Ashley Darby: Me Oh My, Ash Bash Came Out to Play!

Bravotv.com: How did it feel seeing both Karen and Monique at Candiace’s wedding since it had been a while since you last saw them?

Ashley Darby: Initially, I was a bit apprehensive about seeing Monique and Karen because we have had different perspectives of how our relationships have progressed. With Karen, I’ve tried to be authentic and genuine in our friendship, and only asked that she reciprocate. Instead, it seemed Karen was set on perpetuating airs and falsehoods, which doesn’t mesh with my personality. As for my friendship with Monique, what started out as genuine concern was misconstrued, and animosity developed on both sides. We had different recollections of an event which blew up like that tire, but there was more rooted in considering her overall well-being after a traumatic loss.

Without a doubt, there have been choppy waters with Monique and Karen, but I am honestly ready to make amends and sail on smooth seas.  Physiologically speaking stress and animosity only hinder my ability to create life. On a more humanistic side, as I think about creating a human and being a role model for that little one, repairing relationships becomes even more paramount. After experiencing the heartbreak of losing our baby, I aim to focus on what truly matters, and that’s having real, trustworthy relationships. I’m open to seeing if that’s a possibility with Karen and Monique.  

Bravotv.com: It was fun watching you have a good time at the wedding, and hearing you say you were “a lotta drunk”. What was the best part of your night?

AD: Me oh my, Ash Bash came out to play! I had a great time letting loose and enjoying my friends without any tension. My favorite part of the night was having a fun time out with my husband and feeling the intoxication of love that weddings bring. I may have taken that intoxication a bit too literally. It’s also fun to hang out with Robyn and Gizelle when we throw a few back. When I challenged Robyn to go shot for shot of whiskey, I forgot that I’d briefly become a teetotaler and was a lightweight again. She drank me waaaaaay under the table. When will I learn my lesson about competing with a Dixon?!

Candiace Dillard Performs an Original Song for Chris Bassett at Their Reception

Bravotv.com: You also said you over did it, do you have any regrets?

AD: At the time I felt guilty about overindulging, but in hindsight it was what I needed. As a personal choice, I had decided to briefly abstain from alcohol, and then significantly reduce how much I drink. My friends and family insisted it wasn’t necessary to put that pressure on myself, but I was still blaming my body for miscarrying. It has been a challenge for me to relinquish that guilt and fear, but I’ve been trying to get back to myself. My fun self loves Fireball and Black Label, what can I say?

Bravotv.com: What did you think of Candiace’s big day?

AD: It was absolutely beautiful to be present at Candiace’s wedding! After hearing about her vision, it was a perfect way to celebrate the bond between Candiace and Chris. The wedding itself was quite grandiose and a bit over the top, but knowing how important appearances are to Candiace, that came as no surprise. The attention to detail was quite impeccable, and I really loved the setup of the reception. Having curved tables was an interesting way to seat guests. And they gave me an opportunity to have at least some small talk with my sort-of but hope-to-be friends again, Karen and Monique.

I was also happy to see a united family there to support Candiace and Chris. I know first hand that having tension with your mom is hard, but it’s even more stressful when also planning one of the biggest days of your life. Seeing Mrs. Dorothy and Candiace celebrating together actually touched my heart. The mother-daughter dance threw me for a loop, but makes sense considering Mrs. Dorothy rules the roost. Naturally she’d lead on the dance floor too!

Bravotv.com: Were you surprised Candiace came out and performed a song?

AD: It was so sweet that Candiace wrote and performed a song for Chris! Music is an incredible way to express love for your partner, and how special is it to jazz out on stage just for him. Candiace is very talented, and it was evident that she put a great deal of thought into each element of her performance. Although she’s never had the opportunity to showcase at a major national pageant, that performance was a yes for me!