One of the things we preach here on Praise is to always make your wedding creative and personal so that it’s truly yours. And today’s lovely couple, Kelsey & Drew, did just that! Organic, sweet, intimate, personal, and modern, those are just a few words that came to mind when we first saw these beautiful photos from Ashley West Photography. We love the chock-full of color and whimsy, the romantic floral arrangements, and all the pretty little details found in this Ohio wedding. Join us as we share the love below!
The couple’s love story
From the couple (Kelsey & Drew): We first met in high school when good friends of ours were dating and we both joined them one night. That one night turned into a few double dates with our friends and from there we never looked back. After several years together we both knew that we were truly in love with each other and that our relationship was one that we would take to the next level.
The proposal story
From the Bride (Kelsey): Over the 4 years that we dated we often took walks on a remote path that borders the shoreline of the lake we grew up around. The walking path is on the east side of the lake so if you time it right there are some pretty amazing sunsets that we were able to watch over the years.
On a warm September night we decided to go for a walk similar to many other nights. After a mile or so we walked out on to a small pier to watch the sun set. At that time Drew got down on one knee and proposed. Little did I know that our families were hiding a little further up the path and were able to witness the whole proposal as well as get amazing pictures of it with the lake and sunset in the background.
Wedding planning priorities
Kelsey & Drew: We wanted our wedding to be fun for everybody. We chose Northpointe because we were able to have the ceremony, reception, after party, and stay at the hotel all on the same complex. Having everything at one location also made the wedding much more convenient for our guest.
One priority was that we wanted to be able to personalize our wedding and bring some decorations and displays of our own. Northpointe was happy to help with all of this. We also wanted to make sure the guest had great meals and that the facilities left a lasting impression.
On a personal note we knew that after our big day was over we wanted to be able to relive the moments through pictures and a wedding video. Because of this we did a lot of research on photographers and videographers and were extremely happy with Ashley West and Prodigy Ceminia.
Wedding design & details
Kelsey & Drew: We didn’t have much of a wedding theme but we used coral and aqua colors and tried to keep everything pretty elegant. We had a total of 160 guest and budgeted between 25 and 30 thousand for everything.
A few details we really liked was the candy buffet we had as well as a characteris. We were very happy that both were a huge hit at the wedding.
Most unforgettable moments
Kelsey & Drew: For us one of the best wedding moments was our first dance because we both worked pretty hard on it and made it a very fun and entertaining event.
Another special event from the wedding is that our pastor each asked us a few simple questions about each other and our love just minutes before the wedding started. He did this individually and both of us did not know he asked the other one these questions. He then went on to share the questions and our responses during the ceremony. It really was unique and a great personal touch that all enjoyed.
The whole day was pretty unforgettable but ultimately walking down the aisle stands out as well as being introduced as husband and wife for the first time.
Special personal touch
Kelsey & Drew: The fact that it was truly our day where we made all of the decisions and got to spend the special moments with the people we love most was amazing. The little things from the Porsche that carried the rings, to the music we picked (and the string quartet), was very special to us.
Advice to couples planning their day
Kelsey & Drew: Make sure to start booking things as soon as possible. Know that as with most things in life you get what you pay for. Modern weddings can get very expensive but on that amazing day and looking back on it you will realize that it is completely worth it. The month before the wedding will be stressful but with coordination and a schedule for individuals involved with the wedding everything will go great.
Thoughts from the photographer
Ashley West Photography: Kelsey and Drew’s wedding was absolutely beautiful! Their bright and cheery decor made for such a fun event. I loved Kelsey’s attention to detail. My favorite detail of the day was their IZZE pop seating chart! Such an adorable way for your guests to find their seat.
Ashley West Photography: We dodged the rain throughout the day by popping in and out of covered areas of the hotel, and it left just in time for their outdoor ceremony. I loved Kelsey’s birdcage veil that she wore for the ceremony, made a beautiful touch for some portraits too! They were both laid back, calm, and excited. We had so much fun!
About Ashley West Photography
Ashley West: Hi! I’m Ashley, your photographer! I absolutely LOVE what I do. I am a wedding and portrait photographer in Columbus, Ohio… and it is an absolute dream. Capturing the best moments in someone’s life is the most fun/rewarding job there is! I try to approach weddings with several views. My favorite moments are the natural/candid moments, but I love a good traditionally posed shot too. It’s important to me to keep my work well rounded. I cannot imagine doing anything else, it’s my true passion!
Find the photographer – Ashley West photography:
Other vendors:
Venue & Food: NorthPointe Hotel & conference center | Videographer: Prodigy Cinema | Florist: Bloomtastic | Cake: The Cake Studio | DJ: Columbus Platinum Party DJ’s | String Quart: Columbus Musicians LCC | Linens: Got ya covered | Characteris: Characteris by Sean Platt | Make Up: Alison Feanster
