August 27, 2022
Photos by Leslie Hollingsworth
How did you two meet?
We met the summer before our sophomore year at Auburn University and were introduced through a mutual friend. We actually then went a couple of months without meeting again until we ran into each other and were introduced yet again by another mutual friend. After spending time getting to know each other, we realized our relationship was special.
The Proposal
Jackson had planned a special date for us that night to celebrate the last day of my finals week (I was in Physician Assistant School at Samford University). He picked me up earlier than expected, saying he wanted to catch the sunset before going to dinner. He took me to Vestavia Drive, which is one of my favorite places. He had two chairs set up on the top of the mountain to sit in and watch the sunset. Before we even sat down, Jackson told me he wanted to tell me something important and that is when he proposed! He even gifted me a beautiful bible with my new name, Ashlyn McCrary, engraved on the front cover.
Favorite Wedding Moment
We got married at Vestavia Hills Methodist Church and had our reception in the ballroom of Vestavia Country Club. Once the reception came to a close, we had planned with the band to send our guests out to the front of VCC to get ready for the sendoff and have the ballroom empty for one last dance–just Jackson and me.
Favorite Wedding Details
One detail I loved was the entrance table to the ballroom. My mom had framed wedding photos of both Jackson’s parents and grandparents and mine on our families’ individual wedding days. Lillie Janes Florals added greenery and small flowers around the photos, and the table sat right in front of our wedding cake.
Ceremony Venue: Vestavia Hills Methodist Church Reception Venue: Vestavia Country Club Florist: Carol B. Harris with Lillie Janes Florals Caterer: Vestavia Country Club Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Lauryn Schilleci with Lauryn E. Weddings Cake: Telia Johnson Cakes Wedding Dress: Carriage House Weddings Bridal Hair/Makeup: Hair & Makeup by Nat Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse DJ/Wedding Band: The City Party Band with Music Gardens Wedding Transportation: Rare Transportation & Event Rides BHM Wedding Night Accommodations: The Valley Hotel
