Ashley & Derek; married on September 8, 2018.
Ashley dazzled in a sleeveless fit-and-flare gown with a sweetheart neckline, jeweled belt, embellished overlay, and a train. Her accessories included Badgley Mischka heels, drop earrings, and a full-length veil. Her bouquet included flowers in shades of white, ivory, and palest pink accented with greenery such as eucalyptus and brunia balls. Her seven bridesmaids wore coordinating dark purple full-length gowns and carried smaller versions of the bride’s bouquet.
Derek looked sharp in a dark gray three-piece suit with a white shirt, purple bow tie, and a white flower boutonniere. His seven groomsmen wore dark gray three-piece suits with white shirts, purple ties, and white flower boutonnieres.
Ashley and Derek read personal vows to each other during the indoor ceremony. Derek talked about how he swiped right immediately when he saw how beautiful Ashley was.
The sign-in table was decorated with lanterns and flowers. Guests used a seating chart to find their places; wine bottles were used show the table numbers. The wedding favors were s’mores kits and lottery scratchers, and there was a photo booth on-site. Derek and Ashley shared a sweetheart table during the reception.
Guests dined on mixed-greens salad with carrots and tomatoes; potatoes au gratin; penne pasta with vodka sauce; filet mignon; and grilled chicken breast. The signature cocktail was a chai stout beer.
In the speeches, the matron of honor shared that she named her daughter after Ashley. One of Derek’s best men, his brother,told stories from their childhood. His other best man joked that he’s glad Derek didn’t listen to him about Ashley, because she’s a winner. Other people spoke as well, including another bridesmaid and Ashley’s father.
Derek and Ashley danced together for the first time as man and wife to “First Dance” by Corey Smith. Ashley and her father danced to “Stand by Me” as performed by Florence and The Machine. Derek and his mother danced to “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban. There was also a dance train with all the guests.
The three-tier wedding cake was done in brushed white icing. It was decorated with roses and topped with a “love” ornament.
Congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple!
Photography by: Kaila Cales Photography
DJ: Jeff Barga
Florist: Blume Events