Surrounded by lush floral elements in an exquisite ballroom, Ashley and Justin married in Florida. Despite the gorgeous garden-inspired theme, the key to their wedding was in the details. A friend serving as their rabbi, a painter who captured their first dance together on a canvas and New Orleanian traditions were all keys to making their wedding day personal and well, theirs. We still can’t get over the airy ruffles in Ashley’s Reem Acra gown, though.
Ashley + Justin | February 15, 2015 | Bonita Springs, Florida | Dress Listing: Reem Acra, Eliza
The Ceremony
Our ceremony was very special because Justin’s best friend and groomsman, Jason, was our rabbi. It was a very special and personal ceremony. The ceremony was outside under the most gorgeous chuppah between palm trees overlooking the water. Bridesmaids wore coral Monique Lhullier dresses and carried green bouquets while the groomsman wore black tuxes with matching flowers on their lapels.
The Reception
Our reception was romantic garden theme with the same theme of flowers from the ceremony and flowers lighted onto the walls. We incorporated some New Orleans traditions because Justin’s family is from there, so we had a second line band and cake pull. There was also a live painter painting the wedding which will be an absolute treasure. She caught the moment in our wedding dance where Justin lifts me up! 🙂 The band was amazing and the food was all local and organic.
Ashley’s Dress Search
My mom came to New York City from Florida to try on dresses with me. We did a preliminary appointment in Miami where I tried on all the different silhouettes to see which I liked. I then did some major research and created a budget. I brought photos of all my favorite dresses to each appointment. It was such a thrill to try on the dream dresses from the pictures. In New York City, we had one day and four appointments to find the perfect dress. I probably tried on 36 dresses. The dress I chose was the last one I tried on. It was absolutely perfect and had everything I wanted in a dress. We just knew it was the one. It was a no brainer.
How Ashley Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Joyful, beautiful, princess!
Why Ashley Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
Justin and I really want to thank our parents for all they did to throw us the best weekend of our lives. Not only will the money from selling the dress go towards creating amazing memories with them, I also love that another bride will get the chance to share in such an incredible dress!
