Alix and Ashton’s Kansas City wedding was the perfect blend of vintage elegance, romantic design, and deeply personal touches. From their lush cream-and-blush floral ceremony to an intimate candlelit dinner reception, every element of the day reflected their story—with meaningful nods to loved ones and quiet, heartfelt moments between the two of them.
Having met in the boldest of ways—Alix asking Ashton if he “wanted a smooch” the night they met—this couple brought that same fearless love into their wedding day. They exchanged private vows before the ceremony, honored family history with memory seats and heirloom photos, and filled their celebration with charming details like bow accents, painted champagne bottles, and glowing candlelight. It was a celebration that felt tender, joyful, and utterly unforgettable.
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
It was January 2020—Alix was visiting a friend, Ashton was cheering on his DJ buddy, and fate (plus a little liquid courage) did the rest. Alix marched right up to Ashton and asked, “Do you have a girlfriend?” He said no. “Wanna smooch?” she asked. He said yes.
We closed down the bar, swapped numbers, and have talked every single day since. One bold question turned into forever.
Alix’s first impression of Ashton:
Ashton’s first impression of Alix: This gorgeous girl walked up to me like she was on a mission. I barely had time to blink before she hit me with, ‘Do you have a girlfriend?’ and then, ‘Wanna smooch?’ I was stunned, in the best way. She was bold, hilarious, and way out of my league. I knew right then this wasn’t just another night in Nashville. It wasn’t just that she was beautiful—though she absolutely was—it was the way she made me feel seen in a place full of people.
Alix’s first impression of Ashton: He had this kind energy that instantly made me feel at ease (even in the middle of a loud Nashville bar). From the second he spoke to me, I knew he was different. We instantly connected and he felt somehow already familiar.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
As we walked up the stairs to exit the ceremony, Alix’s heel caught in her dress, and down she went. Ashton, still in post-vow bliss, was all smiles and waves totally unaware his new bride was in a minor fashion crisis behind him.
But within seconds, he was by her side, helping her up with that same smile—and that’s us in a nutshell.
And yes—Ashley’s team caught every second on camera. We’ll treasure it forever (and probably never stop laughing, either).
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
One of the challenges we faced in our relationship was long distance during our early phase of dating. In our early dating days, we didn’t have the luxury of spending as much time together since Alix was in physical therapy school in KC and Ashton was finishing his degree in Tennessee. There were many tearful airport goodbyes. Looking back, that time shaped our relationship. It taught us patience and good communication.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
Family means everything to us, so we made sure their presence was felt in every part of our wedding day—even by those who couldn’t physically be there.
During the ceremony, we reserved special empty seats with a single rose tied with a bow to honor loved ones who have passed. It was our way of holding space for their memory as we said our vows.
Throughout cocktail hour and the reception, we created an “Honor Table” filled with photos and mementos—a quiet, beautiful corner where their spirits could be part of the celebration. One especially meaningful piece was a framed photo of Alix’s mom and dad on their wedding day, placed at the head of the table during the reception in honor of her late father.
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
The ceremony and having all of our closest family and friends together was the most important to us, especially as most of our wedding guest had traveled from out of town. Another important and unforgettable part of our wedding day happened quietly—just the two of us.
Before the ceremony, we shared private vows after our first look—just the two of us, no audience, no distractions. It was quiet, raw, and full of love. In the middle of all the excitement, that little moment grounded us—and reminded us what it was all about.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
Ashton: One of the most valuable things I’ve learned through our relationship is that success in marriage isn’t about being right—it’s about being present. Alix taught me the power of being slow to speak and quick to listen. That simple shift helped us communicate more honestly, more kindly, and in a way that always makes the other feel heard, seen, and respected. It’s something I carry with me every day—not just in our marriage, but in how I move through the world.
Alix: Ashton has taught me the power of patience—not just with others, but with myself. He’s my calm in the chaos, my sounding board when life throws curveballs. No matter what’s happening around us, he has this steady, grounded way of staying calm, thinking clearly, and helping me breathe through the storms. His patience has softened my edges and made me feel safe, supported, and completely loved.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
Ashton: My favorite thing about Alix is how deeply and wholeheartedly she loves me. She has this incredible way of making me feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for—every single day. Whether it’s a surprise note, a thoughtful gift, or just checking in to see how I’m doing, she always finds a way to show me I’m on her mind. I’ve never felt more loved in my life.
Alix: My favorite thing about Ashton is how he truly feels like my life partner in every sense. We share the same passions and find joy in the simplest moments together. He makes me laugh like no one else can, and through all the ups and downs, we’ve grown so much side by side. He’s not just my husband; he’s my best friend, my go-to on both the best days and the hardest ones. I love doing life with him, and I wouldn’t want to do it with anyone else.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
Our favorite part about planning our wedding has been experiencing everything together—tasting food, touring venues, and dreaming about our future. It’s been a beautiful journey, not just in creating the perfect day, but in the little moments of excitement, anticipation, and teamwork. Every step has been a new adventure and I love how we’ve shared each one.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Trust each other, always. Take the time to truly hear each other out, even when it’s hard. If things get heated, take five and give yourselves space to cool down. Work through issues together, with patience and understanding, and never hold things against each other. The fun part of marriage will always come easy, but remember—the work you put in, especially during the tough moments, will always be worth it. A strong partnership is built on love, trust, and the commitment to grow together.
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
Love isn’t always perfect or easy. It’s messy, sometimes complicated, and requires effort. But the most honest thing about love is that it’s worth it. It’s showing up for each other when it’s tough, learning to forgive, and growing together. True love isn’t about never having disagreements—it’s about how you handle them, how you support each other through the highs and lows, and how you keep choosing each other every day.
Couple: @heyy_arnolddd
Planner: Sarah with Composure Events / @sarahwithcomposure
Photographer: Ashley Ice / @ashleyicephotos
Film: Ashley Ice Films / @ashleyice.films
Content Creator: Ashley Ice Content / @ashleyice.content
Venue: The Grand Hall / @thegrandhall
Florist: Floriography / @floriographykc
Hair Styling: @hairbymaddie
Hair Color: @willowsalon_suites
Makeup: Madee Stewart Makeup Artistry / @msmakeupartistry_
DJ: Fernando Productions / @fernandoproductionskc
Stationery + Signage: Sparkman Studio / @sparkmanstudio
Painted Champagne Bottle: Cindy Scott Artistry / @cindyscottartistry
Photo Booth: Luxe Photo Booth KC
Dog Sitter & Transport: Katie’s Kennel / @katieskennel
Bride Dress + Veil: Mimi’s Couture / @mimiscouturebridal
Bride Shoes: Christian Louboutin / @louboutinworld
Second Dress: Untamed Petals / @untamedpetals
Dancing Shoes: Golden Goose / @goldengoose
Bride’s Morning Slip: Kat the Label / @umspicersilbl
Bride Robe: Feerie Lingerie / @feerie.lingerie
Linens: BBJ La Tavola / @bbjlatavola
Rentals: Supply Events / @supplyevents
Bridesmaid PJs: Amazon / @amazon
Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry / @shoprevelry
Bride Nails: H Nails
Groom Barber: Blue Collar Barber Co. / @bluecollarbarberco
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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