – Life of the Party 

Other Vendors: 

Photo Booth Bus

Celebration Makers 2024: Twenty & Creek

Exceptional events start with the perfect setting. A crucial step in the planning process is to choose a venue showcasing a design that resonates with your vision to help you create your perfect wedding day. 

At Twenty & Creek, Utah’s premiere venue for life’s memorable moments, you’ll find a sophisticated style that blends traditional elements with modern design. Beyond the aesthetic is a team of highly skilled professionals who know what it takes to make any event successful.

A unique aspect of the space is that although it’s highly-customizable; it’s stunning. While you’re welcome to enhance it with the features you want to add–it’s unnecessary due to the venue’s meticulous design details and inviting ambiance. 

From the floor-to-ceiling windows, the vaulted grand hall, or the gorgeous outdoor gardens, Twenty & Creek is the perfect location to bring an elegant ambiance guaranteed to provide unparalleled experiences for the guests in attendance. 

2050 Creek Rd,
Cottonwood Heights

801.618.7142 

twentyandcreek.com

@twentyandcreek

“Our space is elevated and luxurious, designed like a blank canvas and customizable to fit your specific needs. We love how open and inviting it feels. Plus, we pride ourselves on being an all-female team led by a female entrepreneur.”

Twenty and Creek Team

Ask the Expert

What’s Ahead:

Although they are known for their gorgeous weddings, they are the go-to venue for any celebration, retreat, charity event or workshop.

Excited About:

All our growth! We continue to expand our team and have some exciting events we plan to host of our own–coming very soon! 

Fresh Ideas:

Find a space where you’re comfortable and that has all the amenities you’ll need, that way you can enjoy the day when it arrives. We’ve got the perfect team in place and we’ve thought of it all, so you can focus on making memories in such a gorgeous setting.

Read more about this season’s Celebration Makers here.  

The Bridal Studio Moves to a New, Old & Elevated Location

Photo courtesy of The Bridal Studio

Utah’s iconic bridal shop, The Bridal Studio, gets new life in a new, downtown chic location. 

Bridget Geyer tells me how she watched and snapped photos of her husband as he chose a suit for their wedding day, years later she sits in that same building reminiscing on the photo, but now as the owner of a slightly different shop that sits on South Main Street, in Salt Lake City. 

Geyer succeeds in her quest to create an intimate, open, beautiful and exclusive place to shop for your dream dress. Geyer has worked in bridal for over fifteen years, after years of helping others and gaining knowledge and experience, she knew that she was ready to open a store of her own. 

Geyer saw a hole in the market of Utah’s bridal shops and decided to make the move from Kansas City to Salt Lake City in 2018. Geyer explains, “Utah had always been in my brain, because there wasn’t a store that didn’t cater to brides who didn’t need a modest dress and I wanted to offer a more elevated experience.” Geyer opened The Bridal Studio a year later, in June of 2019. Since then, she’s upgraded–her original shop was 2400 sqft, her new location now has 6,000 sqft, offering room for more selections. “We get calls from all over the place and have people fly in to shop with us. California has the same designers, but you have to go to ten different stores to see all of it,” Geyer explains, “We offer the same designers in one store.”

 Geyer honed in on wanting it to feel like you are in New York shopping in downtown Manhattan, just bigger. Her new location opened up in May of 2024, with just a few months to renovate the store that had previously been Joseph A Banks. “It’s historic. I love that elegance, that old money feel. We spent so much time in New York, visiting our designers. We wanted that atmosphere, I wanted it to feel like that, but better,” Geyer explains, referring to the Kearns Building, the store now sits in. 

Before you enter the gold-lined, double glass doors, you are greeted with beautiful wedding gowns facing the street. The entire space is tall and open, as if the hundred year old building was built just for a bridal shop. With groin vaulted ceilings, arched doorways, wall moldings and face plasters on the ceilings, you will feel like you’ve traveled back in time to an ancient Roman church. Towering pillars support the soaring ceilings, each topped with hand-casted plaster crown molding. Geyer tells me that the face plastered molding was modeled after the original owner’s daughter, making the space feel much more feminine and special.  

The Bridal Studio has three fitting rooms, two located in the front of the store and one that offers a bit more privacy. The intimate room will make you feel like complete royalty. It is appropriately named the Gucci room because of the Gucci wallpaper and pillows featured within the suite. Geyer has hand picked every detail of the shop, making every detail of it from the pink crystal desk that you are welcomed with, to the sexy, velvet, light-mauve couches, rugs and curtains. 

While you shop you get to wear a luxurious, old-hollywood, silky, pink, feather lined robe; your intimate two-hour appointment is complete with a champagne toast, after finding the dress. 


12 Bridal Trends from Fall/Winter 2025 New York Fashion Week 

Onix- Dreams by Lihi Hod

Dreaming of a white… and black fall and winter in 2025 

A few weeks ago Bridal Fashion week returned to New York City and these designers did not disappoint. From 1920’-esque gowns to pops of black, here is our take on trends we’re seeing for Bridal in 2025. 

1920’s-esque:

With drop-waist dresses back in the mix this year, it’s not much of a surprise that there are more 1920’s fashions in the mix for bridal of 2025. Think beadings, sequins, feathers, long-gloves, drop-waist and straight gowns. 

Big Bows

Another trend we’ve seen in our everyday fashion, is delicate bows in hair, on shirts and shoes; if you haven’t noticed, start paying attention and you’ll start to see them everywhere. They are also here for a bridal moment in 2025, but as bridal fashion goes, much bigger than what you’ll see  on the streets. 

Pops of Black… or entirely 

When you think of a wedding gown you think white, and maybe pops of pastel colors or romantic reds. This new trend set for 2025 calls for black bows, neck accessories, and even a full on black gown. While it sounds punk-rock, and it is, the black looks very black-tie formal and dare I say, elegant for a bridal fashion. 

Strapless Necklines and Sheer Shawl Overlays 

Straps seem to be mostly missing from upcoming bridal gowns in 2025. Strapless gowns alone and strapless gowns with sheer, lace shawl overlays overwhelmed the runways for the 2025 season. 

Layers 

Imagine Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic wedding gown in The Sex and The City, that was from Vivienne Westwood’s Fall/Winter 2007 collection. It was an ivory, bunched, layered gown; and the trend is back for 2025, also featuring lace layers.

Exaggerated Waists

Full waists are in, seemingly featured with a slim silhouette, think peplum, but bigger. 

Neck Scarves 

This trend, which made its debut in 2023, is one of my favorites and is here to stay… at least for 2025. Long, and tied neck scarves in replace of necklaces is such an extravagant way to accessorize for your wedding day.  

Puffed Sleeves 

Puffed long sleeves, puffed-off the shoulder sleeves and even puffed-shoulder gloves has a moment in bridal fashion

Criss Crossed Fabric 

Criss crossed fabric, especially on corset tops was another big trend spotted for 2025. 

Large Floral designs and Applique Lace 

Lace and florals for a wedding, I know… shocking! But, these large floral prints and appliques are stripping away the recent trends of a silky, smooth gown. 

Slim, Draped and Dreamy 

Let me counter what I just said… While lace and floral prints are in, so are slim, sleek, silk, chiffon and organza draped wedding gowns. And while the bows and neck accessories are getting bigger, the dresses are getting slimmer. 

High Slits

Sexy high slits are breaking tradition on long wedding gowns. 

Find Your Gown in Maggie Sottero’s 2025 Collections

Earlier this year, Maggie Sottero Wedding Gowns revealed three breathtaking new collections in a luxurious fashion show in the gardens of SLC’s Grand America Hotel.

MAGGIE SOTTERO SPRING 2025

Flowers bloom in your wake as you run barefoot thought lush gardens. Between stolen glances, your lover collects a bouquet of wildflowers. Your love is effortless and aglow, like a Sunday morning. Th eMaggie Sottero Spring 2025 Collection plays with tradition and delicate detaisl of voluminous skirts, 3D florals, and lace, tuningi nto the feeling of demure romance.

Inspired by femininity and love in all its facets,this collection is enchanted to meet you.

SOTTERO AND MIDGLEY

Guided by a yearning tethered to your soul, you’ve always known you’d end up here… this love is most ardently yours. Your story will ipact generations like heirloom jewels of romance’s past.

The Sottero and Midgley Spring 2025 Collection radiates grace and detail with luxury fabrics, intricate beading, new textures and dramatic colors. embody infatuation inspired by a passionate loe that flows through time.

REBECCA INGRAM

Walkign though the charming cityscape, you reminisce on the story of your love. From early childhood love with paper ring promises,you still seek adventure and wonder everywhere you go. Designed to move wherever your love takes you, the REbecca Ingram S;ring 2025 collection features fun necklines, flowing skrits and playful draping. Run away in the RI Sprin gcollection where flirtation meets forever.

Browse more styles via Maggie Sottero. Maggie Sottero gowns can be found at the following Utah locations:

Bridal Image
Fantasy Bridal
Bridal Closet
Moments Made Bridal
A Bridal Center
Bridal Corner
A Bridal Center
Nova Bridal
Janelle’s Bridal
Celebrate the Occasions
Bell Tower Bridal

AnneMarie & Hunter’s Romantic Anniversary Bridals

Proving that the magic and excitement of a wedding can last far beyond the reception, after eight years of marriage, Hunter and AnneMarie decided it was time to take the bridals they deserved. 

Sabrina from Oak Photography helped the couple find the perfect place for their anniversary photos. They chose White Space Studios in Sandy “because we love the intimacy of the white backdrop alongside brick walls. Not only does it provide an intimate look, but the way the light hits subjects in that particular studio only amplifies the love you see between this couple in the photos.” 

AnneMarie is dressed in her own wedding dresses, making it that much more special. The photos transpire the depth, meaning, and love that is clearly held in their marriage; and was captured beautifully by Sabrina from Oak Photography.

Her hair and make up was beautifully done by stylist, Anna Kuznetsova. AnnieMarie’s bouquets were done by two florists. One was created by Cami Weston from White Magnolia Florists (@thewhitemagnolia.florist), and the other by Calli Veenendaal from Bloom Bus Utah (@bloombusutah).  

Vendors:

Photographer: Sabrina Oak Photography @oakphoto.g

Hair & Make up: Anna Kuznetsova (@stylist_anna_kuznetsova)

Location: White Space Studios in Sandy (@whitespacestudios) 

Florals: The White Magnolia Florist (@thewhitemagnolia.florist) and Bloom Bus Utah (@bloombusutah)


Inspiration for Utah Weddings

Hannah & Walker’s Perfect Pink Wedding at Twenty & Creek

THE COUPLE 

Hanna and Walker first met online while home in Utah on a break from college studies. Both college athletes, the pair hit it off and dated for a year before getting engaged. On the day of the big ask, Walker had set up a faux photoshoot for Hanna to attend at the salt flats. She nearly missed her big moment due to sudden illness, but was convinced to “attend” anyway. When she arrived, she kept telling her sisters they needed to move somewhere else, as a proposal was being setup near their location. Imagine her surprise when her own partner arrived on scene. She said yes! 

THE WEDDING 

Hanna and Walker were married first in a sealing ceremony in the Taylorsville temple. Hanna emerged revealing a form-fitting delicate lace gown from Moments Made Bridal, with unique alterations by Gabardine Alterations. Walker wore a custom deep tan suit from Perfectly Suited by Garth, including a custom lining for the special day. 

Following the temple, the couple and their loved ones headed to the ever-timeless Twenty & Creek venue in Sandy for a ring ceremony and reception celebration. The couple were married by the bride’s sister, then headed directly to the afterparty. 

Planner and florist Details by Laura Lee decked the venue’s beautiful great room in white tables with stunning pink florals and glistening candles. Every chair got a dainty lace bow, adding even more feminine beauty to the day’s decor. Hot pink blooms and elegant greenery (plus gorgeous gilded accents) adorn every corner of Twenty & Creek’s divine spaces. 

THE MENU 

Guests were treated to handheld pizzas by Box Bite, and a wide array of snacks on a table-long charcuterie spread. Mini cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes matched the main dessert, with each guest getting their own little white-chocolate raspberry treat. 

THE PARTY 

The June Brothers band welcomed the wedding party out to the patio for fun-filled dancing in the evening light. The newlyweds shared a first dance to “Lucky” by David Payne, sang as a cover serenade by the father of the bride. Afterward, the couple danced, sang, and played round after round of mini golf with their friends and family. At the end of the night, they made their getaway in matching “his and hers” Nike sweatsuits, fitting for a pair of athletes! 

UTAH WEDDING VENDORS 

Planning & Floral: Details by Laura Lee, detailsbylauralee.com

Venue: Twenty & Creek, twentyandcreek.com

Photographer: Jackie Siggard Photo & Video, jackiesiggardphotography.com

Catering: Box Bite, menu.myboxbite.com

Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes, nothingbundtcakes.com

Gown: Gabardine Alterations, gabardinealterations.com; Moments Made Bridal, momentsmadebridal.modestdresses.com

Suit: Perfectly Suited by Garth, garthcustom.com

Stationery and Signage: Print-Mark, print-mark.com

Rentals: Premier Putt Events, premierputtevents.com

Linens: Specialty Linens, specialtylinensutah.com

HMUA: Hair by Baylie Peck, @hairbybayliepeck

Groomsmen Suits: Mr. Mac, mrmac.com

Band: June Brothers, junebrothers.com

Celebration Makers 2024: Pepper Nix Photographers

Pictures are worth a thousand words, and during life’s big moments, it’s crucial to choose the right photographer and capture the images you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.

Expert photographer Pepper Nix is an elite professional who knows her trade inside and throughout, with 20+ years of experience in the wedding industry.

Averaging 30 weddings per season, this in-demand photographer is your go-to expert for the events in your life you never want to forget.

As a former journalist who dreamed of shooting for National Geographic, Pepper states it only took one wedding to know she’d found her calling.

“I had a friend who was asking me to photograph his wedding, and I kept saying no,” Pepper recalls with laughter. “It wasn’t until the couple officially asked me while down on one knee that I’d said yes. How do you say no to that? To my surprise, it was the most fun and most rewarding work I had ever done. I’ve been photographing weddings ever since!”

When you work with a top-level expert like Pepper, you’ll be amazed not just by the pictures you’ll receive, but more importantly, you’ll genuinely enjoy your experience.

Park City

801.661.1106

peppernix.com

@peppernix

“I still feel lucky that I get to be a part of one of the biggest and happiest days of my clients’ lives and am a witness to their special moments. Plus, I’m wicked fun and have a blast with the people I get to photograph! When you find the right photographer you can just meld with, you’re guaranteed to have a good time!”

Pepper Nix, Photographer

Ask the Expert

Excited About:

Working with couples who understand the importance of planning and trust my experience and artistry. Sticking to a timeline and scheduling the right moments to take photos is essential, which is why I highly recommend working with a wedding planner! Using a planner will help ensure your day goes smoothly, and they can handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on other details.

Fresh Ideas:

Don’t overlook some of the fantastic parts of our beautiful state when choosing your location for engagement photos or bridal portraits. Park City and Big Cottonwood Canyon are gorgeous, with a variety of locations close together so you can go to more than one spot! Props are fun, a blanket to sit on, champagne bottles to spray, something fun from home!

Read more about this season’s Celebration Makers here.