HOW DID YOU MEET?

We met online in 2020, during the era of masks and social distancing. Our first date was at an arboretum, where we ended up walking around for a couple hours. We were immediately drawn to each other’s genuine nature and desire to discuss more than the weather or the most recent mask policy 🙂 Many more walking dates ensued, and about two years later, Chris proposed!

HOW DID YOUR PROPOSAL HAPPEN?

About a week before the proposal, Chris asked what we had going on the next weekend. I knew something was up, but tried not to get my hopes up. He asked if I wanted to take a walk at a local arboretum, to which I said yes, of course. 🙂 That Saturday morning, we stopped at Starbucks for a seasonal latte (Christmas is my favorite, and the new drinks had just been released). During the walk at the arboretum, Chris got down on one knee and I said yes!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WEDDING

Throughout the entire planning process, I found myself returning to the idea of simple elegance. Pinterest had so many ideas, but I had to keep telling myself that the wedding probably wouldn’t look like those pictures. I needed to figure out what I actually wanted, not just what looked nice on the internet. We wanted a meaningful ceremony with the focus on the Lord bringing us together in marriage, with those closest to us in attendance.

Chris and I wanted to incorporate both of our favorite colors, light blue and pink, but somehow avoid the baby shower look. Our fantastic florist really made this happen with the most beautiful wildflower bouquets! We also wanted guests to feel comfortable, so we included board games at the reception for anyone who didn’t care to dance. Wedding favors were cookies from a local bakery and a bottle of water (the heat was intense in the middle of July!). We wanted to honor our guests as they have helped shape us into who we are today.

FAVORITE WEDDING DAY MOMENTS

One of my favorite moments, even though it felt like 1000 degrees, was when we went outside for golden hour pictures. The entire day felt magical, but this moment was special because we were actually married and could enjoy a few minutes to ourselves. Ashely has such a sweet and calming personality, that this time really felt like a celebration of our love and marriage more than a portrait session. Some of my favorite pictures from the whole day came during this time!

VENDOR LIST

Favors: Buttercup Bakery

Hair and Makeup: Sunny Hair and Makeup

Wedding Cake: Bavarian Cakery

Catering: Mel’s Country Cafe

Flowers: Bramble and Bee

Photographer: Rivers Light Photography, THE BEST IN THE WORLD!!

ADVICE FOR NEWLY ENGAGED COUPLES

Everybody will have their own opinion. Be careful who you solicit advice from. Also, the wedding day goes by so much faster than you ever dream it will! Savor the moments on your wedding day and take mental pictures throughout the day. Finally, be sure to keep building your relationship with the love of your life. Set aside time to not talk about the wedding and enjoy each other’s company.

FUTURE RIVERS LIGHT COUPLES

Ashley is seriously magical. She has the kindest, most patient personality and works efficiently and effectively. As you can see, her pictures are beautiful and she has an eye for what will look good. She is the type of person you want around all day at your wedding and she will make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and so loved! We are already excited to book future appointments with her.

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