Top 22 Tips for How to Trim Your Wedding Budget

Every couple’s vision of their perfect wedding is different, and so is every wedding budget. But let’s be honest; wedding costs can sneak up fast, even for those who plan frugally. We want to help you make your wedding day memorable, moving, meaningful, delicious, and beautiful all around without breaking the bank.

With smart choices and a little creative thinking, you can cut costs without cutting out the joy. Here are our 20 favorite tips for how to trim your wedding budget while keeping all the flavor, feeling, and fun you’ve dreamed of.

General Advice

1. Take the advice of your experts - As you read the suggestions below, keep in mind that your planner and caterer know their craft. They will have some of the best ideas for how to make your specific vision work within your budget, so don’t waste the benefit of their expertise.

2. Prioritize what matters most - Spend your precious wedding budget on the elements that are most meaningful to you, and cut back on those that mean less. Whether you need a photographer, videographer, or content creator really depends on what kinds of memories you want to preserve. Elements like a photo booth, party favors, or luxury transportation may be essential to your unique overall vision, while more traditional inclusions like ornate invitations, an open bar, or a multi-tiered cake may not. It all comes down to what matters most to the two of you.  

Photo credits: Alisha Braithwaite and Logan Walker

Venue & Date

3. Choose an off-season date – Winter or early spring dates are often far cheaper than peak summer dates.

4. Book a weekday or Sunday – The cheapest days of the week for a wedding are generally Monday through Thursday, followed by Sundays. Many vendors and venues offer significant discounts on less popular dates. You may also benefit from greater vendor availability and potentially lower travel costs for out-of-town guests on days other than Friday or Saturday.  

5. Opt for one venue – Holding your ceremony and reception in the same place saves on rentals, décor, and transport. Same goes for a welcome dinner or a late-night party.

6. Pick a naturally beautiful venue. You can cut down on decorating costs if you choose a garden setting, a mountain backdrop, or an aspen grove in the banks of a rushing stream. Utah happens to be flush with unique venues that offer jaw-dropping natural beauty.

7. Consider nontraditional venues – Parks, backyards, community centers, or restaurants can be beautiful and affordable. A venue with personal meaning may be the best way to help tell your story and set the vibe while also saving money. The bowling alley where you met, a gun club, art gallery, planetarium, national park, playhouse, bookstore, school gym, airplane hangar, childhood farmhouse, or forest clearing can all be fabulous options for the right couple on a budget.  

Look here for tips on how to convert almost any space into a gorgeous wedding venue.

Photo credit: Alora Lani Photography

Guest List

8. Trim the guest count – This is probably the easiest way to dramatically trim your wedding budget…short of simply eloping. Fewer guests means lowers costs for catering, rentals, favors, and more.

9. Limit plus-ones – This can lead to some awkward situations, but you can always limit plus-ones to long-term or married partners.

10. Make it adults-only – Again, a lower guest count can certainly save you money, and cutting out the kids means fewer special accommodations. We should warn you, though, that without the kiddos, you may miss out on some sweet and precious moments.

Photo credit: Logan Walker

Food & Drink

11. Skip a plated dinner – Buffets, food stations, or family-style service can be less costly.

12. Serve fewer courses – Fewer plated elements (e.g. soup + salad + entrée) reduce food and staffing costs.

Photo credit: Demi Rose Photography

13. Limit the bar – Instead of a full open bar, offer beer, wine, and a couple of signature cocktails .

14. Choose a smaller cake – Order a modest display cake, then serve your guests with supplement sheet cakes or dessert bars. Not only is this approach less expensive, but it makes service easier.

15. Go heavy on appetizers – A cocktail-style reception can be more affordable while creating a fabulous fun vibe.

Photo credit: Pepper Nix

Décor & Flowers

16. Repurpose arrangements – Effectively double your floral budget by moving ceremony flowers to the reception. Or, if you really want to get frugal, contact your venue beforehand and find out who will be holding a wedding there the morning or day before your big event. You might be able to strike a deal with the couple where they agree to leave their florals in place for you to use.

17. Use seasonal flowers – In-season blooms are less expensive and hold up better.

18. Simplify centerpieces – Candles, greenery, or fruit can look elegant and cost less than elaborate florals.

19. DIY some décor – Invitations, signage, or favors can be made at home if you have the skills and time.

Photo credit: Kiana Corri

Attire & Beauty

20. Rent your dresses or buy sample sale or pre-owned dresses – Bridal boutiques and online resale sites offer steep discounts for bridal and bridesmaid dresses.

21. Simplify accessories – Borrow jewelry, skip a veil, or wear shoes you already own.

22. Cut back on the wedding party – Rather than expensive matching gowns, let the bridal party wear matching colors. (Honestly, what bridesmaid wouldn’t rather choose something she knows she looks good in?) Trimming the number of attendants can mean fewer bouquets and boutonnieres, gifts, and rehearsal dinner seats.

Contact one of our planners to brainstorm how we can cater an event to fit your budget.

Here’s to love, laughter, and your happily ever after!

Utah Wedding Rehearsal Dinner at Kimball Terrace

All photos by Pepper Nix.

As gorgeous as a Utah wedding ceremony can be—and we’ve seen some stunners!—the most precious moments often don’t happen at the ceremony itself. In fact, they may not even come on the wedding day. Sometimes they come before the big day, when family and friends get together to relax, connect, and celebrate each other’s company.

Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting a delightful rehearsal dinner here at Kimball Terrace in Park City. Here are a few of the beautiful moments of that event.

Idyllic Views

The setting was perfect for this late summer celebration. From every angle, the views from Kimball Terrace looked out onto Park City at its absolute best: blue skies stretching wide, green mountains rising up like a painted backdrop, and the bustling charm of Main Street below. It was the effortless beauty you see only on a bright summer day in the mountains.  

Inside, the atmosphere was warm and festive. Floor-to-ceiling windows wrapped the room in a glow, spilling golden light across the gleaming tablescapes, catching the glint of glassware, and making colorful floral arrangements pop. Bright florals in shades of pink, yellow, and green made the space glow. There was a sense of intimacy, making the space feel like a private celebration in the mountains’ embrace.

The whole room seemed to buzz with delight. Everywhere you looked, you saw guests smiling and swapping stories, sharing hugs, and laughing over inside jokes. Guests moved easily between laughter and conversation, their reflections mingling with the mountain views in the tall glass windows.

This rehearsal dinner—indeed, the whole evening—was every bit as vibrant and delightful as the couple themselves.

If you’ve ever wondered what love looks like in motion, keep scrolling.

The Food

Of course, no Culinary Crafts event would be complete without unforgettable food. As guests mingled and visited, they sampled from trays of chef-crafted hors d’oeuvres, each one more tempting than the last. These playful bites paired perfectly with the lively conversation—celebratory, fresh, and fun.  

Hors D’Oeuvres

1.       Watermelon with crumbled feta, fresh mint, and balsamic reduction

2.       House-made garlic crostini with roasted artichoke and gorgonzola cream

3.       Crab cakes and caper remoulade

4.       Truffle deviled eggs with fresh shaved truffles

5.       Bacon-wrapped dates paired with goat cheese crema and a honey drizzle

Meanwhile, bartenders were mixing up colorful cocktails all evening long, adding even more sparkle to the celebration.

During the hilarious and heartfelt speeches, guests dug into the filet mignon with citrus herb gremolata, or the pan-seared halibut with tomato fennel broth, all served over creamy polenta with roasted broccolini.

We love when all the elements of an event come together perfectly: the guests, the mood, the décor, the food, the view, the weather…everything!

The highlight of the night, though, wasn’t the food or the flowers or even the gorgeous mountain backdrop. It was the people. Their palpable joy. The toasts brimming with delight. And the happy couple surrounded by exactly what they wanted most—love, laughter, and the kind of energy that only comes from gathering your favorite people in one magical place. 

A dessert of sticky toffee pudding and roasted local Publik coffee, and then it was back out onto the patio to enjoy the evening alpine air and savor grilled panini sandwiches.

At Culinary Crafts, we believe food is never just food. It’s the magnet that draws people together, the spark that starts conversations, and the lubricant that makes an event roll seamless and smooth.

This special Utah wedding rehearsal dinner was a perfect reminder of why we do what we do; for the moments of perfection and delight, and for the people we share those moments with.

Vendors

Special thanks to our fellow vendors who helped make these beautiful moments happen:

Event Planner—Fuse Weddings and Events 

Coffee Service—Publik Coffee Roasters

Photographer—Pepper Nix

Videographer—Jeremy Anderson Films films.com/

Catering—Culinary Crafts 

Bar—Top Shelf Services 

Florals—Artisan Bloom 

Rentals—All Out Event Rental 

Linens—BBJ La Tavola

Hedgewalls & Bistro lights—Skylark Productions

Lighting—Moonlight Utah 

29 Questions to Ask Before You Book a Wedding Venue

Photo credits for the 2024 Utah wedding featured in this blog: Lindsey Stewart.

In Utah, finding a gorgeous wedding venue is the easy part.

This state is a treasure trove of natural beauty and architectural charm. From Park City mountain lodges and grand Salt Lake ballrooms to riverside hideaways and the wide-open skies of red rock country, we have an incredible diversity of gorgeous wedding venues here.

But after 40 years of catering Utah weddings, we know that choosing the right venue takes more than falling in love with the view. Those pesky little details that couples don’t think to ask about (like hidden fees or restrictions) are what can make or break your special day. Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s essential to ask the right questions—about layout, weather plans, catering policies, and more.

These 29 questions will help you find a venue that not only looks breathtaking but also makes your celebration flow seamlessly from first look to final toast.

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue

Booking

• Is our preferred date available?

• How far in advance do we need to book?

• How many weddings/events do you host per day?

• What is the deposit, when is it due, and is it refundable?

• What are the options for a payment plan, what is the payment schedule, and what forms of payment do you accept?

Venue Capacity & Layout

• What is the maximum guest capacity (seated vs. standing)?

• Can the venue accommodate our desired layout for the event (e.g., ceremony, reception, dance floor)? Are there separate areas for each, or will we have to flip the room?

• Are we allowed to personalize the space (rearranging or removing furniture, adding signage, bringing in lighting, etc.)? How about hanging decorations from walls or ceilings?

• What décor restrictions do you have (e.g. open flames, confetti, hanging items)?

• Is the venue accessible for all guests, including those with disabilities?

• Are there adequate restroom facilities, and are they easily accessible?

• Can the party be moved indoors in case of inclement weather?

• Are there local noise restrictions or curfews?

Costs & Inclusions

• What is the rental fee and what’s included in the price (tables, chairs, linens, taxes, gratuity, etc.)?

• Are there any additional fees (service charge, cleaning fee, overtime fee, corkage, security, etc.)?

• What’s the cancellation and refund policy?

• Are there required insurance or permits we need?

• What happens if there are damages during our event?

Vendors & Catering

• Does the venue have an exclusive caterer/list of vendors, or can we bring our own? Do you have any preferred vendor lists or vendor restrictions?

• Is there a kitchen onsite for our caterer to use?

• How do you handle special dietary needs or food restrictions?

• Is alcohol allowed? Can we bring our own?

• What’s the process for vendor load-in and load-out?

Logistics

• What times do we have access to the venue on the wedding day? How early can vendors arrive for setup?

• Who will be our point of contact the day of the event?

• Are there accommodations nearby or onsite for guests?

• Can you provide a coat check area or a secure place for guests’ belongings?

• Have you done events similar to what we have in mind (size, scope, special details, etc.)?

Of course, before you sign any contract, there’s always one final question to ask yourself:

• Do we have everything in writing?

Any verbal agreements or assurances you’ve received—make sure it’s all down in black and white.

As you plan your Utah wedding, no doubt you’ll have plenty of questions of your own. To get answers from the amazing wedding planners at Utah’s top catering company, contact Culinary Crafts.  

Vendors

We want to give a special “Thank You!” to the vendors who helped us create the delightful wedding pictured in this article.

Wedding Venue: 4U Ranch

Dinner and Reception Venue: Kimball Terrace 

Planner: Michelle Leo 

Photographer: Lindsey Stewart 

Florals: Harvest Floral

Bar: Top Shelf 

Music: Utah Live Bands

Our Favorite Places to Eat in Park City

Photo credit Pepper Nix

Ever wondered where the chefs go to eat? When we’re not catering an event at Kimball Terrace, we’re more than happy to let someone else do the cooking for us. Over the years we’ve definitely found our personal favorite places to eat in Park City. In no particular order, here they are!

Argentina’s Café/Tina’s Bakery

One street over from Kimball Terrace, on Swede Alley, is our venue manager Madison’s favorite lunch spot. “I’m typically at Kimball Terrace during the day,” she explains, “and when I eat on Main Street, it’s usually lunch between client meetings. Argentina’s Cafe is my number one go-to! They have delicious handmade empanadas, Argentine desserts, and a coffee shop. Try their alfajores!. I’m there almost every day in the summer. Haha.”

Photo credit Mark M

Handle

KT owner Ryan’s go-to Park City eatery is Handle, the excellent American cuisine restaurant just two doors down from Argentina’s. “They deliver on their promise of fresh, local ingredients” he says. “I love that their menu changes with the growing seasons to take advantage of the freshest, ripest ingredients. The waiter can tell me exactly what farms they got an ingredient from.”

There’s a lot to love on their menu, including the kale salad with parm and pine nuts. Their cauliflower with sweet chili sauce and their mushroom Bolognese (both pictured above) are divine.

Firewood

For some of the best dining Park City has to offer, our Director of Sales (and baker extraordinaire) Jocelyn recommends Firewood. “I have enjoyed steaks in several Michelin-star restaurants around the world, but the A5 tenderloin at Firewood is the best steak I’ve ever had,” she says. “Their bavette is also amazing. My husband couldn’t stop raving about the elk loin.”

Billed as “heirloom American food,” their whole menu is prepared over their fourteen-foot-long wood stove, which gives it wonderful, unique flavors. The story of how Firewood’s Chef John Murcko developed his open flame technique is an interesting one. We know Firewood sources the best local ingredients because we work with many of the same vendors, including Snake River Farms, Slide Ridge Honey, and Beehive Cheese..

Other “must try” items include their crispy pork belly, tartare, burrata salad, and semifreddo, which Jocelyn calls “phenomenal.”

Photo Credits Lacey Clarke and M Rohani

Five5eeds

Five5eeds isn’t as close to us as the other restaurants listed here, but Meagan thinks it is more than worth the short drive. The Aussie founders of Five5eeds, Andrew and Tiffany Percy, created a unique brunch/lunch casual with food that will make you a true convert to all-day breakfast. You must try the shakshouka (Moroccan-style baked eggs) and hotcakes with berries and citrus mascarpone, both pictured above. And if you haven’t tasted Australian coffee, this is the place to do it.

Photo credits Tyler Thompson and Kim Pisani

Grappa

Finally, if you really want to savor Park City at its best, it’s hard to beat the ambiance and view from Grappa, the rustic Italian eatery at the top of Historic Main Street.

“My husband and I shared a dinner at Grappa outside on their patio at sunset,” says Kristine. “So beautiful! Al fresca dining is the way to go during the summer. We loved their scallops and their eggplant parmesan. The tiramisu was to die for.” 

Grappa’s most popular dishes include their mushroom soup and their famous ossobuco (slow braised veal).

If you’re going to be in our neck of the alpine woods this summer, we hope you have a chance to visit our favorite places to eat in Park City.

Top 20 Events to Enjoy on Park City’s Main Street

Photo credits to Claire Marika.

Located in the beautiful downtown area, Park City’s Main Street is the site of the annual Sundance Film Festival and so much more.

From our prime location on the corner of Main Street and Heber Ave., the Kimball Terrace hosts and/or sponsors a cavalcade of festivals, celebrations, and other special events throughout the year. We invite you to read on to learn about the delicious culinary, cultural, and community happenings held within a few blocks of us. If you’re going to visit our delightful city, here are twenty of the best events to enjoy throughout the year on Park City’s Main Street.

January

1.       Sundance Film Festival

Probably the best-known event in Park City every year is the Sundance Film Festival. Actors, directors, producers, and fans alike all flock to this epicenter of independent filmmaking. Kimball Terrace and other venues along Main Street host scores of parties, host screenings, and panel discussions. It is a film-lover’s paradise, and celebrity sightings abound. A word of warning: although parking may be available at the China Bridge Parking structure, we strongly advise you to use the city’s designated parking areas and take the free shuttle.

Photo credits to Zach Hetrick.

2. ParkCity Fashion Week

Building off the excitement and world-wide attention of the Sundance Film Festival, fashion industry leaders created ParkCity Fashion Week in 2020. Held at the Marquis on Main Street, the exhibition features established and emerging designers.

February

3. Park City FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup

Technically, the event happens on the slopes, but Park City’s Main Street is alive with world-class athlete meet-and-greets and celebratory gatherings.

4. Park City Film Series

Throughout February and March, enjoy screenings of classic and indie films at the Santy Auditorium, with post-film discussions spilling onto Main Street.

March

5. Spring Grüv

Free concerts, the Pond Skimming Contest, wild costumes, s’mores, avalanche dogs…Grüv is Park City’s unique take on the rites of spring.

Photo credits to MOT Photography.

April

6. Après Ski

After a day of carving the slopes, refuel and relax at one of the excellent restaurants and bars on Park City’s Main Street.

7. Park City Spring Wine Festival

Over 100 wineries from all over the world are featured at this weekend of fine dining and even finer wine pairings.

May

8. Gallery Stroll

Park City’s Main Street has a vibrant art scene, and the best way to enjoy it is through this recurring monthly event featuring exhibits, artist receptions, and delightful refreshments.

June

9. Park Silly Sunday Market

Running from June until September on historic Main Street, this eco-friendly open-air market offers the best of Park City’s local foods, crafts, farm-fresh produce, and live entertainment.

10. Savor the Summit

Utah’s largest outdoor dinner party features a long dining table stretching the length of Park City’s Main Street.

July

11. 4th of July Celebration

A parade down Main Street kicks off a day filled with festivities, including live music and fireworks.

August

12. Kimball Arts Festival

One of the nation’s top art festivals transforms Main Street into an art lover’s paradise.

13. Concerts on Main

Summer evenings come alive with free concerts showcasing local and national talent at Main Street venues like Egyptian Theater, Downstairs, Riverhorse, and the Marquis.

14. Park City Song Summit

Main Street hosts intimate performances by renowned songwriters in cozy venues.

September

15. Autumn Aloft

Hot air balloons fill the sky, with Main Street hosting tethered balloon displays and photo ops.

16. Labor Day Weekend Specials and Sales

September is the perfect time to find fantastic deals on Park City’s Main Street. The boutiques, shops, and restaurants offer end-of-season discounts and specials.

17. Miners Day Celebration

Celebrate Park City’s mining history with a parade, mucking and drilling competitions, and live music.

October

18. Howl-O-Ween on Main

Dogs in costumes. It’s as adorable as it sounds.

November

19. Lighting of Main Street

November kicks off the holiday season as Main Street is illuminated with twinkling lights and festive cheer.

December

20. Santa Comes Down the Town Lift

A whimsical tradition where Santa arrives on Main Street via the Town Lift.

No matter when you decide to visit us you’ll find unique and wonderful events going on at Park City’s Main Street.

What to Know for Your First Sangeet Wedding Ceremony

At Kimball Terrace, we’ve had the pleasure to host a wide range of parties and celebrations, but one of our absolute favorites has to be the Indian sangeet.

What is a sangeet?

A sangeet (pronounced san-GEET) is a traditional pre-wedding party that originated in the Punjab regions of India. Anciently, the sangeet ceremony lasted for ten days prior to the actual wedding. Held in the bride’s home, it involved only the female family members and was a way for them to become acquainted. In fact, the sangeet often marked the first time that the families would meet each other. The sangeet created a fun, relaxed, festive atmosphere to prepare for the uniting of two families.

While fun and festivity have remained at the core of the sangeet, a lot of other details have changed in modern times. For practical reasons, a sangeet typically lasts only one day now instead of ten, and it is usually held at a larger event venue rather than the bride’s home. Recently, men have been allowed to join the fun as well.

What happens at a sangeet?

The word “sangeet” comes from two Sanskrit words that mean “sung together,” which pretty well describes what happens at one of these joyous events. First, the bride's family welcomes the groom's family, often by singing the folk song “Suhaag.” This is followed by more singing, dancing, speeches, and tributes.

The bride (usually decked out in gorgeous traditional attire and adorned with ceremonial henna body art) typically performs a carefully choreographed dance number with her close friends and family. The groom and his entourage may respond with a dance of their own. There will also be an open dance floor for guests to get their groove on.

What should you wear to a sangeet?

Since the overall tone of a sangeet is informal and relaxed, you can get away with wearing semi-formal Western attire. A cocktail dress or a tailored suit are fine (as long as you can dance in them), or a blazer and slacks would even be acceptable. However, if you want to get into the spirit of the party and show some solidarity with your hosts, here’s how to dress for a sangeet:

• For women, consider a stylish lehenga or sari, or, for a more comfortable fit, choose a salwar . Don’t worry about matching some specific color scheme; the more color and variety you add to the party, the better!

• For men, sherwanis and kurtas are comfortable, semi-formal options. Or you can up your game with a formal jodhpuri. 

What does one eat at a sangeet?

Because a sangeet is meant to be a casual and relaxed affair, you usually won’t see a formal plated meal. (Save that for the wedding.) Instead, you can expect to see traditional Indian finger foods, chaats, and sweet bites.

Paneer tikka skewers with cilantro yogurt chutney

Vada pav with chili garlic chutney and spinach coriander chutney.

Pani puri.

Gulab jamun.

Is the sangeet a religious ceremony?

No. A sangeet is about celebrating the occasion, not making any sort of religious vows or observances. Those may come later.

Who is invited to a sangeet?

Traditionally, the sangeet was a way for the two families to meet each other, and only women were invited. However, as we said, times have changed. Today, it’s really up to the new couple to invite who they want. Extended family, friends, or even neighbors may be included in the party if they’re lucky.

 What should you say if you’re invited to a sangeet?

Yes!

Vendors for pictured sangeet

Venue: Kimball Terrace

Photographer: Elisha Braithwaite

Caterer: Culinary Crafts 

DJ: Cooper Brown

Floral: Blooms and Company

The Hidden History of Kimball Terrace

Today, Kimball Terrace is Park City’s premier high-end event space. Located in the heart of downtown, the venue offers stunning rooftop views of the surrounding mountains and charming old town Main Street. For decades, Kimball Terrace has been well-known as the go-to spot for hosting major events like the Sundance Film Festival, VIP parties, screenings, and other exclusive gatherings.

However, Kimball Terrace has a hidden history, one that is as old and strange as the story of Park City itself.

Mormons and Miners

Up until the 1860s, Park City wasn’t much of what you could call a “town.” There was nothing but aspen groves and open meadows along the Wasatch Back. But on the other side of the mountains, in the Salt Lake Valley, the newly-arrived Mormon population was starting to boom.

That fact was not lost on a man called Colonel Patrick Connor, commander of the federal troops at Fort Douglass in the foothills east of Salt Lake City, Colonel Conner was openly contemptuous of his Mormon neighbors. In fact, he referred to Salt Lake City as “a community of traitors, murderers, fanatics and whores.” Suspicious of the control that Brigham Young and the LDS church had in the territory, Connor wanted to dilute the Mormon population and weaken the church’s social and political hold. His plan was to attract non-Mormon “gentiles” to the area. He encouraged his troops (many of whom were veterans of the California gold rush) to scour the Utah mountains in search of gold or other valuable minerals.

Those efforts soon paid off when soldiers from Fort Douglas found a deposit of silver and lead just south of modern-day Park City. Meanwhile, other prospectors found several more deposits in the area, and the rush was on!

In 1868, the first mining claim was filed in Park City, and within a couple of years, local silver mines were ramping up production. Just as Colonel Conner had hoped, the mines drew a steady stream of non-Mormons to the Utah territory.

But it was Mormons and Mormon leaders who would play the biggest roles in Park City’s growth.

The Kimballs

In 1862, Mormon pioneer William H. Kimball (oldest son of Heber C. Kimball) built the Kimball Stage Stop near Park City at a place that would come to be known as Kimball Junction. The stage stop was an important station on the Overland Trail that carried passengers and mail from the East. On the site, Kimball also built a hotel that earned an excellent reputation for its food served by Kimball’s multiple wives.

The hotel’s impressive list of guests included poet Walt Whitman, publisher Horace Greeley, and humorist Mark Twain. In fact, after his stay at the Kimball Stage Stop and his tour of Park City’s booming silver mining industry, Twain famously observed, “It takes a gold mine to run a silver mine.”

In addition to continuing to run their father’s stage station, two of William’s sons (Burton and Robert) bought a livery stable in downtown Park City in 1886. Their horses and carriages helped support Park City’s mining industry for years. But as the livery business became obsolete with the introduction of automobiles, the Kimballs converted their stables into Kimball’s Garage in 1929. That structure stood at the corner of Heber and Park Avenue for the next 43 years.

Kimball Art Center

By the 1920s, the mining industry was drying up, the price of silver had plummeted, and Park City faced a huge problem. The Great Depression was about to put the final nail in the coffin for Park City’s mining hopes. The city’s population dwindled until it was on the verge of becoming a ghost town. But Park City refused to accept the fate of so many past mining towns of the American West.

Instead, the mining companies that owned rights to the mountains over Park City were beginning to ask, “What if we looked at these mountains differently?” That led to a textbook case of rebranding the whole city. Park City quickly rebuilt itself from a rough-and-tumble mining community into a world-class ski destination. Within half a century, the town had become a premier site for year-round recreation, culture, and art.

The property on Heber Avenue evolved right along with the city. In 1976, the Kimball family converted their iconic Kimball Garage into the Kimball Art Center, a non-profit community center for the visual arts. Five years later, the Sundance Film Festival came to town.   

The Kimball Art Center became a focal point for Park City's artistic community. It attracted major artists and art lovers by hosting art shows, community classes, the annual Kimball Arts Festival, and other events.

Eventually, the success of the Kimball Art Center allowed it to move to a specially designed building of its own, and the historical building was ready to enter its next stage.

Kimball Terrace

When the Kimball Art Center moved to its present location, developers wanted to renovate and expand the building on Heber Avenue. Their plans called for a second floor that would serve as a luxury event space. Since Culinary Crafts had already catered high-end events in the Art Center for years, developers approached them for ideas of how they could create the ideal event venue.

One of the top priorities for the new venue was to take advantage of the spectacular views. The new Kimball Terrace building included a 270-degree wrap-around terrace boasting panoramic views of historic Main Street on the east side and Park City’s gorgeous mountain slopes on the west. Floor to ceiling windows guarantee that guests can enjoy the spectacular views regardless of the weather (which can be fickle on the Wasatch Back). Guests would feel like they were in a magical snow globe as they luxuriated in the spacious ballroom and watched the snowflakes fall outside.

Another key aspect of the new Kimball Terrace was its open, neutral space that could easily be converted to match any client’s vision. The sleek, contemporary design means that we can cram the space with color and excitement or keep it simple and spare—whatever suits your style.

Since our inception, Kimball Terrace has relied on Culinary Crafts as its exclusive caterer. Culinary Crafts is the top caterer in Utah, having won an astonishing 27 Best of State awards as well as numerous national and international awards. Working in tandem with Culinary Crafts, we have had the pleasure of staging so many unforgettable events at Kimball Terrace, from corporate events to destination weddings to Sundance exclusive parties to Team USA watch parties.

If we ever have the pleasure of hosting your party or event, we hope the experience will be all the more pleasurable for you now that you know the history of Kimball Terrace. These beautiful mountains and ski slopes outside the window, this rustic Main Street below the balcony, the artwork gracing the spaces, even the name above our door…they’re all part of our story. They are our hidden history.

Top Tips from Utah Planners for Your Park City Wedding

Planning your Park City wedding? If you’re searching for a venue that captures all the romantic charm of saying “I do” in the splendor of the Wasatch mountains, then this article is for you.

We asked eight of Utah’s top wedding planners for their tips on how to make the most of the gorgeous Kimball Terrace venue in downtown Park City. Here’s what they had to say.

A Uniquely Romantic Space

“I love that Kimball Terrace is located in the heart of Park City on historic Main Street,” says Michelle Cousins of Michelle Leo Events. “The views are great and it’s a prime location that includes easy access to everything in the surrounding area.”

Julia Puff with Plume Event Co. agrees. “Its premier location in the heart of Old Town is unbeatable, and its views of Main Street, Town Lift and Park City Mountain are unmatched.”

With floor-to-ceiling windows that look out on a 270-degree view of Park City and its famous slopes, plus an additional 1800 square feet of wrap-around balcony, Kimball Terrace is the perfect spot to soak up the romance of the mountains.

Pro Tip #1: Make the space your own.

Sarah Tucker of Marae Events says, “I love that Kimball Terrace is a blank slate for design. We can create an aesthetic that matches each client.”  

“Kimball Terrace is…a clean slate that can be transformed to fit any vision,” agrees Julia (Plume Events Co.). But with all the limitless possibilities that Kimball Terrace offers, it’s up to you to decide how to make that space your own.

The key is to clarify your vision and to communicate your ideas to your planner.

“At first glance, Kimball Terrace feels like a neutral, modern space,” says Kaushay Ford at Kaushay and Co. Events, “but don’t let that lock you into a modern design!” When it comes to your Park City wedding at Kimball Terrace, the big, blue mountain sky is the limit.

Whether you want to keep your design contemporary and clean or cram it full of color, whether you’re planning an intimate affair or a giant blow-out party, if you can dream it, we can make it happen.

Pro Tip #2: Be Bold! Add color, lighting, and other strong elements.

“Consider bringing in bold, rich colors and accenting with black to tie into the black architecture in the space,” Kaushay (Kaushy and Co. Events) suggests. “This might look like a combination of pastels with black accents or rich, jewel tones with black strewn throughout the design.”

And don’t overlook lighting! “As with most venues, my biggest tip in Kimball Terrace is to bring in enhanced lighting elements to warm up the space and create a defined atmosphere,” says Julia (Plume Event Co.).

Colors, textures, flavors, moods, music, smells…there are countless bold choices that can liven up your Park City wedding. As Kristin Spear with Soiree Productions says, “Make sure all your senses are stimulated.

Pro Tip #3: Work with a planner who knows how to use the space.

“My number one tip would be that you should hire a seasoned, professional wedding or event planner, and it’s best to choose one that has done several events at Kimball Terrace,” says Shellie Ferrer of Shellie Ferrer Events.

Kristin (Soiree Productions) adds, “Work with a good event planner to make sure you have layers of great experiences and elements.” Kimball Terrace is a fantastic space with limitless possibilities, but it takes some know-how to make the space come alive.

Pro Tip #4: Make full use of the wrap-around terrace.

Perhaps the most striking feature of the venue is the gorgeous 270-degree wrap-around rooftop terrace. It is, after all, what Kimball Terrace is named for!

Julia (Plume Event Co.) says, “Weather permitting, the actual terrace is the crown jewel of this venue—make sure to incorporate this into a cocktail reception space or outdoor lounge to be enjoyed throughout the evening.”

“Do not skip the views from the rooftop,” Shellie (Shellie Ferrer Events) adds. “You will want to take as many photos as possible while you’re up there.”

Different seasons of the year present different ways to make use of the terrace. Madison Oliveria, the Kimball Terrace Venue Manager and a wedding planner with Culinary Crafts, says, “Early fall is a great time to host a dinner on our rooftop terrace, as temperatures are moderate and will keep guests comfortable, all with a stunning view of the fall colors!”

But don’t let cold weather stop you. “Many brides opt for a winter wedding, and our floor-to-ceiling windows make it appear as a real-life snow globe!” Madison explains. “As we typically capitalize on more of our indoor space in the winter, a smaller guest count works best here, so we can have space for both a cocktail hour and a seated dinner.”

Pro Tip #5: Use enter and exit points effectively.

“Think about the experience you want your guests to have,” suggests Kaushay (Kaushay and Co. Events). “Do you have a big instillation indoors that you want to have a big reveal? Bring your guests in through the outdoor patio to capitalize on the big reveal moment later in the evening.”

By the way, that patio entrance can be great for another purpose. As Kaushay points out, “The raised platform that leads outdoors is not a convenient space to place a dinner table, but it’s perfect as a stage! Setup your DJ or band there—just be sure not to block the entrance.”

“Another area of note is the grand staircase entrance,” Shellie (Shellie Ferrer Events) says. Since you can direct traffic so that everyone will be coming up those stairs, a few well-placed decorative elements can generate “a wonderfully romantic vibe for when your guests enter, and it creates such a great ambiance.”

Pro Tip #6: Use lounge vignettes to dampen echoes.

“Kimball Terrace can create a lot of echoes inside when guests arrive,” Kaushay (Kaushay and Co. Events) warns. “Consider bringing in two or three lounge vignettes with rugs throughout the space to help dampen the sounds.”

Pro Tip #7: Let Culinary Crafts do their thing!

As you plan your Park City wedding at Kimball Terrace, you should know that the venue has one exclusive caterer, Culinary Crafts. Hands-down the best top-end caterer in Utah, Culinary Crafts has won Best of State an astonishing 27 times, and in 2024 they won “Best Wedding of the Year” by the International Caterers Association. I guess what we’re saying is, there’s a reason the best wedding venue in Park City uses Culinary Crafts to do all their catering.

“The fabulous Culinary Crafts food experience and exceptional team are another reason I love this location,” Sarah Tucker (Marae Events) exclaims. “Each event director and staff member puts so much time and energy into every event planned…and for that, I am grateful!”

Madison (Kimball Terrace) loves Culinary Crafts so much, she had them cater her wedding. Part of what makes Culinary Crafts so great is that they make everything fresh using local products and local vendors. “They create a custom menu that is unique to you, all while highlighting local and seasonal fare,” Madison explains. “People come for their Park City destination wedding because they want the best of what Utah has to offer, and that’s what Culinary Crafts gives them.”  

Pro Tip #8: Work with the weather.

“Always be sure to have a weather backup plan,” Shellie (Shellie Ferrer Events) warns. “Whether the sun is out or the snow is falling, you can always take advantage of what this venue has to offer, as long as you have the right plan set in advance.”

Kaushay (Kaushay and Co. Events) adds, “While the outdoor views are stunning, keep in mind that cool evenings aren’t uncommon in Utah most of the year. Plan for your guests to enjoy the evening air by purchasing throw blankets or ordering heaters to turn on when the sun goes down.”

Pro Tip #9: Be ready to handle city events, parking, ordinances, and permits.

“Being right on Main Street means that we see a lot of special events that take place throughout the year, right outside the building,” says Madison(Kimball Terrace). ”While this doesn't prevent us from hosting a wedding, these events may close down Main Street or create noise, traffic, etc. for a Kimball Terrace event. Make sure you work around events such as Park Silly Sunday Market (every Sunday in the summer months), Savor the Summit, Kimball Arts Festival, etc. You can check Park City Municipal's website for the calendar!”

“Check with the venue management about any permits or regulations that may apply to your event,” advises Kate Jones of Kate Elizabeth Events, “especially if it involves amplified music, outdoor structures, candles or alcohol service. Compliance with local regulations ensures a hassle-free event day.”

Parking also requires some planning. “Consider providing professional transportation for your guests that are staying off of Main Street,” Shellie (Shellie Ferrer Events) suggests. “Parking can be difficult to find on Main Street, especially in the evenings and on the weekends. There are several nearby lodging options, and that will allow your guests to walk to the venue if they’d like to. A great hotel to do a room block at for this venue is the Marriott’s Summit Watch.”

Pro Tip #10: Book well in advance.

Between Utah’s burgeoning wedding industry and Park City’s growing popularity as a wedding destination, Park City wedding venues are in high demand. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until venues are all booked up. Contact Kimball Terrace to learn more and schedule your Park City wedding.

Meet the experts (from left to right):

Kate Jones, Owner and Lead Planner of Kate Elizabeth Events

Michelle Cousins, Owner, Founder and Principal Designer of Michelle Leo Events

Shellie Ferrer, Owner, Founder, and Principal Designer of Shellie Ferrer Events

Kaushay Ford, Owner, Founder, Principal Planner and Designer of Kaushay & Co. Events

Julia Puff, President, Owner, Founder, and Principal Planner of Plume Event Co.

Madison Oliveria, Venue Manager of Kimball Terrace and Wedding and Sales Specialist with Culinary Crafts

Sarah Tucker, Owner, Founder, and Principal Planner of Marae Events

Kristin Spear, Owner and Senior Event Designer of Soiree Productions