Asheville, Romantic, Weddings

“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

Ashley & Mike started their new life together on a crisp fall day on November 2nd. They said their “I do’s” at the Loralei Inn surrounded by their friends and family. There is no better way to close out this decade and welcome in the ’20’s with a Great Gatsby themed wedding! Flapper dresses, feathers and enough attitude to rival Daisy Buchanan (one of the sassiest characters from Fitzgerald’s novel) was in abundance for the bridal party and guests alike. Wowza!

The Loralei Inn

Ashley was so excited about getting ready photos and now I can see why! The room was filled with light, energy and excitement as the ladies fancied themselves for the evening. The details that Ashley curated for her big day were on point! With pearls and pops of gold and a stunning flowing bouquet every detail set the stage for an evening of fun and delight!

We need to talk about Ashley’s dress. This dress was something else! Ashley wore her mom’s wedding dress with a couple of modifications, and I just love this nod to those who have walked before us as well as all things vintage. With sequins, pearls and a train to die for, Ashley’s wedding dress truly was stunning. Ashley had a sweet first look with her father as well as a tender “first touch” with Mike before the ceremony.

We took advantage of the dramatic staircase inside the Inn for bridal portraits.

Bridal party portraits kept in line with the theme of the 1920’s… lots of sassy ladies and gangster poses from the guys!

Ashley & Mike tied the knot in the garden in front of the Loralei Inn. Their two pups were the dogs of honor and stood at the altar with the bridal party. One of the sweetest parts during the ceremony was when Ashley’s grandparents prayed over the couple. There were laughter, tears and joy throughout the ceremony!

“He looked at her the way all women want to be looked at by a man.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

After the ceremony, we took advantage of the fall colors for bride and groom portraits. You can tell just how much these two are in love and how happy they are to be joined in marriage <3 After witnessing their intimate and heartfelt “first touch” and letter reading, I was moved by the love between Ashley & Mike and feel honored to have been able to capture it!

Also, wedding dogs!!

“And I like large parties. They’re so intimate. At small parties there isn’t any privacy.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

The party got started right away with a magnificent charcuterie spread during the cocktail hour followed by breakfast for dinner! Ashley & Mike opened the evening with their first dance. They also had father/daughter and mother/son dances that were so sweet and lovely. I loved the smile on Mike’s mom’s face! Guests then mingled, enjoyed fresh coffee and danced to keep warm. The dance floor was PACKED with young and old dancing the night away.

When Ashley tossed her bouquet, her little sister (and bridesmaid) caught it! Check out the moment before it happened in the photo on the left.

The night ended with a sparkler send off!

This wedding was SO STUNNING in every way. From the details to the location to the love between Ashley & Mike and their families — everything was grand! I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to bare witness to their love and be able to work with such amazing people.

Congrats to Ashley & Mike!

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Vendors:
DJ: Kipper of Remix Weddings
Venue: The Loralei Inn
Second Shooter: Megan Sheppard Photography
Tent: Classic Event Rentals
Hair: Adorn Salon
Makeup: Marina Martin
Nails: Lilly Nails
Catering: Fresh As Can Bee Catering
Cake: Cotton Leigh Bakery