Events by LMG | La Mireasa cu Gust

Help us win BEST WEDDING PLANNER on KSL's A-List!

2012-02-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

It's been just over 24 hours and we've received 100+ votes!

I'm feeling the love and so excited for everyone's support!

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to vote and support our effort!

Haven't voted yet?

The KSL Local A-List is a contest featuring more than 532 local businesses competing to be named best. YOUR votes determine the outcome.

Voting ends Friday, March 30th!

You can only vote once, make it count!

xo, MMH

{lmg featured} Winter + Spring 2012 Salt Lake/Park City Bride & Groom Magazine!

2012-01-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

The new Winter '11 + Spring '12 Salt Lake/Park City Bride & Groom magazine is on newsstands now. I'm beyond in love with our six-page spread and I can't wait for you to see it in the magazine! The photos below hardly do the glossy pages justice, but I couldn't stand not to share. We styled the shoot, selected props and paired favors and floral arrangements with the lavish white cakes to create six pages of mouth-watering eye candy. Enjoy, and be sure to get your hands on a copy soon!

Xo, Mara

{etiquette} WEDDING CRASHER - What Would You Do?

2012-01-25T23:22:00.002-07:00

Picture this...

It's Saturday night, we're in the middle of a live event ("live" as in, there are freakin' guests in the next room enjoying cocktails, signature drinks and hors d'oeuvres on platters while we turn over the ceremony space into a gorgeous dinner space). We're getting things done, and fast. Part of the the wall and doors that separate the two spaces is glass, so we have it covered with some custom burlap curtains so we can offer the guests a big "reveal" when it's time for dinner service. Anyway, if you ask me, the curtains are a dead giveaway that the space is "off limits". It may as well have send, "go away" because that's how serious I am about being able to do a reveal for my clients.

Not the glass doors and wall in question, but a pretty candid shot I took of our pretty ceremony altar.
FLORAL: Sarah Winward VENUE: Salt Lake Hardware

Back to the event...

So there I am, "fluffing"... this is what I call making sure every napkin is perfect, every chair is straight and every name tag is anything but crooked. (I'm crazy, I know... but this is why you want me to run your rodeo). As I am fluffing, in walks this random girl, in jeans and with two friends. These three are obviously not wedding guests... they have no business being in the building, let alone past my ~~iron~~ burlap curtains. As always, I start out in my polite voice and go through the whole dog and pony show regarding what they want, that they need to leave, why they need to leave and so on. Because they're resistant and insisting they "just need to take a few pictures and measurements" for their upcoming wedding, my polite voice escalates to my annoyed and ready to physically remove you voice. After much ado, they left. Like, what the hell are you thinking?! Why would it be ok for you to take measurements for your wedding during another couple's wedding? IT'S NOT, IT WOULD NEVER FLY with any bride, EVER. To be sure I wasn't off my rocker, I took a little facebook poll and it's unanimous - any one would have told that crasher to kick rocks!

Within hours, dozens of voters all chimed in with the same message: GET HER OUT!

Once they were gone, I stood there in a sort of trance. A state of disbelief, if you will. What kind of bride crashes another bride's wedding?! Brides are so particular. Sometimes they don't even want to see their reception before it's "ready".

The things I would say to the wedding crasher if I met her again on the street...

Xo, mmh

{what we're doing} Outdoor Retailer, Winter Market starts TOMORROW!

2012-01-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

Wondering what all this "OR" talk is about? Twice a year we take a short pause from our brides and work with some killer out of state corporate clients who are in town for the Outdoor Retailer (OR) Convention at the Salt Palace Convention Center in downtown, Salt Lake City. In January and August every year downtown is flooded with executives for brands like Jansport, Teva, and New Balance who are in town to show off their newest product to buyers from all over the world.

Jansport, Teva and New Balance are just a few of our fun OR clients. Stay tuned to our Facebook Page and Twitter to stay in the loop with this year's events. We're starting the week off on Thursday with a Smart Wool fashion show at a hip downtown restaurant. We'll be sure to share lots of behind the scenes photos and video all week, so check in with us often.

Wondering how you can walk the show and check out all the latest and greatest in outdoor sport clothing, equiptment and accessories? I bet! Unfortunately, this show is for buyers and media only.

- mmh

{lmg featured} Rachel & Todd Featured in 2012 Utah Bride & Groom Magazine

2012-01-10T10:59:00.005-07:00

I could not be more thrilled that our sweet Rachel & Todd are featured in the 2012 Utah Bride and Groom magazine. After a gown disaster, an alterations mega-crisis and some MIA escort cards, we weren't sure if anything would go our way! Turns out that everything came together beautifully (duh, of course) and the hiccups along the way were just there to keep me on my well-heeled toes. An LDS ceremony at the Salt Lake Temple was followed by a two-tent fete at a gorgeous private residence in Huntsville, Utah.

Rachel and Todd's big day and sweet details are featured in the brand new Utah Bride and Groom magazine, on newsstands now!

Rachel + Todd's wedding details, Utah Bride and Groom 2012
PHOTOS: Jacque Lynn Photo

But wait... there's more!

We loved Rachel & Todd's wedding details so much we're excited to have selected them for our 2012 ad campaign!
PHOTOS: Jacque Lynn Photo

Enjoy the rest of your week and stay warm, here are a few of our favorite details the magazine and ad didn't share:

Fab Vendor Team:

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jacque Lynn Photography
FLORAL: Honey of a Thousand Flowers, Sarah Winward
LINENS: La Tavola Linen
RENTALS: RSVP Party Rentals Utah
TENT: RSVP Party Rentals Utah
VENUE: Private Residence, Utah

VIDEOGRAPHY: Haugen Creative

STATIONERY: Pink Piggy Design

DJ: Life-of-the-Party, Rob Ferre

PLANNING & DESIGN: Events by LMG

GOWN: Alta Moda Bridal
CAKE: Layers-Cake
Catering: Culinary Crafts

Xo, mmh

{lmg featured} 2012 Latter Day Bride Magazine

2012-01-09T06:00:00.038-07:00

Ladies, pick up the new 2012 LatterDayBride magazine. Run, don't walk. My advice and work are featured in a gorgeous (if I so say so myself, and I do...) six-page feature that is chock-full of killer design ideas and budget-saving tips! Although LatterDayBride magazine is a killer resource for LDS brides planning weddings, this article is full of inspiration and ideas for any planning bride looking for new ideas that won't break the bank.

Need help getting your pretty paws on your very own copy? Click HERE!

Thank you to all the incredibly talented pros who worked with me to pull this shoot together:

EVENT STYLING& DESIGN: Events by LMG
PHOTOGRAPHY: Jacque Lynn Photography
FLORAL DESIGN: Studio Stems

ICE SCULPTURE VASES: Swanivations
STATIONERY: Pink Piggy Design
LINEN RENTAL: Wildflower Linen

CHAIR COVERS: Wildflower Linen
CHAIR RENTALS: RSVP Party Utah
CAKES: Layers-Cake

CALLIGRAPHY: Distinctive Inscriptions

Xo, mmh

{lmg featured} Candice's Bridal Shower on Pizzazzerie!

2012-01-07T20:29:00.002-07:00

Happy New Year! No better first blog post of 2012 than to share Candice's summer 2011 bridal shower that is currently featured on my favorite party and entertaining blog, Pizzazzerie. I'm so excited everyone loves Candice's fun & preppy plaid shower as much as I did! You might remember that earlier this year it was also featured locally on Utah Bride Blog.

Here are a couple of my favorite shots, be sure to check out both features at the links above:

A complete list of vendors as well as our vision and process for this party are listed and explained within the Pizzazzerie and Utah Bride Blog features, enjoy!

-mmh

Cheers to a bright 2012!

{lmg featured} Jen + Jared on Utah Bride Blog

2011-12-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

It's always exciting to receive word that the wedding of one of our brides has been featured online or within a glossy bridal mag. Receiving word from Utah Bride Blog about Jen + Jared's 9/10/11 fete was no exception. Jen & Jared tied the knot after a 10 year relationship and we could not have been more thrilled to have been a part of an event that was such a long time coming. Full of family history and remembrance, this event is rich with a warm backstory and lots of friends and family honored within the elements, right down to the venue.

Sweet Jen giving me a huge heartfelt hug on her big day. Lots of happy tears all around that day. PHOTO: Chudleigh Weddings

Here are a couple of sneak peeks, be sure to head over to Utah Bride Blog HERE to see the entire feature.

Jen's stationery suite was designed by Megan, the creative genius at Pink Piggy Design.

Both our ceremony and reception took place at the Grand Hall at the Union Pacific Building in downtown, Salt Lake City. FLORAL: Sarah Winward

Our beautiful florals were designed by Sarah Winward. All of our elements blended beautifully.

Miss Jen wore TWO wedding gowns on her big day, an LMG Bride trend as of late.

Want to see more? I don't blame you. Utah Bride Blog featured the ceremony and reception in it's entirety. Head on over and take in some lovely.

Xo,

-mmh

{ALERT} Alta Moda Bridal Sample Sale 12/10/11

2011-12-04T22:19:00.000-07:00

SAVE THE DATE LADIES, IT'S ALMOST HERE!

SATURDAY, DEC 10th | 10AM-3PM ONLY

Dozens of girls were lined up before 10AM last year to ensure their place in line for their dream designer gown at the not so designer price. Here's all the information you need to know... (and, you should know I will be at the sale too! I can't wait to see what gorgeous gowns will walk out with each excited bride!)

66: The number of gorgeous gowns on sale

38+/- : The number of gowns under $1,000

$1500: The price that most gowns will cost less than

More than 33 Gowns: Are Temple-ready

Things to know...

● Sale hours are 10am – 3pm

●        No appointments: First come, First served (wait list)
●        Gowns are sold as is, alterations not included
●        Only sample sale gowns will be on display
●        No holds and all sales final – come ready to buy
●        Most gowns are suited for street sizes 4-12
●        We only do this once a year, so now is the time
●        Space is limited; only one or two key decision makers/guests per bride

I'll see you there ladies, can't wait!

-mmh

{celeb wedding buzz} 'Bella Swan' Dons $35,000 Carolina Herrera Gown

2011-11-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

The wedding of Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) and Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) was the most highly anticipated fictional wedding of the year. The gown wore by Bella Swan was easily the most highly anticipated wedding gown worn for a fictional wedding this year. Carolina Herrera designed the stunning gown that reportedly retails for $35,000. Ladies, looks like sleeve are in!

The stunning handmade gown- which was custom fit for Kristen Stewart, took Ms Herrera and four seamstresses six months to complete.

Decorated with 152 buttons fown the back, this gown reminds us of something...

Yep, sure does... the back resembles the much-publisized gown worn by Pippa Middleton at the Royal Wedding in April.

In addition to the 152 buttons down the back, the crepe satin and French Chantilly lace gown featured an additional 12 buttons on each sleeve.

Bella's Manolo Blahnik pumps are available for sale in multiple colors at Neiman Marcus HERE.

ALL PHOTOS VIA The Daily Mail.

So What did you think? Were the Royal Wedding and Breaking Dawn enough to convert you to long sleeves? Trust me when I tell you, this trend is not going to fade anytime soon.

-MMH

{lmg featured} Thanksgiving Spread & Fall Wedding Inspiration

2011-11-23T22:49:00.001-07:00

Ladies, pause those wedding diets! PSA: Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Yep. HELLO cheat day! I hope everyone is looking forward to a huge, gluttonous, meal tomorrow. Not that it's important information, or pertinent to this post in any way, but my husband is spending his first Thanksgiving with my (very Romanian) family. Picture it: he will sit at the table awkwardly while the over 60 set speak in Romanian only. They speak English just fine, they just have no interest. Whatever.

In case you're hosting tomorrow (please know I feel for you, and your dishwasher), here's some (very!) last minute Fall table decor inspiration from my recent KUTV 2 News segment as their wedding & party expert. Head on over to the Salt Lake/Park City Bride & Groom blog to see the full feature.

DESIGN: Events by LMG | PHOTO: Jacque Lynn Photography | FLORAL: Orchid Dynasty | RENTALS: RSVP Party Rentals | CAKE: Layers-Cake

Cheers, dolls!

-mmh

{Wedding Indulgence Wednesday} November 9, 2011: Ceremony

2011-11-10T09:14:00.000-07:00

This week's installment of Wedding Indulgence Wednesday was centered around great ways to personalize your ceremony and step up the design. Thanks to Utah Bride & Groom Magazine for sharing a recap of our favorites, be sure to head over and see what made the cut as our favorite ceremony inspiration shared. You won't want to miss it, lots more yummy like the gorgeous ceremony setup below is in store for you.

PHOTO CREDIT: Belle Magazine

New to Wedding Indulgence Wednesday and not sure what all the buzz is about? Each week on Wednesday you can tune in to twitter at 10:30AM MST and follow #wedwed for half and hour to see all the Wedding Indulgence Wednesday tweets. Jacque Riehl of Riehl Events and I share inspiration related to different wedding-related topics each week. Follow LMG on twitter at twitter.com/eventsbylmg.

-mmh

TUNE IN NEXT WEEK 11/16 for RECEPTION INSPIRATION with special guest tweets from the gals at Utah Bride Blog while Miss Jacque is on vacay in sunny Maui!

{lmg featured} Top 10 Holiday Party Planning Tips

2011-11-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

Planning a holiday soiree? Be sure to swing by the Culinary Crafts blog to read our Top 10 Holiday Party Planning Tips. Thanks to the awesome team at Culinary Crafts for giving me the opportunity to share my perspective on planning the perfect party. Truth be told, my perspective includes vodka, but head to the blog to see 10 more great tips.

Events by LMG 2010 Holiday Spread as seen on Pizzazzerie. PHOTO: Chudleigh Weddings.

Don't forget to send an invite my way! ;)

-mmh

{bridal market} Detail Adore.

2011-11-07T08:00:00.001-07:00

From private appointments in beautiful New York City showrooms and from the runways, these are some of my favorite gowns and details from Bridal Market. It was such an incredible experience to attend the shows and appointments at Bridal Market. Local bridal boutique, Alta Moda Bridal got me ultra hooked up everywhere... it was amazing! These photos were all taken by me, and I'm not telling you that because LMG is going to start offering photography (hell no, we're not). I'm telling you because I was that close to the gowns, models and sometimes even the designers!

Modern Trousseau, Spring 2012

Badgley Mischka, Spring 2012

Elizabeth Fillmore, Spring 2012

Monique Lhuillier, Spring 2012

St. Pucchi, Spring 2012

Marchesa, Spring 2012

Lela Rose, Spring 2012

Jorge Manuel, Spring 2012

Kevin Hall

Badgley Mischka, Spring 2012

Jorge Manuel

Lela Rose, Spring 2012

Elizabeth Fillmore, Spring 2012

I have to go now. I need to ask my husband if he sees a problem with me getting a new wedding gown every year on our anniversary to celebrate... ok, I'm being absurd. I need two, after all, we all know I love a gown change...

-mmh

{It Happened} I Met Martha Stewart!

2011-11-01T04:00:00.002-06:00

I'll just cut right to the chase...

There are no words to describe what this moment was like, it was really surreal. It was almost like an out of body experience, or one of those dreams where you're asleep but aware of what's going on around you. Event now the thought that I met Martha Stewart, spoke to her AND had the cajones to ask to have a photo taken makes me smile. I saw an opportunity to approach her at the party, and I took it... I introduced myself, told her how excited I was to be at Martha Stewart headquarters for the party and asked if she would be so kind to pose for a photo with Hilary and I. Truth is, I was so nervous. Looking back, there was no way she could decline at her own event . It's still crazy to think I met this woman I idolize some much (prison and all folks, I adore her). The only reason I am certain I didn't dream it is this photo:

Hilary Anderson of Alta Moda Bridal, THE Martha Stewart, and myself at the 10th Annual Martha Stewart Weddings Bridal Market party.

Curious about the rest of the party deets? We met Randy Fenoli of TV-hit Say Yes to the Dress and Darcy Miller, editor of Martha Stewart Weddings too! Read all about the party here, in my recap on the Salt Lake Bride & Groom magazine blog. Before you do that... I do have to tell you this little story:

So, even before I approached Martha on the evening in question, I had the pleasure of meeting Randy Fenoli. Actually, meeting Randy is perhaps what gave me the guts to approach Martha too. Anyway, back to the party... so there I am, looking around and checking things out when I am suddenly face to face with Randy Fenoli. Like a complete dork I blurt out, "Randy Fenoli! I watch you on TV, I love you!" He is as sweet as sugar immediately, and smiles big. Not a polite smile that accompanies his wish for my disappearance, but a real and genuine smile. He asked my name, where I am from and asks which show was my favorite and ends by telling me it's his pleasure to have met me. Before he turns to continue on to the party, I ask if he'll snap a photo with me. He agrees like we're old friends and of course we should take a photo. I quickly thank him and apologize for taking up more of his time. As I'm getting ready to pose for the photo, he stops and turns to me in a serious manner and asks, "what are you apologizing for? Don't ever be afraid to ask for what you want. Girl, I grew up on a farm and ran away five times. I did not come this far to complain about it now!"

With Randy Fenoli, who inspired me in under two minutes.

What an incredible thing to say. We took our photo, I was thrilled to have met him. Later that night I ran into him at another bridal market party and he yelled across a small crowd, "Hi again, beautiful!" Needless to say, I adore him even more than I did when he was just another celebrity on tv.

Remember, don't ever be afraid to ask for what you want... even a silly picture.

-mmh

{whoops!} Kardashian Wedding: 10 Things Kim Did That You SHOULD Do.

2011-10-31T22:19:00.001-06:00

Photo: E! Online

Ya so, the Kardashian divorce is old news if you ask me. I knew 72 days ago.

Enough about things Kim Kardashian does that you shouldn't do, let's talk about ten things Kim did that you should consider. Here are my top 10 picks from her, now infamous, wedding 72 days ago that raked in $18M for her and estranged hubby, Kris Humphries.

In no particular order:

1. Multiple Gowns Kim Kardashian wore not one, but three, Vera Wang wedding gowns.

Kim Kardashian walked down the aisle in an ivory strapless full tulle skirt, hand pieced with lace applique on the train and bodice. Kim cut her gigantic wedding cake in the center gown, a simple satin A-line silhouette. Finally, Kim changed into a beautiful and form-fitted gown to party into the wee hours at her reception. All three gowns Vera Wang, reportedly worth $20,000 each.

2. Wardrobe changes for the groom too! Kim Kardashian wasn't the only one debuting new looks through out the night. According to People, Kris Humphries walked down the aisle decked out in a white tuxedo jacket, black tuxedo pants and a white tux shirt with white bow tie, all designed by Ermenegildo Zegna. In keeping with the wedding’s black and white theme and in a massive show of restraint, he only changed the top part of his ensemble one time during the reception to a classic black tuxedo jacket and black bow tie.

3. A touch of Noir The towering 6' tall wedding cake from LA's Hansen Cakes was picked out by the couple and reportedly retails between $15,000-$20,000! The extra-deep tiers are on trend and I'm adoring the incorporation of black tiers. Typically considered an inedible color and shied away from in cakes in confections, the Kardashian wedding has made black the newest trend.

Photo: People Magazine

4. Monogram Mania Incorporated in multiple locations, the Kardashian/Humphries monogram became a major center in the couple's design. The beautiful boxed invitations, aisle runner, cake, and even Kim's bracelet sported prominent interlocking 'K' designs. (We have a bride doing a custom monogram aisle runner July 2012, it will be just stunning!)

The 196' Kardashian/Humphries aisle runner featured 750 hand-applied Swarovski Crystals that took the better part of a week to apply. Custom Aisle Runner: The Original Runner Company. Photo: Bridal Guide.

5. Classic, Boxed Invitations Very pricey and typically reserved for only the most lavish fetes, this is something I'd love to see more of.

6. Big Bling You know how I adore diamonds...

Kim's 20.5 carat Schwartz stunner. Question: Once it's time to upgrade, where do you go from here? The band is engraved with K[hearts]K and cost a reported $2M. Source: People Style Watch.

Humphries' gift to Kardashian on the big day. A diamond bracelet "wedding knot" adorned with two 'K's.

Kim Kardashian let the bling get to her head -- in the form of 28-carat earrings and a sparkling diamond Lorraine Schwartz headpiece, valued at $2.5 million. The 65-carat sparkler was worn in homage to screen legend Audrey Hepburn. Source: US Weekly.

Kris Humphries' gold and black-diamond wedding band (left) and Kim Kardashian's 15-carat diamond band estimated to be worth $200,000 (right). Photo source: We Heart It

7. A White-Hot Bridal Party Unlike most brides, Kim Kardashian had no concerns about being upstaged by her bridal party.

The ladies, all in white Vera Wang gowns.

8. Black-Tie not Optional Guests were asked to wear black or white only, no exceptions. An Ultra-chic guest list arrived as instructed, in black or white only.

Eva Longoria, Eduardo Cruz, Courtney Mazza and Mario Lopez arrive in black and white, per request.

9. Like Mother, Like Daughter Don't forget to get a shot with your mom! I can't tell you how many times bride's miss this photo op.

Both Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian in Vera Wang.

10. It's All Black & White Your "color" palette doesn't require color at all. Consider bold black and white design.

Photo: People Magazine

Not a fan of her 72-day marriage, but still loving her over-the-top wedding details!

-mmh

{Would You?} Black Weddings Gowns

2011-10-31T00:01:00.001-06:00

As if I haven't gone on and on about bridal market already...

Vera Wang, who debuted 15 wedding gowns during her bridal market show October 16th, nine of which were black — causing quite a stir — suggested that after a year of major white weddings, she was ready for something new.

“I found black to be fresh and tongue in cheek,” Wang said. “With all the big weddings that happened this year, it was fun to step out of the box.”

Wang has experimented with purple, pale green, and neutrals in past bridal collections, but wanted to explore ways for black to read "wedding day": “I did take it to a witchy kind of place. For me, it helped build a sense of mystery that I was hungry for. And it added this sensuality and sexuality, and a little bit of severity, too.”

Source: WWD

So, question is, would you?

I would.

Happy Halloween, be safe.

-mmh

:::Trunk Show Alert!::: Anne Barge & Badgley Mischka coming to Alta Moda Bridal!

2011-10-29T21:40:00.000-06:00

So much bridal market goodness coming to you next week... tons of gowns, parties and bridal fashion yummy to share. Two amazing runway shows I had the opportunity to attend while in New York with Alta Moda Bridal were the celebrity-studded Anne Barge & Badgley Mischka shows. Both shows were absolutely spectacular, the Spring 2012 collections from both labels are phenomenally beautiful. Wish you were there? I bet! Watch the Anne Barge runway finale here and the Badgley Mischka finale here, both filmed right from my seat just for you!

Because Alta Moda Bridal loves their brides so much, they didn't waste any time securing trunk shows from both labels. November 4th and 5th both collections will be in the boutique for your gown-searching pleasure. Call the boutique (801) 531-1215 to schedule an appointment.

For now, enjoy some of my favorite Spring 2012 gowns from both collections:

Badgley Mischka, Spring 2012

Anne Barge, Spring 2012

Love the gowns? Don't forget to call Alta Moda, they'll help you find the perfect gown for your big day!

{Wedding Indulgence Wednesday} September 7, 2012: DESIGN Focus

2011-09-09T22:50:00.001-06:00

Each week I have the opportunity to sit down with miss Jacque Riehl of Riehl Events for Wedding Indulgence Wednesday, our live event planning and design conversation which takes place every Wednesday LIVE via www.twitter.com beginning at 10:30AM MST. You can follow and join our conversation by following hash tag #wedwed.

The first Wednesday of every month is a full hour Design focus conversation. Jacque and I shared loads of design inspiration and ideas. This tweet was just so good, I had to share it with you again:

Keep it consistent- carry stationery patterns or prints into other areas, like coasters for the cocktail hour: http://ow.ly/6nLeM #wedwed via @MarthaWeddings

PHOTO: Martha Stewart Weddings

The above stationery suite feature can be found in the current Fall 2011 issue. Although a stationery feature, the custom coasters are a phenomenal design idea for a cocktail hour. Foryourparty.com offers custom-designed coasters that can be ordered to match your colors, graphics and fonts already being incorporated in your design. In addition to coasters, other fun cocktail hour items like stir-sticks and napkins are also available for custom order at really great prices. Continuing elements through out your event, like colors or graphics, gives the event design a cohesive and "finished" feel. Your guests will immediately recognize the resemblance between your cocktail hour treats like coasters, stir sticks and napkins and your invitation that they received months prior. Small, but well thought-out, details like this often make the biggest impression in your guest's memories. Big-impact design elements don't always come with a big price tag.

Be sure to join us next week as Ann Elizabeth of Ann Elizabeth Graphic Design and Megan Bailey of Pink Piggy Design join the conversation regarding STATIONERY.

-mmh

PS- Our Wedding Indulgence Wednesday recaps will be back on the Utah Bride & Groom blog next week, don't miss it!

KATE MOSS: The Wedding

2011-09-04T21:00:00.001-06:00

"When I put the dress on, I'm really happy. I forget about everything."

- Kate Moss, VOGUE September 2011

How would it be? John Galliano styling Kate's veil for the shot.
PHOTO: Mario Testino, Vogue Sep. '11

I love weddings. I adore the planning, the vision, and the details; but my first love is fashion. I have had my own subscription to Harper's Bazaar and UK Vogue from the time I was ten years old. Why UK VOGUE and not US VOGUE? Who knows, possibly a splendid accident? I think I relate to fashion on a completely different level now, but one thing is certain: for almost two decades I have been staring at glossy images of Kate Moss. I have poured over Kate's images in the magazine and online since the 758 page book arrived in my mailbox. My favorite shots and all of her details are below, all shot by Mario Testino.

Kate surround by her bridesmaids and flower girls in Bonpoint dresses and one pageboy in a military bridal jacket by Bill Bull.

Kate with her father and daughter, Lila Grace, on their way to St. Peter's Church

Lila attending to her mother's Galliano train.

The delphinium-, scabious-, and daisy-lined path leading to 12th century village church, St. Peter's, where Kate's ceremony took place.

St. Peter's church.

Kate's Dining Tent. Simple, elegant and beautiful. Kate opted to work with her friend, Sam Gainsbury to realize her vision. Along with partner, Anna Whiting, Gainsbury typically produces fashion shows and not weddings. Kate's will be the first, and last, for Gainsbury, Kate told Vogue.

Vineyard tables, wooden farm chairs, bud vases and taper candles come together beautifully.

The simple place setting of Sir Paul McCartney.

A six-tier cake, all white and adorned with flowers.

Flowers Kate's daughter, Lila Grace, carried down the aisle.

The 758-page September 2011 Vogue Magazine features Kate's entire wedding and all the lovely details.

- mmh

{lmg featured} Rayna + Dominic in the NEW Salt Lake / Park City Bride & Groom Magazine - Post 2 of 3

2011-08-24T21:29:00.003-06:00

We love our couples. Like, a lot. Yep... a lot. We especially love when we have the opportunity to show off their beautiful celebrations. Rayna & Dominic were married February 2011 at the Salt Lake Temple and celebrated with a reception that followed that evening at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts in the Grand Hall. Salt Lake/Park City Bride & Groom Magazine ran a three page feature in the Summer/Fall 2011 issue on newsstands now, and we couldn't be more thrilled. Here are some of our favorite shots from their beautiful event:

All photos: Jessica Kettle Photography

Hotel Monaco, Orchid Dynasty Bridal Bouquet

Vera Wang Gown, Hotel Monaco

Beautiful Rayna in Vera Wang at Hotel Monaco

Culinary Crafts Catering and RSVP Party Rentals

Pink Piggy Design napkin "belly band" and escort cards

Our reception space, finished

Cake: One Sweet Slice

A bagpiper introduced our bride and groom, Highland Heathens

And their actual feature:

-mmh

{lmg featured} NEW Salt Lake / Park City Bride & Groom Magazine - 1 of 3

2011-06-28T09:22:00.000-06:00

It's here! It's here!

Summer/Fall Salt Lake Bride & Groom Magazine

That, ladies and gentlemen in the back, is the cover of Utah's newest local bridal publication. We're so thrilled to grace SIX PAGES of this beauty, we can't wait to show you everything we've done. Our 2011 ad campaign is gorgeous and it shares the pages with more of our work: a real wedding feature (more about that gorgeous spread, and the story behind it, later) and our "Fresh Greens" table top design feature.

For now, "Fresh Greens"

Page 1, Left

Page 2, Right

Our preppy spring-inspired shoot was made possible by all the talented vendors who worked with us to make this happen. Be sure to pick up the new magazine, and let us know what you think- would you consider hanging florals for your next event?

-mmh

{Royal Wedding} God Save The Queen, Kate Saved McQueen!

2011-04-29T22:22:00.001-06:00

My husband woke me up today saying, "Happy Royal Wedding Day!" Clearly, he fully understood how excited I was to witness what will likely be the most-watched wedding to occur in my lifetime, it's estimated that 2 Billion people tuned in from all around the globe.

Kate is now Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge. Everyone can "poor Kate" all they want about how little control she had in the planning of the wedding, but you're all wrong... she's married to Prince William and she wore an McQueen gown and a vintage Cartier tiara today... I'd say she's come out on top... bossy Queenie and all.

Some of my favorite shots via US Magazine:

The fashion today was incredible... anticipating Kate's gown was the only thing on the planet to get me up at 4am. "God save The Queen, Kate saved McQueen"... seriously. The McQueen gown designed by Sarah Burton was incredible. Kate managed to wear a traditional gown that still felt young, fresh and contemporary. Kate received permission from The Queen to wear a v-neckline. Kate's second gown for her evening reception, also by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen, was another phenomenal selection.

Although Kate's gowns were beautiful and her vintage Cartier tiara was just perfect, it was the hats and fascinators worn by wedding guests as per the request on the invitation that kept my jaw on the floor through out the coverage.

The beautiful and ever so dapper Beckhams.. Victoria Beckham rocks that fascinator.

Carole Middleton as she arrived.

Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.

The Queen, who was compared to a big Easter peep, as she arrived at Westminster Abbey,

Camilla, who in my eyes will always be the other woman.

Harry's girlfriend, Chelsy Davy.

Well... all female guests wore hats as requested, except one... the Prime Minister's wife!

Can you believe it? I would love to know what she was thinking:

via www.catwalkqueen.tv

It's incredible I was able to get anything done today. I have watched the Royal Wedding coverage on E! about twelve times. It's nearly 10PM and I'm just now getting this post up...

I hope you caught me on KUTV 2 News this morning chatting with Mary Nickel about my take on the Royal Wedding, did you love my fascinator? It's available for sale at Alta Moda Bridal in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Happy Royal Wedding Day, it was wonderful!

-mmh

{local vendor} Martin's Fine Desserts

2011-04-22T00:09:00.000-06:00

Tessa, editor of Salt Lake/Park City Bride & Groom Magazine, Miss Maisie, and I in Martin's pastry kitchen.

I just got a gym membership.

(I bet you weren't expecting that as an opening line...)

But seriously, I did. I had to. Read my blog, all I do is eat cake and attend catering appointments and so on. I'm not complaining but I could be on the verge of some kind of overdose and organs shutting down soon.

Anyway, last week (I am little behind) Tessa and I were invited by Martin's wife, Micaela (a born marketer who we met at the I Deux Bridal launch the week before- another blog, for another time-) to his Salt Lake City pastry kitchen to enjoy Cake Bites. What are Cake Bites, you ask? Well they're amazing balls of cake dipped in different kinds of chocolates and garnished wonderfully with corresponding delights.

Red Velvet Cake Bites made fresh by Micaela, dipped in white chocolate and dusted with Red Velvet crumbs. Heaven.

We enjoyed cake, Micaela's daughter Maisie, and I learned I might be ready for a baby sooner than I originally thought... if she's as fun as Maisie. What's my point? My point is that these tiny treats pack a huge punch is the taste department and they're they perfect wedding favors! Micaela has adorable little boxes in various colors that are perfect for favors. People love food, anything edible is always a great bet as a favor. Martin also makes an amazing Tiramisu cake and other cakes and pasties, trust me- I sampled everything (literally everything) I was offered, and I didn't fight it when Martin sent me home with an entire Tiramisu cake (You're welcome dad...).

Martin's Fine Desserts

2163 South Richards St.
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
(801) 244-0823

[celeb wedding buzz} Reese Witherspoon Weds Jim Toth!

2011-04-07T16:31:00.001-06:00

Today I not only proudly purchased the $10 Royal Wedding Magazine (a magazine full of exclusive pics and memories of the Royal Couple), I also indulged my need for celebrity gossip and wedding news with the newest People Magazine with beautiful Reese Witherspoon and new hubby Jim Toth on the Cover.

The April 18th, 2011 issue of People Magazine features the newlyweds on the cover.

The colorful six page spread is full of exclusive photos and details, pick up the newest issue to read all the details. My top 10 must know deets are here:

1. Reese walked down the aisle of fresh-cut lavender escorted by her father, John, (in her garden at her Ojai, California ranch March 26th) in a custom-made Monique Lhuillier Gown in a blush hue complete with a Cathedral-length veil. Utah brides- Monique Lhuillier is available at Alta Moda Bridal!

2. The bridal bouquet was composed of only ivory English Garden Roses.

3. Under Reese's Monique Lhuillier gown she wore Jimmy Choo's "Macy" platform sandal.

4. The stunning William Goldberg 4-carat Ashoka-cut diamond engagement ring on a pave band was paired with a matching William Goldberg wedding band during their 20 minute ceremony in which the couple exchanged traditional wedding vows after Rev. Jimmy Bartz, the rector at the couple's Episcopal church in LA, spoke about their life together.

5. The cocktail hour featured Orange Mint Juleps, blended Ojai citrus and Southern tradition.

6. The bride changed into a second Lhuillier design – a white silk minidress with a party skirt – for the reception.

7. L.A.'s Lucques Restaurant catered the cocktail hour and dinner.

8. Approximately 120 guests were in attendance including friends like Matthew McConaughey and Gwenyth Paltrow.

9. The band, The Americans, "played a mix of rural blues, country and rockabilly" according to People Magazine, before turning it over to a DJ later in the night.

10. The couple's first dance was to Bob Dylan's "Make You Feel My Love".

-mmh

{lmg bride} Another Thank You Makes Us Warm and Fuzzy (And Tastes Incredible Too!)

2011-04-06T12:17:00.000-06:00

Have I mentioned how important it is to me that my brides are happy? Oh I have? Ok, then moving on. One of the amazing perks of my job is that I get to work with the most incredible people. More specifically, I get to know some really incredible women.

Last summer I had the opportunity to work with Rhiannon, whose wedding took place at Rose Sachs Garden up Parley's Canyon in Utah. Since then, Rhiannon has written an incredible cookbook, Eat Free. Eat Free is a gluten-free and sugar-free cookbook packed with recipes that are easy to follow and easy on the palette. Rhiannon is gluten-intolerant herself (her wedding featured a delicious gluten-free wedding cake from Cakes de Fleur), so her own trial and error while cooking has enabled this domestic goddess to create recipes that taste as good as they look.

Rhiannon's cake on the left, and her wedding favors on the right.

So now, let me share with you a chocolatier you need to know: Chocolatier BLUE. Today I received the most delicious box of chocolates I have ever had (if you know me, you know I have an unbelievable sweet tooth and have tried a lot of chocolates!). Rhiannon sent me this incredible box of chocolates with a little note, I'm in heaven devouring them as I type this. These are no ordinary chocolates... I just tried a morsel that contains crushed red pepper flakes and fresh farm cream. My favorites were the Grapefruit & Rosemary and the Butterscotch. The tastes, smells and textures of these little gems are divine! Between her sweet note and these incredible sweets, Rhiannon has made my day (and possibly my week)!

The highlight of my day: chocolates and a happy bride.

If you're needing a unique and incredible gift for a foodie or chocolate lover in your life, check out Chocolatier BLUE, you won't regret it. Alta Moda Bridal referred Rhiannon my way, I think I'll send a box of chocolates their way...

-mmh

{lmg featured} KUTV 2 Morning News Segment, "The Details"

2011-04-04T22:09:00.000-06:00

KUTV 2 Morning News is the number one morning news show in the state, so we're so excited to be a part of it. Our regular, branded, segment "The Details" will air the first Friday of every month and I'll make some extra appearances from time to time like this month, where I'll recap the Royal Wedding.

Last week I was live on air with Debbie Worthen chatting about the latest trends in chair covers and sashes. Thank you to Wilfdlower Linens and RSVP Party Rentals for lending their covers, sashes and chairs for the segment. Miss me live? Catch up below!

Questions in regard to chairs that we answer for our clients often:

Why are chairs important? Do I have to rent fancy chairs and why can't I just use the chairs the venue has on hand that they include?

Nothing is worse than a beautifully detailed space with attention given to flowers and linens and then some beat up old chairs that you've opted to use because they're included. Your chairs are the first thing your guests will see as they approach your ceremony and the first element they'll see as they enter your reception space. There is no reason to spend time and money on all the details within these spaces and then settling for "whatever" chairs are available or inexpensive.

Do you have any advice on how to save money? I can't afford to dress up every chair at my ceremony and reception.

Yes! At your ceremony, make sure to at least invest in covers for the back row of chairs and covers or sashes down the center aisle on each side. This way, as guests approach your ceremony space they will be wowed by the visual impact of the areas you've played up. Later, for the reception, your dressed up chairs can transfer to the Head Table. Don't underestimate the value of upgrading to a nice Chivari chair. A Chivari chair looks beautiful on it's own as well, without sashes or covers even.

Do you have any vendor recommendations for Utah Brides?

YES! RSVP Party Rentals has the largest selection of chairs including Chivari chairs in Ice (clear), Black, White, Fruitwood (dark brown) and Natural (light wood) and pads and sashes in over 40 colors! If you're looking for glam covers and skirts like I featured on the KUTV 2 News segment, Wildflower Linens will have everything you could possibly want and they're here in Utah now!

-mmh

{lmg featured} IN This Week Wedding Special, LMG Featured as Expert Opinion.

2011-03-28T17:46:00.000-06:00

We're so excited to be featured as IN This Week's Wedding Expert! I have had a long relationship with IN, since they first launched actually! In staffer, Daisy Blake, is getting married this year and she's heading up a six week wedding feature in which all different aspects of the planning process will be explored. We'll be offering our tips and advice each week for brides to be who are struggling with the various aspects. Pick up this week's IN, our feature is on page 17. Can't wait? Read the article online now!

IN This Week, 24 March 2011

Stay tuned next week for our input on how to pick your photography, what to consider, and what to expect.

Enjoy! -mmh

{iconic bride} Elizabeth Taylor Passes at 79 Years

2011-03-23T08:45:00.000-06:00

Elizabeth Taylor is one of my all time favorite glamour girls, a true icon of style and grace. A real Hollywood Celebrity. I'm saddened to learn Elizabeth Taylor passed away today after two months in the hospital for treatment of congestive heart failure. Having married 8 times to seven different men (she married Richard Burton twice), Elizabeth taylor followed her heart and stepped out in style every time. Today is a sad day. I hear it's rainy and gloomy in New York, fitting weather...

PHOTO: diamondvues.com | Copyright Edward Quinn Archive

PHOTO: fanpop.com

PHOTO: farrymind.blogspot.com

-mmh

{trunk show} Badgley Mischka at Alta Moda Bridal

2011-03-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

By now you know how much we love and adore the team at Alta Moda Bridal and their beautiful inventory. I have a sweet spot in my heart for fashion in general and bridal fashion is enough to make me squeal like a school girl (maybe not so much of a squeal and more like repeated gasps and my jaw on the floor, but you get the idea).

Today I popped in to the boutique to check out the Badgley Mischka collection that was flown in for an exclusive Trunk Show at Alta Moda. Can I just tell you I was blown away? These gowns are gorgeous, so feminine and big on textures and bling. Really big on texture and bling, two gown details I can't get enough of. Stunning Badgley Mischka wedding gowns, belts, beaded shrugs and reception gowns will be in store through the rest of today, 3/19. Appointments are always recommended, call 801.531.1215 to schedule a time to see this collection for yourself.

Lucky for you ladies, I snapped some photos of my top three favorites... trust me, you need to see these in person! (Temple build ups are available, and the seamstresses are wonderful experts!)

Badgley Mischka, Buttercup Gown, at Alta Moda Bridal in Salt Lake City, Utah.

This Badgley Mischka gown has the most beautiful fluid motion... gorgeous!

The sheer bodice on this gown is subtle and so beautiful in person, be sure not to miss this one!

Enjoy the trunk show, and thank you to Alta Moda for another couture trunk show opportunity for our local brides.

-mmh

{follow up} Miss Bargain Basement is at it AGAIN!

2011-03-15T23:25:00.001-06:00

Oh Miss Bargain Basement... when will you learn?

(Don't know the deets on Miss Bargain Basement? Read part one HERE).

I try to only spend time and energy on efforts that are worthwhile in some way. I believe that the industry is worthwhile. I take my business really seriously. I also take the industry very seriously. There are so many local vendors and vendors all over the country I respect so much. Their talent, their professionalism and their dedication to their craft is so inspiring. Every day someone reminds me that nothing short of my best is "enough". I treat every relationship, every project, every client and every opportunity like it's the only one I've got. I hope that shows, I think it does.

This experience that I have had with Miss Bargain Basement (MBB) wannabe wedding planner has been such an eye-opening experience. Not everyone will play by the rules and not everyone will handle their businesses in an ethical and professional manner with class... I have to remember that. Not everyone has the same goals that I share with other respected professionals. Some "vendors", like Miss Bargain Basement, probably don't even know what their goals are.

In regard to the part one issues: I reported the negative Wedding Wire review MBB posted about me and of course they verified I was correct in saying it was fraudulent and they promptly removed it. I assumed the whole joke was over. I had a good laugh and didn't think I would need to rehash the details anytime soon. I was wrong (of course I was, or I wouldn't have this to blog about now).

I received a phone call yesterday from someone I respect very much. Actually, I received a text asking to please call when I have a moment to chat. Immediately I thought, Uh ok... something is wrong. I called immediately. Apparently a CitySearch.com user named "LMGEvents" reviewed her (very reputable and a favorite of mine) company online and nothing nice to say. Obviously this wasn't me and lucky for me she knew that without a doubt (whew!). She happened to know the entire story about MBB, so she suspected it was indeed MBB at it again. Other vendors were reviewed as well, so I got on the phone and started warning people and assuring them I would take care of it as quickly as possible. What a mess. There is nothing I would have liked to do less at that moment. I began the dispute process with City Search, and now we wait.

Moving on... Let's talk about FEDERAL TRADEMARKS... ya, I got one folks. MBB, I know you're reading so prepare yourself for the next part (google any big words you don't understand... just sound it out)... you used my trademarked company name without consent, This is not only against state laws, but even better, this is against FEDERAL LAWS. Yep, I can push this all the way. MBB, go ahead and immediately remove what you posted on CitySearch.com (do it NOW!). Just know that even if you don't, City Search will remove it for you and I won't stop this process. What you've done is pathetic, unprofessional and unethical. There is no room for your kind in our industry. Brides deserve to work with professionals they can trust. Clearly you cannot be trusted to do anything of any merit. Too many professionals work too hard and care to much for me to allow this to just "go away" and I will not just "chalk this up to a misunderstanding" as you requested when you emailed me back and pretended I have you confused with you non-existent sister with the same name (you're a terrible liar by the way). While we're chatting about your many lies: I know your first name ending in 'Y' is made up and your last name beginning with 'G' is your correct maiden name. I also know that your last name beginning with 'T' would be your married last name, except you never made the legal name change. Scared yet? Good, you should be. You stole from me, and you're in a lot of trouble.

It took about five minutes for the detective to find out MBB's real name (she goes by two, a combination of her married and maiden names), her address and what kind of car she drives. Isn't that fun MBB? I bet that you thought if you used a fake email address to post those reviews that you'd be safe. Like I said before in my first post, you're even dumber than you look.

Friends, you will all be happy to know MBB definitely reads this blog, she fixed the specific grammatical error I pointed out last time. It was a fruitless effort on her part, her entire hideous website is full of grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors but you've got to start somewhere I suppose.

Brides, see what I mean about doing your research? You could find yourself at MBB's mercy if you don't.

-mmh

{lmg bride} We Love Making Our Brides Happy, Really Unbelievably Happy

2011-03-09T20:31:00.000-07:00

It's true. There is nothing more rewarding than a bride who cannot stop gushing about how amazing we are. It is so validating to know that what I do is so appreciated and valued by my clients. I work so hard to always provide the highest level of service, the most personal experience and an uninterrupted attention to the details so my brides can be confident that I have it all covered (and trust me, I do!)

Last month we had the opportunity to work with Rayna and her (now) husband Dominic. It was a particularly unusual circumstance: Rayna, who lives in Boston, hired a Los Angeles planner to coordinate her destination Salt Lake City wedding. Yeah, talk about a cross-country affair! Long story short, Rayna woke up two weeks before her wedding in a panic over "her" wedding which felt like anything but "hers". She parted ways with her planner and went on a search for a Utah planner that she felt would understand her vision and pull it together in two weeks. We were honored to have been selected and took our 11 days to make it happen- and that we did. With a team of amazing vendors on board we tweaked this and that, and the final product was phenomenal (will share the whole wedding soon!).

We received the most beautiful Orchid (from Orchid Dynasty) along with a sweet thank you from our Bride and Groom that made my day. I just had to share...


Stay tuned for Rayna's entire wedding, her to-die-for Vera Wang Wedding gown and stunning photos by Jessica Kettle Photography.

{giving back} Events by LMG Helps Produce the Utah AIDS Foundation Oscar Awards Gala

2011-03-08T22:26:00.000-07:00

Events by LMG likes to give back. We make it a point to donate our services to causes and efforts we feel strongly about. The Utah AIDS Foundation is an effort I am very passionate about and have become more and more involved with over time in any capacity I can. Many of you know I have a close relative affected by this disease as well as friends who are very close to me. I am passionate about research and treatment and because of this I reach out through out the year to solicit product donations for silent auctions and financial donations for the foundation. By the way, THANK YOU to everyone who has helped... this last fall I was among the highest-producing Ambassadors for their fundraising efforts and I absolutely could not have done it without all of you who have supported my efforts. That's a BIG Thank You.

Most recently, we teamed up with Riehl Events to help design and produce the 2011 Oscar Gala that took place at The Complex on February 27th, 2011. This Black Tie Gala is the foundation's biggest fundraiser of the year and we were so honored to be selected to be a part of this production. Working with Jacque at Riehl Events is always a pleasure as well, and we had a phenomenally fun time working together on this event. Enjoy the photos I'm sharing here and be sure to check out all the links to the different features and photographer's galleries of this event listed at the end of this feature. Thank you to David Daniels Photography, Brett Colvin Photography, Cate Williams Photography on the Riehl Events Team and DPbyZ Photography for donating their photography services and being a part of this incredible effort.


Mara Marian-Harwood of Events by LMG and Jacque Riehl of Riehl Events on the red carpet. PHOTO: Cate Williams - Riehl Events

Photo Gallery: Salt Lake Magazine

Photo Gallery: David Daniels Photography

Photo Gallery: Cate Williams - Riehl Events

Additional Vendor Credits:

Venue: The Complex

Valet Parking: VPS

Rentals: Bacchus Event Rentals

Catering: Rico Catering

Live Media Coverage: ABC 4

Print Media Coverage: In This Week

Cheers, mmh

{{{RANT}}} You're As Dumb As You Look, and Possibly Even More.

2011-03-05T09:41:00.002-07:00

I have a general rule for social media: keep it positive, and fun. Lots of drama surrounds the wedding industry... but brides don't need to see that and vendors get enough of their own on a daily basis. I make it a point to only "status update" the fun news and happenings when I have a moment to share what's going on. I also make it a point to find those moments to share.

DISCLAIMER: This is not one of those positive and fun posts... I am fired up! What I am going to say, needs to be said. What has recently happened to me happens to every vendor. What happened to me was done by someone claiming to be a professional... brides beware, you DO NOT want to work with someone like this.

Anyway, back to the story at hand... long story short: I was "shopped" by an aspiring planner who had hopes of starting a company of her own. Yes, a woman with an interest of starting an event planning company posed as a bride with a fake wedding date and wasted my time in person with two of her friends one afternoon back in the fall of 2010. I drove all the way to a Starbucks on 90th South and Redwood Road to sit down with this "bride" and her bridesmaids... I have come to learn that the "bride" has been married since 2003. Anyway, we went through the entire consultation process and her budget (which was of course a made up figure) just wasn't enough to accommodate the investment of the services a professional planner provides. She never even got a copy of my contract. Nice try, idiot.

I'll be honest, at the time I suspected absolutely nothing. Even after the fact I suspected nothing of the meeting and assumed we wouldn't correspond again because we weren't a good fit based on her budget (under $5,000.00).

Now, fast forward to yesterday:

I'm online looking at some new planner that has popped up and I'm about ready to throw up over the sleazy bargain basement sales tactics this company uses... promises of iPad computers if they don't save you money and a play on your heartstrings with a guarantee that money will be donated to charity if ten brides are signed by a certain date. Anyway, as if this wasn't all bad enough I start looking over her (terrible) website and notice that there are about a million spelling and grammatical errors (honey, if you're reading: you "accept" all forms of payment, not "except" them... email me, I can proofread the rest for a small fee). She has more than one facebook page yet both are listed as "Married" to her husband. I find on her facebook pages that her email address is oddly familiar. I search it in my email inbox and sure enough, this woman is the woman I met with last fall. At one point she emailed me from "her bother's" email account which learned yesterday was actually her husband. This proves that her husband condones her unprofessional business tactics. I am in disbelief. So naturally, I email her... I have something to say!

My email is short and to the (professional) point. What you did was unprofessional and if you wanted to know how I run my business, buy me lunch and let's chat. Everyone is new and starts somewhere, but where Miss Bargain Basement started burned a lot of bridges for good.

Now, if you need a good laugh... please prepare yourself for the best part of all of this. She actually emails me back. Yep. She emails me back and tells me that I'm confused (mind you, I met this woman in person and I know what she looks like). She tells me that I am confusing her for her sister (whose name is identical by the way, just pronounced differently). She asks me to just "chalk this up to a misunderstanding" and that she's sorry for "any mess it has caused". Lady, you're the mess.

If this story could not get any more absurd, I woke up to negative online reviews of my company by "Completely Dissatisfied" who says I am "unprofessional and shockingly overpriced". Well hi there, I see you're back for me with me. Ok baby, let's go! This is obviously bogus for a million reasons, but if I was "overpriced" a bride wouldn't have hired me in the first place and later complained about it. Of course Miss Bargain Basement feels I am overpriced, her services are $200! Interestingly enough, her wedding date (that I supposedly coordinated) is listed as 9.11.10... which was actually my own wedding date folks. I got married that day, and I did not coordinate any weddings that day or in September 2010 because of my own wedding. Again, nice try idiot. I disputed her review, flagged her profile and reported her business listing as well. You should not be allowed to feature your business on a website if you're going to behave in such a manner.

Why is this relevant for the brides reading? Besides the sheer comical value of this entire incident, it goes to show you how important it is to research your vendors before you hire them. I say this all the time... ASK FOR PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES in addition to the client references offered. Clients listed on a vendors references could be anyone, professionals on the other hand are well known and established contacts who you can trust. Imagine, this woman is out there "planning weddings" for unsuspecting brides looking for a good deal. If she is capable of lying, misleading and shady behavior with me, what's to stop her from treating her brides in the same manner if a problem occurs? She will and she has, I am sure of it.

Brides, do your research ladies... And Miss Bargain Basement: stay away from me and if you want to succeed I urge you to discontinue your unprofessional and unethical business tactics. Best of luck.

Xo, mmh,

{vendor feature} Layers-Cake, Utah Cake Studio You Need to Know!

2011-02-11T23:56:00.001-07:00

I love being impressed. I mean, I really love being impressed... Layers-Cake impresses me every time. I mean it, every time. Here I go again telling you about the tough life I live within this industry I love... I accompanied one of our June brides to her cake tasting with fabulous Julie Hill, owner and cake designer at Layers-Cake. My bride and I were each treated with a plate of three custom delicious flavors, tough life yes?


Three delicious basics: Red Velvet with cream cheese filling, Vanilla Cake with salted caramel filling and Chocolate Cake with peanut butter filling.

Julie's cake studio is adorable, and her cake is moist and delicious. Julie produces both wedding cakes and groom's cakes in every flavor (and shape!) you can possibly imagine. Here are some of my favorite cakes Julie has created:

Take my advice, your cake is in expert hands at Layers-Cake... give them (and their cake!) a try.

-mmh

{lmg featured} GLAM Valentine's Day Shoot with Chudleigh Weddings

2011-02-03T11:55:00.001-07:00

Our sweet friend Courtney at Pizzazzerie showed us a little blog love last month and featured our GLAM Valentine's Day shoot we styled. Shot by talented Britt Chudleigh of Chudleigh Weddings, this shoot was nothing short of my expectations. Ok, actually... I'll be honest, I was super disappointed by one thing... it's an eye sore every time I look at the photos. You perhaps didn't even notice, but now you will. I forgot my portable steamer. Yep, I forgot it and I thought it would be fine. That silver pin tuck linen makes me cringe each time I look at the photos. So there you have it, I'm ashamed and I will never let it happen again.Well anyway, the rest of the shoot is amazing and you can see the entire Pizzazzerie feature HERE.


PHOTOS: Chudleigh Weddings, styled by Events by LMG

and the behind the scenes shots via Chudleigh Weddings:

The team that made our shoot possible, from left: Melodie an Alta Moda consultant with a love for Valentine's Day, Justin & Hilary of Alta Moda Bridal and more recently Lily & Iris, Morgan and Cynthia from Studio Enizio Hair & Makeup Artistry, Megan of Pink Piggy Design, Me (in flat boots!), Our models Luke and Mary Ann, Mary Ann's friend Skylar who was a big help and Tessa Woolf.

THANK YOU to everyone who helped make this endeavor possible. All the vendors who contributed in any way are listed with links in the PIZZAZZERIE Feature.

{celeb wedding buzz} RHOA star Cynthia Bailey Ties the Knot!

2011-01-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

Open up the February 2011 Essence Magazine and you'll find Real Housewives of Atlanta star Cynthia Bailey and her now husband Peter Thomas on page 10 dapper as can be. Cynthia has done her share modeling, and it shows. She looks phenomenal in her striking gunmetal Rubin Singer gown at her wedding which actually took place last year in front of 200 people at Atlanta's grand Fernbank Museum of Natural History on July 24 although it just debuted on TV tonight.We'll be sharing more of her wedding photos this week, but enjoy these exclusives via Essence and Life & Style Magazine.

-mmh

{inspired by} 2011 Golden Globes

2011-01-16T21:02:00.001-07:00

If you know me, you know I love floor length gowns, jeweled clutches and Celebrity fashion on the Red Carpet. I'm a sucker for an awards show, but I love the Arrivals coverage more than the actual show. It's true, I anticipate "who are you wearing" far more than the, "and the winner is..." Anyway, tonight's Golden Globes arrivals were phenomenal and of course you can count on E! to get those photos up online faster than any other online news source. Here are my favorite picks, do any of these gowns inspire your selection process for your upcoming wedding gown? Who were your favorites, and who did you hate (ahem, "Helena Bonham Carter!)?

My absolute favorite gown tonight was this blush Oscar de la Renta on Lea Michele. "You know you've made it when you're in Oscar".

Mad Men's January Jones in Versace tells Ryan Seacrest, "well I didn't wear this dress for nothing!"

Mila Kunis and Sofia Vergara make jaws drop in Vera Wang.

Sandra Bullock looks fresh and updated with bangs.

Expecting a baby soon, Natalie Portman wears a gown adorned with a rose. Are roses going to be huge for 2011?

Hollywood's most fashionable couple on the red carpet.

Don't you just hate her? Megan Fox in Armani.

There was a sea of emerald green, a lot of blush and black and a surprisingly high number of celebs in RED!

-mmh

The Bridal Extravaganza at The Grand America Hotel

2011-01-15T18:58:00.000-07:00

Today I had the opportunity to walk the floor at the Bridal Extravaganza bridal show held at The Grand America Hotel. For any brides planning a wedding on their own without the help of a professional planner (good luck!), bridal shows are a great place to get ideas for your upcoming wedding and see local venues since shows are almost always held within wedding and event reception spaces. I always love spending time at The Grand, but it was especially fun to run into some of my favorite industry professionals. If you didn't get a chance to go, check out my ultra-professional camera phone pics from my bridal show afternoon.

LEFT: Pink Piggy Design Booth, MIDDLE: Megan of Pink Piggy Design, Myself, and Audrey of Studio Stems pose in front of the Utah Bride Blog booth. RIGHT: The Utah Bride Blog booth with a stunning Augusta Jones gown that turned heads all afternoon.


Justin Goodson of new bridal boutique, Lily & Iris, and I at his booth. I was loving his tie, shirt vest combo! His eye for style is why this man owns women's clothing boutiques with his equally stylish wife, Hilary.

LEFT: A four-tier fondant-covered cake layered with flawless roses by Chef Jeffrey de Leon of the Grand America Hotel. RIGHT: A sampling of cakes by the Grand America.

Two can't miss tables with massive centerpieces by the Grand America Hotel.

Had a great time at the show,

-mmh

{lmg featured} Lily & Iris Inspiration Boards

2011-01-12T17:17:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake City's new bridal shop, Lily & Iris offered us the opportunity to style an in-store inspiration board last month. The only guideline? The board must be styled around a dress in their current inventory. Um, hello no problem! If you haven't been yet, you have no idea what their store is like- gowns and dresses in every color imaginable. The hardest part was selecting just one. Eventually, I selected a Watters Collection Wtoo mini ballgown in Citronella yellow. This fun little dress is styled in luminescent taffeta and features a surplice bodice wrap, pockets and self flowers at the bodice for an extra flirty flair.

After selecting this gown, I immediately thought of a bride at a whimsical wedding with lots of fun and fresh details. I selected a turquoise blue in addition to the yellow and paired it with some minimal gray and white.

And this became our palette:

I wanted to definitely take the tone and play up the whimsy of the color combination, so I added pinwheels as our final design element. I created the board below, and then deconstructed it for the window board display at the Lily & Iris shop.

Photo credits for the board are listed below, at the end of this post.

And here's what our final project looks like (photographed by Christine Olson Photography), you can see it live at the Lily & Iris store!

Well, would you like a pinwheel themed wedding? What do you think of our inspiration board and color palette? Let us have it!

-mmh

Inspiration Board Photo Credits:

Kissing couple holding pinwheels: Bridal Tweet

Chandeliers: You Paid More Than Me

Bridesmaids in yellow: Vrai Photography

Stationary: My Modern Met

Ring Pillow: Kelly O'Shiro Events

Jeweled headband: This Next

Groom with Boutonniere: Elizabeth Ann Designs

Custom Candy Bars: CA Chic Designs

Yellow heels and Argyle Socks: Autumn Burke

Gray Cake with Yellow Pinwheels: Manolo Brides

Tiered Sugared Cakes: Martha Stewart Weddings

{local vendor feature} Maggie Sottero Wedding Gowns

2011-01-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

I had the fun luck to run into three models in pretty wedding gowns while I was at the KUTV 2 News station last week. These three ladies happened to all be modeling local gown label, Maggie Sottero and their high-end label, Sottero & Midgley.

I had a fun chat with the Maggie Sottero executive who was along for their news segment while I waited to go on air for my own. The gown on the far left is from the Sottero & Midgley line, while I believe the other two are from the Maggie Sottero line. These gowns are available in Utah for purchase at Fantasy Bridal and in Arizona at Lillian Lottie Couture.

Remember our pretty summer bride, Stephanie, who was featured on Style Me Pretty? She wore a Sottero & Midgley gown with a temple ready build up that was just stunning.

PHOTO: Dustin Izatt Photography

-mmh

{celeb wedding buzz} Holiday Engagements Galore!

2011-01-03T11:29:00.003-07:00

Move over Royal Wedding, some A-List celebs will be tying the knot in 2011 as well! It's not just local gals who got new bling in December, the engagement bug bit some big time celebs last month and we've got all the details right here! KUTV 2 Morning News invited me down to dish on everyone (and their exes) planning to tie the knot soon, enjoy! -mmh

Trouble loading video? Watch it on YouTube HERE

{Utah Vendor Feature}: Lily & Iris, "'Maids, Moms & More"

2010-12-25T20:41:00.001-07:00

I am thrilled to share some very exciting news in the Utah bridal market... really exciting news, I mean it. A new bridal boutique opens January 4th, at 11am that will offer stylish bridesmaids dresses, Mother of the Bride dresses and short reception gowns for brides. Lily & Iris will be the place to purchase the perfect dresses for all the women in your bridal party. It's long overdue, I'm so excited this boutique is opening in downtown Salt Lake City (258 E 100 S).

Lily & Iris will offer stylish bridesmaids dresses which will also be affordable, styles start at $150! Boasting lines like Amsale, Lela Rose, Dessy, Cynthia Rowley, Lynn Lugo, Watters, Anna Elyse, Sarah Danielle, Ivy & Aster and Fancy; even the most particular bride is sure to find the perfect dresses in the perfect shades for her bridal party. I have seen the store, and it really looks phenomenal.

Now here's the best part...

THE FIRST 25 BRIDES to visit ON JANUARY 4th:

Buy five gowns, receive a sixth gown for FREE*. Receive
a sixth gown of equal or lesser value for free when you
purchase five gowns at full price. Buy gowns for your
five bridesmaids, get a party dress for yourself! Or get
the value of your most inexpensive dress towards a
reception gown for yourself. The options are endless!

For anyone shopping in January:

Receive 10% off your entire dress order if you place your
order during the month of January (January 4-31, 2011).

We'll be visiting Lily & Iris on the 4th, hope to see you there! Be sure to check out the live "inspiration board" we styled for a YELLOW/BLUE/PINWHEEL styled wedding, here's a sneak peek:

-mmh

{happy holidays}

2010-12-24T22:43:00.000-07:00

If you're celebrating Christmas, enjoy a wonderful day tomorrow filled with friends and family.

CONGRATULATIONS to our 2010 brides, enjoy your first holiday with your new families.

Love, Mara & LMG Team

{lmg featured} Winter Wedding Shoot featured on Southern Weddings!

2010-12-23T12:01:00.000-07:00

I'd like to consider it an early holiday gift. I also consider it a huge honor, the Winter Shoot we styled was featured on the Southern Weddings Blog today! Chudleigh Weddings shot these swoon-worthy photos (If I do say so myself, and I do!) Take a look, enjoy, and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

{lmg featured} ROYAL HOLIDAY Sweets Buffet

2010-12-22T12:12:00.002-07:00

Happy Holidays friends! Utah Bride and Groom Magazine did a little feature today of our Royal Holiday dessert table that you perhaps saw earlier this month on the fabulous Pizzazzerie site. Be sure to check out both features, and let us know what you think!

Enjoy, -mmh

{lmg brides} Winter Wedding Styled Shoot

2010-12-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

I suppose it's about time. I have been going on and on about this Winter Wedding shoot I did with Chudleigh Photography for weeks now, so I better share it already in case you didn't see it on the LMG Events website. Talented Britt Chudleigh of Chudleigh photography called one day and offered me the opportunity to style a shoot for her, I think we really outdid ourselves. Click on over to the Chudleigh Photography blog to see the stunning images and a complete list of vendors involved.

-mmh

{total mess} Bridalplasty on E!

2010-12-04T22:30:00.000-07:00

I had to watch. I don't regret it, but I do feel ashamed for America and our undying love for reality TV. I am lumping myself in that group mind you, I love reality TV too...

Bridalplasty on E! takes wedding shows and reality TV to a whole new (sick and disturbing) level. I am game for plastic surgery and a celebrity wedding, but what these twelve female contestants go through on national TV is beyond any realm of what I could find reasonable. Meet the twelve contestants HERE.

Host Shanna Moakler (former Miss USA and wife to Blink 182 drummer, Travis Barker) leads the ladies from challenge to challenge in which they compete plastic surgery transformation packages and a chance at a celebrity wedding. In the first episode we watched the women's "problem areas" marked up by a plastic surgeon, botox injections and even some compelete emotional breakdowns took place. Thus far, my least favorite contestant is Alexandra. Alexandra and her fiance were once on the TV show Biggest Loser where (predictably) he proposes at the end of the show. Now they're engaged, and Alexandra (and 11 other women) are being willingly publicly humiliated for the whole country to enjoy with the hopes that they will win the celebrity wedding and a killer bod.

Pass the popcorn please!

{hot honeymoon spot} Puerto Vallarta, Meixco: Garza Blanca

2010-12-03T22:09:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to share a secret with you. A big one.

Feast your pretty eyes on Garza Blanca Resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Garza Blanca Resort: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This is another one of those posts where I am going to tell you how hard I work for you and the many sacrifices I make to ensure I am knowledgeable in the industry (remember last month, I got eyelash extensions from Lash My World and attended a cocktail party at The Chateaux in Deer Valley for you). I know, tough life... anyway, back to paradise: Garza Blanca in Puerto Vallarta. If you're dreaming of sandy beaches and sunny skies, Mexico is likely on your list of desired honeymoon sports. My husband, Jordan, and I spent our honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta and loved the Garza Blanca property so much we are considering purchasing a condo (um, hello "business expense"). Regardless, Garza Blanca has my heart in PVR. See for yourself how gorgeous it is, no detail left behind...

The impressive Lobby includes a lounge, a bar, access to the restaurant as well as the spa and infinity pools.

The lounge, perfect for cocktails before dinner or before a night on the town.

The restaurant bar features ocean views and a phenomenal selection of wines, champagnes and spirits.

The view from the restaurant's expansive wrap-around patio are so romantic as the sun is setting.

Guest suites are complete with kitchens, formal dining areas as well as living and sleeping quarters.

Picture yourself with your honey relaxing in that tub!

The Garza Blanca property consists of the main hotel, penthouses (3,653 to 6,431 square feet!), residences, villas, a gourmet restaurant, a beach club, lounge and full-service luxury spa. Luxury villas are oceanfront living at it's finest with master suites that boast private whirlpool tubs and wet bars on the oceanfront terraces. The entire property is the perfect setting for romance, it is an ideal honeymoon spot tucked away about 10 minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

The restaurant, Blanca Blue, offers "intimate waterfront dining by torch light"- couldn't have described it better myself! Not only was everything about the restaurant's decor and view spectacular, the menu was phenomenal as well. I ordered the Lobster & Corn Cob soup about every chance I got and even at 10am. Head chef, Patrick Robertson. worked with the venue's Sommelier to pair every item on the menu with the perfect wine. I can assure you, the wine list was incredible.

Jordan and I, after dinner. Me finishing some sort of fruity champagne cocktail, and Jordan with coffee. Typical.

If you're in Puerto Vallarta, be sure to at least head in to Garza Blue for dinner- you won't regret it!

-mmh

{Wedding Indulgence Wednesday} Green / Eco-Chic Weddings & Events

2010-11-24T22:52:00.000-07:00

The snow outside today was like whoa while Jacque at Riehl Events, guest-tweeter Tessa Woolf the fabulous editor of Utah Bride and Groom, and I tweeted about Green and Eco-Chic weddings and events. We shared eco-friendly vendors, green weddings, resources, tips and ideas for throwing a green event of your own. Click HERE to read all about it on Utah Bride and Groom Magazine's blog.


NOV 24: Green & Eco-Chic Wedding Ideas \| PHOTO: Simply Wood Rings

Be sure to read the entire post on UTB&G's website, lots of information defining "green" "eco-chic" "organic" and so on. Great info, enjoy!

-mmh

{Wedding Indulgece Wednesday} Do you follow?

2010-11-22T11:39:00.001-07:00

Well... do you?

You should, if you don't... this is your second reminder, don't say no one told you. Whether you're a vendor or a bride-to-be, Wedding Indulgence Wednesday is a must follow every week. Jacque of Riehl Events and I tweet about wedding and event-related topics each week on Twitter. Utah Bride and Groom Magazine recaps every week on their blog and sometimes Tessa, the Editor, is a guest-tweeter. Occasionally we also invite other event professionals to participate. We're tweeting LIVE from Diva's Cupcakes & Coffee every week (did you know they do wedding cakes and cupcakes?) so don't miss it! I promise a weekly link to Utah Bride & Groom's recap so you're sure not to miss it. Need a catch up? Read all the recaps below.


AUG 25: Guest Favors & Gifts \| PHOTO: Marth Stewart Weddings

SEP 1: Unique Decor Elements | PHOTO: Ruffled Blog by Dreambox Photography

SEP 8: Reception Food & Drink Ideas | PHOTO: The Knot

SEP 15: Vendors We Love | PHOTO: Pink Piggy Design


SEP 22: Wardrobe \| PHOTO: The Wedding Chicks, Tyra Bleek Photography

SEP 30: Planning & Etiquette Tips | PHOTO: Martha Stewart Weddings


OCT 6: Winter Wedding Inspirations

OCT 13: Use of Color | PHOTO: We Love Pictures

OCT 20: DIY Ideas | PHOTO: DIY Bride, Kelli Nixon Photography

OCT 27: Unique Ceremony Ideas | PHOTO: Style Me Pretty, Jasmine Star

NOV 3: Unique Reception Details | PHOTO: MerciNYC, Jen Huang Photography

NOV 11: Wow-Factor Wardrobe | PHOTO: Judith Leiber

And last, but not least... a list of vendors we are loving right now!

NOV 17: Local Vendors to Watch

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@eventsbylmg) and Jacque of Riehl Events (@riehlevents) every Wednesday morning at 10:30AM MST.

November 24th Tessa with Utah Bride & Groom Magazine will be guest-tweeting for our GREEN/ECO-CHIC Wedding and Event topic. Follow and tweet in your ideas and questions.

{vendor spotlight} Lash My World, Eyelash Extensions for Brides

2010-11-20T17:37:00.004-07:00

Brides, I hope you're thankful... I just do so many things for you. The research I do is really a huge favor to all of you (hah!). Earlier this week I ate amazing foods and enjoyed cocktails at the new Chateaux property in Deer Valley and today I spent the early afternoon with Mariluz Bireley, the owner of Lash My World. Mariluz upped my glam factor and applied a Diva Set of lash extensions. Um, hello babe! Oh, and ... I NEVER HAVE TO WEAR MASCARA AGAIN!

The of the Lash My World models rocking lashes in differing lengths.

Almost every bride I have ever had the pleasure of working with (as well as myself and my own friends) have worn a strip of false lashes for her engagement photos, bridals and also on their wedding day. Just like with a strip of lashes, the extensions range from minor enhancements to major va-va-va-voom! I went for something in between muted and Las Vegas Showgirl... and according to Mariluz, in a week I will be calling her begging for "longer!"

Roxy is wearing the DIVA set, grogeous!

Depending on how much you are looking to add, individual extensions are added to every lash in varying lengths. The process takes an average of a couple of hours depending on your eye shape and size as well as how much you're wanting to add. The process today took a couple of hours and was completely painless. I showed up with no makeup and left looking natural and "done". Extensions are a great option for your wedding day and honeymoon too! How amazing would it be to be on the beach and in the ocean without runny mascara? Already married or just want them? Do it, I am loving mine already- and my husband does too! Men are such simple creatures, aren't they?

LASH MY WORLD is offering LMG Events Brides, Fans and Friends a special offer! Tell Mariluz you're with us and receive your first fill at no charge! That's right, your first fill is totally free, just be sure to tell them when you book. How much to go bombshell?

Diva Set .... 150 Minutes ..... $200, regularly $235

Glamour Set ..... 120 Minutes ..... $150, regularly $275

Fill Plus ..... 120 Minutes ..... $80

Fill .... 90 Minutes ..... $50, No Charge for your first one when you mention LMG Events!

Check out the Lash My World Facebook Page for more photos.

Lash My World
1492 Park Avenue
Park City, UT, 84060
801-574-4404

- mmh

{venue feature} The Chateaux at Silver Lake, Now Open!

2010-11-19T11:48:00.000-07:00


The snow-covered Chateaux at Silver Lake

Last night I had the enormous pleasure of attending the Grand Opening of the Chateaux at Silver Lake with Jacque Riehl (Riehl Events), Hilary Anderson (Alta Moda Bridal), and Tessa Woolf (edior of Utah Bride & Groom Magazine). We had a fabulous time and enjoyed cocktails, excellent food and a small tour of the event spaces.

The hotel was truly impressive and features both indoor and outdoor function spaces. Wedding and Event spaces and amenities include:

9,320 square feet of indoor meeting space
6,627 square foot Impressionist Ballroom
1,200 square feet of pre-function space
One boardroom
Courchevel and Marseille Meeting Rooms
Business Center
High-speed Internet
23,000 square foot Outdoor Plaza
Conference services, audio/visual & destination planning
On-site catering

A spa is in the works and did I mention we got to take a look at a 3-bedroom guest suite that featured fireplaces in every bedroom? That's my kind of lodging!


The guest rooms feature a cabin mountain-resort feel without being too rustic


The outdoor courtyard is a beautiful setting for an outdoor wedding

We spent most of our evening at the cocktail reception (go figure...!) held inside Cena, the Chateaux's on site restaurant. Some of the tasty treats Cena's menu boasts are fresh (made on site!) mozzarella, Fried Clams, Braised Pork Shank & Port Figs, Grilled Rib-Eye Steak and Shrimp Gemelli- all under $23! This family-friendly menu is priced just right. Cena's Executive Chef, Chris Wellmon, has done a fantastic job. After the four of us ladies finished first and second (and third and fourth) trips to the food stations, we enjoyed desert... A LOT.


LEFT: Tiramisu that got better and better the more you ate. RIGHT: Beignets served warm and on a stick

We finally rolled ourselves out after a wonderful evening and were gifted Creminelli Salamis packaged beautifully in a wooden box and fashioned with a festive bow. If you're looking for a weekend getaway with your girlfriends to a spa, a sexy weekend with your special someone or a fabulous location for your upcoming wedding, The Chateaux offers all three and more. Have a visit and let me know how much you adored it!

-mmh

{celebrity wedding buzz} IT'S OFFICIAL! Prince William & Kate Middleton Officially Announce Their Engagement!

2010-11-17T22:06:00.000-07:00

It's official, a Royal Wedding is in the works and Kate Middleton will soon be the Princess of Wales! Prince William proposed to Kate on vacation in Kenya last month. Kate is now wearing Princess Di's 18-karat sapphire and diamond ring. When asked of why he chose to give the big bauble that belonged to his mother to Kate, Prince William replied "As you may have recognized, it's my mother's engagement ring, so of course it's very special to me and Kate's very special to me now as well, and it's only right the two are put together. It was my way of making sure my mother didn't miss out on today, and the excitement and the fact that we're going to spend the rest of our lives together."

PHOTO: Reuters via Mirror.co.uk

PHOTO: cbsnews.com

It has been announced that the wedding will take place Spring or Summer 2011. I absolutely cannot wait and my major curiosity lies in whether Kate will wear a traditional (modest) British gown or will she opt for a more bearing and modern western-style gown... thoughts? My thought is that she absolutely must wear a British designer and even at that it won't matter, that 18-karat stunner could make anything look amazing.

-mmh

{be inspired} Mara featured on KUTV 2 News Chatting About WINTER WEDDINGS

2010-11-17T13:15:00.002-07:00

The fabulous people at KUTV 2 News extended me an invitation to come down and share some winter wedding event inspiration and tips. Of course, I love to talk (and talk, and talk...) so I gladly accepted the invite and spent the (very) early part of my morning at Channel 2 sharing photos from our recent winter shoot with Chudleigh Photography along with tips and ideas for making your winter wedding reception classy and tasteful with winter elements incorporated without turning your party into a themed circus. Follow the screen shot to our website where you can view the gallery in full and watch both parts of the two part video clips.

www.eventsbylmg.com

enjoy! -mmh

{lmg featured}: Julie & Ben on Utah Bride Blog

2010-11-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

So you caught me, today I am catching up on posting our recent features. Our beautiful Bride, Julie, was recently featured on Utah Bride Blog. Her photographer, Heather George Photography, did an incredible job capturing all of the handmade details. I'm so delighted to have been a part of making her Grand America Hotel wedding reception happen. Check out the feature HERE and you'll understand why! Enjoy! -mmh

{lmg featured} : Pizzazzerie

2010-11-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

Want to know what I love more than new shoes and fresh mascara? A feature on an amazing national blog like Pizzazzerie! Courtney Dial, the brains (and beauty!) behind Pizzazzerie gave us some blog love in July for the oh-so-cute Dolce Annabella shower we did for Nicole. Check out the feature in full HERE!

photos: CK Photo

{lmg featured}: Cake and Pictures

2010-10-23T18:46:00.000-06:00

One thing I just love is when one of my lovely brides has her wedding featured on an online blog or within a magazine, how fun is that?! Our bride Julia Cutler was just recently featured on Cake and Pictures blog, The Pantry. Julia is one of our Garden Park brides. I would tell you the whole story here, but I'll let the feature on Cake and Pictures take care of that. Julia's wedding was shot by the talented folks at Chudleigh Photography, who of course shot the photos below. Well, what are you waiting for? Click below and check us out!

-mmh

Bridal Market VIII: Rivini, Spring 2011

2010-10-21T09:38:00.000-06:00

Designed by Rita Vinieris, the RIVINI label is self-described as "clean, architectural and luxurious". The Spring 2011 gowns at Bridal Market were nothing short of either of the three, enjoy!

A roundup of Aisle Dash's five favorite gowns from the show, via @aisledash

Photo via Martha Stewart Weddings on Twitter (@MarthaWeddings)

A black belt accent, photo via Southern Weddings Magazine on Twitter (@iloveswmag)

Want more? Enjoy Southern Wedding's (@iloveswmag) finale video HERE

Within Utah, Rivini gowns are available at Avenia Bridal.

-mmh

Bridal Market VII: Vera Wang, Fall 2011

2010-10-21T09:36:00.000-06:00

When I think "wedding gown" I think Vera Wang. I believe that's true for a lot of brides, and the industry in general. As according to the website, the Vera Wang Bridal Collection is "known for sophisticated drama, feminine detailing and a modern approach to bridal design." I think my favorite picks embody everything the website promises. Vera Wang gowns are sold locally in Utah at Alta Moda Bridal, I can't wait to see what they're bringing home!

This gown stunned me, I adore it! Photo via Aisle Dash

Photo via Aisle Dash

This gown is just so pretty even my husband said, "wow!" Photo via Aisle Dash

-mmh

Bridal Market Update VI: Romona Keveza Couture, Spring 2011

2010-10-19T20:48:00.002-06:00

Move over baby pink! The Spring 2011 Romona Keveza Couture collection featured seafoam blue/green wedding gowns. Enough said. Seriously, amazing. I might have named that color ignorantly, but see for yourself. and tell me what you would have called it. What inspired the unique new color? Brides Magazine (@brides) tweeted during bridal market that "the couture collection for @theromonakeveza is inspired by Holly Golightly - 1960s NYC high society #bridalmarket -kf". Would you wear a gown other than the usual white, ivory or sporadic pink? (Hilary at Alta Moda Bridal will read this and cringe that I took such an extensive color palette that gowns are typically fashioned in and chalked it up to "white, ivory or the sporadic pink"). Cut me some slack, that's just one reason Hilary is amazing. By the way Hilary, what is that color?

Incredible, right? I am in Awe. Photos via Weddings Unveiled

A beautiful strapless gown with buttons all the way down the back. Photos via Weddings Unveiled

I love lace, adore it. This gown is a stunner! Photo via Weddings Unveiled

Did I mention I love lace? I also adore short gowns for the reception or the daring bride. Photo via Weddings Unveiled

That beautiful color again, this time in gowns great for showers, the reception or lucky bridesmaids. Photo via Weddings Unveiled

-mmh

Bridal Market Update V: Ines Di Santo, Spring 2011

2010-10-19T15:50:00.000-06:00

I am what I think anyone would call a "girlie girl". I always wear heels, even when I'm at Home Depot. I am a lover of bows and lace and I would add a ruffle to just about anything. It's no wonder the Ines Di Santo collection blew my mind. I sat on my laptop I looked through photos of the collection over a dozen times, and picked my absolute favorites to share with you. Another great thing about Ines Di Santo? The stunning gowns are available in Utah at Alta Moda Bridal!

Short from the font and a long train in back. Perfect cake cutting gown! Photos via Aisle Dash

The detail on the back of this gown is fantastic! Photos via Aisle Dash

Another short gown, so great for dancing! Photos via Aisle Dash

Is this one shoulder amazing or what? So beautiful and sexy without being over the top. Photos via Aisle Dash

Look at the details on the back! The cut is phenomenal. Photos via Aisle Dash

-mmh

Bridal Market Update IV: Kenneth Pool, Spring 2011

2010-10-16T22:26:00.000-06:00

Do you love a sweetheart neckline? If you shrieked "YES!", keep reading and prepare to swoon. Sweetheart necklines dominated the Kenneth Pool runway at bridal market and the Spring 2011 collection is everything your decolletage has been hoping for. Your backside won't be left out, the beautiful back details on the gowns are also to die for! As another Amsale family collection, you can be sure every angle of these stunning gowns will be breathtaking.

Sweetheart necklines in abundance, PHOTOS via Aisle Dash on Twitter (@aisledash)

PHOTOS via Aisle Dash on Twitter (@aisledash)

Click HERE to watch a Kenneth Pool finale video thanks to Lara at Southern Weddings Mag!

-mmh

Bridal Market Update III: Christos, Spring 2011

2010-10-16T22:07:00.001-06:00

The CHRISTOS collection was created by Cyprus-born designer Christos Yiannakou who headed the label for over 20 years. In 2005, Yiannakou retired and left the collection to Amsale. According to the website, as creative director, Amsale has upheld CHRISTOS legacy for tradition while infusing a touch of her own modern sensibility into the collection. The ultra-feminine details at the Christos collection stood out: soft and flowing fabrics, floral details and beautiful waist-cinching ribbons were among the finishing touches in abundance.

Beautiful back floral detail. PHOTOS: Aisle Dash on Twitter (@aisledash)

Hello beach wedding! PHOTOS: Aisle Dash on Twitter (@aisledash)

PHOTOS: Aisle Dash on Twitter (@aisledash)

LEFT PHOTO: Brides on Twitter (@brides). RIGHT PHOTO: Aisle Dash on Twitter (@aisledash)

PHOTOS: Project Wedding on Twitter (@ProjectWedding)

PHOTOS: Aisle Dash on Twitter (@aisledash)

-mmh