Meet Ashley Brown | Owner | Photographer | Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I decided to start my own business, I was certain about three things:

I wanted to serve others in an unconventional way.

I wanted to tell the stories of real people.

I wanted to spread joy.

I knew that by working for myself, I could stay true to these values without compromise. In previous experiences working for others, I sometimes found that the core vision could get lost in the day-to-day grind. By owning my own business, I’ve been able to control the narrative and make decisions rooted in what matters most to me—authenticity, creativity, and impact.

Starting my business allowed me to align my work with my purpose, and that’s been the most rewarding part of the journey.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My approach to photography and filmmaking has always been rooted in capturing what’s real. This perspective stands out in the wedding industry, where there’s often a push for picture-perfect moments that feel more like magazine editorials or Pinterest boards. While those images are undeniably stunning, I believe they often miss the gravity and deep emotion embedded in the union of two people and their families.

I approach weddings with a photojournalistic eye, ensuring my clients receive an authentic portrayal of their day. My goal is to document every tear, every laugh, every glance—literally everything that makes these moments profoundly human.

Was it easy? Absolutely not. There were countless nights battling imposter syndrome and self-doubt. But every challenge was worth it because I knew what I was chasing, and, even better, I realized others wanted the same thing. It took time to build a brand that diverged so drastically from the industry norm, but that uniqueness became my greatest strength. It’s what allowed me to carve out a distinct place in the wedding world, where authenticity truly shines.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
DFW’s charm lies in its balance of big-city excitement and Southern hospitality, and this itinerary is my way of giving my best friend a taste of everything that makes this area unforgettable.

Day 1: Arrival & Chill

Dinner: Start with BBQ at Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum for some of the best smoked meats they’ll ever taste.
Evening: A stroll through Deep Ellum to check out the street art, live music, and local breweries like Deep Ellum Brewing Co.

Day 2: Exploring Dallas

Morning: Brunch at Bread Winners Café in Uptown, followed by a visit to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Afternoon: Dive into art and culture at the Dallas Museum of Art and Klyde Warren Park (great for food trucks and people-watching).
Evening: Cocktails at The Henry, then a nightcap at the rooftop bar The Gallery Rooftop Lounge.

Day 3: Fort Worth Adventures

Morning: Head to Fort Worth and grab breakfast tacos at Taco Heads.
Daytime: Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of cowboy culture and see the famous cattle drive. Then explore the Kimbell Art Museum or the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.
Dinner: Enjoy steak at Reata Restaurant in Sundance Square.
Evening: Wind down with a drink at Thompson’s Bookstore, a speakeasy hidden in a downtown bookstore.

Day 4: Outdoor Fun

Morning: Breakfast at Overeasy at The Statler. Then, rent bikes and ride the Katy Trail.
Lunch: Stop at The Katy Trail Ice House for their famous patio vibes.
Afternoon: Kayak at White Rock Lake or explore Trinity Groves, a great spot for food and skyline views.
Evening: Dinner at Saint Ann’s and drinks at The Statler’s rooftop bar to soak in the cityscape.

Day 5: Day Trip to Grapevine

Morning: Take a trip to Historic Downtown Grapevine for wine tastings, boutique shopping, and a ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.
Lunch: Dine at Esparza’s Mexican Restaurant for Tex-Mex with flair.
Evening: Head back to DFW for a live music show at The Rustic in Dallas.

Day 6: Shopping & Relaxation

Morning: Hit Legacy West in Plano or NorthPark Center in Dallas for shopping.
Lunch: Enjoy sushi and small plates at Uchi.
Afternoon: Relax at Hiatus Spa + Retreat for some pampering.
Evening: Dinner at Monarch, a high-rise Italian-inspired spot with breathtaking views.

Day 7: Farewell Tour

Morning: Brunch at Rise No. 1, famous for its soufflés.
Afternoon: A final walk around Bishop Arts District, with time for coffee at The Wild Detectives and last-minute boutique shopping.
Evening: A celebratory dinner at Nick & Sam’s, finishing with their famous desserts.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I firmly believe it takes a village to make dreams come true. If I had the time, I’d list every person, book, movie, song, and experience that has inspired me and paved the way for where I am today. However, I know I must honor the key influences in my life.

First, I’d like to shout out my mother, who taught me that there’s nothing I can’t achieve as long as I keep God first. Her unwavering support and guidance have been a foundation for everything I’ve accomplished.

I’d also like to honor my late grandfather, who set the tone for our family by instilling the values of honesty, hard work, and the belief that anything is possible if you’re willing to put in the effort.

A special thank you goes to my former instructor and now great friend, Dr. Pedro Cabrera. I didn’t actively seek out his mentorship, but he made sure it was always available to me in every capacity. In fact, he’s the one who encouraged me to start my own company over ten years ago.

I also want to acknowledge my sister, Kursten, who keeps me grounded and constantly reminds me of my greatness, even when I need it most.

Last, but certainly not least, I want to give all praise and honor to God. His guidance and blessings have been instrumental in shaping who I am today. Without His support, I truly have no idea where I’d be. I am so grateful for the countless opportunities He has provided me over the years that have led me here.

Website: https://browniephotographyproduction.com

Instagram: @browniesweddings

Facebook: @browniesweddings

Other: Pinterest : @browniesweddings

Image Credits
Ashley Brown | Brownie Photography & Production LLC