Bride Of The Week : Ariel Davis
Written By Kaileah Searcy
May 6, 2024
"My advice to future brides – do what’s best for you & your lifetime partner to be! "
A moment of your wedding day will you never forget?
Turning the corner to walk down the aisle and meet my handsome husband, Chris! I remember all of the nerves I felt approaching the final stretch of the aisle while clenching my dad’s arm in mine. The moment I saw Chris in his white jacket, every single nerve floated away. All at once, I saw the most enchanting ceremony of my dreams come to life and my now husband at the altar waiting to receive me. It’s a magical memory that I’ll treasure forever.
One thing you wish you knew as a new bride? What advice would you give to future brides?
As a bride who does all the research, and has previously served as a maid of honor, bridesmaid and unofficial bridesmaid at many weddings (I have 11 bridesmaid dresses!) I actually don’t think I had many surprises along the way other than the $$ investment it would require to bring my vision to life, ha! I knew that weddings cost quite a bit in 2023, but I still couldn’t have anticipated how quickly it all adds up!
My advice to future brides – do what’s best for you & your lifetime partner to be! I received so much advice about what was worth spending on and what was a waste. I really appreciate that Chris and I committed to all of the things that were significant to us! It didn’t have to make sense to anyone else and it was worth every penny!
"I’ve been a fan of Galia Lahav for several years and have explored all of the styles, knowing one day I would sport one of my own on my wedding day!"
How did it feel when you put on your dress the day of the wedding? What was everyone's reaction to the dress?
I shared a private moment with my big sisters, Quiana and Ashley, in the bride’s bathroom at our venue to step into my wedding dress on my wedding day. It’s a little funny thinking back on it because my sisters were behind me to zip me up and I heard Ashley scream, “OH MY GOSH,” and I turned around thinking something was wrong with the dress! There wasn’t, ha!
When I looked over my shoulder, both her and Quiana had both burst into tears and Ashley said, “I’m sorry it just hit me, you’re getting married!” I had to exit the bathroom before I joined in their crying fit and ruined my makeup! As I exited the bathroom I saw my mom, my husband’s grandmother, my nieces, then eventually the rest of the bridal party and felt overwhelmed with love from their emotional reactions!
Chris and I didn’t prefer to do a first look, but I did a first reveal with my dad! I am such a daddy’s girl and seeing him grin from ear to ear, and showing all of his teeth, made my heart explode. I remembered every father-daughter dance and special moment we’ve shared throughout my life that lead to this most special walk together.
When I saw Chris for the first time walking down the aisle, he was very emotional and it was so sweet (Clearly, our families don’t mind a good cry, ha!). There are actually a few photos in our wedding album of our officiant helping him stand as I approached them! Needless to say, not a single reaction to this dress disappointed me!
Would you have done anything differently?
Nope! I hope that all brides get to feel the level of gratitude, love, and satisfaction regarding their most magical day as I have – still floating even months later. Chris and I could not have dreamt of a more beautiful day filled with our loved ones, good music, and endless dancing (&drinks!). There were so many fireworks, literally and figuratively!