WHEN FREDDIE MET LILLY REAL BRIDE: ASHLEA'S LOVE STORY

Ashlea and Ross' Path to Forever

Ashlea and Ross have two delightful tales about their first meeting: the official version and the real story. Officially, they met in a cozy coffee shop, where Ross's quiet demeanour balanced Ashlea's lively chatter. Fortunately, both were keen to meet again.

The true story reveals their initial connection on eHarmony. Ashlea’s first reaction to Ross’s profile picture eventually led to him reaching out after a few months. Their online conversations flowed effortlessly, making their first coffee shop date a natural next step. Love definitely finds a way!

A Proposal Full of Surprises

Ross’s proposal was a well-orchestrated surprise, despite their prior discussions and ring shopping. He designed Ashlea’s ring with thoughtful touches: durable platinum, trilogy, and unique chocolate side diamonds complementing the main diamond stone. Talk about details!

 The actual proposal caught Ashlea off guard and it was perfectly unexpected. Ross presented the ring while she napped on the couch after a day of earring shopping. Overcome with emotion, Ashlea joyfully accepted, and they celebrated with a memorable dinner.

To Ashlea, marriage represents a conscious choice of companionship. Marrying Ross was her most genuine expression of love, embodying her commitment to a shared future. It’s a daily choice, one they hope to continue making with joy and dedication.

Their dream venue was The Chapel Montville, a place Ashlea had admired since watching a woodworking documentary a decade earlier in England. When Ross proposed, they knew instantly that this picturesque chapel was the perfect setting for their wedding.

The Chapel Montville's inherent beauty required no additional decorations. The reception featured a color palette of white, soft sage green, and hints of pink and plum in the floral centrepieces, which were birdcages, enhancing the whimsical theme.

Balancing family locations, with Ashlea’s family in Victoria and Ross’s in Queensland, led to a mini-destination wedding. Immediate family and close friends gathered to celebrate. Although Ashlea’s grandparents couldn’t travel, Ross’s grandma attended, and Evernew Studio captured every magical moment to share with those who couldn’t be there.

Ashlea’s vision for her wedding dress was anything but traditional. She sought a gown that made her feel beautiful and regal. Her journey led her to When Freddie Met Lilly, where she found the blush pink Eastwood Gown and a burgundy ostrich feather bolero, making her feel like a fairy queen.

The crowning jewel of her bridal look was the burgundy ostrich feather bolero, a statement piece that transformed her whole ensemble. The bolero’s luxurious feathers and rich hue not only added a dramatic flair but also perfectly complemented the Eastwood Gown, tying together the entire bridal look with an exquisite touch.

Ross selected his attire with care, choosing a sleek grey suit to complement Ashlea’s unique dress. They added a blush pink tie for a cohesive look. Ashlea’s influence extended to his boutonniere, which he adored upon seeing it.

Their vows were the centerpiece of their wedding, meticulously crafted and deeply meaningful. These words were their ultimate gift to each other, encapsulating their love and commitment.

Ashlea’s meticulous planning, completed well in advance, allowed her to enjoy the creative process. The best advice she received was to savor the day and take moments to breathe, ensuring she could fully appreciate each moment.

Ashlea and Ross wanted their wedding to reflect their personalities. A small guest list and a simple ceremony ensured the day was intimate and true to them. The day unfolded perfectly, filled with love and magic.

Ashlea loved the intimacy of a smaller wedding, which allowed her to truly enjoy the day. Her advice to future brides is to make their wedding day uniquely theirs, involving their partner in every step to ensure it’s a shared, cherished experience.

Ashlea felt special and understood at When Freddie Met Lilly. The studio's ambiance was perfect, and the experience was delightful, culminating in finding a dress that perfectly matched her vision. 

The bridal party’s styling came together serendipitously. The blush pink and burgundy gowns for the Maid of Honour were complemented by sage green accents in the florals and napkins, creating a harmonious and whimsical look.

The artificial floral arrangements by Ginger Says were breathtaking, featuring a blend of soft pink, plum, and light sage green. These high-quality flowers perfectly matched the dress tones, adding to the day's enchantment.

Ashlea's hidden treasures: she had a secret pocket sewn into the lining of her bodice to carry a tatted lace handkerchief, a cherished keepsake that added a personal touch to her magical day.