I met Ashley in a salon chair when she was doing my hair and we became fast friends. So, of course, I was thrilled when she entrusted me to photograph her big day. Ashley and Justin live in Jacksonville but their wedding actually took place about 2.5 hours south in St Cloud, Florida at The Royal Crest Room.

It was an absolutely gorgeous wedding venue with so many photography opportunities. The ballroom sits on a sprawling golf course with panoramic views out of its many windows. Ashley and Justin chose to get married under the arbor under the trees and it was beautiful. The ceremony was filled with so many touching moments of emotion and laughter. Afterward, we took the bridal party and the happy couple out onto the golf course for stunning portraits. It was the perfect backdrop as the sunset. The bride and groom also requested a super fun shot on the golf carts – when in Rome (or St. Cloud)!

The highlight of my day though was their daughter Emily. Her little redhead demanded my attention and I spent the day becoming her BFF. She was literally too cute for words in layers of tulle and floral crown. At the beginning of the day I started calling her “strawberry shortcake” and she laughed every time I said it. So naturally, I called her that all day long for the best smiles. By the end of the day, she loved me almost as much as I loved her.

The reception was perfect. Ashley being twirled by Justin in her amazing gown..that I fell in love with months prior when she sent me a pic…was so elegant. Then the party started. I think everyone was on the dance floor, seriously. It was POPPIN!

A sparkler exit was the perfect way for these two lovebirds to wrap up their night and send them off. Ashley and Justin, thank you both for choosing me to capture your wedding I adore you both and wish you a lifetime of love and laughter.