A James River Country Club Wedding
Ashlyn and Grayson’s wedding was nothing short of magical—a celebration filled with love, laughter, and the kind of joy that leaves an imprint on your heart. Held at the stunning James River Country Club in Newport News, Virginia, their day unfolded like a beautiful love story under the warmth of the April sun.
I’d been looking forward to this day for nearly a year, and when it finally arrived, it felt like everything—the weather, the people, the love in the air—aligned perfectly. This wedding held even deeper meaning, as Ashlyn had recently received the life-changing news that she was cancer-free. After a year of strength, prayers, doctor visits, treatments, and shaving her head in the face of it all (Grayson even shaved his own head in support—cue the tears), this day was a radiant celebration of resilience and love.
Their Love Story
Ashlyn and Grayson’s story began back in high school—he was the talented drummer in the show band, and she, the voice in the choir. High school sweethearts turned soulmates. Years later, during a Spring Break trip to Florida, Grayson planned the sweetest Easter Sunday proposal. After a walk, he handed Ashlyn a stuffed bunny—around its neck, a carrot holding a delicate glass egg. Inside? A ring and the start of forever.
The Wedding Day Begins
The morning of the wedding started in the Bridal Suite, where laughter and calm filled the air. Ashlyn was surrounded by her bridesmaids, her mom, and her soon-to-be mother-in-law, as the hum of makeup brushes and giggles set the tone for the day. The girls even stepped outside to film a fun TikTok for Ashlyn—one of those lighthearted moments that set this wedding apart. When it was time to step into her wedding gown, Ashlyn absolutely glowed—and so did her mother, Leann, helping her into it with teary eyes and the kind of smile only a mom can wear.
Private Vows
Before the ceremony, Ashlyn and Grayson stood back to back, holding hands and exchanging heartfelt, handwritten vows without seeing each other. It was a moment brimming with emotion—tender, sincere, and unforgettable.
A Riverfront Wedding Ceremony
Their ceremony took place by the water, the sunlight dancing across the river as loved ones found their seats. There was a buzz of anticipation just before the music began. One by one, family members made their way down the aisle, followed by the most adorable “ring security officer” and the adorable, freckled flower girl in a soft blue dress, scattering white rose petals. And then—time seemed to pause. Grayson laid eyes on Ashlyn for the first time as she walked down the aisle, radiant in her satin gown with a cathedral veil softly trailing behind her. There wasn’t a dry eye in sight.
Bride and Groom Portraits
After the ceremony, we wandered to the front of the country club for portraits. The whitewashed brick, colorful flowers, and timeless trees created a backdrop that felt straight out of a romance novel. Grayson and Ashlyn were so naturally sweet and affectionate—demonstrating the kind of love that’s as playful as it is deep.
Ballroom Wedding Reception
Inside the dining room, tables were adorned with gorgeous floral arrangements lovingly crafted by Ashlyn’s grandmother. Every detail felt intimate and personal. After dinner, the celebration moved into the ballroom for their first dance, followed by touching father-daughter and mother-son dances.
Golden Hour Riverfront Session
As the evening carried on and the dance floor came alive, we snuck away for just a moment to capture a few final portraits on the dock, with the river shimmering behind them and the sky blushing with the last light of day.
It was more than just a wedding—it was the beginning of a beautiful new chapter for two people whose love has already weathered storms and bloomed even brighter because of it.
Ashlyn and Grayson, congratulations on your marriage- may you experience all the love and joy for many years to come!
Vendors Who Made This Day Possible:
Venue: James River Country Club
Planner: Brittany Boyer
Photographer: Belle Eve Photography
Florist: Pollard’s Florist
Cake Artist: Sweet Chef Pastries
DJ: Family Friend
Invitations: The Knot
Makeup Artist: Makeup By Marjory
Hair Artist: Hair By Amanda Burton
Bridal Gown: Virginia’s Daughter
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Catering: James River Country Club
Favors: Made by Grandparents