“I am going to marry the heck out of that girl!” Scott called to me as he went to meet Ashley for their “first look” the afternoon of their wedding.  In that one hilarious sentence, he described the entire wedding for me -  so eager, so happy, and really, just tons and tons of fun.

Ashley and Scott’s story began in the sixth grade, when Scott decided right away that Ashley was the only girl for him. It took Ashley a bit longer to catch on, though she does admit that the other guys she dated were a bit suspicious of her best friend. But as they-- and their families-- grew closer over the years, they discovered that they were perfect for each other: down-to-earth extroverts with lots of energy who are just as kind, generous, and funny as they can be.

The wedding day on June 21 dawned sunny, perfect, and utterly relaxed thanks to impeccable coordination by Barbara Hoover. The bride’s dressing room was particularly chummy-- with Ashley’s good friend and colleague Leann Layton from Studio Branca dressing her hair, and another close friend Christina  bringing her makeup talents. Ashley’s gorgeous Ramona Keveza gown from Town and Country Bridal was complemented by her bridesmaids’ pink and white Lulu Kate gowns from  Bella Bridesmaid and perfectly accented by lush bouquets of pink and white roses created by Frankie Peltier of Festive Couture Floral.  Frankie’s beautiful floral arrangements added the perfect finishing touch to Ladue Chapel where the afternoon sunlight gave the perfect ambience to the ceremony itself.

The celebration continued with a reception at the Saint Louis Club where Ashley and Scott cut a beautiful cake designed especially for them by Encore Baking.   Frankie’s beautiful arrangements, tablecloths and lighting added just the right atmosphere for the wonderful party that was to follow.  Ashley told me that she choose Arvell and Company because everyone they knew just loved to dance.  And the dancing was wonderful - because the families had been so close for years, everyone young and old took to the floor, kicking off heels to keep the party going.

That night, I fell asleep cheerful at the thought of this wonderful couple in it beginning a new family together. Congratulations to you both!