Salt Lake City Wedding Photographer + Videographer
50 Essential Considerations When Planning a Wedding in Salt Lake City
Planning a wedding in Salt Lake City comes with breathtaking scenery, top-tier vendors, and unique logistical challenges. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a grand luxury wedding, here are 50 crucial things to take into account to ensure a flawless event.
Choosing Your Salt Lake City Wedding Venue
Book early – The best venues fill up fast, especially during peak wedding season.
Consider the season – Summers are hot, winters are snowy, and spring/fall offer perfect weather.
Choose an all-in-one venue – Venues like Siempre Draper offer stunning ceremony and reception spaces in one location.
Check accessibility – Ensure your venue is convenient for guests, with ample parking and easy transportation options.
Look for indoor and outdoor flexibility – Weather can be unpredictable in Utah.
Consider scenic backdrops – Venues with mountain views or lush gardens add natural beauty.
Confirm photo and video policies – Some venues have restrictions on where your photographer and videographer can go.
Ask about getting-ready suites – Spacious bridal suites make a huge difference in comfort and convenience.
Verify noise ordinances – Outdoor venues may have restrictions on amplified music.
Ensure proper lighting – Good natural and artificial lighting is essential for stunning photography.
Booking Your Dream Wedding Vendors
Hire a wedding planner – A professional can help coordinate all the details seamlessly.
Book Bella Alder Photo + Film early – We book fast, especially during peak seasons.
Choose vendors familiar with your venue – Experience matters when working within specific spaces.
Schedule engagement photos – Get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day.
Ensure vendor contracts are clear – Understand pricing, overtime fees, and cancellation policies.
Plan for backup vendors – Have a contingency plan in case of cancellations.
Consider hiring a videographer – Wedding films capture emotion in a way photos can’t.
Book a top-tier caterer – Food quality makes a lasting impression on guests.
Ask about vendor meal policies – Your team will need to eat during the reception.
Confirm setup and teardown times – Some venues have strict time limits for vendors.
Guest Experience & Accommodations
Provide hotel recommendations – Offer a range of options for different budgets.
Arrange transportation for guests – Especially if your venue is in the mountains.
Create a wedding website – Centralize all important information in one place.
Consider a welcome bag – Include local treats, a wedding itinerary, and a thank-you note.
Account for altitude adjustments – Some guests may need time to acclimate to Salt Lake’s elevation.
Plan for out-of-town guests – Offer a list of local attractions and dining recommendations.
Ensure ADA accessibility – Make sure all guests can move around comfortably.
Communicate dress codes – Let guests know if they need formal attire or outdoor-friendly shoes.
Plan a post-wedding brunch – A great way to thank guests for coming.
Have a backup plan for extreme weather – Snowstorms and heatwaves can happen unexpectedly.
Designing a Stunning Wedding Day
Select a cohesive color palette – Helps tie all elements together beautifully.
Invest in high-quality floral arrangements – Luxury blooms make a huge impact.
Use elegant signage – Calligraphy or custom acrylic signs add a polished touch.
Consider custom stationery – Personalized invitations and menus add sophistication.
Upgrade table settings – Luxurious linens, chargers, and gold flatware elevate the tablescape.
Think about guest comfort – Provide blankets for cold outdoor weddings or fans for summer events.
Choose a grand entrance – A luxury car, horse-drawn carriage, or even a sparkler tunnel adds drama.
Incorporate meaningful details – Family heirlooms, cultural traditions, or monogrammed touches.
Have a designated “photo moment” space – A flower wall, neon sign, or elegant backdrop for guest pictures.
Curate a signature cocktail – A fun way to personalize your reception.
Perfecting the Wedding Timeline
Schedule a first look – Adds an intimate moment and eases pre-ceremony nerves.
Plan for golden hour portraits – The best natural lighting for dreamy photos.
Keep travel time in mind – Account for city traffic between locations.
Allow extra time for hair and makeup – It often takes longer than expected.
Schedule breaks – Have time to breathe, eat, and enjoy your wedding day.
Ensure speeches aren’t too long – Keep toasts meaningful but concise.
Plan a fun dance floor moment – Confetti drops, LED wands, or surprise performances energize the party.
Consider a private last dance – A special moment to soak it all in.
Organize a grand exit – Sparklers, bubbles, or a luxury getaway car add a final touch.
Enjoy the moment – Your wedding day will fly by, so take time to soak it all in!
Book Bella Alder Photo + Film for Your Salt Lake City Wedding
Your wedding deserves to be documented with artistry, authenticity, and attention to detail. At Bella Alder Photo + Film, we specialize in capturing luxury weddings with stunning photography and cinematic films that bring your love story to life.
📍 Serving Salt Lake City, Park City, Moab, Provo, Ogden, and all of Utah