Let love change you.  AJ and Ashley’s wedding day dawned sunny and beautiful, against MANY odds of weather.  It was gorgeous after a week of tons of rain.  It was the perfect day.  Let love change you. Ashley’s suite was buzzing with ladies and laughter and a sweet flower girl avoiding her nap, and there was a little nervous energy filling the space.  They were all helping each other with hair and makeup, sharing old stories from very long friendships that they had grown up through.  Let love change you.  AJ and Ashley met a long time ago…and Ashley swore (she bet, actually) that she would not date him. She was just sure he was not for her.  Let love change you.  Until she was sure he was for her. Let love change you, their pastor said over and over, and it has been ringing in my heart ever since.  Love can make us do amazing things, surprising things…and Ashley and AJ loving each other was one of those things for her.  But love changed her mind, and grew them together, and changed them together.

Their wedding day was full of heartfelt stories from those who love them most, both spoken and unspoken. AJ’s grandma absolutely beamed with pride when she got to take her picture with him.  Ashley’s maid of honor could not hold back tears as she spoke of Ashley’s devotion to her and their friendship, and of how much Ashley’s love had changed her.  AJ’s parents clung to each other with 2 sets of hands during the ceremony, establishing a legacy of love around their son that will carry him far.  Ashley’s two sisters traded duties loving on and cuddling and taking care of Ashley’s adorable niece and nephew while getting ready for the big day and all through the reception, clearly demonstrating how much they all adore each other and how close they are.  It was a beautiful day full of the kind of love that I hope for everyone- the kind that wraps you up and holds you tight. The kind that can change you.

I LOVED the monogram on their invitation – as you can tell!So many pretty details!Ashley and AJ got ready at the Courtyard Inn in Springfield, and the suites were modern and beautiful! They were a great backdrop!I spent the morning with the girls while my wonderful second shooter and friend Angie spent it with the gentleman! This first look was absolutely epic. There were some lots of various factors going on at the park, but AJ was only eyes for Ashley. And tears. And hugs, and love. He twice pulled her back to take in it all, and he himself did a twirl to show off his suit- it was absolutely perfect.Love this from Angie’s view!Ashley!! You are stunning!joy joy joy…I cannot get over these stunning flowers from True Colors, and how much they spoke of Ashley’s “enchanted forest” theme!Even got a little sunflare in there…you know that made me happy!
Gorgeous ladies!I could not get enough of the gorgeous bouquets from True Colors Floral!!We did a marathon round of speedy portraits to stay on their timeline- they were total pros and I was so pleased with what we got in a quick spurt! 🙂Photographer tip: use your surroundings! I am standing on that very bench they were just sitting on to give me some good height, which is beneficial for multiple reasons!Ceremony time 🙂She turned back for her brother 😉Love this!As a bride who had my flower girl drop leaves at our fall wedding instead of petals…I loved these place cards!Tony from Superior Sound Entertainment did a great job keeping the dance floor alive!

I could only squeeze this lovely bride off the dance floor for a quick photo at the end of the night, but my note is to them both!! Ashley and AJ, I adore you guys and was so honored to capture your perfect day! You two are beautiful together, and I know this is just the continuation of am amazing love story.  So much love to you both!

I loved working with AJ and Ashley’s creative team!

Catering:  Hamilton’s Catering

Flowers: True Colors Floral

DJ:  Tony Boston, Superior Sound Entertainment

Wedding Dress Boutique:  Elite Bridal

Wedding Dress Designer:  David Tutera

Hair:  Nichole Bucci

Invitations: Ann’s Bridal Bargains