Ashley + Billy

February 1, 2020 Joe Cain

Ashley and Billy’s wedding weekend was truly a nonstop celebration of friendships and family with a beautiful ceremony joining them both together. Nowhere else seemed to be the perfect place other than Destin, Florida.

On Friday before the wedding day, Ashley and Billy made plans to be with their bridal party. Billy and his guys played golf around the Sandestin Resort. Ashley and her girls had brunch at a nearby local restaurant. She showered her girls with special gifts customized just for them. The rehearsal dinner showcased special toasts and words from Billy’s mom, dad, and sister.

The day of the wedding was such a treasure to capture on film. Ashley and her girls got ready at the penthouse of The Grand Sandestin at the Sandestin Resort. Even Ashley’s beloved family dog came and got his tuxedo on. It was so special to see Ashley’s mom and grandmother there watching and enjoying the excitement and joy. Instead of having a first look, Ashley and Billy decided to exchange letters and wait until she walked down to the altar to see each other. It was so sweet watching their expressions when they read the letters from each other. Before heading to the beautiful catholic church, Ashley had a special first look with her dad. He was so happy seeing her in her gorgeous gown ready to marry the love of her life.

Saint Rita’s Catholic Church was breathtaking with its high vaulted ceilings magnified with its dark wooden beams. The display of the crucifix of Jesus Christ hung above the holy altar accompanied by two Mary and Child portraits on the left and right. It is truly a stunning scene in and of itself. As Billy waited for his bride to come in, music played and family and friends who came watched with anticipation. Finally, Ashley came in and Billy’s reaction was filled with genuine awe and joy.

Their ceremony was a full Catholic Mass that incorporated members of both sides of their families. Both grandfathers read specially selected passages of scripture. Billy’s dad read a special prayer. The mothers were asked to bring forth the sacraments of the communion. It was such an intentional and thoughtful ceremony.

The reception was held back at The Grand Sandestin in the newly renovated Azalea Ballroom. It was awe-inspiringly decorated with touches of light pink and gold accents. Elegant mini lounges were formed in the cocktail area and the ballroom. It was stunning and it was all topped off with an ode to Ashley and Billy’s favorite show, the Office, as the Bridal Party entered into the party to Chris Brown’s “Forever,” choreographed dance moves and all! Speeches from Ashley’s dad and several members of the bridal party made the celebration even more special. It was so apparent that everyone that was there loved Ashley and Billy very much. Almost every aspect of the whole weekend was filled with intentionality and sincerity.

Ashley and Billy were married on February 1, 2020, at Saint Rita’s Catholic Church in Destin, Florida.

***The photos above are screenshots from the film. Photos (not seen here) of this wedding day were taken by Cassie of Olimb Photography. See their site for the photos from this wonderful day.