A Romantic End-of-Summer Celebration: Michael & Ashley’s Wedding at Crooked Willow
Michael and Ashley’s wedding was extra special for us—Michael is one of our very own bartenders! Their late-summer celebration overflowed with warmth, laughter, and heartfelt moments. Every detail reflected their love story and the joy they share.
How They Met
Michael and Ashley met at a CrossFit gym in 2013. Two years later, they went on their first date. They grabbed Dairy Queen treats, laughed the night away, and instantly clicked. From that moment, their story began to unfold—and they’ve been inseparable ever since.
The Proposal
After years of building a life together, Michael decided it was time for a surprise. By then, they had already welcomed two golden retrievers, Mattie and Ruby, into their family. For Ashley’s birthday, Michael planned what seemed like a simple dinner outing. However, the night turned into something unforgettable.
When they returned home, Ashley found rose petals, glowing candles, and a wooden sign that read, “Will you marry me?” Their best friends, Ryan and Macy, were there to celebrate—friends who would later stand beside them as Best Man and Maid of Honor. It was the perfect start to their forever.
The Wedding Style
Their wedding day captured the essence of late summer—romantic, warm, and full of charm. They chose a simple boho theme with rich tones of burgundy and taupe. The colors added depth and elegance, creating a timeless atmosphere that felt both relaxed and refined.
Favorite Moments
For Michael and Ashley, the ceremony stood out as the most meaningful part of the day. Their officiant, Tash Neu, has been Ashley’s friend since childhood and a gym teammate of Michael’s. That connection made the moment deeply personal and emotional.
Later, they loved reliving the day through their photos and videos. Each image brought back the laughter, the tears, and the joy of saying “I do.”
Why They Loved Crooked Willow
When it came to choosing a venue, Michael and Ashley knew Crooked Willow was the one. They fell in love with the property’s beauty and the convenience of having everything in one place. The barn, suites, ceremony sites, and open fields created a dreamy backdrop for their celebration.
Even more, they appreciated the people who helped bring their vision to life. “Everything was so perfect,” they shared. “The team made the entire experience easy and enjoyable.”
Michael and Ashley’s wedding was a true reflection of who they are—joyful, genuine, and full of love. Their day reminded us why we do what we do: to create spaces where love stories come to life. Congratulations to this wonderful couple!
*photos by Kayla Hammer Photography



