Millcreek couple Reiko Turner, a PR specialist, and Alison Satterlee, an attorney, first met through mutual friends at a party. After eight years of dating, it was time to plan a party of their own: their October 2015 wedding at the Salt Lake Hardware Building. They called upon Mara Marian and Kandace Reader of FUSE Weddings & Events to create their dream day: a contemporary and organic celebration inspired by the natural beauty of Millcreek and Big Cottonwood Canyons. “You can find us in the mountains almost every week,” explains Turner.

The brides also hired caterer Culinary Crafts, florist Cactus & Tropicals, and entertainer DJ Lishus, but they tackled a handful of to-do’s with their own four hands. “We knew we could cut costs by taking time to work on DIY projects,” says Turner.

They painted terra-cotta succulent pots gray and white and decorated them with gold leaf; purchased vintage postcards from Ken Sanders Rare Books for guests to sign in place of a guestbook; and made their own favors and even a last-minute ceremony backdrop. “We both have a minimalistic style, so we wanted our wedding to appear effortless,” says Turner. “For us, it was all about creating a warm, inviting feeling for our guests.”

Turner wore a nontraditional black and white Jill Stuart gown. “Wearing an all-white dress was never really a priority for me,” she says. “I just wanted to feel good in my outfit, and I certainly did!” Satterlee chose a gray J. Crew blazer, white pants, and gray booties.

The reception décor was the brides’ favorite detail of the wedding. Their original backdrop idea fell through, so they called upon their wedding party to help pull this off. Satterlee’s dad built an expandable wooden frame, and they attached hundreds of paper diamonds on strings to the top beams. “Although we were scrambling the night before the wedding, it was actually a great time and now a funny memory.”

Their favors doubled as decorative elements on the tables. They cut 150 fabric squares, wrapped them around three chocolate Utah Truffles, and stuck a sprig of rosemary inside.

Instead of an elaborate cake, they chose a small, simple confection with fresh fruit by Tulie Bakery. The custom topper, from Ready Go on Etsy, was one of their favorite elements. “Our dog, Roux, couldn't physically be a part of our wedding, so we knew this was the best way to include her.”