Spruce Mountain Ranch Wedding: Ashley & James – Part I

Ya’ll, I won’t apologize for this being the longest blog post in RTP history! Because this wedding has been so highly anticipated in our world that I simply cannot narrow down favorites and I don’t really care — I’m just going  to showcase every image I want to! 

Ash & Jim and RTP go way back.  I first met Ashley in maybe 2010 or so.  It was a sweaty encounter to say the least — you can read about that here.  Later on, I was super lucky to do her whimsical head shots (a must see!).  And then in 2016, I got to do her and Jim’s engagement photos! Aaand, then in 2019, I got to do her and Jim’s engagement photos

Yes, you read that right.  

Two different sets of engagement photos.  You see, these two were originally planning to wed in the fall of 2017.  But as any relationship will experience, these two had some ups and downs — they just got it out of the way early on.  It was a season I can barely scrap the surface on, but I know a time soaked in prayer and time with the Lord.  They loved each other, but when it was time to walk that way into marriage, they wanted to walk it well.  So they called off that 2017 wedding, grew up together and knitted their hearts closer to one another and to the Lord, and started the wedding planning process all over.  Finally, this summer, it was time to walk that way.  And they walked that way SO well.  Albeit, amongst a little bit of rain.  And hail. ;-) 

These two were wed on the longest day of the year, June 21st, where the sun seemingly never sets and photographers are in heaven.  However, this summer solstice day, called for some pretty intense showers all day, with a little surprise hail thrown in, and gray skies of course.  All day we watched the weather; Ash’s heart never wavering in its desire to get married outside under a big wooden cross.  So finally, when a small, clear, window was promised by the weather radar, the decision was made to proceed with an outdoor wedding. So we hustled, and it was gorgeous… and the hail? Well, you’ll see what happened.

Jim & Ash, you guys are THE BEST! I know it’s only been a month, but is it to soon to do anniversary photos???? 

I love you! Thank you for your friendship, authenticity, and beautiful, caring hearts.  Miss you.

With love & joy,
René 

Venue: Spruce Mountain Ranch
Blooms: Amber Mustain Floral
Coordination: Lina Hoekman Events

Beauty: Lush + Lather
Entertainment: Randy Rodriguez
Cake: Sugar Plum Cake Shoppe
Photo Booth: ShutterBus
Videography: Majestik Films
Photography: René Tate Photography

Click here to view the second half of this amazing wedding!

With 20 years of experience, I bring a calm, steady presence to your most meaningful days. I specialize in documenting relationships over time—from weddings and anniversaries to babies and families—with a love for black-and-white imagery, honest moments, and photographs that belong in albums, not just on a feed. There are no forced poses or “pretend to” prompts here, only space for what’s real. I’m not just here for the highlight; I’m here for the history you’re creating.

And I can't wait to capture your story

Hi! i'm rené, your
photog & legacy keeper

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