Ashley
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Ashley brings over a decade of experience in wedding planning and venue consultancy to Hockwold Hall. With a bachelor’s degree in multimedia production, she brings a strong aesthetic eye to every detail, and her master’s research on the event industry, including the impacts of COVID-19, gives her a unique perspective on how venues and planners can continuously improve the guest experience.
Ashley takes a collaborative, people-first approach, supporting her team and helping everything run smoothly behind the scenes. She enjoys being a resource and guide, making the planning process easier and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Outside of work, Ashley loves traveling, baking, caring for her plants, and going to markets. She and her husband recently relocated from Texas to England, bringing their sense of adventure to their new home.
Here are some questions we asked Ashley so you can get to know a little better:
1. What’s the first thing you do when you arrive on site on a wedding morning?
I love taking a full walk through the space, checking details and fixing anything that needs attention before anyone else notices.
2. What’s one wedding moment that still makes you smile when you think about it?
A completely unexpected downpour during a sunny outdoor ceremony soaked the couple and their guests, and then a double rainbow appeared for the brides. It was chaotic, joyful, and unforgettable!
3. What’s the best meal you’ve ever had at a wedding?
I love interactive food stations, so an international spread with sushi rolling, fresh pizza and even stadium-style food has been my favorite. It makes dinner feel like an experience!
4. What’s one thing you always have in your pocket or bag on a wedding day?
Safety pins and a Tide-to-Go pens. They come to the rescue at almost every event.
5. What’s your guilty pleasure after a busy weekend of weddings?
Lying on the couch, watching TV, and ordering takeout without having to make a single decision.
6. Have you ever had to think very fast at a wedding?
Yes. At a large, formal wedding in Austin, TX, the officiant didn’t show up. I immediately called every officiant I knew and got someone there within 20 minutes. After that, I got ordained myself so it would never happen again.
7. What’s your favourite time of day at a wedding, and why?
Right before sunset! It’s romantic, intimate, and makes for the best golden-hour photos.
8. What’s a trend you secretly love?
I am loving handwritten letters for guests. Replacing traditional favours with personal notes feels SO heartfelt and memorable.
9. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard about weddings?
Sneak away together. Take a private moment to eat, breathe, or just be alone as a couple during the day.
10. What’s the funniest or most unexpected request you’ve had from a couple?
A Viking wedding in Texas where the couple wanted to shoot real flaming arrows down a river during the ceremony. There were swords, furs, chanting, and yes… a safety guard downriver!