Richie Sambora’s Daughter Ava Is in ‘Full Planning Mode’ for Wedding as She Works Toward Her Doctorate: Source (Exclusive)

Ava Sambora is gearing up for a number of special milestones — and what better weekend to celebrate than over Father’s Day with dad Richie Sambora?

The former Bon Jovi guitarist, 65, enjoyed a low-key weekend with his daughter, 27, who is set to continue her education in the fall ahead of her wedding to fiancé Tyler Farrar.

“Ava came over on Friday and they both spent the whole quiet weekend together,” a source says. “They both love spending time one on one together.”

The timing was ideal for celebrating, as the source says that Ava — whom Sambora shares with ex-wife Heather Locklear — was recently accepted to Pepperdine University, and will begin working toward her doctorate in the fall. She graduated from the USC Rossier School of Education in May 2023 with a Master’s in family therapy. At the time, mom Locklear celebrated with a post on Instagram that read, “Such a proud mama. Congratulations my baby, with your masters in MFT. With your hard work and perseverance and kind heart.”

“Richie is extremely proud of Ava,” the source adds. “She is the sweetest reflection of him.”

Ava and Farrar were engaged last year, and the source says Ava is in “full planning mode” for their wedding, which will take place next summer.

Preparations for the big day have been especially exciting for Sambora’s 89-year-old mother Joan, who broke her hip and wrist in December 2023, but will be traveling to the West Coast for the wedding (The source says the guitarist and his daughter FaceTimed Joan on Father’s Day, and that Ava recently flew to the East Coast for a visit with her grandmother).

“Ava and Tyler have been together over five years. It’s like they are already married!” Sambora tells PEOPLE. “They just really love the heck out of each other, and I do too.”

Adds the source: “Richie is pulling out all the stops on planning this special day. He is extremely proud of Ava’s continued education and especially proud of the doctorate work. He feels so blessed to have such a great connection and relationship with both Ava and Tyler.”

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer is currently on the mend after fracturing his hand during a game of touch football in May while in N.J. to take care of his mother. Just days after the injury, Sambora performed a slew of songs at the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala at the Kentucky Derby.

In the last year, the singer-songwriter has been enjoying the release of a string of new singles, including “I Pray,” “Livin’ Alone,” “Songs That Wrote My Life” and “Believe (In Miracles).”