The Turner Wedding | Married at a Private Estate
Welcome to the corner of my blog that feels a bit like home, to me. It’s prime wedding time for us season-loving Virginians, which means your girl has been BUSSSYYY! While busy is admittedly my most favorite “B” word, I had recently begun to feel a yearning for fresh air and wide-open spaces start to simmer. I found myself telling my friends that the mountains were calling my name, and right on time, my faithful Universe provided me with exactly what (and who) I needed. Que Cynthia and Marlin’s beautiful Bedford, VA wedding.
The Turner wedding is one that will go down in history as Chicken Soup for My Soul: 2021 Edition. This couple embodied the “welcome” sign they hung above their arbor, from the moment they first contacted me. As they began to explain that their wedding-day vision included mountainesque views, southern-style DIY decor, and an intimate guest list, I literally felt my soul exhale for what all of the sudden felt like the first time since September. “Yessss”, my soul said, “Sooooo much yessss.”
So, you see that gorgeous ceremony site? Yeah, Marlin BUILT THAT. No big deal, just giving his queen whatever she wants for her big day, like the true southern gentleman he is. Cynthia wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty though, as she helped him build all of their seating and created most of their decorations by hand. My favorite part of their event was that it was held on their own property. What better way to relive your wedding day than to walk outside in your own backyard and enjoy the space you built for it? 10-points for creativity and dedication for this couple; that’s what I like to see- two people who are all in!
Cynthia was truly a woman after my own heart. I always get excited when I meet a type-A bride; they speak the unspoken language of my Virgo heart: Lists. When I tell you Cynthia embraced my timeline, I mean she made that timeline her {insert my second favorite “B” word}. The success of her day was also, in big part, thanks to Cynthia’s dear co-worker and friend, who acted almost as their day-of coordinator. The three of us detail-oriented, list-managing, shot-calling women truly worked together to ensure that there was no stone left uncovered. Teamwork makes the dream work, right?!
Details, as you know, are the literal love of my life, so I’m sure you can imagine why walking into this reception hall felt like I had struck gold. By “reception hall”, I mean garage, but how would you ever know?! This place was decked out from top to bottom with sweet details and personal touches, all perfectly themed to a southern tee. With a guest list of under 30 people, Cynthia and Marlin were sure to spoil each of their guests with a live band, personalized key favors, and custom celebration shots to toast with. My love for people who love THEIR people is endless.
My only regret? Leaving my cowgirl boots at home.
A quick Exit Interview with the Bride:
Question: What was it like to work with Ashley Dorton Photography leading up to your wedding day?
Cynthia’s Answer: My experience leading up to the day of the wedding was FANTASTIC. Ashley was the 1st photographer that responded back to me without days or weeks of waiting to see if she was available. I had so many questions she went above and beyond to make sure all questions were answered. She went as far as to do a custom package which later I had to alter. It was between Ashley and another photographer, all the interactions that we had. I knew she was the one that would be the one to capture our beautiful memories. The timeline was so helpful with wedding day planning
Question: What was it like to work with Ashley Dorton Photography on your wedding day?
Cynthia’s Answer: My experience on the wedding day was nothing but perfect. Ashley arrived on time and went straight to work on capturing pictures of the venue, rings, flowers, pictures of the bridal party before the ceremony, etc. She even pinned on boutonnieres, as the magnets were not keeping them on, which was above and beyond her contracted photography work. I had a specific place that we wanted to have pictures taken, she advised that she would be happy to do them however due to the lighting (sun) I would not be happy with the pictures. I liked the fact that she was truthful and takes pride in her work. She already had the perfect place located, where the lighting would be the best.
Question: What was your favorite highlight/memory from working with Ashley Dorton Photography?
Cynthia’s Answer: I am so happy with it all, I am unable to pick a favorite! 10/10 Recommend!
Question: Advice to brides thinking about booking Ashley Dorton Photography for their wedding day?
Cynthia’s Answer: If you are looking for a photographer who will capture ALL your special moments she is the one for you. She is a planner and captures all those little details (the bride) does not think of. She likes to capture the fun as well as the serious pictures. On your wedding day, my advice is to show up and forget that she is taking any pictures (as she is sure to get all you want and more). You will not be disappointed, from the first interaction to the end. She is such a great personality and likes to have fun while shooting your best memories.
To Marlin and Cynthia,
Thank you for inviting me into your special world, anchored by the BIG love you share for your family. You both worked seamlessly as a team, and the end result was absolutely inspiring to document, first-hand. I’m so thankful to have had the honor of meeting you and those you hold closest to your hearts, and most importantly, for your trust in my ability to capture your day perfectly.
Looking forward to capturing many more memories for your family in the years to come!
Cheers to the kind of love that feels like home!
Xo,
Ashley
Contributing Vendors:
Glam: The Hair Co in Vinton, VA
Cake: Sam’s Lynchburg, VA
Flowers: Kroger Daleville, VA
Food: Mission Barbecue Roanoke, VA
Photographer: @ashleydortonphotography
Blog Designed & Written By: Aligned Artists
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