I have been waiting nearly a year for Doug + Ashlee’s Cottonwood Barn Wedding! As I peaked around the door of the bridal room, I was greeted by Ashlee with the biggest smile and warmest hug. She was wrapped in her wedding day robe that had Mrs. Clark embroidered across the back. Her dress hung beautifully in the middle of the room from a crystal light fixture and her bridesmaids dresses hung nearby all in a row. Each being as completely unique as the girls that would wear them. Soon the girls were dressed and Ashlee and her mom were pulling her dress off the hanger. Ashlee balanced on top of a large ottoman as she slipped her feet in one by one. And just like that, she was a vision. She wore the sleekest one should gown that fell flawlessly to the floor. The fabric being just as delicate and beautiful as Ashlee. Her hair was in a single fish braid that wrapped to the side then was crowned with a string of antique chains and beads. Family heirlooms were added as rings and necklaces and then… there were tears. Happy tears. Tears that represent the bond of an enduring friendship over many years.

When her dad saw her for the first time he wrapped her in the warmest hug. After the ceremony Ashlee’s dress was bustled and she along with her mom and dad did a group high five and pulled in tight for a hug. A single guitarist did the serenade for Doug and Ashlee’s first dance which was followed by a tearful spin with her dad. Doug and Ashlee both have parents that beamed with pride and spoke so highly of both their own child and the one they married.

Doug is a man of few words. This I shared with Ashlee after our first FaceTime date between Michigan and Colorado. But, what he doesn’t say in words he makes up for in depth.

I love shooting in unique locations and the Cottonwood Barn was no exception. Their guests were able to mingle inside two barns or out in the courtyard where lawn games were available along with a cigar and smores’ bar. Or they could run to the top floor of the main barn and dance the night away.

I’m always honored to be part of such an amazing responsibility in photographing a couple’s wedding day. But, it’s especially sweet when a friendship blossoms like it did for Ashlee and I. She makes it easy to adore her. Enjoy being newlyweds guys! Thank you for the privilege of being part of this small corner of your life. xoxo – Kari