Adam and I met with Ashley and her mom this past Spring in a quaint South Haven bakery early morning and breathed in the scent of fresh pastries while discussing Ashley and Marshall’s Blue Dress Barn wedding. I knew from the moment I met Ashley and the way she spoke of Marshall that their love was true and grounded.  We saw this while photographing their engagement session this past summer: the warmth of Ashley’s laugh and the calm that Marshall breathes into her.  Its a balanced love that Adam and I can relate…maybe that’s why I’ve taken to them and their wedding so much.

While they live in Detroit, they — like many others — can’t resist the country charm of the Blue Dress Barn only a few blocks away from my Grandma’s house (where you can have a spot of tea darn near any time of night).  And at their core, you’ll find their country roots dig deep…right down to burlap accents and cowgirl boots.  But before all of that, we spent the better part of the morning getting ready in a hotel close by…with quiet restrictions no one would believe! ; )  I digress.  On to mimosas and makeup!

I’m not sure if its just everything Ashley’s does/wears/says, but I love her.  And that started early in the day with her hair & birdcage veil.<3

And then onto a perfectly fitting lace wedding gown —

— with just the right amount of glam.

Not that she needed any more glam, because have you seen her ring?!

I spent much too much time photographing it, but I adored the antique setting.  Her ring is perfect at every angle!

And her bouquet?  It actually matched a quilt at Blue Dress Barn, so I think it’s pretty safe to say it was perfection.  Simply swooning over those pops of periwinkle too!

A little something from his bride-to-be to calm the nerves…

Or excite them? ; )

FIRST LOOK!  FIRST LOOK!  FIRST LOOK!
By this time in our wedding season, I think we were on wedding number 10 of 12 in a row.  And I forgot to mention to Ashley exactly what I told Marshall to expect.  I was a little panicked because AH!  things.not.according.plan, but the spontaneity and authenticity of the moment brought out the best reaction in both of them and helped me to stay on my toes!

She’s stunning, and he knows it.<3

But, I gotta say…I’m loving Marshall’s attire.  He’s a mighty fine looking man, Ashley!

Simple portrait.  But, oh, so in love from the very beginning of our time with them!

The weather was glorious outside.

We spent our time at many locations throughout the night…having fun, breathing deep, and enjoying!

Isn’t this a fabulously dress bridal party?!  I adore the colors, the boots, the boutonnières, the bouquets!  EVERYTHING!

Ashley’s father had a special gift for her right before the ceremony.

And this look from her mama makes me so happy!

The details are done, the dress is on, and the guests are arriving.  It’s time to get married!

One of Ashley’s many smiles — one of my favorites, for sure!

Married!<3

Adam and I love photographing at the Blue Dress Barn since its shares the same quality of our own wedding venue.  But we LOVE when our couples bring even more vintage style to add to the venue’s charm.  These old shutters, mini-clothespin seating directions, and burlap sign?  Definitely the first thing I wanted to see when I walked in!

Not to mention their dessert set-up was gorgeous (and tasty!) too.

After their first dance, we snuck outside to try to capture the last of the setting sun.  While the sun snuck away, we still enjoyed our time in the cool night…being married and all that. ; )

One of my favorites from the day…completely candid and so happy.<3

After a few last minutes by the fire to roast a few marshmallows (yum!), we headed back inside to party!

And it definitely didn’t disappoint!

Cheers to the newlyweds!

I mean, you know we love you two, right?  Ashley is one of the most joyous women we’ve ever met, and we are so happy to have been able to document yours and Marshall’s wedding day.  The beauty in both of your smiles will show anyone how it feels to be in love.
Your day was beautiful…down to the very last detail…and we with you happiness and abundant blessings on your marriage!
xo, the Burnetts.