How to plan a moody + romantic wedding

Planning the perfect moody wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide

A moody wedding is all about creating an atmosphere filled with romance, mystery, and a touch of drama. If you're drawn to deep, rich colors, dimly lit venues, and an overall sense of enchantment, then planning a moody wedding might be just the right choice for you. In this post, we'll walk you through the steps to plan a moody wedding that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Step 1: Define Your Vision

Every successful wedding begins with a clear vision. Start by defining the mood you want to convey. Do you envision a dark and elegant affair, a rustic and moody gathering, or perhaps a vintage-inspired celebration? Collect inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram to help refine your vision.

Moody wedding photography by Datura Photo - Jules Wagstaff

Step 2: Choose a Color Palette

Moody weddings often feature deep, rich colors like burgundy, navy, emerald green, and plum. Incorporate these colors into your wedding attire, decor, and floral arrangements. Don't be afraid to mix in metallic accents like gold or copper for added drama and sophistication.

Moody wedding photography by Datura Photo - Jules Wagstaff

Step 3: Select the Perfect Venue

The venue sets the tone for your moody wedding. Look for locations with character, like historic mansions, vineyards, or industrial spaces with exposed brick walls. Foresty areas in the mountains or parks filled with greenery can provide the perfect moody atmosphere for your wedding as well. Candlelight and string lights provide gorgeous and romantic ambiance.

Moody wedding photography by Datura Photo - Jules Wagstaff

Step 4: Curate Moody Decor

Pay close attention to your decor choices. Opt for antique furniture, velvet linens, and ornate candleholders. Consider hanging string lights or chandeliers to create a cozy atmosphere. Dark, dramatic floral arrangements with moody blooms like black dahlias, deep red roses, and cascading greenery can elevate the ambiance further.

Moody wedding photography by Datura Photo - Jules Wagstaff

Step 5: Set the Mood with Lighting

Lighting is crucial for achieving that moody vibe. Use candles, lanterns, and fairy lights to create a soft, romantic glow. Consider incorporating hanging Edison bulbs or vintage-inspired chandeliers for a touch of glamour.

Moody wedding photography by Datura Photo - Jules Wagstaff

Step 6: Dress to Impress

Your attire should align with the moody theme. Opt for a wedding dress with intricate lace or embroidery, or perhaps a gown with a dark, dramatic train. Grooms can wear stylish, tailored suits in dark colors, or even a classic black tuxedo. Incorporate deep jewel tones in your bridesmaid and groomsmen attire.

Moody wedding photography by Datura Photo - Jules Wagstaff

Step 7: Moody Music and Entertainment

Choose music that enhances the mood you want to create. A live jazz band, acoustic guitar, or a string quartet can add a touch of elegance. Create a playlist that includes your favorite moody and romantic songs for different parts of the evening. You can add in your favorite party anthems to spice up your playlist.

Step 8: Moody Cuisine and Drinks

Craft a menu that complements the atmosphere. Consider serving rich, flavorful dishes like braised short ribs, truffle mac and cheese, and dark chocolate desserts. Offer a signature cocktail that reflects the mood, like a Blackberry Bourbon Sour or a Dark and Stormy.

Step 9: Capture the Mood

Hire a photographer and videographer who are experienced in capturing moody and dramatic shots. Discuss your vision with them and make sure they understand the atmosphere you want to convey. (This is our jam over at Datura Photo and if you’re planning a moody and romantic wedding, we are your people! Contact us here.)

Step 10: Personalize Your Details

Add personal touches that reflect your love story and personalities. Incorporate custom signage, monograms, and unique wedding favors that align with the moody theme.

Moody wedding photography by Datura Photo - Jules Wagstaff

Planning a moody wedding requires careful attention to detail and a focus on creating a captivating atmosphere. By following these steps and infusing your personality into the design, you can create a wedding that is both memorable and uniquely yours. Embrace the beauty of darkness and mystery as you celebrate your love in style

How to Elope in Utah

How to Elope in Utah: A Step by Step Guide

Salt Flats Elopement in Utah

Eloping in Utah can be a magical and intimate experience. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to elope in Utah:

  1. Choose Your Ideal Location: Utah offers a diverse array of stunning locations for elopements. Whether you prefer the red rock landscapes of Moab, the majestic canyons of Zion National Park, or the enchanting beauty of Bryce Canyon, select a location that resonates with your vision and preferences. (Keep reading for more locations in Utah to elope)

  2. Obtain Necessary Permits: If your chosen elopement location requires permits for ceremonies, photography, or parking, make sure to obtain them in advance. Contact the appropriate authorities or park services for information on permits and regulations. Not all permit information can be found online with a google search. However, if you are planning to elope at a State Park or National Park, you can usually find all the permit information on the park’s website, along with any necessary information for planning your elopement at a specific park.

  3. Hire a Local Officiant: To make your elopement official, you'll need to have a licensed officiant to perform the ceremony. Consider hiring a local officiant who is familiar with elopements in the area and can help personalize the ceremony to suit your preferences. PRO TIP: If you hire Datura Photo, I am an ordained officiant and can officiate your elopement!

  4. Book Accommodations: If you plan to stay overnight or have multiple-day celebrations, secure accommodations in advance. Utah offers various lodging options, from luxurious resorts to cozy cabins, depending on your preferences and budget. Depending on where you choose to elope, I am happy to assist you with this.

  5. Plan Your Vows and Ceremony: Decide on the format and content of your vows and ceremony. Whether you choose to write personal vows or follow a traditional script, make it meaningful and reflective of your love story.

  6. Consider Witnesses: Utah requires two witnesses for a marriage ceremony to be legally binding. You can either invite close friends or family members to act as witnesses or inquire if your officiant can provide witnesses for you. If I am your photographer and/or videographer, I can officiate your wedding and act as a witness.

  7. Check the Weather: Utah's weather can be unpredictable, especially in certain seasons. Check the weather forecast for your elopement date and prepare accordingly with appropriate attire and accessories. Bear in mind, Utah’s forecast is not the most reliable and should be used as a guide, although I suggest to be prepared for any type of weather.

  8. Pack Essentials: Bring essentials for your elopement, such as your marriage license, identification documents, rings, and any personalized items you want to incorporate into the ceremony.

  9. Hire your photographer and/or videographer: I am an elopement photographer and videographer and can answer any questions you may have. Eloping allows for such epic wedding photos, and it would be my honor to show off your love as the work of art it already is.

  10. Educate yourself on “Leave No Trace”. It is imperative that you respect the places you go for epic views. “Leave No Trace” is a way you can do your part to minimize impact, allowing us humans the opportunity to visit such beautiful places. You can educate yourself and enroll in FREE courses to learn how to “Leave No Trace”, and keep our earth’s ecosystems running, keep animals safe, and protect the land. You can visit https://lnt.org for more info and enroll in free courses at https://learn.lnt.org/courses/101. It is important that everyone in your wedding party along with your wedding vendors are aware of “Leave No Trace” and do their part when you visit gorgeous places in Utah.

  11. Enjoy the Moment: Above all, remember that your elopement is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other. Embrace the beauty of the moment, savor the intimate experience, and cherish the memories you create on your elopement day in Utah.

Please note that laws and regulations may vary, so it's essential to do your research and check the specific requirements for eloping in Utah. Additionally, consider hiring a local wedding planner to assist you with logistics and ensure a seamless elopement experience.

I would love to learn more about you and the love of your life! It would be my honor to chat more with you and see if we’re aligned. Contact me HERE or schedule a call with me HERE so we can talk all about your day, your vision, and create an epic timeline and location for your story to unfold.

-Jules

Datura Photo
Wedding and elopement photographer in Utah and the PNW

Find an LGBTQ+ Friendly Photographer in Utah | Same Sex Bridals at Wadley Farms

lgbtq+ friendly wedding photographer in utah | datura photo

I believe it’s important to celebrate ALL types of love.

Love knows no boundaries, and it is a beautiful thing to witness couples coming together to celebrate their love and commitment. For LGBTQ+ couples in Utah, finding a wedding photographer who understands and embraces their unique journey can be of utmost importance. In this blog post, we will explore the beauty of LGBTQ+ friendly wedding photographers in Utah, highlighting their support and dedication to capturing every heartfelt moment of love, acceptance, and celebration.

same sex couple detail shot

(I’m still drooling over these bridal photos of A + L. The romance, the vintage wedding vibes, I love everything about these two!)

The Changing Landscape of Wedding Photography

The wedding photography industry in Utah, like in many other places, has undergone significant changes over the years. With the growing acceptance and recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, photographers have stepped up to embrace diversity and inclusivity. LGBTQ+ friendly wedding photographers in Utah understand the significance of love and union, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. When I first started photographing weddings, I specialized in same sex weddings as Utah was not as accepting as it is now. That was only 11 years ago. Utah has undergone significant changes, although it still has so much work to do, and even though I don’t specialize just in LGBTQ+ couples anymore, I absolutely love working with all couples of all types and believe each human being is individual- I will never categorize anyone. Every human is deserving of an amazing life, beautiful love, and a great experience with their wedding and wedding photography.

Did I properly introduce myself? HI! I’m Jules. I’m an LGBTQ+ friendly wedding photographer and videographer in Utah and the PNW. There is nothing I love more than showing your love in an artistic style. Your love itself is the work of art. I’m here to facilitate that love and translate it into photographs, creating moments that show the way your love FEELS. The way your love speaks to the universe. And representing same sex and LGBTQ+ relationships is so important. Society hasn’t always accepted LGBTQ+ relationships, and I believe with my whole heart that love is love, no matter who or how you love.

Representation Matters!

Having a wedding photographer who is genuinely LGBTQ+ friendly means they are attuned to the subtle nuances that make each love story unique. I believe in creating a safe space where couples can express themselves fully, leading to authentic and emotionally charged photographs that capture the essence of their relationship.

It’s important to work with an LGBTQ+ friendly wedding photographer who possesses the essential traits of sensitivity and understanding. You want your photographer to be well-versed in the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ couples and someone who can anticipate potential issues that may arise during the wedding planning process. I want you to know I empathize with you and will do all I can to foster a trusting relationship, allowing for candid and intimate moments to be captured in the most beautiful way. It would be my honor to celebrate your love and document it via photographs.

When couples feel comfortable and supported, the magic of candid photography unfolds. LGBTQ+ friendly wedding photographers in Utah, including us Datura Photo, use inclusive posing techniques that showcase the love and chemistry between partners, regardless of gender identities. Additionally, they approach storytelling with an open mind, ensuring that every aspect of your relationship is beautifully depicted in their wedding album.

Supportive Vendor Networks

Collaboration is key in the wedding industry, and LGBTQ+ friendly photographers are often well-connected with other vendors who share their values of inclusivity and acceptance. This support network ensures a seamless and stress-free wedding experience, where every professional involved works together to make the couple's dream wedding a reality.

I have several colleagues in the wedding industry that are LGBTQ+ friendly that I would love sharing with you.

Love is a universal language,

and capturing its beauty through wedding photography is a privilege that LGBTQ+ friendly photographers in Utah fully understand. With sensitivity, understanding, and commitment to inclusivity, you will have a safe and supportive environment to express your love freely. Choosing an LGBTQ+ friendly wedding photographer in Utah ensures that every cherished moment of love and celebration will be captured in stunning detail, forming lasting memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.

If my work speaks to your heart, please reach out so we can get to know each other and create photos that encompass all that you are.

I would love to learn all about you and your partner!

You can contact me HERE or schedule a call HERE so we can get to know each other better.

I cannot wait to work with you and learn everything about your love story.

xoxo

Jules

Datura Photo

Inclusive Red Ledges Elopement Photography in Utah?! (Tips included) | Utah Wedding Photographer

Red rock elopement - Same sex elopement in Utah

I photographed this gorgeous red rock elopement in Utah and can’t wait to share some of the photos. Getting married on red rocks is like making a statement: “we’re adventurous and we’re cooler than other couples” Or is that just what I think? (Ok you’re all cool). But seriously, having red rocks for your elopement venue brings in gorgeous earthy elements. I love how it adds dimension to the background and enhances everything about your elopement photography.

If you haven’t decided where to elope, there are so many red rock areas to elope in Utah. Red ledges, Moab, Canyonlands, Goblin Valley, St. George, the list goes on. It’s been especially nice with our weird winter to have red rocks as a plan B, and they have made all my clients so happy! (YAY.)

This couple eloping in Utah was a dream to work with. The boho feel of the details and location with their colors worked out so beautifully.

And the white pantsuit, SO gooooood!!! It almost feels like a boho fairytale, right? If you’re considering eloping in Utah or at red rock areas, I got you.

What should I know about eloping at the Red Rocks or Red Ledges?

If you’re thinking about eloping or getting elopement photography at red rocks or red ledges, there are a few things to note:

  1. Your photographer needs to have a commercial permit. How to get a commercial permit depends on a few things, like location (who owns the land?), and what the permit is for. Your photographer should apply for the permit at least 30 days before the event so that the photography permit is active in time. There are substantial fees and consequences if you don’t have the proper permits, so make sure this is taken care of! Some permit-givers are only in charge of 1-2 cities in specific forests, and others you would go to Salt Lake City Bureau Management. (You can always start there and ask for specific contacts) This particularly applies if there will be a grouping or if you will have any props, like a backdrop stand, or other setups.

  2. Your shoes and outfits may get dirty. Make sure that if you are doing bridals in wedding attire that you have enough time between your session and wedding or elopement to dry-clean your gown and/or suit.

  3. Some areas, like the red ledges, have rock climbers. We were almost hit head-on by a piece of heavy equipment with no warning. That taught me to be in clear communication with anyone else on the premises- let them know where you will be and what you are doing so you can both stay out of each other’s way and avoid accidents.

  4. Respect the land. Leave it better than you found it. If you see other people’s garbage- toss it. Be kind to the earth or permits will no longer be allowed for photography in these adventurous spots.

5. Time of day is important!!! Shoot for either trekking out 30 minutes before sunrise or starting 1 hour to 90 minutes before sunset. Utah has sunsets that come and go quickly. Sunrises in Utah are also gorgeous, but once you have sunlight, it tends to be harsh, so make sure you are there and ready to go EARLY. Same goes for sunset. You don’t want to be running behind when you’re on the sun’s clock. Avoid an elopement taking place in the afternoon, not only for photography, but for your own well being.

6. Do red rocks in Utah get snowy? Sometimes! This depends which red rocks you’re eloping at and what time of year. Even south areas like Moab have been getting snowfall, but you’re less likely to have snow in St. George or further South, unless there has been a strong recent snow storm. Spanish Fork, Springville, Salt Lake City, and anywhere North of Salt Lake City gets the most snowfall, and there WILL be snow throughout the winter season. Every year is different, but roughly late November to mid-April is when canyons are covered in snow. The higher the altitude of the red rocks, the higher chance of snow-cover. The Red Ledges in Springville don’t typically have snow covering them, unless there has been a strong recent snow storm. (I should note I have never photographed the red ledges November through February, but March and April there was not any snowfall the last couple of years).

7. Wear proper footwear. You will likely be hiking up rocks and hills or in mud or sand… definitely wear hiking shoes and you can bring heels in a bag if you want to show them off for any photos. (I personally love the adventure wedding look of wedding dress with hiking boots or docs and we can incorporate both!)

Elopement photography is such an intimate yet adventurous way to both create and preserve memories. I will ALWAYS recommend eloping - you can have a wedding celebration too at a later date! There’s just something so magical about going on an adventure on your own and making a big decision without the pressure of other people.

If you are eloping in Utah or the PNW and looking for the best elopement photographer, I hope you’ll reach out! I would love to connect and get to know you better. We have limited dates left in 2023 and are booking 2024 weddings and elopements.

If you have any other questions about eloping or elopement photography, reach out, I’d love to help.

xx

Jules

Datura Photo
Utah + destination elopement photographer

Can you get married at the Salt Flats? | Utah Wedding Photographer

So glad you asked!

YES!! If you want to have your wedding at the Salt Flats in Utah, you only need a couple of things to make it happen. The Salt Flats is on federal land, so you do need a special use permit along with a marriage license and two witnesses over 18 years of age. (I’m an officiant and can legally marry you as well! But I do not count as a witness.)

How to get married at the Salt Flats:

Step 1: Go get your marriage license (You can now apply online here)
Step 2: Obtain your “organized group permit” from the Bureau of Land Management Salt Lake City Office here (current contact information is available using that link)
Step 3: Create your timeline for your Salt Flats wedding or elopement (After you reserve your date with me, I will send over a wedding or elopement timeline guide)
Step 4: Make sure you have at least two witnesses over age 18. The officiant does NOT count as a witness, so if I am your officiant, you will need two other witnesses present.
Step 5: Secure your date with me and get everything in order
Step 6: Buy your dress and/or suits. Hire awesome decor and floral. Get hair and makeup in order. (I have vendor referrals for all of these.)
Step 7: Decide if you want to have an intimate affair or a bigger wedding at the Salt Flats. Send me your timeline!
Step 8: Do the damn thing. (BEST DAY EVER!!!!!)

This photo is at an area near the Salt Flats in Utah that is a little more “desert vibe” than the actual Salt Flats.

Engagement photos at the Salt Flats after rainfall

Bridals at the Salt Flats in Utah

The Salt Flats is a stunning place to get married any time of the year. There are also locations nearby that have a “desert-like” and earthy feel to them near the Salt Flats in Utah.

If you are coming from out of town to see or be photographed at the Salt Flats, a couple of things to note:

Most of us photographers drive a couple of hours to get there. (It is ALWAYS worth it.) If you’re wondering where to stay, there are a couple of options. Wendover is just a few minutes from Bonneville, where the Salt Flats are located (I actually have never been to Wendover to this day), but Wendover has hotels, entertainment, and casinos, if you’re looking for accommodations nearby. Salt Lake City is a little over an hour away and is your best bet for hotels, things to do, and people to meet, if you’re planning a trip to Utah just for the Salt Flats. Salt Lake City is central to many other site seeing areas in Utah, whereas Wendover and Bonneville are kind of in the middle of nowhere.

What do the Salt Flats look like?

Here are some photos I’ve taken in the last year at the salt flats:

Taking bridals at the salt flats after rainfall is the actual best, this look can only be achieved after it rains but is my favorite

candid family photos at the Salt Flats are so fun too

Engagement photos at the utah salt flats by Datura Photo

Bridals at the utah salt flats by Datura Photo

engagement photos at the salt flats

Intimate wedding photography details

I cannot WAIT for you to have the best day of your life at the Salt Flats. In the meantime, send me any questions you might have. I’m just a call, email, or text away!

-Jules
Datura Photo
Wedding + Elopement Photographer