Once upon a time, in the heart of Texas, there lived a charming couple named Ashley and Andrew. They first crossed paths in the digital realm of Hinge, where a like and a comment led to a first date. Andrew started the conversation by saying, “Hey Ashley! You have such a beautiful smile! Hope you’re having a great weekend.” This led to several conversations, and eventually, Andrew asking Ashley to dinner.

Their first date took place at one of Ashley’s favorite spots in Dallas, Barcelona Wine Bar. A place known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious tapas. Andrew, a confidant man with a heart as big as Texas, was instantly captivated by Ashley's faith, wit, charm, and spirit for life. Ashley, in turn, found herself smitten by Andrew's charisma and curious nature. Discussing faith, family, health, and life goals, they found several things in common.

As the evening unfolded, Ashley and Andrew could not ignore the intense chemistry between them. The hours melted away, and soon, the staff at Barcelona Wine Bar began to discreetly stack chairs and dim the lights. Unfazed, Ashley and Andrew were lost in conversation, unaware that they had successfully closed down the restaurant. They had turned the evening into an accidental private party. The clock struck midnight, and it was time for the lovebirds to call it a night. As they grabbed their keys, Andrew was already planning their next date.

A few days later, Andrew took Ashley to one of his favorite restaurants in Dallas, Doce Mesas. Here they picked up right where they left off, and it felt like time flew as their feelings for each other continued to grow. Hours passed and the staff started stacking chairs. Again, unfazed, Ashley and Andrew were captivated by each other. They could feel the special connection between them and they did not want the night to end. As midnight rolled around, the restaurant closed up, and Andrew walked Ashley to her car. Ashley fiddled with her keys as Andrew said,

“Well, goodnight.” As the ‘t’ left Andrew’s lips, Ashley pulled him in close for a kiss. They shared their first kiss in the Doce Mesa parking lot! Sparks flew, giggling ensued, and the couple felt a special connection.

That connection deepened over subsequent dates. Going to country concerts like Morgan Wallen, TCU football games, and two-stepping at Billy Bobs, they experienced a lot of firsts together. It only took a boy from Maryland to teach Ashley, a Texas native, how to two-step!

It wasn't long before Andrew saw a future with Ashley. He decided to introduce Ashley to his most precious treasure, his 4-year-old daughter, Ava. Little Ava, with her unyielding spirit and boundless energy, instantly took a liking to Ashley. The duo became fast friends, forming an inseparable bond that transcended the typical stepmom-stepdaughter relationship. Whether getting their nails done, going on lunch dates, or taking Ashley’s dog Ollie for walks, Ava loves her time with “Mumzie”.

As August approached, Andrew asked Ava if she would like Ashley and Ollie to join their family. To which Ava responded, “Yes, yes, yes!” Andrew then proposed to Ashley on August 12th at the Rose Garden in Farmers Branch. Ava’s excitement for the wedding continues to grow, and she cannot wait for Mumzie and Ollie to join the family. Ashley and Andrew looked for a location for the wedding, and Ashley found the Boone Hall Plantation in South Carolina. Charleston always had a special place in Andrew’s heart as he spent summers in the city with his sister, Cara. Furthermore, Ashley, Andrew, and Ava went on their first trip together to Charleston. These memories make it a special city. Ashley, Ava, and Andrew’s journey as a family remains a story of faith, courage, and little moments. Several little moments aligned as Ashley and Andrew bravely took each step, and now they will commit their lives to each other. They will remember these commitments as they teach their family core values of faith, grit, integrity, ownership, and social skills.

Thank you to all the friends and family who made this story possible. The ceremony will be filled with love, laughter, joy, and excitement because of you! God brought you into Ava, Ashley, and Andrew’s life for a reason, and they could not be more grateful for you to join their special day.

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As told by The Groom

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