The Christmas season is undoubtedly magical. Whether it’s the whisper of snow in the air or the faint twinkling of silver bells in the background, falling in love is exceptional this time of year, but it’s an even more magical time for a wedding. No one can attest to this better than Ashley and Michael Hettinger who are celebrating their one- year anniversary of marriage on December 8. “Since the wedding was in December, I wanted it to feel romantic with some winter and Christmas touches,” says Ashley. To accomplish this, Michael painted gold numbers on large burgundy colored ornaments and had them hanging from ornament stands on each table at their reception site. The same rich burgundy color popped up in their floral arrangements and their venue had two beautiful Christmas trees decorated in the lobby. Lanterns and floating candles completed the warm, romantic feeling of the room further enhancing the nod to Christmas on their special day.
Ashley and Michael, who have known each other since high school, have always shared a love of the Bluegrass State, particularly Louisville where they have spent a great deal of time. “Even though we’re from Indiana, Michael has worked at the Ford Truck Plant for four years now and I worked at Norton Hospital downtown in the ICU after graduating nursing school. We love exploring the city and checking out all the new restaurants.” The Gillespie in Louisville was selected for both their ceremony and reception venue not only for its inherent aesthetic featuring columns, marble floors and chandeliers, but because it was lofty enough to accommodate their extensive guestlist. Ashley explains, “The Gillespie used to be a bank built in 1929 and we loved the architecture
The guests went to the mezzanine level after the ceremony to enjoy cocktails and appetizers while the ceremony space was transformed into the reception.”
Ashely looked like a Christmas angel walking down the aisle to meet her waiting groom who had calmed her nerves during their special first look, one of the couple’s favorite moments of the day. “I had so many butterflies and I felt like I couldn’t take a deep breath,” Ashley remembers. “After seeing my soon to be husband I felt so relaxed and our day was incredible.” Special sentimental features included a memorial table with pictures of their loved ones who have passed on paired with a single rose and an heirloom pearl necklace from Michael’s family that Ashley had wrapped in her bouquet. Additionally, to mark her father’s presence at their wedding, Ashley left the first chair open for him with a boutonniere laying on the seat complete with a ribbon and flower arrangement hanging on the side saying “father.” When the happy couple reflects on their stunning day, they agree they wouldn’t have changed a thing. Ashley shares, “We stuck together and stayed true to what was best for us and enjoyed every second of the day.”
Behind the Scenes
PHOTOGRAPHER Redeeming Grace Photography
VIDEOGRAPHER Rickard Visual Media
VENUE The Gillespie
CATERING Stumler’s Catering
SWEETS Rookies Cookies & Cake
FLOWERS Denise Hettinger & Family
PLANNER/DECOR Fit To Be Tied Weddings & Events
BRIDAL ATTIRE Rebecca’s Wedding Boutique, Louisville wedding Veils by Tally
BRIDAL PARTY USA Bridal
FUR SHAWLS House of K Boutique
GROOM/GROOMSMEN Men’s Wearhouse
MAKEUP Rachel Edwards
HAIR Kayla Mansfield NBR Artist, Hot Locks Salon and Spa
BAND Endless Summer Band
