I first met Ashley and her mom at a bridal show and we clicked right away.  I knew her wedding would be absolutely beautiful and so much fun so I was really excited when she chose me to photograph her rustic barn wedding at the Mathwig Estate Event Barn in Thurmont, Maryland.  I first met Christopher at the couple’s engagement session.  Ashley and Christopher were so great together (did I mention how photogenic these two are??) and together we were able to capture some beautiful images which made me even more excited for the wedding.

I started off photographing the girls in a cabin near the venue.  The bridesmaids were given matching PJ’s as their gift which made for some fun photos.  Ashley and the girls got dressed with the bridesmaids wearing cowboy boots.  After getting ready, we headed over to Mathwig Estate Event Barn where the groomsmen were getting ready.  The couple had a super sweet first look and then we headed over to some nearby train tracks to take photos of the couple.  When we returned, it was time for the ceremony.  Guests were seated on hay bales covered with various quilts overlooking a beautiful field in between two large trees.  Its very rare that you have the perfect light for an outdoor wedding but this light was literally perfect–perfect time of day, perfect orientation to the sun.  After the ceremony, we took a few more portraits and then it was time to celebrate at the reception.  Guests were given mason jars as their gift and as their cup for the evening.  Friends and family were dancing machines at this wedding reception and I loved it!  The mother of the bride even participated in the Dirty Dancing Song, “I’ve Had the Time of my Life”.  So much fun! The best thing ever happened during our sunset photos.  Ashley turned to Christopher and said, “You like getting your picture taken now don’t you?” and he replied “Well yeah, but only when Ashley takes it because her pictures always turn out so cool.”  I always hear things like this from my brides, but from a groom–extra score! Ashley changed into a short number for their amazing sparkler exit.

Such a fun wedding and an even more amazing couple.  I seriously have the best couples ever!

Photography: Ashley Michelle Photography

Venue: Mathwig Estate Event Barn

Hair Stylist: Jenn Duskey from Renaissance Salon and Spa

Florist: Petal Burst Flower Design Company

Caterer: Kitchen Gourmet

Bakery: Smith Island Cakes

DJ: Bob Popik