Meet Ashley Atkinson
Ashley has joined the Kimpton family at The Kimpton Shane Hotel as our newest wedding specialist. Whether you’re looking for an extravagant celebration or an intimate gathering of your closest friends and family, Ashley can work with you to turn your unique vision of the perfect wedding into a reality.
Can you describe the main focus of your current role?
In my current role, my main focus is creating one-of-a-kind experiences for our social groups, including Wedding Groups, Proposals, Rehearsal Dinners, and more. I truly believe these events deserve thoughtful, innovative and creative accommodations.
What is your approach as a wedding specialist?
My approach is being sincere, and genuine and getting to know the client to build a long-lasting rapport. It’s easy to get caught up in the world of budgets, goals and transactional regiments—but I want to know my clients. I want to know their likes and dislikes and anything they are comfortable sharing with me. It helps me customize and elevate their experience.
What are some emerging trends that you’re seeing for wedding events at The Kimpton Shane?
Unique wedding parties. For example, different color bridesmaid dresses, ladies having a best man and men having a maid of honor—or not having a wedding party at all.
There is one other trend that I love and with each wedding, it becomes a more unique tradition: Honoring those who passed before the day with a seat saved for them amongst other touching gestures.
Do you have any favorite spaces for weddings at The Kimpton Shane?
All of our spaces are incredible, but if I have to pick my top three:
- Sleeping Rooms: The wedding wing on the 14th fl oor, consists of all four rooms including the Presidential, King Spa Suite, Queen-Queen, and a Panoramic corner room.
- Aveline Lounge: Perfect for a rehearsal dinner!
- Pre-Function II: This space lends itself well to intimate gatherings.
Is it hard to plan a wedding/event when you don't live in the area?
Planning an event while living in another city/area can be tricky but technology has made it much easier. Our virtual tour assists with painting the grand picture of our spaces and sleeping rooms. I can also host site tours via FaceTime.
How many guests can your wedding accommodate?
We have flexible event spaces that can comfortably host celebrations with up to 150 guests. We'll work closely with you to determine the best setup for your specifi c guest count and event.
Can you provide a list of available dates and pricing options?
Certainly! We can provide you with a list of available dates and pricing options based on your preferred wedding date and estimated guest count—or I can create a custom proposal if one of our packages does not quite align with your needs.
Can I tour the venue to see it in person?
Absolutely! We highly encourage in-person tours so that you can explore the event spaces and discuss your wedding vision in detail. We'll be more than happy to schedule a personalized tour for you.
What is one piece of advice for couples on their big day?
You made it this far, now you just have to remember to breathe. It’s your day, embrace it, and let me handle the rest.