Ashton Creek Vineyard Wedding: Ashleigh & Tuck

Today, we’re talking with our sweet bride, Ashleigh, about her Ashton Creek Vineyard wedding in Chester, Virginia! We’re loving this “featured wedding” series so much, and we can’t wait to introduce you to more of our brides in the weeks to come!

If marching bands are your thing, then you’re going to love today’s couple!

Ashleigh and Tuck first met in Marching Band at Liberty University. He was in drumline and she was in color guard. The night he proposed, Tuck tricked Ashleigh into believing they were going out to dinner at RA Bistro in Lynchburg. Little did she know that was not going to be the case at all! When they got to the steps at Monument Terrace in downtown, Tuck had arranged for “This is Love” from Cinderella to play while he proposed to Ashleigh. He started talking to her, impatiently waiting for the perfect time to pop the question. When she saw that he was “running out of words”, Ashleigh said “Can you ask me already”? To which, Tuck responded: “We’re not at the fermata yet”. He finally proposed, but the two never made their way to RA Bistro until a year later.

We asked Ashley a few questions about her Ashton Creek Vineyard wedding, as well as how the planning process went for her. Here’s what she had to say!

What was the process like planning the wedding of your dreams?

I wanted a really small wedding but we ended with a big wedding. However, it turned out to be really beautiful! A big wedding was a good call because I don’t think I would have enjoyed a small wedding, and looking back, I had more fun with a big wedding.

What was your experience like in searching for the perfect dress?

I knew exactly what I wanted but I also tried on different styles to make sure I was making the right decision. Clearly, a ball gown does not do this 5’2″ bride any justice, but it was fun to try on different styles and see different designs. I really loved Lillian West so I focused on her designs mainly, but it was all still a wonderful experience.

How did you feel on your wedding day?

Pretty nervous and all over the place at first, but once I got to the venue and did the center pieces by myself (I wanted to do that for a zen moment), the day went by quickly and smoothly and I was pretty calm but mainly nervous. Definitely excited, but REALLY nervous!

Did you incorporate anything special in your wedding that reflects you as a couple? For example, an intimate first look, a special first dance, or your own written vows? Tell us all the details!

We prayed together before the ceremony, but he was blind folded so he wouldn’t see me. It was something that we wanted to have together before everything started, and it was peaceful and wonderful.

Are there any special moments that specifically stick out in your mind from your Ashton Creek Vineyard wedding?

My grandfather blessing me with a rosary. He is really sick and it was fortunate that he was able to come and stay as long as he did. We are Episcopalians, so being blessed with a rosary by him was special for the both of us.

What was the groom’s reaction like when he first saw you?

He looked down because he was going to cry.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I found out later that my youngest sister, who was my flower girl, did not throw the flowers on the ground so my brother, who was the ring bearer, got a handful and threw a bunch on the ground. A nice little laugh for everyone before the ceremony.

The amazing vendor team for Ashleigh and Tuck’s Ashton Creek Vineyard wedding: