I still remember my very first phone call with Kaylee. What was supposed to be a quick chat turned into a 45-minute conversation. (I know, I know… me? Talk for that long? Shocking, right?) Little did I know that conversation would lead me to one of the sweetest Chestnut Ridge wedding in Asheville weekends I’ve ever photographed.
The sweetest day with my favorite people (and a dog in a bow tie!)
Kaylee and Ridge are both on their way to becoming doctors, and after spending time with them, I can honestly say I wish they could be my doctors. They met during med school orientation and have been together ever since. And when I tell you these two had to perfectly time their wedding weekend … wow.
Picture this: they graduated med school, packed up, relocated, had orientation for residency during wedding week, drove to North Carolina, got married on Saturday, and were back on Monday morning doing all the doctor things. Grey’s Anatomy has nothing on these two. 😉
Kaylee and Ridge are just the kind of people who make you feel lucky to know them. The way they love each other, and the people around them, is so genuine.
They got married at Chestnut Ridge – one of my favorite venues for an Asheville wedding – and I’m still smiling about it. The getting-ready suite there is a dream. Flooded with the most beautiful natural light, making it the perfect place for pre-wedding photos.
Getting Ready at Chestnut Ridge
Flawless Airbrush worked their magic (as always!) and had the whole bridal party looking absolutely stunning. And can we take a moment for Kaylee’s dress from Marie Gabriel Couture Bridal?! Total obsession. I’m always a sucker for a dress with removable sleeves. The best surprise detail when it’s time to hit the dance floor.
We kicked things off with a first look with Dad and it was the kind of moment that melts you on the spot. Kaylee’s girls did their own first look right after. Lots of squealing, happy tears, and bear hugs. 10/10 would relive.
The Chestnut Ridge bridal suite is honestly one of the best spots for getting ready photos if you’re planning a Chestnut Ridge wedding in Asheville. Between the twinkle of champagne glasses and the soundtrack of laughter, it was one of those mornings where you could feel the anticipation buzzing in the air.
The pretty little details
Pearl-trimmed shoes, heirloom rings on that gorgeous invitation suite, and a bouquet that looked like it walked out of a painting. Springvine Design AVL really said “florals, but make it breathtaking.”
As a wedding photographer, I geek out over details like this because they tell such a personal part of the story. These are the heirlooms and keepsakes that get passed down or framed on a mantle, and I love capturing them in ways that feel timeless. And shoutout to Emily at Chestnut Ridge. Girl’s got talent.
Wilson, honorary groomsman
Wilson was there for everything. He trotted down the aisle like a pro, sat sweetly during vows, popped onto the dance floor for a cameo, and then helped with the sparkler exit like he’s been doing weddings his whole life. I’m now accepting all dog wedding applications.
It’s safe to say Wilson stole the show more than once. If you’re wondering whether to bring your pup to your wedding … this is your sign. He wore his little tux like he was born for Asheville wedding photography greatness.
Their vows (tears everywhere!)
Kaylee said their love isn’t the sweep-you-off-your-feet kind of love. It’s the hold-you-up when life tries to knock you over kind of love. I felt that in my soul. She also shared that she didn’t grow up dreaming of a prince, then she met Ridge and started picturing a future where he mattered more than any plan. Cue the tissues??
I wasn’t the only one sniffling behind the camera. The vows had everyone – from bridesmaids, to groomsmen, to guests – tearing up. That’s the beauty of capturing wedding photography; it’s never just about pretty pictures, it’s about holding onto those once-in-a-lifetime emotions.
Portraits, but make them fast
K+R wanted to make cocktail hour (as they should), so we powered through portraits like champs. Groomsmen being iconic, bridesmaids glowing, everyone laughing. We got exactly what we needed and then sprinted back to the party.
I always tell couples: portraits don’t have to take forever. With a little direction and a lot of fun, you can get those frame-worthy photos without missing the shrimp cocktail. It’s all about keeping things light, natural, and joy-filled.
Reception details I wanted to live inside
Candles, glass, and warm glow for days. Vintage pews and cozy corners. I even found the cutest little couch tucked away and obviously took a “wedding photographer day-of” selfie moment in spirit. Emily with CR Planning made everything run like butter.
The whole reception looked like a Pinterest board come to life. Every table felt like its own little vignette, and as an Asheville wedding photographer, I couldn’t stop clicking. From the glassware to the florals, every detail whispered “romance.”
Golden Hour Photos with an Asheville Wedding Photographer
One of my favorite wedding photography tricks? Sneaking the bride and groom out during dinner for golden hour photos for five minutes. The light? Unreal. We wandered the deck and the paths, mountains behind us, and made the kind of portraits that end up framed on the wall forever. Quick, quiet, perfect.
There’s just something about golden hour at a Chestnut Ridge wedding in Asheville. It’s pure magic. It’s like the whole world pauses for those few minutes, and you’re left with the kind of images that sum up an entire wedding day. If you’re planning Asheville wedding photography in particular, trust me … you want to schedule golden hour time.
Dance floor, activated
Back inside, DJ Kipper turned the room into a whole mood. Everyone danced like they meant it, there may have been an accidental cake smash situation, and the photos are chaotic in the best way.
Honestly, I’ll never forget the energy in that room. From grandparents breaking it down to bridesmaids belting lyrics at the top of their lungs, it was pure joy. These are the moments where my job as an Asheville wedding photographer doubles as hype girl, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Taylor Swift? Yes please.
Private last dance + sparkler exit
They wrapped the night with a quiet private dance. Just the two of them soaking it in. Then we ran out to a sparkler tunnel, Wilson trotted through like the star he is, and they ended the night exactly how it started: grinning from ear to ear.
That final dance? Pure magic. The sparklers were the perfect send-off, and the cherry on top was Wilson strutting right alongside his humans like he owned the place. Chestnut Ridge really knows how to host a fairytale ending.
If you’re planning a Chestnut Ridge wedding in Asheville (or anywhere in the Blue Ridge mountains)…
… and want a photographer who will hype you up, fix your corset, keep portraits fast, and eat your wedding cake? Hi, it’s me. 💖
Peek the full portfolio or say hello.
