ASHLEY + DAVID

Ashley and David’s wedding is one that’s extra special, since they are both dear friends of mine. I met them when I was first thinking of moving to Pittsburgh. The quickly took me in to their bubble and we’re one of relationships I dreamed of, as I searched for my own soulmate. They have an effortless connection with one another, full of romance and sarcasm.

Though they had already committed to growing old together, David proposed to Ashley after 10 years of dating at a concert for their favorite band. They set the date for their wedding for exactly a year later, giving them time to save up and plan a wedding that perfectly reflected them.

On November 3rd, 2018 they had their ceremony and reception at Spirit Hall in Pittsburgh. They hosted 150 guests, which were a perfect example of how friendly and fun the couple is, boasting family and friends from near and far. “I Will Follow You into the Dark” played from an acoustic guitar when Ashley entered the room escorted by her father. She was glowing. (If you’re wondering: Yes, I cried.) She wore her hair long and swept to the side while her dress sparkled in the low lighting. On the stage, there was a small light instillation which nodded to the simplicity and elegance of their romance.

Through their nerves, their ceremony was true to their creative and warm personalities. One of their personalized vows were to promise to always respect each other, even when they’re wrong. As Ashley recited her vows, she altered it slightly, “I vow to sometimes respect you, even when you’re wrong.” Even in their most serious moments, it was refreshing to hear her sarcastic, quippy banter shine through They exchanged rings, which included a wedding band from Jared, featuring 11 diamonds to signify their 11 years together before the wedding.

After the short ceremony, guests were brought upstairs to the main hall. Family style tables were set underneath a large domed light installation. Peachy, orange flowers and greenery were spread along the center of the tables, turning a few flowers into luscious decor. My favorite part of their decorations were framed quotes about love from their favorite movies and TV shows, like The Office and Gilmore Girls.

Ashley and David’s first dance was to The Girl by City and Colour. They loved the intimacy of the beginning of the song as they dancing as husband and wife, and at the end they invited all their guests to join in for the upbeat finale. Once the dancing started, it never stopped! Since David is highly engrossed in the local Pittsburgh music scene, their DJ was a friend who knew their music taste well and also how to please a crowd. He played R&B, some soul, and plenty of current hits.

Blue Sparrow is a a Pittsburgh food truck which catered. They served a Thanksgiving style variety, with pulled Turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and mac and cheese. As people ate, you could hear their guests audibly raving about the food. The family style tables were great for guests to chat and get to know the couple’s friends from different parts of their life. It was clear, both Ashley and Dave had built meaningful relationships everywhere they travelled.

After a warm dinner and a delicious cake from one of my personal favorite bakeries, Oakmont Bakery, guests made their way to the DIY photo booth. A simple set up with a backdrop, Ipad, and portable photo printer gave guests a chance to take home a little piece of love with them. Both the bride and the groom took time to pose with their guests. At the end of the night, they already had a digital album of hundreds of photos from this rented photo booth set-up.

Ashley and David’s wedding was a testament of their unique love of a lifetime. Boasting indie music, fall colors, and tipsy guests tearing up the dance floor: it all came together under flashing lights. 11 years to reach down the aisle and a hundred more in love.

Dress from @radiantbridecle by Enzoani line

Alterations by Exquisite Fit 

Florist: @leonesflorist

DJ: @lost.boys.djs

Food/Caterer: @bluesparrowpgh

Cake: @oakmontbakery

Officiant: @brandocalrissian83

Engagement ring is a conflict-free diamond from Helzberg Diamonds and the wedding band from Jared
His band is handmade by Rustic & Main featuring Makers Mark bourbon barrel with elk antler and white gold inlay.