Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue in Salt Lake City, Utah: A Guide from Wedding Photographer and Videographer Bella Alder
Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue in Salt Lake City, Utah: A Guide from Wedding Photographer and Videographer Bella Alder
Choosing your wedding venue is one of the first—and most important—decisions you’ll make during your wedding planning process. As a Salt Lake City wedding photographer and videographer, I’ve had the privilege of working at some of the most breathtaking venues in the area, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right venue can transform the atmosphere of your day, make photography and videography a breeze, and set the stage for memories that will last a lifetime.
When selecting your perfect venue, there are several key factors to consider, from the practical (think parking and lighting) to the more personal aspects (like a getting ready suite that makes you feel like a queen). As a luxury wedding photographer who specializes in capturing elegant, timeless moments, I want to share my insights on what to look for in your dream venue to ensure your day runs smoothly and your photos and videos are nothing short of spectacular.
1. Consider the Lighting: A Photographer’s Dream
When it comes to wedding photography and videography, lighting is one of the most important factors that will influence the quality of your images. The right lighting can elevate a moment, add drama, and capture the beauty of your venue, your dress, and your guests. Whether you’re opting for a grand ballroom with crystal chandeliers or a rustic barn with natural sunlight streaming through the windows, good lighting will make your photos truly shine.
Look for venues with ample natural light, especially in key areas like the getting ready suite and ceremony space. Natural light is universally flattering and will ensure your wedding photos look soft and glowing, rather than harsh or overly staged. During the ceremony, venues with large windows or open spaces can provide that stunning natural light that wedding photographers love.
Even in indoor venues, good artificial lighting is a must. Make sure the space has adequate lighting in places like the ceremony area, the reception, and the dance floor. Avoid spaces that are too dim or have harsh overhead lighting that could cast unflattering shadows. A well-lit venue creates an inviting, romantic atmosphere that will come through in every shot, whether you're exchanging vows or sharing your first dance.
2. Parking and Accessibility: Keep It Easy for Everyone
When choosing your wedding venue, consider how easy it will be for your guests to get to the location. A venue that is easy to find with plenty of parking and transportation options can make a huge difference in how relaxed and stress-free your wedding day feels.
For your guests, having ample parking options nearby or even valet service can add an extra layer of convenience. If your venue is in a more remote area, make sure there’s a plan for transporting guests from their hotels to the venue. Having a shuttle service or other accessible transportation options can prevent any last-minute panic over parking, especially for guests who may have mobility challenges or are unfamiliar with the area.
For you, the couple, make sure your venue offers easy access to the ceremony and reception spaces for you and your wedding party. As a wedding videographer and photographer, it’s essential to ensure that the transitions between locations—such as from the getting ready suite to the ceremony site—are smooth and quick to allow for maximum time for photos and video. Traffic delays between different parts of the venue can cause unnecessary stress, so plan ahead for how to get from one area to another as efficiently as possible.
3. The Getting Ready Suite: A Place to Feel Beautiful and Relaxed
One of the most intimate and emotional moments of the day happens while you’re getting ready, and it’s crucial that you have a getting ready suite that feels luxurious, private, and comfortable. This is the space where you’ll be putting on your gown, spending time with your bridal party, and having those final moments before you walk down the aisle. As your wedding photographer and videographer, I can’t emphasize enough how important this space is to make your pre-ceremony photos memorable.
Look for a venue that offers spacious suites for both partners (yes, the groom’s suite is equally important!) with plenty of natural light. It’s also helpful if the room has neutral-colored walls and decor that complement your wedding palette. Bright or overly busy rooms can distract from the elegance of your photos, so try to find a location with a calm, serene atmosphere.
For couples who want to create a more luxury wedding experience, consider venues with private dressing rooms and designated spaces for makeup and hair. You’ll want a space where you and your bridal party can feel pampered, relaxed, and not rushed. A comfortable, well-lit getting ready suite will set the tone for the entire day and allow me to capture intimate moments of you and your loved ones before the chaos of the ceremony begins.
4. Venue Style and Ambiance: Match Your Vision
Your venue should reflect your wedding style, whether that’s a classic ballroom, an intimate garden setting, a rustic barn, or a luxurious rooftop with a view of the Salt Lake City skyline. Every venue offers a unique ambiance, and you’ll want to make sure the space matches your overall wedding vision.
For example, if you’re envisioning a timeless, elegant wedding with luxury details, you’ll want to consider venues like The Grand America Hotel or The Chateau at Eagle Mountain that offer sophisticated settings with incredible architecture and impeccable service. These venues provide a stunning backdrop for everything from your ceremony to your first dance, creating a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere for both you and your guests.
If you’re drawn to a more natural or rustic aesthetic, places like Lakeside at the Grand Hall or Tuscany at The Falls may be your perfect match. These venues boast beautiful gardens, scenic views, and charming, natural elements that will add a relaxed, organic feel to your wedding.
Your wedding photos should reflect the style and vibe of your venue, so choose a location that aligns with your personal aesthetic. As a luxury photographer and videographer, I can work in any setting, but a venue that suits your style will make the entire day feel seamless and cohesive in your images and film.
5. Consider the Reception Space: Dance Floor, Acoustics, and Ambiance
The reception is where your guests will let loose, celebrate, and have fun. A well-designed reception space can make a big difference in how your party flows and how your photos and videos look. Consider the size of the dance floor, the acoustics of the room, and the overall ambiance of the space.
You’ll want to ensure that the venue has ample space for all your guests to move and dance comfortably. A cramped dance floor can make for awkward party moments, and a large ballroom can provide ample room for everyone to join in on the fun. Also, consider the acoustics of the venue. Venues with good acoustics will enhance the experience for your guests and help the music and toasts sound crisp and clear.
As a wedding videographer near me, I’m always looking for venues with excellent acoustics and the right lighting to capture those epic dance floor moments in full action. Whether your guests are doing the Electric Slide, twirling the night away, or singing along to your first dance song, I’ll be there to make sure your reception is immortalized in the most lively, fun way possible.
Conclusion: Choose Your Venue with Care
Choosing your perfect wedding venue in Salt Lake City is a process that requires careful thought and consideration. From lighting and getting ready suites to parking and the overall ambiance, every detail plays a part in making your wedding day unforgettable. As a Salt Lake City wedding photographer and videographer, I’ve had the privilege of working at some of the area’s most beautiful venues, and I can confidently say that when you choose the right space, it can elevate your wedding day to a level of elegance and timeless beauty.
Remember, your venue sets the stage for everything else—so choose one that enhances the beauty of your wedding day and allows you to feel like the best version of yourselves. Once you’ve secured the venue of your dreams, everything else will fall into place, and you’ll have memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re ready to begin planning your luxury wedding in Salt Lake City, I would love to help you document every unforgettable moment. Contact Bella Alder Photo + Film today, and let’s start creating the wedding photos and films of your dreams.
