“I’m so in love with you, and I hope you know. Darling, your love is more than worth its weight in gold. We’ve come so far, my dear. Look how we’ve grown, and I wanna stay with you until we’re grey and old. Just say you won’t let go” —James Arthur
Craig & Ashley have a special place in our hearts as they were sent to us by one of our past couples! We absolutely love the chance to serve the friends and family of couples we’ve photographed over the years! They chose popular Philly-area venue Normandy Farms and Conference Center for their big day, and the staff there worked incredibly hard to make their wedding absolutely perfect!
Unfortunately tragedy struck in the weeks leading up to their vow renewal style wedding, and Ashley’s mommom and her father took their places in heaven where we know they were watching with joy as Craig and Ashley bravely continued forward with the day they’d been waiting for! Thankfully these two had chosen to have their church ceremony last fall so Ashley was able to have her dad walk her down that aisle and have the grandmother she adored present for their August formal ceremony.
For Ashley and Craig, the most looked-forward to parts of their vow renewal were the things that they didn’t have back in August such as a first dance as well as reading the vows they had written for each other during the ceremony. The weather that day was absolutely PERFECT. There was tons of glorious sunshine during the formal portraits and then soft even light for their outdoor ceremony.
One of the things we love about this couple is how their differences compliment them SO well! Craig is a huge dance floor guy, and he likes to draw Ashley out of her comfort zone with his infectious energy and willingness to have a good time. Since her dad was no longer able to be present, Ashley chose to have her mother and grandfather walk her down the aisle, and she then danced with her mother and sisters during the time traditionally set aside for the father/daughter dance. In remembrance of their missing loved ones, Ashley and Craig not only chose to do a memory table, but also placed roses on ceremony seats bearing pictures of the departed. Ashley had several photo charms placed on her wedding bouquet as well which was incredibly sweet.
For us, it was a magical way to kick off what is an amazingly busy 2021, and a wonderful time of celebrating one of our sweet couples who we absolutely adore! Both the ceremony and reception energy was amazing, and they ended the night with a s’mores bar AND a Philly pretzel bar (Yum!!)! We want to wish them a lifetime of happiness and love together as they continue their lives as best friends, husband and wife!
How he proposed: “On December 28, 2019, we went out to dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. When we got home, Craig had our song (“Say You Won’t Let Go”) playing. He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him! And of course, I said “yes”! Knowing how important our family and friends are to us, he ad all of them waiting for us at our local pub, where there were balloons, decorations, and a champagne toast!”—Ashley
What he loves most about her: “Ashley always makes me smile. She has a very silly attitude that always puts me in a good mood. She is an incredibly strong and passionate person and that strength and passion are infectious. Just being around her makes me want to be a better person.”
What she loves most about him: “He is my absolute best friend! This past year has been a rollercoaster for us and through it all, Craig was my rock, my best friend, and my sunshine on even the rainiest days. In August, we got married so that my mommom could be present. We planned the wedding in 3 weeks, and when I walked down the aisle, it was the first time in my life that I was not afraid — I knew the person I love most was waiting for me at the altar.”
One Comment
Lindsay & Nathan,
Thank you for so beautifully sharing our story! We could not have asked for a better couple to capture our story in photos. We are so grateful for all you have done for us and are so glad you were part of our special day!!!
All our love,
Ashley & Craig