Dreaming of saying “I do” somewhere magical? This week we’re joined by Ashley Pate Newkirk of Ash Events, a destination wedding planner with experience in Pawleys Island, Charleston, Jamaica, Italy, and beyond. Ashley shares how she got started in the industry, the unique challenges of planning weddings abroad, and the tips every couple needs to know before booking their dream destination.

From passports and packing lists to wild wedding stories (yes, police arrests and champagne explosions included), this episode is packed with laughs, lessons, and insider advice. Whether you’re planning a beachside ceremony, a Tuscan villa wedding, or just want to hear some juicy behind-the-scenes stories, this one’s for you. 

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 00:00 – Welcome & Charleston weddings
 02:00 – Meet Ashley Newkirk
 06:15 – Destination clients in Pawleys
 10:00 – Booking clients via TikTok
 14:10 – Destination vs. local weddings
 18:30 – Language & culture barriers
 22:40 – Travel agents + local vendors
 27:00 – Jamaica & Italy wedding stories
 33:15 – First steps with destination couples
 38:00 – Passports, packing & checklists
 42:20 – Wildest wedding mishaps
 49:00 – Avoiding destination disasters
 53:30 – Save vs. Splurge game
 1:01:00 – Lighting, photo booths & cars
 1:09:40 – Specialty cocktails + bars
 1:15:20 – Kids at weddings (hot takes)
 1:22:00 – Final tips + where to find Ashley 

Got a story, rant, or burning question? Call the hotline at 320-558-RSVP (320-558-7787) and dish it ALL - you might even be featured on the next episode!

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