By Melissa Larsen
BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER: Anna Phillips Photography
Chandler-based Anna Phillips Photography strives to capture images that are unforgettable, timeless and perhaps even make you shed a tear every time you view them. Phillips, who believes she inherited her creativity from her painter grandfather, says that the couples she photographs on their big day end up looking like professional models as she captures each magical moment. annaphillips.photography.
BEST WEDDING PLANNER: Emily’s Events
Emily and Rick Garner are so dedicated to their wedding-planning and catering business that the married couple even catered their own big day. Emily’s Events strives to customize everything to the tastes of its clients and has done so for the past 10 years. The Scottsdale-based company even offers educational wine tasting and much more for its clients. emilyseventsaz.com.
BEST WEDDING CAKES: Classic Cakes & Confections
Ella (designer) and Neil (baker) Levinson of Classic Cakes & Confections have been baking beautiful, delicious weddings cakes since 2006. (Perhaps you saw when the bakery was named among the top pastry pros in the nation in Martha Stewart Weddings?) This year, Ella says that Art Deco, Gatsby-inspired cakes seem to be in demand while popular flavors are amaretto and Chocolate Decadence. classiccakesandconfections.com.
BEST ENGAGEMENT RING STORE: Coffin & Trout Fine Jewellers
Since 1984, Coffin & Trout Fine Jewellers has been a trusted named in local jewelry. The jeweler’s goal is to craft heirloom-quality goods that are passed down for generations—and the engagement ring selection is no exception. All are designed by Coffin & Trout and handcrafted with highest- quality materials in their local studio. coffinandtrout.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST WEDDING DRESS SHOP: Bella Lily Bridal
Located in North Phoenix/Glendale, Bella Lily Bridal is an intimate bridal boutique that strives to give brides the most exceptional experience when prepping for their wedding day by offering great service and staying atop of bridal trends. Whether you want a classic look or trendy boho appeal in your dream dress, the boutique carries the work of many designers offering a variety of styles. bellalilybridal.com.
BEST WEDDING HAIR AND MAKEUP: Salon Juan Santos & Co.
Misha and Juan Santos, the duo behind Salon Juan Santos & Co., specialize in making brides look their best on their big day via the team’s top-notch hair and makeup services. The couple has more than 20 years of experience, and their team can accommodate groups of up to 30 (whether the bridal party comes to their Phoenix studio or they are on location). teamjuansantos.com.
BEST WEDDING FLORIST: The Wildflower AZ
The mother-daughter floral design duo behind The Wildflower AZ has been in the blooms biz for more than 10 years (they are fourth- and third-generation floral designers, respectively). Their works of art are considered sophisticated, trendy and chic, though they love to work with a variety of styles and trends. For 2017, The Wildflower AZ foresees organic, dreamlike floral rends—with a flirtatious flair. thewildflower-az.com.
BEST WEDDING RENTALS: Vintage Rusticity
Shabby chic. Country glam. English romance. If you are seeking wedding-day décor that is romantic, soft and timeworn, Vintage Rusticity has the goods to make your vision a reality. From venue styling and design consultation to buffet setups and concierge services, Vintage Rusticity is a one-stop shop with a trove of plates, candlesticks, seating and much, much more to doll up your venue. vintagerusticityrentals.com.
BEST WEDDING VENUE: Warehouse215@ Bentley Projects
Perhaps a resort or golf club isn’t your style. That is where Warehouse215 @ Bentley Projects comes into play. The warm brick interior is accented with soft bistro lights, wood-bow trussed ceilings and chandeliers, providing a gorgeous backdrop for your big day. The Phoenix-based venue can accommodate 300- plus guests. warehouse215.com.
BEST WEDDING CATERING COMPANY: Tom and Lin Catering (TLC)
From ancho-braised beef to tiramisu trifle, Tom and Lin Catering (TLC) aims to impress guests’ (whether there are 10 or 1,000 of them) taste buds upon tying the knot. The company prides itself on a reputation of inventive New American- style cuisine food, thoughtful presentation and outstanding service, using locally grown produce and the top artisan choices whenever possible. tomandlincatering.com.
BEST WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER: Love Story Films
Gilbert’s Luke and Molly Williams, the couple behind Love Story Films, make the ultimate cinematography team who thoughtfully handcraft each wedding film to tell a unique love story. Love Story Films was founded in 2012 and services all of Arizona—though they have filmed outside of the country. The Williamses are currently expanding their business to encompass real-estate films, as well teaching classes on editing and filmmaking. yourlovestoryfilms.com.
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