Local Weddings: Ashanna and Andy in Stevensville

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The Proposal. Andy imagined the perfect proposal complete with a tour of picturesque University of Virginia's campus, dinner, and a concert. He was able to buy Dave Matthews Band tickets last minute, but the two arrived late and Ashanna was "hungry, per usual." Andy had hoped to tour UVA's campus and propose prior to dinner. Ashanna insisted on eating pizza first. By the time they completed their meal, it was dark outside. The couple ended up getting lost and had to ask for directions to the Whispering Wall, where Andy knew if two people stood on opposite ends of the structure and one whispered to the other, it would sound as if the whisperer was standing right next to the listener. Andy and Ashanna positioned themselves to test the myth; he proceeded to tell her that he loved her and he had a ring in his pocket. Ashanna rushed over but ended up needing to run to the nearest streetlight to see actually see the ring. She began jumping up and down.

The Ceremony. As a personal touch, a close friend of Andy's served as the pastor in front of the crowd of 200. He took is his role seriously by asking the couple's parents, best man, and maid of honor ahead of time why the couple wanted to get married and what marriage meant to each person. To have such an invested pastor in the outcome of a life changing decision meant volumes to Andy and Ashanna. They also chose to write their own vows, which ultimately brought tears to their eyes.

The Details. The future Mr. and Mrs. Calvert chose Chesapeake Bay Beach Club for their wedding and reception. It was important to them to be on the water, and the club's landscape allowed for a variety of photo opportunities. Ashanna wore an exquisite gown with intricate floral detail by Watters Lasara, while her eight bridesmaids wore J Crew Sophia dresses in Spiced Wine.

After tying the knot, it was cocktail hour. A steel band serenaded the guests while they indulged in hors d'oeuvres of tomatoes with mozzarella, lobster and crab bisque, and vegetable samosas. When it came time for the traditional couple's first dance, it was only fitting that husband and wife swirled around the dance floor to Dave Matthews Band's "You and Me."

The Favors. Before the evening was through, Andy and Ashanna presented their guests with a very simple, yet sentimental party favor. Having seen the joy glow sticks brought the Brazilian children during the last night of their mission trip, Andy and Ashanna wanted to share the same gift with their family and friends, hopefully to light up the lives of each of their guests after sharing an awe-inspiring first day as husband and wife.

—Alexandra Bertrand

THE DETAILS