While artfully crafting Glo State, I knew that I wanted to shoot my brand photos in a serene location that not only aligned with my personal design style and values, but authentically captured the caliber of embodied events I was looking to bring to life out West. Which naturally led me to the sacred landscapes of Amangiri in Canyon Point, Utah.
For those of you who are new to this secluded sanctuary, Amangiri is an award winning resort & hotel nestled within 900 acres of red rock canyons, sweeping, mesas, and endless ridges and gorges. Recognized for their modernist accommodations and elevated amenities; there’s no other place that fuses grounded luxury with back-to-the-wild connection quite like Amangiri.
I knew she would be the perfect backdrop for Glo State. However, my decision to host the brand shoot at Amangiri, alongside Foxtails Photography, was rooted less in pretty aesthetics and more in fully experiencing the depths of the event venue. All so I could share this slice of heaven with you in its entirety as your destination event planner.
Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding weekend or gathering for the sake of vitality; here’s a behind the scenes look at Amangiri (& what you can expect):
Amangiri at a distance / Foxtails Photography
Immersive, Back-to-the-Wild Experience
Don’t let this five-star resort mislead you, Amangiri is both luxurious and grounded in nature. In fact, upon our arrival, we were greeted with just as much western hospitality as untamed landscapes. Better yet, the tender togetherness of the two didn’t stop there. The truth is that every aspect of Amangiri was intentionally designed to spark your senses while making you feel forever at home; from the tranquility of the spaces to the heartfelt adventure at your fingertips. It was almost as if the more we escaped our worldly stresses and surrendered to our surroundings, the more the spirit of Southern Utah pulled us in closer.
During our three night getaway, we fully explored Amangiri’s collection of iconic suites. Dressed up in clean lines, neutral colors and organic materials; every space truly felt like an invitation to romantically roam through a desert oasis. Each morning I started my day with a cup of coffee and a book by the outdoor terrace where the warm breeze caught my turning pages. As I prepared for our itinerary the rhythmic sounds of nature put me in my Glo State, bringing beauty and belonging to the blank spaces. As we moved through the afternoon, I was constantly reminded of the gift of presence and unhurried connection. Until we reached evening, where we slowed down with a glass of sauvignon blanc and a night sky full of stars before doing it all over again.
The whole experience was all consuming. I was genuinely shocked at how rested and revived I felt; even after two days of: adventuring, shooting, tours, and meetings. Then again, I’m told that Amangiri tends to have that effect on people. She reminds you of your place in this world while bringing you back to your wildest expression. & I don’t know what more a divine dreamer could ask for in an embodied event venue!
Foxtails Photography for Glo State Styled Shoot
Individualistic Destination Wedding & Event Gatherings
Amangiri not only pushes creativity and innovation to the edge; but they genuinely care about weaving your story and deepest desires into your celebration. We stand behind this because we were met with nothing but compassion and personalized support; from our site tour to our Glo State styled shoot.
Our first day, we scheduled a full site tour to take in Amangiri from a client perspective. Our guide led us through every event location possibility from Camp Sarika to the Fireside Pavilion, Saddle Landing, Pool Terrace, and more. At every stop we were not only given insightful recommendations based on guest count, budget and installation, but we were able to ask specific questions to further illuminate the space.
What we took away from our tour (beyond endless inspiration) was that:
- Amangiri requires all guests to stay on site to host events on property. Which Glo State took as a benefit (and honestly… a must!). By having your guests stay on property you’re truly giving them a once in a lifetime, intimate experience they’ll never forget. Plus less travel, admin, and stress for all parties! Also by having everyone in one place, you’ll be able to slow down and make meaningful memories together sure to last a lifetime.
- The resort was designed for a multi day event or destination wedding weekend/week. Here at Glo State we recommend a 3 night stay minimum to not only take advantage of price point; but to bask in unhurried connection and adventure pre and post event!
- Although a preferred vendor list is provided, couples and wellness clients are not required to choose from an exclusive list. This allows guests the freedom to work with whoever is destined to transcend their everyday moments into beloved memories. However, we do recommend partnering with a local floral design co., such as By Bloomers from St George, who knows the terrain, landscape, and has experience installing in every weather condition.
On our second day at the resort, we gave shape to the Glo State brand shoot. For the artful session with Kayla of Foxtails Photography, I intentionally designed a destination micro wedding in harmony with nature. A look defined by minimalism, soft hues, and rich textures. We styled the portraits shots outdoors, the ceremony scene at Big Water, UT, and the reception space at the Rooftop Terrace. From setup to tear down everyone on my team was flexible, encouraging, and committed to seeing my creative vision come to fruition as I always dreamed.
Above all it was clear that Amangiri is devoted to weaving their guests’ stories into their own. Leaving room for creative inspiration and play while honoring the natural beauty and blessings of the land. If you’re a divine dreamer who feels called to ground you and yours to the ends of the earth in style, you’ve found your place!
Behind the Scenes Glo State Brand Shoot / Foxtails Photography
Creative & Attentive Staff
As a professional event planner with over five years of experience in the industry, I’ve worked alongside endless event venue teams and site managers. However, not many have held up to the crew at Amangiri.
The staff was adamant about working with me as a valued partner to achieve a common goal. They are there to: offer venue location recommendations, narrow down details (such as guest count), offer logistical support, oversee transportation and actualize creative ideas. While I plan, coordinate, and design like Glo State does best! Not to mention they were incredibly kind, approachable, and attentive (but not overly hovery).
Client Exclusivity & Privacy
I was beyond impressed how Amangiri values client exclusivity and privacy. They genuinely care about protecting your space and experience so you can fully take in your spellbound surroundings. No matter what space you walk into at the resort; the staff members stop, make eye contact, and direct their attention your way. No phones are out, public spaces are peaceful, and they ensure that you feel like you are right where you belong.
Unless you and your guests 100% buy out the space for your event, Amangiri will approve your timeline and every logistical move to also ensure the safety and privacy of all guests on site. That’s another reason why they require all guests to stay on site – for a sense of community fully disconnected from the rush of the world.
Amangiri Restaurant / Foxtails Photography
Elevated Dining
You may feel transported to rust-colored sands and desert escapes, but know that the upscale dining will not disappoint. Amangiri has an in-house chef on site who handcrafts an ever changing, artful menu inspired by rustic and local Southwestern cuisine. We shared a meal overlooking the vast sea of sagebrush, and every bite was worth closing your eyes to. However, they do offer private dining experiences both at the resort and at the scenic desert site.
Foxtails Photography for Glo State Brand Shoot
Unparalleled Wellness & Outdoor Adventure
Finally, the breathtakingly beautiful resort tucked into the red canyons and mesas is only the beginning; Amangiri is a sacred gem worth running away to truly for their iconic wellness and outdoor adventure.
If you haven’t picked up on the woven in wellness, the resort boasts a nationally recognized spa and wellness center. Known for their American Southwestern heritage and healing; don’t miss the sound bowl meditations and bonfire storytelling with local natives. Glo State can ensure that you and yours will feel rejuvenated every moment before, during and after your event.
Beyond the sacred walls of Amangiri, you’ll find iconic outdoor adventures everywhere you turn. The resort offers exclusive, guided activities such as: private and group hiking, helicopter rides, verrata climbing ATV’s and so much more. If you’re the more wanderlust kind, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National park and the Grand Canyon are just an excursion away.
Whether you’re planning a wellness retreat, destination wedding, or heartfelt gathering; I am confident Amangiri will go above and beyond to ensure your experience was personalized, private, and wildly unforgettable. If you’re interested in having Amangiri as your event venue, and would like to illuminate your golden ideas with me, inquire through my contact page. I would love to bring your narrative and message to life in Southern Utah’s most iconic, luxury resort.
