Ashley and Justin
Love stories often begin with a spark, and for Ashley Singh and Justin Chakkala, that spark lit up back in 2011 when they met through mutual friends at college. Both a little shy, it wasn’t until a year later, on the UCF campus, that their paths truly crossed. What followed was a beautiful decade-long journey of love, long distance, graduate school, and the unwavering desire to be close to one another. By 2018, Ashley had moved to South Florida to be with Justin, sealing their bond even stronger.
Their love story took a magical turn in Paris, where Justin surprised Ashley with a proposal at the Eiffel Tower on a rainy, windswept evening—an unforgettable memory that set the stage for their wedding.
BANQUET HALLS Hilton Tampa Downtown 813-222-4905 || BEAUTICIANS Michele Renee The Studio and Salon 813-531-7770 || CATERING Minerva Indian Restaurant 904-503-1608 || DECORATOR Occasions by Bali 813-454-6299 || DISC JOCKEY DJ X Factor || EVENT PLANNER Fierce Events 407-494-6090 || PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER MK Thommy Studio 954-529-6451 Sona Photography 407-694-6032
On November 22 and 23, 2024, Tampa became the heart of their cultural fusion as the couple tied the knot in a celebration that beautifully honored both Ashley’s Guyanese Hindu roots and Justin’s Malayalee Catholic traditions. With 300 guests gathered at the Hilton Downtown Tampa and Incarnation Catholic Church, their wedding was filled with color, music, and meaning.
The festivities began with a lively mehndi/haldi night, complete with a bangle and bindi bar that guests adored. The Hindu ceremony, adorned in soft dusty rose and mauve décor, brought together vibrant traditions. Guests danced to Tassa drums, a Caribbean wedding tradition from Ashley’s heritage, while Justin arrived in style in a Rolls Royce. Later, Justin’s family hosted a chantham charthu ceremony, adding a unique Malayalee touch to the celebrations.
The Catholic ceremony the following day carried a timeless elegance with traditional Christian hymns, rounding out a truly multicultural wedding.
Their reception at Hilton Downtown Tampa was nothing short of spectacular. With mauve, pink, and gold accents, fresh floral centerpieces, and a 360-degree photo booth, the evening felt like a dream. The bridal party made grand entrances filled with dance and laughter before Ashley and Justin shared their first dance to “My Favorite Place to Go” by Layup. The night unfolded with a mix of soca, chutney, Indian beats, and classic hip-hop—ensuring the dance floor stayed full.
From handmade gold luggage tag place cards to the moment they first saw the fully decorated venue, Ashley and Justin’s wedding was filled with unforgettable “wow” moments.
Their advice to future couples? Make it fun. Even through the stresses of planning, they cherished every detail—from cake tastings to music choices—creating a celebration that reflected not only their love but also their families’ rich cultural heritage.
\
