With their hometowns being approximately 8 miles apart, their families being connected for years and his mother being Ashlee’s beautician – Ashlee and Rashad’s love was destined from the start. But, after Ashlee’s family relocated across the country (for military related reasons), the pair lost touch, but reconnected in 2010 and began their whirlwind courtship.
For the weekend of Ashlee’s 25th birthday, the couple ventured to The City of Brotherly Love – Philadelphia, PA, for a get-a-way filled an agenda planned by Rashad. After taking in the historical landmarks, visiting LOVE Park and the Rocky statue – Rashad suggested they go to a nearby rooftop to view the skyline. As the couple scoped out the scenery, Rashad asked Ashlee, “Are you going to take a picture?” Hesitant and confused, Ashlee replied, “Of what?” but reluctantly began taking pictures. But when she turned around Rashad was down on bended knee, uttering those four magic words.
The couple wed this June in what they deemed as a “quintessential North Carolina wedding” that mirrored their style and personalities. Their simplistic, yet elegant wedding was planned by Pearlice Diggs of P3 Weddings & Events. The planner shared this about the couple’s lovely reception space; “The guest were then invited into the ballroom which was adorned with Linens and impressive Floral Centerpieces in shades of Champagne, Ivory, Lavender, with gold accents. The entire reception was aglow in soft candle light from each centerpiece. The focal point was the custom ‘LOVE’ sweetheart table with decorated with beautiful florals and candlelight.”
Scroll on for more from this gorgeous couple who’s wedding was captured by photographer, Sierra Collins.
The Couple: Ashlee & Rashad Mason
Occupations: Bride: Business Engineer | Groom: IT System Administrator
Wedding date: 6/4/2016
Wedding location: Vizcaya Villa in Fayetteville, NC
Describe your wedding dress. What was wedding shopping like for you?
My wedding dress was a very classic lace to reflect my southern roots. Wedding shopping was extremely fun. However, there’s so much to choose from that it is very easy to overwhelm yourself with ideas.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?
We included very few traditions because we wanted our ceremony reflect our love and personalities.
Quick Facts:
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Bridemaids: Robes & Jewelry | Groomsmen: Personalized Bullet Bottle Opener
Favorite item on the menu: CHICKEN!
First dance song: “A Couple Of Forevers” by Chrisette Michele
What is your best memory from your wedding?
Wedding vows! It was a favorite memory because it was very intimate and emotional for the both of us.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Always keep the focus on the two of you because it’s your day. It is very easy to allow others to distract you with opinions and you lose focus on what is most important – the two of you.
Vendors
Planner: Pearlice Diggs, P3 Weddings & Events
Venue: Vizcaya Villa
Photographer: Sierra Collins Photography
Videographer: Eyedew LLC
Florist: Fresh Affairs
DJ: All Events DJs
Caterer: Elite Catering
Cake: Sweet Tooth
Makeup: Ambria Camelle, The Makeup Addict
Bride’s dress designer: Essense of Australia
Bridesmaids Dresses: Vera Wang
Groom’s Tuxedo: Joseph Abboud
Groomsmen Suits: Calvin Klein
I love Ashlee and Rashad’s story! It was my absolute pleasure to cover their wedding!