May 2025: Ashlea & Carson’s Ceremony in the Smoky Mountains

Saying ‘I do’ is more than between more than just to the two of them, it is committing to God, one another, and the people who make life worth living

Ashlea and Carson’s story began in college, where a shared class and serving together at church turned friendship into something steady and meaningful. Their connection deepened in small ways at first, and then unmistakably—like the day Carson drove two hours to care for Ashlea after surgery and carried her up the stairs when she could not walk. Their love grew through moments like that: intentional, selfless, and rooted in communication, which they both now see as the foundation of their marriage. When they imagined where they wanted to celebrate their wedding, they chose the mountains of Western North Carolina for the peaceful timeline, the all-inclusive ease of the venue, and the breathtaking views at Chapel in the Sky. A May ceremony in Nantahala felt like the perfect fit.

Their wedding weekend reflected the softness and sincerity of their relationship. They approached the day with excitement for the future they are building—one filled with adventure, a home with a yard, a dog or two, and children one day. Through every moment of their celebration, they held onto the simple truth that they have found their lifelong best friend in each other. With the mountains surrounding them and their closest people nearby, their ceremony felt both grounded and joyful, exactly the experience they hoped for when choosing a destination wedding in Nantahala.

For couples planning their own mountain wedding, Ashlea offers clear advice: plan earlier than you think you need to, and use organization tools like The Knot or Zola to stay ahead. Their vendor team helped make the weekend seamless—Carmela Brooks of Carmela Occasions and Creations created a beautiful, stress-free day; Tracey Passmore Catering delivered outstanding food with thoughtful accommodations for dietary needs; and Christiaan Dewitt of DEWITCO Photography captured the day with talent and unobtrusive professionalism. To make the most of a Nantahala wedding weekend, Ashlea recommends bringing food and essentials ahead of time and spending slow, intentional moments exploring the property before the big day. The beauty of the mountains—and the peaceful pace of the venue—set the perfect backdrop for a truly unforgettable May wedding.