Ogden’s wedding backdrops

From castles to gardens, the Ogden area is host to numerous locations for weddings and receptions.

What 'feel' is wanted should be the deciding factor in the location.

For an enchanted, fairy tale atmosphere, there is the vine-covered Castle Brook Reception Center in Layton. Castle Brook is an actual castle with a gardenside courtyard and a waterfall.

LeeAnn Sudbury, owner of Castle Brook, said there are three things that attract people to this kind of reception center.

"It's attractive," Sudbury said. "The people here are honest and the initial price is affordable."

However, this is just one of many reception centers that can offer many different options. Whole package deals including cake, invitations, flowers and food are available at some reception centers.

Maria Reid, who is a part owner with her mother, Louise McArthur at the newly remodeled Ivy Lane Reception Center, said they can put packages together for the bride, but also allow the bride to bring in their own things if they desire.

Ivy Lane was built in 1917, and was remodeled just over a year ago to resemble the original style of the building.

"It has an Italian residential style to it," Reid said. "That and the fact that it is a former Eccles mansion really attracts peple here."

Ivy Lane has a classic interior that gives it a very romantic feel. Although it won't be available for outdoor weddings until the end of the summer, it is surrounded by trees and has a very beautiful outside.

Even Weber State University is home to many weddings at the Alumni Center. Becky Thompson, who has been with the building for four years now, said that there are many things that attract people to the center.

"It's beautifully decorated," she said. "It has a real 'homey' feel to it."

The Alumni Center has a garden area that is especially popular for summer weddings. It also has some really unique pieces that people enjoy.

"The table where the wedding cake is put is a table from Robert Todd Lincoln's home. It's a really fun and unique piece."

The Alumni Center stays busy, especially in the summer months. They do about 70 weddings a year for both college students and people in the community.

Of course, there are other things besides to take into consideration when deciding where to have your ceremony or reception. The number of people who will be attending could be an issue depending on the building capacity.

Cost is a deciding factor as well. The price can vary depending on what is included in the package or if it is simply the rental of the building. Many reception centers, especially during the next summer months, are extremely busy. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

"We've had people book our building 10 days in advance and a year in advance," said Maria Reid of the Ivy Lane. "You have to remember, though, that some months are busier than others. Sometimes you'll get lucky and be able to book the building you want and other times you won't."

You can reach reporter Lindsay Gleason by calling 626-7621.