The girls kicked things off at a nearby Airbnb, and the energy was lighthearted. By the time I arrived, the bridesmaids were already dressed and Ashlee was just finishing up her makeup. Her dress went on, followed by jewellery and cowboy boots, and we snuck in a few classic portraits before it was time to make our way to the ceremony.
Down at Pioneer Country, Joel and his crew were in high spirits. His groomsmen (and groomswoman – his sister Sarah, who made sure the boys behaved!) brought the banter and plenty of laughs. But when Ashlee walked down the aisle with her dad, Joel suddenly had to wipe a little “dust” from his eyes.
The ceremony itself was warm and heartfelt, with plenty of laughs – including a surprise tequila shot showdown to decide who’d read their vows first. After sealing it with a kiss, Ashlee & Joel made their way back down the aisle through a shower of confetti to cheers and hugs all around. We rolled through a big group shot, some family portraits, and then a few bridal party photos before everyone kicked off cocktail hour on the verandah. As the sun started to dip, the bridal party piled into the vintage troop carrier and we headed up the hill – where we were greeted by cows everywhere. It added perfectly to the Pioneer Country charm and made for such a fun backdrop.
As golden hour rolled in, the bridal party headed back, leaving Ashlee & Joel with a little quiet time together. Just the two of them, golden light, and yes – cows hanging around curious to see what was going on. The sunset couldn’t have been more perfect.
Back down to the barn and the couple made their grand entrance, then guests enjoyed heartfelt (and hilarious) speeches – Joel’s dad even snuck in a classic joke – before dinner, cake, and the first dance. Halfway through the dance, everyone joined in and the dance floor came alive, with the party carrying on well into the night.
A day full of love, laughter, tequila, and cows – Ashlee & Joel nailed the brief for a wedding that was unapologetically them.
Click images to fill the screen
Vendors
Celebrant: Chiquita weddings
Hair & MUA: Tina Kristen weddings
Florist: Made Florals
Cake: Dabelles catering
Musician/DJ: @alishatoddweddings
Dress: @kategubanyibridal
Shoes: Wildfire shoes
Jewellery: frankly my dear
Suit: Connor
Shoes: Ariat
For another Pioneer Country wedding click here
