I have been waiting for Ashley and Clayton’s day all year, both because they are the absolute sweetest couple and ALSO because I knew it would be filled with so much pink!! 🙂  Honestly, their day could not have been any more beautiful!!  There was so much sweet emotion from so many sides that I am positive that even a total stranger would have gotten swept up into it all.  Ashley and Clayton (and clearly their loved ones!) are just those kind of people… they sweep you into their stories and lives with their kindness and love for each other, and you just want to be a part of it! From the moment we arrived at the getting ready house, the girls were full of energy and fun.  Ashley’s mom was so sweet and keeping herself busy in every way possible as to not get too full of the emotion of the day, but it was beautiful to see her tending to her daughter in every way possible!

As the day progressed, the emotion continued.  Both sets of parents and grandparents were so full of pride and joy over their kids, and it was evident again and again.  When Ashley’s daddy saw her for the first time. When Clayton walked his grandmother down the aisle.  When Ashley’s dad gave his toast, giving Clayton a beloved self portrait Ashley had drawn of herself as a child.  When Clayton’s dad kept his hand on the memorial chair of Clayton’s mother for the entire ceremony. Piece by piece, a beautiful story was painted about 2 families that are now connected forever because of their children (and a lot of adoring friends who would clearly do anything for Ashley and Clayton). It was just a beautiful day, and I can’t wait to share it with you! You know I loved all these pink details!! Ashley’s purse was made from her grandmother’s wedding dress! So sweet! First look time!  They weren’t 100% sure about this when they first booked me…but I know they would tell you it was SO worth it!  It was the sweetest! Clayton’s grandmother made all the florals (find a link to her shop below) and did an AMAZING job!!! Such a fun group! Gorgeous ladies!! My friend and fellow wedding photographer Lauren Westrich 2nd shot for me again– loved this (and many more!) of hers!! This was that sweet first moment with Ashley and her dad. You can see him in the corner and I left him because I LOVE Meghan and Bob Huppert of Embee Videography–they are just the best! So much sweet emotion. This cake!!!  Tammy has outdone herself again (see link below!)! Loved this popcorn bar! Clayton surprised his grandmother with a special dance, and there was not a dry eye in the house. I chose not to share any more pictures from this little moment in time here because it was almost too sacred, but I know it was a moment this family will remember forever whether I took a single image or not. Love sunset!! These are favorites!

To see Ashley and Clayton’s Washington Park engagement session, click here!!

It was such an honor to work with Clayton + Ashley’s creative team for their rustic, chic wedding!

Ceremony + Reception Venue: The Rail Golf Course

Flowers: Mary’s Special Touch

Videographer: Embee Videography

Hair + Makeup: Jenni with Loft Bridal

DJ: Music Source DJ

Wedding Dress Boutique: Adore Bridal & Specialty

Dress Designer: Stella York

Veil Designer: Veils by Gabriel

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal

Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse

Caterer: Nelson’s Catering

Cake: Specialty Cakes

Invitations: The Paper Boutique

Rentals: Rustic Love Rentals