The Whittakers | Married at Bandit’s Ridge
My ‘Sunshine People’, Whitt and Teresa, are finally hitched! Like a breath of fresh air, this sweet and charming couple waltzed into my life and quickly treated me like glorified family. It’s not often couples invite me out to dinner after an engagement session, thus proving their rarity early on. The combination of romantic blooms and pastel color tones made the detail shots so dreamy, and these genuine smiles made photographing the day a joy.
Teresa is type-A and organized, like me; something we bonded over from the jump (finally, someone who loves a good spreadsheet lol). Whitt was a little more relaxed about the planning process, but he was always present and more than happy to do anything that would make his bride happy; this never went unnoticed. When I finally met all of their friends and family on the big day, it was no surprise that they were all cut from the same down-to-earth, sweet, and welcoming cloth. The goodness of this group literally doubled my heart in size.
So, can we talk about THIS VENUE!?! Bandit’s Ridge is situated on 25-scenic-acres with a rustic, red barn overlooking the hayfield. The venue features a charming new barn that seats 150 guests, making an elegant place for a lively reception. This ADA-compliant venue is heated & air-conditioned and includes a gourmet prep kitchen, spacious dance floor, fun bar area & outdoor fire pit.
The bride & groom are each provided with separate spaces for getting ready. Bandit’s Ridge offers several ceremony options; something to fit everybody’s personal vision and needs. No matter what you are planning, the Bandit’s Ridge team is ready to help make your special event a warm and inviting celebration you will always remember! 10/10 Recommend. This team goes ABOVE AND BEYOND to make sure couples, guests, and vendors are all treated like family. Thank you for your hospitality, Bandit’s Ridge!!
My favorite secret hideaway spot at Bandit’s Ridge is this gorgeous white shed, located near the Bride’s quarters (see above). The weather was somewhat cloudy, so I knew this white structure would act as the perfect light box for me. Following my vision, I photographed several key parts of the day using this adorable location, and it did not disappoint. I love how charming and versatile this venue is, with so many hidden gems and treasures for us photogs with a vision to utilize.
A quick Exit Interview with the Bride:
Question: What was it like to work with Ashley Dorton Photography leading up to your wedding day?
Teresa’s Answer:The experience was great! We were asked to pull together a list of photos we wanted to have the day of and it was a completely seamless experience. Ashley met with us to go over what to expect and to make sure all of our questions were answered.
Question: What was it like to work with Ashley Dorton Photography on your wedding day?
Teresa’s Answer: Wedding day was FLAWLESS and Ashley and Sarah were wonderful. They were cool, calm and collected which kept me feeling the same. My girls were amazed with their professionalism while also being a part of the fun, and they got all the shots we asked for and more. Ashley handled our crazy families with ease and even when there were a couple moments of impatience from family members, Ashley looked at me, told me she had it handled and I didn’t have to worry about it. I can’t speak highly enough of these two!
Question: What was it like to work with Ashley Dorton Photography after your wedding day?
Teresa’s Answer: Seeing the previews leading up to the big day built the anticipation, but I never could’ve imagine the emotion I’d feel seeing all the images. Between the amazing pictures and getting to see so many moments that I had missed throughout the day, it was just such an incredible experience. Getting to see so many of our loved ones enjoying themselves after a crazy 18 months was so worth the wait!
Question: What was your favorite highlight/memory from working with Ashley Dorton Photography?
Teresa’s Answer: My favorite moment was seeing the images of the father-daughter dance. My dad isn’t an emotional person, so getting to relive that moment and see our faces is something I’ll cherish forever. You simply can’t put a monetary value on capturing a moment like that and I’ll forever be grateful to have those moments in time on film.
Question: Advice to brides thinking about booking Ashley Dorton Photography for their wedding day?
Teresa’s Answer: My biggest piece of advice is to enjoy the journey! Ashley makes it SO EASY and I love that she’s a planner. She thinks of every little thing so there isn’t any stress about it on the big day. Communication is key and Ashley has always been great with that piece. We’re so blessed to have met her and I feel honored to consider her a friend! Ashley gives you the opportunity to not miss out on anything because you’re worried about missing a shot or being somewhere. She has it all planned out and you just show up..
To Whitt and Teresa, thank you for sharing your sunshine with me. Your impact will always remind me that I’ll continue to find my people along the path of living out my dreams; people who are generous, thoughtful, and kind like you. It’s true, that over time, people will forget the things we’ve said but never how we made them feel. I like to think Teresa and Whitt left me better than they found me, and I just think that’s beautiful. I hope to photograph you two for many years to come, along whatever path life takes you. I have a feeling it will be beautiful.
Cheers to Love, Laughter, & Happily Ever After!
Xo,
Ashley
Wedding Venue: Bandit’s Ridge https://banditsridge.com/
Officient: Corey Gross https://www.instagram.com/weddingsbycorey/
Florist: Florals by Jennie https://www.instagram.com/floralsbyjennie/
Glam: Stephine Paige, MUA https://www.instagram.com/stephinepaigemua/
Catering: EAT Catering https://www.eatcateringrva.com/
Cake: Ashley’s Got Cakes https://www.instagram.com/ashleysgotcakes/
Photography: Ashley Dorton Photography https://ashleydortonphotography.com/
Assistant to the Photographer: Sarah Kelly
Entertainment/DJ: Chris Ham
Videography: Daniel White
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