Ashley and Will first met in the eighth grade while on separate ski trips to Crested Butte, Colorado. Fast forward to freshman year of high school, they found themselves walking from school to the parking lot together every day, alongside Will's now groomsmen, Hank and Chris.

By sophomore year, Will had become known as the most politically active student at school—quite convenient, given that Ashley's dad was involved in politics at that time. Ashley’s sister, Katherine, decided to recruit Will to work on their dad's campaign and, perhaps not so coincidentally, paired him with Ashley on the same door-knocking team. This led to countless hours of walking through Oklahoma City neighborhoods, where they talked about everything under the sun. After a few snow cone dates to cool off after hot summer days, and some nudging from Katherine, Will and Ashley quickly became inseparable. Who says politics can't bring people together?

Junior and senior years were filled with cheering Will on at football games, spontaneous drives to see the cows, and countless hangouts with their best friends and families. But as senior year came to an end, so did the days of being just 11 minutes away from each other. Ashley chose Clemson University, while Will headed to Liberty University, 330 miles away—or as Will likes to put it, one full tank of gas.

The transition to a long-distance relationship was challenging, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It opened up a world of new memories, from TriDelt date functions and talent shows at Will’s brother Charlie’s house, to Clemson football games and scenic drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Freshman and sophomore years of college flew by, and the summers back home in Oklahoma were all the sweeter for it. Then, on August 10th, just before their final year of college began, Will took Ashley on one of their many picnic dates. But this one was different—it would be their last as boyfriend and girlfriend. As the sun set behind them, Will proposed marking the beginning of a new chapter in their life together.

Ashley and Will's relationship is deeply intertwined with their shared faith in Jesus Christ. From those early "walk and talks" that set the foundation for their connection to the moment Will knelt down to ask Ashley to spend their lives together, the Lord has been there every step of the way. Since they were 16, they have grown up together, navigating life's joys and challenges, always with Christ at the center of their relationship. They see their walk towards marriage as a beautiful testament to God’s faithfulness and His perfect plan. Through His grace and love, their relationship has flourished, and they are committed to keeping Him at the center of all they are and all He leads them to become.

Will and Ashley can't wait for all the adventures that lie ahead and are excited to create those new memories with their friends and family by their side.

Hotel

The Ellison, Oklahoma City, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel