Not only was it a gorgeous September day…John and Ashton planned a day full of surprises for their family and friends! The first was they had everyone convinced that they were not going to have an officiant, and instead unite themselves on their own. Ashton wanted to surprise her mother by having her cousin marrying them in honor of her late Uncle who died at war (her Mom’s brother). Her Mother’s smile said it all as you watched him approach the Bride and Groom. She really had no idea, and the rest of the ceremony was filled with many more smiles and laughter all around! Their vows were so personal with fun stories of the journey together.

Next on the schedule was the formal family pictures, the bridal party pictures with everyone together, and lastly pictures of just the Bride and Groom. We do their pictures last to allow them some time to just have a moment for themselves. It’s so important for couples to step away from the crowd, and look at each other and say “We did it!”. 

When we got to the reception…the surprises continued!! John and Ashton told us they choreographed their own first dance and they did NOT disappoint! It was a whole compilation of different songs, but a personal fav is when their dance started with The Greatest Showman! Ashton and her Dad also choreographed their own dance that was hilarious with the “Welcome to the Griswolds” sign!

They finished their night by dancing with everyone which went strong until the night concluded!

Enjoy some of the highlights from their gallery. Congratulations again John and Ashton!