Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Garden Party Wedding: Ashley + John

Before I even begin Ashley + John’s wedding post with this vendor list, I have to make this note:

When I list vendors on my blog, it’s because I believe in their work, their work ethic, and their ability to create a fabulous experience for the couples they work with. The below vendor list from Ashley + John’s wedding is quite possibly one of the most INCREDIBLE sets of vendors I’ve worked with yet. They all upheld the highest level of professionalism, expertise, and care.

Wedding Coordinator: Terry Kenney (337.660.4893)
Wedding Ceremony : Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Wedding Reception: Ashley’s BEAUTIFUL Backyard
Event Planners and provision of waiters/servers: Derrick and Paul
Catering: Mazen’s 
Florals: Paradise Florist – Ceremony; Derrick and Paul – Reception
Event Rentals: Aztec (Tents) & Derrick and Paul
Cake Designer: Daisy Cakes
Bridal Gown: Martina Liana (Designer) Town and Country
Bridal Shoes: Angela Nuran
Groomsmen’s Apparal: Squire’s 
Bridesmaids’ dresses: Amsale
Bride’s Hair: Salon Lindsay
Bride’s Makeup: Zina Green
Videography: Films by Dan
Music: The Issue

Over two years ago, at a party with friends, they noticed each other. Whether it was John who noticed Ashley’s beautiful smile and the way people just love to be around her, or whether it was Ashley who noticed John’s wit, humor, and caring personality, it doesn’t matter. Because there on that night, they noticed each other. And it was the start of something bigger than they knew.

At the end of the night, Ashley’s friend Lindsey gave John her number. At the time, John was working three weeks out and three weeks in. So most would think that it was difficult to get in touch and that maybe after three weeks the moment had faded. But John made it his mission and when they did  finally connect, the rest was history.

During this process, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing Ashley’s bridals, their engagements, and the night before their wedding, the rehearsal dinner. I must admit, photographing the rehearsal made me love this couple even more. John’s love for Ashley is so sincere and thoughtful and Ashley’s love for John is clear and joyful. It was really awesome to see that love and the way their friends and family really share in and support their relationship.

Ashley + John wanted their wedding to be playful, vintage, and full of their personalities. If I can say so myself, this vision was most DEFINITELY achieved. Their exquisite outdoor wedding reception was a true southern garden party and the entire day was smooth and perfect.

Their color palette of antique pink, pale yellow, green, and ivory filled their doll-like home and the backyard landscape. The rain (THANKFULLY) held out for their wedding and it truly turned out to be a beautiful day.

Ashley decided to purchase these Angela Nuran shoes, because she wanted shoes that were both comfortable and beautiful.  CHECK.

Ashley’s “Getting Ready Party” was wonderful; and it seemed as though everyone really enjoyed being pampered and spending time together.

Getting her hair done and sipping on her bridal party straw…I love it. 🙂 🙂

Ashley’s nieces were all so adorable and SO sweet.

While I was with Ashley + her bridesmaids, Amelia spent some time with John + his groomsmen while they got ready at his parents fabulous home.

I could really go on and on about how much I adored their style for the wedding. The white tuxedo jackets and black bow ties were AH-mazing.

SOOOO Handsome.

ADORABLE> 🙂

I couldn’t be more thankful that the weather held up for us. I woke up at 4 AM in a complete panic. It was literally POURING outside. And in my mind, I was rethinking every step of the photography.

THANKFULLY, God had a bigger plan for the day and created a clear day with perfect light. Ladies, you were so wonderful to work with! Thank you!

Ashley had several of her friends come in from out of town for the wedding. She asked them to all dress in bright, spring colors for the wedding day and share in the festivities.

Moments before the ceremony, Amelia grabbed this shot of the guys cutting up and having fun.

Ashley + John opted not to do a First Look; this was the moment he saw her for the first time on their wedding day.

Ashley looked absolutely ravishing, and I love that she used her blusher.

This below photo was taken by Amelia through the bevels in the glass; creating a double effect. <– so cool.

One of the many wondeful things about having a 2nd shooter is our ability to be in two places at once. 🙂 While she was at the top of the church….

I was near the alter photographing Ashley + John. Two perspectives: Twice as Cool. 🙂

🙂 : ) 🙂

This is one of my favorite moments on the wedding day…just after the ring exchange. Below, John is looking at his wedding ring: such a special moment.

Mr. and Mrs. John Dees!

After the wedding, Ashley + John opted to do a bit of shooting in and in front of the church to get some more memorable images from their wedding date…with just the two of them.

Amelia grabbed this shot through the beveled glass…and I told her it’s my alltime favorite image of hers.

The cool thing about John + Ashley is they’re just adorable and sweet, without even trying. This photo, taken with the wind blowing in front of the church doors is so them.

Ashley + John’s Garden Party setup was perfect….with blue skies and all.

As you can see, there were A LOT of people there enjoying the celebration.

And OH My GOODNESS, the centerpieces were “Jaw-Droppingly” gorgeous. <–If that’s not a word, I just made it one.

Their first dance as husband and wife.

The tent and draping was perfect and created a shady spot for the guests to dance and have fun!

I adore this moment between John + his mom.

LOL.

Amelia said her favorite detail was this D Shaped Floral arrangement. Ashley’s favorite detail was her dress.

MR> and MRS>

Also, being that it was John’s 30th birthday, they decided to surprise him with a birthday cake.

…and trick candles.

Love these guys.

Ashley + John’s wedding favors were not only cute but tasty too. They stuffed yellow cake and white icing in a mason jar. <—These were MY favorite detail.

Just before their exit I grabbed this shot to prove just how doll-like their home is.

The Newlyweds

….even at the end of the night, the surprises and beauty of the day didn’t stop. Just after they ran through the lavender, they were surprised with multicolored fireworks.

Congratulations you two!

Ashley  + John, I hope your honeymoon on the coast of Panama was just fabulous! And no matter where life takes you or what you’ll be doing, I’m happy you’ll have each other. Because it’s obvious that together you make the perfect team.

Thank you so much for having me to be a part of this entire process! Amelia and I really enjoyed shooting your wedding and being TRULY inspired by the beauty of your relationship, your family/friends, and your day.