{SBB Bride of the Week} Ashley

A S H L E Y

+

A L E X

{April 22nd, 2023}

We need to take a moment for our bride, Ashley, who looked like a total model on her wedding day!

Don’t believe us? Just look for yourself!

See?! Gorgeous!

For her late April wedding, Ashley looked absolutely showstopping in a fitted crepe gown by Martina Liana!

She even customized the sleeves in alterations to create a gown that is truly her own!

{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}

For her gorgeous flowers, Ashley worked with JM’s Flowers with Jazz!

We’re loving the classic mix of roses and baby’s breath!

Ashley and her soon-to-be hubby, Alex, decided to share a special first look before heading down the aisle!

They’re just such a cute couple!!

{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}

Ashley and Alex were married in a gorgeous outdoor ceremony at Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant in Holland, Michigan!

Even the rain couldn’t stop them!

{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}

After the newlyweds said “I do”, everyone headed inside for a reception to remember!

We are so in love with the tiny details - from the neon sign to the place settings!

{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}

How did Ashley first meet Alex?

“We met through a mutual friend! We went to the same high school but didn’t know each other until after we graduated.”

How did Alex pop the question??

“On the beach while on a trip to Traverse City, Michigan with my best friend and her husband. It was truly the best weekend I think I’ve ever had (besides our actual wedding)! He proposed as soon as we got there so we got to celebrate the whole rest of the trip. Our friends and everyone we encountered that weekend just made us feel so special!”

Was it a surprise or did she know it was coming?

“Despite us being together for just about 6 years at that point, and having talked about getting engaged/rings previously, I was completely surprised in the best way!!”

Let’s move on to our personal favorite topic: gown shopping!

“Finding my dress was such a fun experience. I was a little nervous because I brought a pretty large group with me, but everyone was super supportive. And for some reason I really didn’t expect to cry, but I definitely did! Shannon, my consultant, was also so amazing and supportive and I’m still so grateful for all of her help!”

How did Ashley know her dress was "the one"?

“I felt like it was exactly what I was looking for—I had come in wanting a pretty plain and classic dress, and I ended up with something that was exactly that on the bottom but a little more fun on the top! Later, I actually ended up deciding to have my seamstress change up the sleeves and was obsessed with how they came out.”

When it came to wedding planning, what was Ashley’s favorite {and least favorite} part of the process?

“My favorite part of the wedding planning process was probably picking out all of the little details. I love design/art/etc. so that was really fun for me! I lived by my inspiration Pinterest board, and was constantly looking to add little touches to our wedding that our guests would love.

I would say my least favorite part was definitely all of the opinions. I truly had no idea how many people would have opinions about things related to a wedding that was not their own, lol. I’m a people-pleaser by nature, so I think it was something that I probably took to heart more than most people would have.”

Looking back, what is Ashley’s favorite moment from her special day?

“Honestly, everything! The day was so perfect and I’m beyond sad that it’s already over. However, if I did have to pick only one moment I would say it was our first look. It was so intimate and beautiful and everything I could have hoped for. Also, I thought my vows were good but I was blown away by his. If you’re on the fence about a first look, I’d say to go for it!”

What is the best piece of advice Ashley can give brides-to-be who are currently planning their own big day?

“Enjoy it as much as you can!! It can definitely be stressful at times, it’s a lot of thinking and planning and money, but once that’s over, your wedding is over! All that planning for one day that feels like it’s a minute long. If you’re feeling yourself getting overwhelmed, take a break and come back to it or move on to a new task. It’ll all come together perfectly and your wedding is going to be the best day ever!”

Congratulations, Ashley + Alex!!

Check out more of their stunning wedding photos by Cari Hughes Photography in the gallery below!