Ashley and Alan’s Asheville wedding at the Grand Bohemian was gorgeous. Out of all the other weddings we’ve been to, I can’t recall a groom who spoke with more excitement and with as many compliments about his bride. It was a real joy to witness such expression.
Shout out to these professionals that made this day so spectacular.
Venue: Grand Bohemian
Planner: Mary Bell Events
Hair: Emily with Anarie
Makeup: Wendy with Blush Asheville
Ceremony Musician: A Touch of Rose
Band: Crocodile Smile
Live Painter: Skip with Asheville Event Paintings
Florist: Flora
Minister: Buddy Corbin
Cake: Gateaux
Lighting: Paul Jackson
We especially loved how they included their sweet pup in a lot of their day.
“Fur babies” participating in and attending weddings is becoming more and more popular.
The Grand Bohemian is so lovely!
Let’s back up to the beginning of the day when Ashley and Alan were getting ready.
Ashley’s dress was STUNNING. I mean she literally picked a dress that complimented the Bohemian so so well.
Ashley’s Bouquet had photos on it in tribute to past family members.
Alan’s presents to Ashley.
Alan loved the decor of the Grand Bohemian and made sure to take advantage of being photographed with it.
These sweet flower girls barely knew each other but they instantly bonded.
And they nailed it with the flower pedal dispersion!
Onward to the formal photos. 
Elegance and class!
Cocktail hour is a great time to capture candid moments of friends and family.
Alan’s welcome speech was super sweet. As Ashley told Meriah during the bridal session… “I got one of the good ones.”
Occasionally our couples let us steal them away for some night shots! The Bohemian is a wonderful backdrop for night photos!
The toasts.
Now let’s party!
The band Crocodile Smile was great entertainment!
A space for those who don’t dance 😉
Congrats Ashley and Alan!
Now a little bit more from Ashley and Alan on their big day.
A bit about Ashley: (From Alan’s perspective) – A beautiful and kind girl from Virginia who dedicates herself to helping others. Ashley is fun loving and loves to try new experiences (as long as no steps are involved..). Ashley keeps Alan laughing on a daily basis. Random, but of note…she also has an impressive collection of reusable shopping bags!
A bit about Alan: (From Ashley’s perspective) – The kindest person on earth with a heart of gold (unless he’s in the courtroom) and a beautiful sense of humor. He has an impressive passion for Clemson football and cars.
How did you meet? – We swiped right.
Describe your first date? – We had lunch at a popular restaurant in Greensboro on Father’s Day 2016. It involved lots of conversation (and wine). Unfortunately it ended with an awkward hug, and both of us wondering if we would see each other again. Ashley claims Alan was speeding away from the parking lot—something he still denies to this day.
How long have you been together? – 3 years and 3 months.
What are your favorite hobbies and activities to do as a couple? – We both enjoy winery tours and tastings as well as traveling and exploring new things and places.
Who popped the question and HOW? – Alan did on a beach in the Virgin Islands during a cruise in November 2018. We walked to the very end of the beach to get away from everyone while Alan waited for the right time. Finally after an awkward amount of time in the heat and the end of the beach, he dropped to his knee in the water (almost falling into the water due to a large wave) and asked Ashley to marry him. She said yes!
Why did you pick Asheville and The Grand Bohemian? – We picked Asheville because it was somewhat in the middle for our families and we loved the area during October. We chose the Grand Bohemian because we absolutely loved the venue and the ballroom in particular as well as the friendly and attentive staff!
What adjective best describes your spouse on your wedding day? – Alan was nervous. Ashley was cool and in control.
What tangible detail of your wedding day did you love the most? (Cake, dress, special item?) – Having our dog Trevor in the wedding (as well as his bow tie)!
How many guests attended the wedding? 92
What did you and your guests eat at the reception? – Mainly filet. Lots of filet…….
What was the flavor of your wedding cake? – We had two flavors—red velvet and vanilla with peanut butter filling.
What is one of the funniest things that happened on your wedding day? – Alan’s toast / welcome speech.
What was your first dance song and why did you pick it? “You and Me” by Dave Matthews Band. Alan always liked the song and it reminded him of the times he and Ashley shared together.
What stood out to you the most when you think of your wedding? – The flowers turned out absolutely amazing. Hard to name just one thing—but the overall Art Deco look and theme of the wedding came together exactly how we envisioned it.
What is on your “bucket list” to do together as a married couple? – To travel to as many places around the world that we can!
