I remember when Ashley first met Brad while we were in college. She and I are both from Goldsboro, NC and both joined our sorority at the same time (but only after consulting each other…because I wasn’t going to do it unless she did too hehe). Through many wine nights in front of the tv in our apartments and getting ready for different events, we talked about boys and all of the things we loved (and hated) about the ones we’d met. When Ashley met Brad, I was really excited. I had known him from some of my classes and different friend groups as an awesome guy full of respect and chivalry. He also just so happened to be in love with Ashley the second he met her (naturally). With his persistent pursuit of her heart, it was only a matter of time before she felt the same.

When Ashley and Brad asked me to be their photographer, I said absolutely yes with no hesitation. Not only was I excited to see my two friends officially join their lives together, but I also got to be beside them throughout the entire experience. I always say to choose your photographer wisely because you spend more time with them than anyone else on your wedding day. I take this as a huge honor––to be the person who stands by your side and captures the entire day exactly the way you want to remember it…full of joy and love.

Ashley and Brad are honestly the dream couple for a wedding photographer. They are simple, yet detailed; organized, yet flexible. They are so accommodating of everyone around them, even on the days that are completely about them. Ashley organized an absolutely beautiful, southern wedding at Duplin Winery, complete with bright flower arrangements, little family details, and the cutest bridesmaids gifts. (The monogrammed camera wine glass she gave me is so stinkin’ cute!) The day was spent relaxing and getting ready for the big moment.

The ceremony was absolutely beautiful and I’ve never seen a groom so in awe of his bride as she walked down the aisle. We’d been praying for the rain to hold off all day, and it did…right until the last second! Thankfully in true Ashley and Brad fashion, we laughed it off as a memory, focused on what the day was truly about, and just went with the flow. We were able to squeeze in the bridal party and newly wed portraits in record time! The rest of the night was spent trying to keep up with the kids on the dance floor and sipping on the infamous Duplin wine spritzer slushies.

Ashley, I am so happy for you. This is the day we’d dreamed so much about during all of those nights in our apartments with our sisters. I am so grateful to be your friend and to have been such a huge part of this experience. Thank you for making each person involved in your day feel valued and appreciated. You deserve nothing but the best.

Brad, you are one lucky man! I can’t tell you how much it means to me to see the way you look at Ashley. I have no doubt in my mind that she will be loved and cared for every day for the rest of her life. You are her perfect compliment. I couldn’t have imagined a better match. Thank you for making sure everyone around you is taken care of and making this day run so smoothly (and providing the perfect dance floor photos!!). Enjoy this new adventure together and know that I love you both dearly!

The people who made this day beautiful:

Wedding Planner // Francis Wilson
Venue // Duplin Winery
Hair and Makeup // Sara Thoma
Bride’s Dress // David’s Bridal
Bridesmaids’ Dresses // David’s Bridals
Groomsmen Suits // VIP Formal Wear
Florals // Grady Floral Design
DJ // Elite DJ Solutions
Caterer // Duplin Winery Bistro
Videographer // Creative Waves Imaging
Cake and Desserts // Carolina Charming
Invitations // Zazzle