For Always

Like most little girls, I dreamt of what my wedding day would be like. The flowers, the colors, the cake, the groom and the dress (yes, there was a little more emphasis on the dress than the groom). Fast forward 20 years and not only have I lived out my dream wedding to my dream groom, but I now have the honor of creating celebrations for couples to remember for the rest of their lives.
When Michael Dee asked me to co-publish the wedding issue of Arizona Foothills Magazine, I was thrilled. Not only is it all about one of my favorite subjects but it’s smack dab in the middle of one of
our state’s most beautiful seasons: spring. I love spring! It’s no wonder that every Saturday, March through May, is booked on my calendar. The flowers are in bloom, the weather is perfect and the season is filled with new beginnings. It’s romantic and blissful on its own but add in a happy couple and, just like that, you have the perfect start to a wedding. Hire a wedding planner and your day is next to complete.

If your love of an Arizona spring is close to mine, then you are going to appreciate the stories in this month’s issue. Enjoy a romantic and vibrant spread shot at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, and a chat with the über-fabulous Randy Fenoli, star of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress.” And let’s not forget that sexy spark in every bride-to-be, as I provide tips for a fun pre-wedding boudoir shoot (a perfect gift for your soon-to-be husband).

During our shoot at The Ritz-Carlton for this month’s feature, I was escorting our bride down the main foyer of the hotel, helping her hold her beautiful dress up off the floor. Walking in the opposite direction toward us was a mother with her beautiful 5-year-old daughter. I first noticed the little girl because her little eyes were just beaming and a wide smile overtook her precious face after her first look at our bride. She stared from the beginning of the hall to the end. In the midst of watching her, I glanced at her mom, also smiling so big and her eyes filled with happiness.

She was still that little girl on the inside. I guess some things never change; we can’t help but smile when we see a beautiful bride on her day. I guess our little-girl hearts are ours for always.
It’s a busy and exciting time of year in the wedding world, which means there will be plenty more to share in months to come. I hope the wedding features inspire you for your special day and that we get to meet you in planning along the way.

Happy planning!
Ashley Gain  Ashley Gain Weddings and Events