Kareem and Ashley’s formal ballroom ceremony at Valley Mansion set during the fall of 2020 was a gorgeous dream come true for the couple during the Covid- 19 pandemic.
For Ashley, Kareem’s birthday dinner was going to be a family affair planned by his brother and best friend. The event even had a pre-planned color scheme of black and white, but little did she know it was going to be a surprise of a lifetime. Ashley revealed, “I didn’t invite any of my friends because this was supposed to be about Kareem and all his really close friends and family. When I walked through the doors of the restaurant, I started crying immediately because I saw all my family and friends and at that moment I knew what was about to happen.” The couple was engaged.
With their family and friends stylishly attired in all black, the couple said their I do’s beneath crystal chandeliers hung beautifully in a luxurious ballroom. The thoughtful couple gave their guests customized black masks with the creative hashtag #HeadoverHendricks printed in gold to commemorate the day and celebrate their joyful union. Scroll down below to see more fabulous pictures of the couple’s celebration!
- Couple: Ashley and Kareem
- Wedding Date: October 18, 2020
- Wedding Location: Valley Mansion
What was the wedding shopping experience like for you?
I tried on a dress once before I found the one. I attended a boutique weekend sale, just expecting to look and maybe find a reception dress. I was not expecting to find the dress at all that day. It was a last-minute shopping experience but so worth it. My sister in love and matron of honor met me at the store and they proceeded to pick up dresses for me to try on. It wasn’t until I was waiting for another fitting room and a young lady tried on “my dress”, yes I was claiming it! Both my sister in love and matron of honor said you have to try on that dress, hopefully, she doesn’t like it, since it was an off-the-rack sale. While we patiently waited crossing our fingers that she didn’t like it, her grandmother said it was too revealing since she was heavier in the bosom area. Our prayers were answered and grandma has spoken, “it wasn’t the one for her ”. I then politely ask, could I try it on if she wasn’t keeping it and after that, the dress was mine.
Quickfacts
- Bridesmaids Gifts: Personalized robes with their initials, slippers, lipstick, sequined face mask, pamper face mask, and a jewelled clutch to match their bridesmaid dresses.
- Groomsmen Gifts: Personalized picture flasks and socks. Men are so easy!
- Ceremony Entrance Song: Chris Brown & Young Thug – Go Crazy
- First Dance Song: James Brown – Try Me
What is your best memory from your wedding?
The best memory was the reading of our vows.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Remember when all the festivities are over, your focus is the next chapter of your lives so don’t put yourself in a financial hardship to say it was “Instagram” worthy, because no matter what, you are worthy and social media doesn’t define your marriage! Yes, It’s your day and by all means do what makes your heart smile, just remember it’s life after the glitz and glam of the ceremony. Lastly, place God at the center of your marriage and you will be provided with the tools needed for a successful marriage.
Vendors
- Wedding Planner: The Lifestyled Brand IG @lifestyled._
- Photographer: Chip Dizard
- Second Shooter(s): IG: @quaminaimage @chiaraslaw
- Videography: IG @stewdiovisuals
- Bridal Gown & Bridesmaids Dresses: Pronovias IG @Pronovias
- Boutique: Ellie’s Bridal Boutique IG @elliesbridal
- Reception Gown: Bloomingdale’s
- Groom’s Attire & Groomsmen Attire : Men’s Wearhouse
- Bridal Makeup: Ashley Tolani IG @Tolxani
- Bridal Hair: Encore by Corey IG @encore_by_corey
- Bridesmaid Makeup: Erin Staszak IG @ErinStaszak
- Lighting, Draping, Floor: The Light Source Company IG @thelightsourcecompany
- Rentals: Garden of Eden International IG @edeneventnpartyrentals
- Venue and Catering: Martin’s Valley Mansion IG @martinsweddings
- DJ: DJ Reece IG @djreecetoc
- Photo Booth: Love Theory Photo Booth IG @lovetheoryphotobooth
- Cake: A Taste of Sweetness IG @atasteofsweetness
- Logo, Custom Masks and Stationery Gold Foiling: IG @vernitastewartdesigns
- Transportation: Borden Transportation
- Lodging: Delta by Marriott Hunt Valley IG @deltahotelhuntvalley
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