Category Archives: Ceremonies

Ceremonies outdoors and indoors at Atrium

Beautiful Celebrations, Ceremonies, Real Events, Receptions

Beautiful Wedding Ceremony and Reception in Midvale

December 18, 2014 Wendy Leave a comment

Atrium Weddings at Western Gardens Sandy is centrally located along the Wasatch Front. In fact many search engines list us that you can hold your beautiful wedding ceremony and reception in Midvale, which is not often considered. From downtown Midvale, we are 4 miles east and about an eight minute drive. Atrium Weddings is the wedding reception center where Mariah and Jeffrey officially began their life together in July.

The couple chose to have their outside ceremony on Atrium’s waterfall plaza with over 125 family and friends as witnesses. Our Atrium host orchestrated their music during the beautiful event using the music the bride pre-determined on her own iPod .

Afterwards, the wedding party hosted a reception that few will forget. Angela’s Catering, one of Atrium’s preferred caterers, provided sandwiches, fruit, and other delicious finger foods. Mariah also chose another Atrium favorite preferred vendor, Cindy Crump cake designer. Her company is Heritage Cakes and a lot of our brides hire her for her talent, professionalism, and value. Mariah chose a simple yet elegant white buttercream frosted three-tiered cake adorned with green satin ribbon and beautiful purple orchids. The glistening silver Mr. & Mrs. cake topper set it off just right!

Mariah’s beautiful combination of vibrant colors for her reception reflected the couple’s vibrant character. A bright lime green and a striking purple were her choices. Her florist was The Flower Patch who did a nice job of reflecting those colors in the bouquets and the boutonnieres for the wedding party. The professional photographer was Heather Sprague. After the traditional cake cutting, bridal bouquet toss, the garter fling, and the first dances, the guests enjoyed dancing and socializing until the Atrium sparkler send off from this close to Midvale wedding venue.

Wedding receptions in Midvale, or at least close to Midvale, include Atrium Weddings in nearby Sandy. We are one of the few reception centers in the valley that allow for self-catering. But Mariah went with one of our recommended vendors whom we have trust and confidence in for our Atrium Brides. Become an Atrium Bride!

Beautiful Celebrations, Ceremonies, Real Events, Receptions

Real Events at Utah Wedding Venues 1-2-2014

July 4, 2014 Wendy Leave a comment

Utah wedding venues like the Atrium reception center in Sandy host beautiful family celebrations all year round. On January 1st, Brinley and Ross had a beautiful ceremony in the early evening and then enjoyed their Utah wedding reception soon there after. Their family catered the reception with delicious homemade finger foods. Some wedding reception venues in Utah don’t allow for self-catering. Both of Western Garden’s Utah wedding reception centers do let family self-cater. A favorite aunt created their beautiful cake and an aunt of the groom provided the flowers. Their photographer was Jaffa photography. What a beautiful couple and what a wonderful way to ring in the new year,….together!

Ceremonies, How-To Tips, Planning Your event, Receptions, Uncategorized

Tuesday Tips from Wedding Venues in Utah 7-1-14

July 1, 2014 Wendy Leave a comment

New to Utah? All brides need to realize that if planning a spring wedding, expect capricious Utah weather and plan accordingly. Look at wedding venues in Utah that have options to hold your ceremony inside if a sudden thunderstorm develops during your wedding reception. Believe me as one who grew up here in the valley and tried to hold her son’s wedding in our own back yard, spring storms can develop quickly here along the Wasatch Front. Therefore, following some tips here will help you avoid some annoyances and help insure a happy, dry, and cool event!

Sudden rain is not the only Utah weather phenomenon a Utah bride needs to consider. Utah is in a desert and the heat can dampen a spring or summer celebration. You may be one of those guests who have skipped out of a Utah wedding reception that was inside a tent or a reception center that was too unbearably hot for guests to enjoy. And I have heard of a bride who fainted from the heat at her reception. We all must admit that it isn’t any fun to be hot and sweaty at an elegant occasion, especially if there is dancing and toasting to be done. It is well worth it if you can find wedding reception venues that have central air conditioning and good air movement.

Another great tip is to check the weather history along the Wasatch front. Our local news station KSL has a great service to plug in a date you are considering for your outdoor wedding reception or any outdoor event. Their program does the searching and then gives you the average information for that day in history. Find out the average temperatures – highs and lows, the chance of precipitation, and even learn the sunrise and sunset. Knowing when the perfect time to say your vows with the sun setting behind you would be fun to time for a gorgeous photo opportunity. Find their “Wasatch Front Outdoor Weather Planner” on their KSL website.

If you have always loved garden weddings but don’t want to worry about the weather, find those wedding venues with the garden feel indoors like Atrium Weddings at Western Gardens Sandy. You don’t have to plant flowers, weed, or even water the place. Just show up, do minor decorating to give it your own touch, and enjoy! Let the storms rage outside the doors and watch the rain fall down the glass windows! When there is a break in the storm, venture outside the waterfall plaza for some beautiful photos with your photographer, or simply take them inside with all the indoor greenery!

utah wedding reception centers for indoor weddings — Let the storms rage on outside while you and your guests enjoy yourselves inside!

Wedding venues in Utah can be a real blessing when it comes to Utah’s fickle weather in the spring and summer. Listen to Mother Nature and heed her warnings so that you can plan wisely for your incredible day. You, your family, and your guests will have the wonderful day that you deserve!

outdoor wedding venues utah with waterfall backdrop — When the sun comes out, go outside to the waterfall plaza for beautiful photographs.

Beautiful Celebrations, Ceremonies, How-To Tips, Planning Your event, Receptions

Wedding Venues in Utah Can Help Cut Your Wedding Budget

May 15, 2014 Wendy Leave a comment

Wedding Venues in Utah help with wedding budgets — Simple & Romantic flowers can help you stay within your budget

The most common challenge for most wedding couples is how to plan the celebration of their dreams while working within a tight budget. There are a few Utah wedding venues that can actually be very budget friendly. The following are some tips on how to cut your budget, including some ideas on what to look for before you choose your wedding venue.

Don’t fight it! Your budget can be viewed as a challenge to be met. Make it a game! It will not seem so overwhelming.
Give and take with the choices that come before you. Sometimes a little flexibility here and there will help you still achieve what you want, but for a little less money.
Most wedding venues in Utah should provide you with a consultant for your celebration. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice. A wedding planner has been involved with huge budget weddings and small budgets. She can give you a lot of ideas, if you choose.
Does your venue include beverage servers or do those cost extra?
Your wedding venue is the first big cost you’ll spend. Be sure to look for a venue that includes as much as possible for a reasonable price. Some locations rent only the space and then add set up, tables, linens, chairs, etc. to your ticket. In contrast, the receptions centers at Western Garden Centers, include just about everything a bride needs for a beautiful event in their venue – a lot of tables, linens, chairs, set up, and even beautiful and stylish centerpieces are included.
Remember who this party is for…..YOU! If you continually remind yourself of this, it can save funds for other things you really want for your celebration.
Who are the most important people you must invite?
Now it is time to check your guest list. Invite only your closest relatives and friends. If you can cut the number of guests, you’ll be cutting your costs for food, flowers for tables, guest favors, invitations, and even the size of your cake. In the past, some brides and grooms have tried to please their parents and invite the whole world. It’s okay to keep it intimate, especially if you have to work within a tight budget.
There are a lot of little details that can be done personally by you or by close family and friends. Labor is one of the biggest expenses for wedding events. Remember that you have a Maid of Honor and that is her job, to help you with whatever she can for your beautiful day. You can create your own wedding favors, menu cards, table signs, Our Story banners, etc. Again, labor is usually the biggest cost, so get your family and bridesmaids helping you!
Having your Ceremony at the same location as your reception or dinner, can save you money and time!
Booking your wedding ceremony and reception at the same wedding location will help cut your costs. Some venues simply add a minimal cost to add on a ceremony to your already booked reception or dinner. Be sure to find out what that same-day ceremony includes – additional hours, set-up, etc.
Slimming your wedding cake to only two tiers is a good idea. Simple can be elegant. Then order a sheet cake for the guests!
Another great idea is to save on your wedding cake budget by ordering a smaller two tier cake. The more tiers, the bigger expense. Consider purchasing a sheet cake to serve your guests.
Fresh fruits are less expensive than a main course meal
Your food menu is another place you can spend wisely. Finger foods and appetizers typically are less money. Also, a handful of venues allow for self-catering. With today’s options at warehouse stores, this has been a viable option for many wedding parties. Does your venue allow for self-catering? Can you bring in your own caterer? Many venues require you to use their caterers, cake designers, and florists. Seek a venue that gives you more leeway in these areas.
Beautiful bridal bouquet with roses and lilies tied with satin ribbon
Last but not least, your flowers can be inexpensive if you are willing. Simple flowers can have a stunning effect on your guests. I remember one bride who used only red roses. It was stunning and very romantic. Even her bridal bouquet was a dozen red roses and white baby’s breath bound with white satin ribbon. Using greenery and flowers that are in season can also cut costs. Some wedding venues in Utah offer candle lit centerpieces that do not require any additional flowers. Some brides have simply used rose petals scattered around an elegant candle centerpiece.

Wedding budgets can be scary but they don’t have to be. Face it head on and meet the challenge. Prioritizing the items that are most important to you, will help you see where you can trim and cut. Your biggest challenge can be to find a venue that is a good value with many of the trimmings you would have to add yourself if at another venue. Atrium Weddings and Ivy House Weddings are two wedding reception venues in Utah that include a lot of beauty for an affordable rental price.

Ceremonies, Real Events, Receptions

Real Weddings at Atrium Reception Centers in Utah

October 8, 2013 AW_Admin Leave a comment

Real wedding at Atrium wedding venue in Utah — All photos by Bellissima

Reception Centers in Utah like Atrium Weddings in Sandy, host beautiful celebrations for everyone. Anna and Raul said their vows on the Waterfall plaza on a beautiful July evening. Inside, Anna chose to use Atrium’s standard glass centerpieces with their lemon leaf wreath. Guests were treated to wonderful Mexican cruisine of pulled pork, rice, tortilla chips, salsa, cans of pop and plenty of cold bottled water. Anna and Raul’s cake was created by one of Atrium’s favorite bake designers Cindy Crump. It’s delicate little white with a tinge of pink blossoms casually flowed down the side of the Tiffany blue four tiered cake. The families provided sparkling cider and decorated goblets for a special toast to the honored couple. With a happy sparkler send off, they were off on their honeymoon.

Their photographer was Bellissima Images – beautiful work!

The bride and groom wrote the following comment at the end of their celebrations:

We loved everything about having our reception and ceremony here at Atrium reception center. Our day was everything we had hoped for. And the staff was wonderful! ~ Anna and Raul July 2013

photo by Bellissima

Ceremonies, Real Events

Last Kiss at Wedding Venues in Utah

September 22, 2013 AW_Admin Leave a comment

This wedding couple took this cute photo of their last kiss before becoming husband and wife. The groom still can’t see the lovely bride, but they figured a way to kiss each other good luck for what was about to happen! What a beautiful couple that proved, where there is the will, there is a way! See what is around wedding venues in Utah so that you can make it happen!

About Our Venue, Ceremonies, Receptions

Weddings

March 18, 2013 AW_Admin Leave a comment

The Atrium at Western Gardens is one of the most versatile wedding venues in Utah. We pride ourselves in being able to customize not only the grounds, but also our services to create the type of wedding that you have been dreaming about for years. Weddings in Utah can be as unique and diverse as the various communities of people who live in this area. On this page, you can take a look at some pictures of weddings that have taken place at our Sandy, Utah wedding center. We have also provided numerous tips to help with your wedding planning. Let our incredible wedding location help you plan a wedding unlike any other.

Ceremonies, How-To Tips, Photographers, Receptions

Reputable Photographers Enjoy Atrium Weddings in Utah

February 10, 2013 AW_Admin Leave a comment

Three flower girls at Western Garden's wedding locations in Sandy, Utah — Photo by TJ Romero Photography

The pictures of your wedding day at Atrium Weddings in Utah, will become priceless treasures, so be sure you have a good wedding photographer to capture all the sweet moments of the day. Find someone you know and can trust to take fabulous photos of those priceless moments. This person could be a family member or friend or a professional photographer. Make sure they are experienced and that you like their style of photography. Look around and ask for referrals from others who loved their photographer. In my opinion, it is better to go with someone you know and trust than a complete stranger. We had a wonderful photographer who just happened to be my uncle, however, some friends of mine were not so fortunate.

Family together at beautiful weddings in Sandy, Utah — Photo by TJ Romero Photography

My friends had won a photography package from a bridal fair and they were so excited because that was one less thing they had to pay for. They ended up really loving the person who took their engagement photos, but that was not the same person who showed up on their wedding day. The second photographer was not so great. First of all he showed up about thirty minutes late, and second, he acted like this was the first wedding he had ever taken pictures for. He seemed a little overwhelmed with the whole ordeal. My friends ended up having to tell him the shots they would like, almost having to direct each poise. This was very frustrating for them, especially when they were just expecting to smile and let the professional direct them on what to do. Many of the pictures that day did not turn out. It was a “free” disaster. Luckily when they told the owner of the company that they were not pleased, they were able to have another session with another photographer a couple of weeks later. Although they wished the pictures were taken right the first time, they did have fun dressing up in their wedding attire again.

Beautiful floral arrangements at Atrium Weddings in Sandy, Utah — Photo by Swensen Photography of Hillside Floral arrangements

To avoid a photographer disaster, make sure you find a reputable photographer you know you can trust. If you have having a difficult time finding the right photographer for you, Western Gardens’ Atrium Weddings can provide a few wonderful suggestions of photographers that have worked their wedding reception venue. They also have sample photo books of their favorite photographers that you can browse.

Little girl eating strawberries at Utah wedding venue — Photo by Swensen Photography

First dance at Utah wedding reception center — Photo by Lindsey Shaun Photography

Wedding reception venues can host fresh ice cream treats — Photo by Garzand Photography

Beautiful first dance of bride and groom! — Photo by James Erick Photos

About Our Venue, Ceremonies, How-To Tips, Real Events, Receptions

Reception Centers in Utah Will Not Let You Get Caught in the Rain

January 13, 2013 AW_Admin Leave a comment

Utah wedding venues can look like an indoor garden — Photo by TJ Romero Photography

I had always wanted a spring garden wedding reception so my fiancé and I decided on a date in mid May. His parents had the most gorgeous back yard that I thought would be absolutely perfect for the event. They agreed to host the event, but brought us to look at Atrium Weddings, one of Western Garden’s reception centers in Utah, just to be sure we didn’t want to use a venue that we would not have to worry about rain. I was adamant about having the reception in the backyard. The Atrium was beautiful but just not what I wanted. So it was settled, we would have the event in the backyard and pray for no rain.

We spent the following months planting new flowers, new grass seed and making sure the yard looked just right. I dreamt of where everything would be placed and where we would stand. We all prayed for the weather to cooperate. As the day speedily approached, everything was in order and the weather was beautiful. We checked the forecast daily just to be sure the day would be perfect. The week before there was no chance of rain but as the days went on the chance of rain increased. I prayed, no pleaded, that there would be no rain, with no luck. Two days before the wedding we were forced to come up with a change of plans. The day before, we set all the tables and chairs up inside. We set large white canopies up outside to accommodate the line. All I could say was “oh well” because there was nothing I could do at that point.

The day of the wedding was just as predicted by the weather man. It poured rain. I have never seen so much rain in Utah in my life. We were lucky enough to get some outdoor pictures while the rain took a little break, but other than that hour, the rain did not stop all day long. Although the day was not quite like I had hoped or dreamed, it was the best day of my life and the rain made it very memorable. Also, just so we never forget, it has since rained on every one of our anniversaries.

Daddy daughter dance at Salt Lake Wedding receptions by Western Gardens — Photo by James Erick Photos

If you are planning a spring wedding and do not want to get caught in the rain as we did, I hope you will be wiser than me and consider using the Atrium, one of Western Garden’s gorgeous wedding venues in Utah. The Atrium has the feel of a garden reception without the chance of rain.

Indoor garden wedding ceremonies and receptions in Utah — Photo by TJ Romero Photography

Ceremonies, Family Gatherings, Real Events, Receptions

Wedding Reception Centers in Utah Can Host Weddings with a Tongan Flair

January 3, 2013 AW_Admin Leave a comment

Wedding reception center with Pacific Island style — Photo by IV Photos

This was one of the most unique and beautiful wedding I’ve been to. Honoring the old traditions of Tonga with the modern traditions of today was fascinating. This was a ceremony and wedding dinner event. The ceremony was performed outside at the Waterfall Plaza at Atrium, one of Western Garden’s wedding reception centers in Utah.

The family first laid down a traditional mat for the bride and wedding party to walk upon to her future husband. The best men and boys sat down on the mat to witness the union. Even a couple of the women sat down on the mat to watch. The most tender part for me was to watch the bride procession to the front. She was escorted by one of her 5 brothers. At the back of the guest seating, another brother stood up from the crowd and traded with her brother continuing her walk forward. Several steps later, another brother took his turn and so on until the oldest brother walked her to her waiting fiancé. Her father had passed away and it was so tender to watch those big brothers embrace her and walk with her to the front. I shall never forget it. After the ceremony, everyone went inside to enjoy a sit down dinner for about 140 guests. Lani Kai supplied the delicious polynesian courses and a family friend created the couple’s cake. There were smile around for everyone at this Utah wedding reception center.