Modern South Interiors and Antiques, Statham Georgia

Modern South Interiors and Antiques is nestled behind the railroad tracks in the quaint little town of Statham, Georgia. Disclaimer: this shop is highly addictive…be prepared to shop here often once you discover Statham’s hidden gem! I first visited the shop five years ago when Amanda Dunahoo, owner and interior designer, opened the doors to the public.

“I have always wanted a store…after realizing my love for interior design, I knew that was the type of store I wanted. When I had the opportunity to buy Factory Antiques, I went for it! I have always loved antiques, so I wanted to create a place with a little old…a little new…the perfect recipe to create a curated home!”

Amanda Dunahoo, owner of Modern South Interiors and Antiques

Amanda has spent the past five years building her inventory to include just what she envisioned—beautiful pieces from the past mixed with new pieces to offer a one-stop shop for the perfect room!

Rugs from Magnolia Home can be found, as well as beautifully crafted pieces from Gabby Home and an abundance of unique florals, which are Amanda’s favorite. Basket/tray fillers can always be found on the shleves as well as an array of stylish but functional pieces for every room. Amanda is always styling, restyling, and showcasing how items can be displayed and used in the home. If you need ideas, just walk through her shop and you will leave with not only some serious inspiration on styling your home, but probably a few bags of amazing finds as well!

Modern South also carries handmade, everyday kitchen pottery, farmhouse style dish brushes, gold measuring spoons, wooden scoops and marble cutting boards. Mixed in with these displays are natural soaps and candles made with essential oils, and gourmet salts. As you walk through the shop, you will find a treasure trove of antiques beautifully styled with new pieces.

Recently, Amanda even added a boutique in the back of the shop. It really is a place you can visit weekly and always find something new. There isn’t a room in my home that doesn’t have multiple pieces I discovered in Amanda’s shop, and she’s always got something new every time I visit Modern South.

When Amanda isn’t styling a new display in her shop, she can be found assisting her customers or offering advice on styling/design. Her daughter, Madi, now helps in the shop. You can also find Xannie, KC, Marty and Kay ready to help. Expect to be greeted with a smile and be graced with their southern hospitality…and be prepared to stay a while…there is so much to see and so many ideas to tuck away for making your home a beautiful place to be!

Modern South Interiors and Antiques, 1910 Railroad St, Statham, GA

770-725-8011

modernsouthinteriors@gmail.com

Justin and Jordan: Founders Memorial Gardens, University of Georgia

Justin and Jordan had me laughing the ENTIRE time at their engagement session on North Campus at the University of Georgia. They were just so sweet, genuine and full of joy…and I had the BEST time with them!

Justin and Jordan live in South Georgia, and traveled up for their session. They are planning their wedding at White Fox Hall Cottage in Commerce in the spring. We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful morning—the weather was cool and campus was quiet. We started at the Founders Memorial Gardens before moving on to North Campus and finishing at the arch.

These two made my job easy…they were SO easy to photograph because they were always smiling and truly enjoy being together. I am SO excited for them and so looking forward to capturing their day this spring!! Congratulations on your engagement, Justin and Jordan!

Eric and Lindsey: Taylor Grady House Wedding, Athens, Georgia

To be around Eric and Lindsey is to be filled with joy…and what an appropriate middle name Lindsey has…because every time I’ve had the pleasure of being around her, she absolutely overflows with JOY…especially around Eric!

After Covid changed their wedding plans, they moved their venue to the Taylor Grady House in Athens, Georgia. Lindsey’s sweet details were beautiful—especially her elegant wedding gown and veil which were trimmed with lace from her mother’s wedding dress.

After photographing the girls, we prepped for Lindsey’s first look with Eric—and with her bridesmaids peeking out the window, Lindsey called Eric’s name and his face absolutely lit up when he turned to see his beautiful bride walking toward him.

Eric’s uncle performed their ceremony, and after lighting a unity candle, they were pronounced husband and wife.

We shot their “just married” portraits making sure to keep a fan handy for the sweltering Georgia August heat, and then got ready for reception introductions.

Lindsey’s maid of honor, Yule, surprised everyone with her worm move when she was announced, and then Eric twirled a laughing Lindsey as they entered the reception.

I have enjoyed every minute with this sweet couple….the joy they exude when they are around one another is something every couple should strive for! They really are inspiring with the way they love one another. Eric and Lindsey, you are amazing people and it has been an honor for me to capture your beautiful love story! Congratulations!!

Venue: The Taylor Grady House

Coordinator: Georgia Grace

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Second Photographer: Trish Meadows

Photographer’s Assistant/3rd photographer: Alaina Thompson

Hair and Makeup: Bombshell Creations

Dylan and Emily: 2425 Warehouse, Monroe, Georgia

When I first met Dylan and Emily at their January engagement session, I loved them immediately! They are so genuine and sweet, and when Emily smiles, her entire face lights up. She is also incredibly thoughtful, and even brought me a beautiful cross made of oyster shells as a gift.

We photographed their engagement session in January and it was freezing—and Friday, at their wedding, they had the exact opposite experience with Georgia’s hot, August weather—and they were troopers both times!

It was a beautiful day at The Warehouse in Monroe when I found Emily finishing up with hair and makeup. After photographing her bridal details, which included her invitation suite designed by a friend and her grandmother’s bracelet, Emily was ready to step into her classic, satin gown. Her sweet mother zipped her up and then Emily shared a sentimental gift with her. We moved outside for a first look with her father, Major General Carrol, and some family photos. One memorable moment was when I asked Emily to look at her favorite brother…and when she did, the reaction from her other brother was priceless! It was evident the Carrol family was very close and shared a special bond.

Emily and Dylan shared their first look, and Dylan’s face lit up when he turned to see his stunning bride walking to him. After some portraits and bridal party photos, they went inside to take a quick break and cool off from the August heat.

Dylan and Emily’s ceremony was God-centered and really special because her brother officiated. Emily was escorted down the aisle by her proud father to Dylan. They lit a unity candle, shared their first communion as husband and wife, and sealed their vows with a kiss.

After a few “just married” portraits, Dylan and Emily were ready to celebrate with their family and friends! They shared their first dance, cut the cake, and enjoyed being surrounded by their loved ones at their reception.

It was so wonderful to see this special couple so happy—I love how every time Emily looked at Dylan that day, her smile was so bright—it was truly a privilege to capture this special time for them and for their families! Dylan and Emily—may God’s blessing be upon you, your marriage and your sweet families.

Venue: 2425 Warehouse at 9 Oaks Farm

Coordinator: Jess Boulter

Photographer: Audrey Herron

Second Photographer: Kristal Whiltey

Photographer’s Assistant: Alaina Thompson

Flowers by On

Anna: Georgia Senior, Winder

I’ve known Anna’s dad, Chuck, for years—in fact, Chuck and I used to carpool with another friend and colleague, Adria, to Norcross. We would park in an empty gravel space of what is now a gas station in the growing and bustling town of Braselton, and make the 5:45 am hour drive down 85 to Norcross where I taught, Chuck was the LSTC, and Adria was our media specialist. During those early morning and afternoon commutes, Chuck would tell us about something Maggie or Anna did just about every day. When Chuck and his wife, Leigh, contacted me about doing Anna’s senior portraits, it was hard to believe this little girl I remembered was already as senior in high school!

Anna’s family has a neat history in my local town—they moved down from North Georgia over a century ago, and settled in Winder. The school my girls go to is named after their family, and Anna and her family live on land that has been passed down for generations—so they opted for her senior pictures to happen there! We started in Anna’s room in one of her favorite spots—a precious little reading nook that she designed herself when her parents built their home. Anna LOVES to read—her shelves were packed with books, and plans to attend UGA next fall (She’s already been accepted!) and double major in English Literature and Education before going on to law school.

We also made a trip down to the creek where she grew up wading, and hanging out in the fields that have surrounded her since her childhood. Anna attends Winder Barrow High School and she is a busy girl! Not only is she the flute section leader in the band, but she is the president of the Locket Club, senior class treasurer, she is in Varsity Academic Bowl, she was a 2021 Governor’s Honor’s state finalist, and is in National Honor Society! Anna was also accepted into UGA Dual Enrollment, and is a member of Bethlehem Church.

This girl is smart, beautiful, and has the sweetest smile! She has SO much to offer the world. Anna, I hope your senior year is full of amazing memories—It was such a joy for me to capture this time for you! Congratulations on your accomplishments and GO DAWGS!!

Hunter and Annie: Little Mulberry Park Engagement Session

There’s always something special about couples who have known one another since high school…like Hunter and Annie. They both went to Oconee County High—and although they didn’t start dating until after high school, it’s pretty special they have that history of knowing one another. Annie went to UGA where she swam and then transferred to nursing school—and she and Hunter have been dating the past five years.

This past Christmas, when Annie was in her bathrobe and slippers, Hunter proposed—and Annie said it couldn’t have been more perfect. They chose The Sixty-Two in Madison as their venue, and I got to hang out with them at Little Mulberry Park in Dacula for their engagement session! (And, it was Annie’s birthday!)

If you are from Georgia, you know July is HOT and HUMID! This setback didn’t phase Hunter and Annie—and they enjoyed one another and rocked their session in front of my camera.

I absolutely loved getting to know them better, and I am so privileged to get to capture this time for them—I can’t wait for their spring wedding! Congratulations Hunter and Annie!!!

Ben and Carolyn: The White Fallow Estate

Ben and Carolyn’s summer wedding at the White Fallow Estate in Buford was the perfect Southern wedding that Carolyn envisioned. When we arrived, Carolyn was busy getting ready in the bridal suite. We photographed her classically beautiful bridal details before her mom zipped her up into her gorgeous lace trimmed gown. We made sure to get some special photos of Carolyn with both her mother and her grandmother—and after reading a letter from Ben, we took Carolyn out for some photos with her girls.

We definitely took advantage of the gorgeous, southern style, sweeping staircase inside the estate to keep everyone cool in the July heat—and it made for some stunning photos!

Ben and Carolyn shared a first look, and it was so sweet…I just LOVE the way Ben looks at Carolyn. He has always been such a gentleman—always saying “yes' ma’am” and their engagement session and wedding, he was so tender and sweet with Carolyn. He gently wiped the tears from Carolyn’s eyes as they shared a special moment and then we went right into some portraits.

After photographing the bridal party we were prepping for the ceremony when the rain began. Luckily, it didn’t last long, and the guests all found their seats in the barn for the ceremony. After the bridal party made their way down the aisle, the double doors closed and everyone turned to watch in anticipation for Carolyn. As the double doors opened, ripples of laughter were heard across the barn as the “Flower Boys" decked in sunglasses and fanny packs for their petals, made their appearance. They strutted down the aisle tossing petals, and it was definitely one of the highlights of the day!

Finally, Carolyn did appear and was escorted to Ben. They exchanged their vows and were pronounced husband and wife—and both were all smiles as they came back down the aisle. After the ceremony, Ben, Carolyn and their bridal party shared a group hug to celebrate.

We shot a second round of portraits that we call “just married” portraits and utilized the swing under the magnolia tree, and then Ben and Carolyn were able to join their guests at cocktail hour before being introduced at the reception.

They had a beautiful day surrounded by their family and friends—and Carolyn was every bit the classic, southern bride. I’m so thrilled for this sweet couple--Ben and Carolyn, it has truly been a privilege for me to capture your day—I wish you every blessing as you embark on the amazing journey God has planned for you! Congratulations!

Venue: The White Fallow Estate

Coordinator: Sammy Kesner, Jackson and June Events

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Second Photographer: Kristal Whitley

Photography Assistant: Alaina Thompson

Videographers: Russ Feltman Films

Cake: The Posh Cakery

Florist: JL Designs

Hair and Makeup: Bombshell Creations

DJ: Sound Insight Productions, David Osborne

Officiant: Randy Walterman

Caterer: Talk of the Town

Beaufort, South Carolina: Our Anniversary Trip

A few years ago, after coming out of a five year stretch of dealing with our daughter’s PFAPA periodic fever condition, my husband, Heath and I realized we hadn’t been anywhere just the two of us in six years. The PFAPA kept us home, unable to leave our girls with anyone for fear they would spike a fever and end up in the ER as they so frequently did. (For more information on that, you can find my blog about PFAPA and what it was like to be the parent of not one, but two children diagnosed with it here:

https://audreyherron.com/blog/tag/PFAPA

After two successful surgeries, our girls went from a flare ever 2 weeks to only a few a year…so we felt it was time we made “us” a priority for a few days to reconnect after what had been a very difficult five years for us. We picked Beaufort, South Carolina…we were looking for a place to try to remember how to relax….just sit on a porch and read, or take a stroll down the block. Beaufort was perfect….and we loved it so much, we’ve returned twice more. This past June 3 was our 15 year anniversary, and we went back to The Cuthbert House Inn (where we’ve stayed each time). We loved the hospitality the Inn Keepers, Ed and Connie provide and their gourmet French breakfasts are amazing!

The view from our bed and breakfast was stunning….we sat on the porch every day and watched the sailboats.

The Cuthbert House Inn

Beaufort Kayak Tours is amazing—we’ve been out with them the last two times we’ve been to Beaufort. This time, we went on their Dolphin Ecology tour. (And I elected to have my own kayak this time….last time we went tandem, and I got hit in the head with Heath’s paddle one too many times…;-) ) We wound our way through the narrow marsh trails, and at one point we stopped and Jim educated us about some local dolphins. While he was telling us about them, I noticed the water all of the sudden got very still…and where we had been slowly bobbing forward, we stopped and slowly began bobbing backward. The tide literally changed while we were sitting on the water and it was such a neat thing to experience! After we made our way to the open water, we were rewarded with seeing several dolphins swimming around our group of kayaks! Such an amazing experience! If you are ever in Beaufort, you have to go out with Jim and Terri. Their link is below!

Beaufort Kayak Tours

One thing Heath and I haven’t done before was walk the Old Point Neighborhood. It was a quiet corner near Bay Street and wow were the historical homes beautiful! Live Oaks with spanish moss trailing from their branches lined the street, and old hitching posts and carriage steps could still be found in front of a few of the houses. We also went on a ghost tour in the evening (We love hearing the stories of the city) and listened to some interesting stories of some of the homes in the Old Point Neighborhood…including Pinky, the ghost that haunts the famous Beaufort “Castle” grounds.

Another day, Heath and I went out on the barrier islands and followed some trails for some beautiful views! We love hiking and exploring—and this area didn’t disappoint!

The Chapel of Light and Sheldon Church ruins were a must for me to photograph…I’m a huge fan of history and to see the ruins of these churches and think about the people who worshipped there was a pretty amazing glimpse into the past.

Bay Street is always fun to explore….the restaurants are amazing and I loved seeing some literary references….the Nevermore Book Shop and the Scout sweet tea bar was pretty neat!!

I’m hoping we can return to this special place next year for our anniversary…it’s definitely become our favorite getaway spot.

Scott and Alyssa: The Thompson House and Gardens

Scott and Alyssa couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful wedding day! The weather was gorgeous out at the Thompson House and Gardens, the hydrangeas and roses were in full bloom, the jasmine vines smelled heavenly…it was literally the perfect day for a wedding!

Alyssa and her girls hung out and dressed, and once she was ready, she and Scott shared as sweet first look followed by photos with a very special guest—their adorable dog, Hobbs! Hobbs was SO excited to see his mom and dad—and he even had a cute tux for the occasion!

Scott and Alyssa opted to write their own vows, and at the ceremony, they read those to one another before being pronounced Mr. and Mrs. Henderson!

After an extended cocktail hour so they could visit with their guests, they danced the night away at their reception. Their friends and family sent them off with sparklers, and they were whisked away by a vintage car to their happily ever after!

It was truly a memorable day for a very special couple—and I was so honored to have had the privilege of capturing these memories for them! Congratulations, Scott and Alyssa!!

Venue: The Thompson House and Gardens

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Second Photographer: Kristal Whitley

Coordinator: Jackson and June Events; Lillie Chupp, Day of Coordinator

Videographer: Red Line Pros

Caterer: Trump’s Catering

Hair and Makeup: Fancy Faces

Band: 7 Sharp Nine

Cakes: Cecilia’s Cakes

Officant: Marcia Smith

Jesse and Sarah: The Corry House

Jesse and Sarah have been through quite the roller coaster over the past two years….they originally planned to marry in the spring of 2020 in Monroe, but Covid, and then their venue closing, changed all of their carefully laid plans. They essentially had to start all over in planning, and finally, on Saturday, they were married.

The Corry house is a beautiful white farmhouse sitting back from the road in Union Point, Georgia. It is surrounded by fields and fern covered woods—which is where Jesse and Sarah decided to say their vows.

Sarah’s gown was utterly elegant, and with her cathedral length veil she was beyond beautiful! After a teary reveal with her sweet bridesmaids, we helped Sarah outside for her bridal portraits. Her girls were so awesome—they even “debugged” Sarah from the little critters that hitched a ride in the voluminous skirts of her gown.

Their ceremony location was something out of a woodland fairy-tale…as you followed the gravel path deeper into the woods and crossed the bridge over the creek, benches faced an arbor under the canopy of oaks, and ferns surrounded the clearing. The sun filtered through the trees giving it an almost otherworldly feel. Sarah glided down the aisle as Jesse watched, overcome by how beautiful his bride was.

After exchanging vows, they were pronounced husband and wife, and we set to work capturing some beautiful portraits of them!

Their reception took place in the barn, and their guests enjoyed some southern BBQ. The barn doors were wide open to let in the spring air, and gave their guests a beautiful view of the sunset.

After agreeing to some sunset portraits, we whisked them outside to capture a few more as the sun slowly sank behind the trees, and then the DJ got the party started and their guests enjoyed dancing the night away!

I am SO thrilled this sweet couple finally got their wedding day….in life, things don’t always work out as we plan—but I know Jesse and Sarah trusted in God’s timing, and their day couldn’t have been more perfect! Congratulations, Jesse and Sarah!!

Venue: The Corry House

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Second Photographer: Kristal Whitley

Andy and Lizzy: The Hill, Athens Georgia

I met Andy and Lizzy for their engagement session in January of 2019 at the venue where they planned to marry—the Taylor Grady House in Athens. There was such a neat story behind their venue—Lizzy’s grandmother helped to save and restore the Taylor Grady House—so for Lizzy and Andy to marry there was going to be really special! Lizzy’s close friend, Caroline Stroud, who is an artist and often does live paintings at weddings designed and painted the emblem at the top of their invitations. With the help of their coordinator, they planned every detail of the wedding day.

But, life often throws us curve balls—and Covid completely changed their carefully laid plans. Andy and Lizzy decided not to let Covid impact their wedding day and their vows—and so with only their immediate family, they exchanged vows in Lizzy’s backyard. Her beautiful satin gown was tucked away, and all of their plans were postponed.

After Lizzy and Andy were married, she texted me photos of them in their backyard snapped by her family on a cell phone—and said “Look! We remembered the poses you taught us at our engagement session!” Y’all—this is truly a special couple. To have the positive outlook they did when many brides would be a wreck over being robbed of their perfect day shows that what truly mattered to Andy and Lizzy was not the flowers, the dress, the venue—but just becoming husband and wife.

Finally, Friday, Lizzy got to wear that beautiful satin wedding gown for a one year vow renewal—and they FINALLY had their day!!

We photographed that special invitation so lovingly created by Caroline, and Lizzy was utterly stunning in her elegant gown and cathedral length veil. Their venue, The Hill, reflected their love of historic homes, and the weather couldn’t have been more perfect!

Their ceremony took place in the sunken garden—a small, brick lined space with trailing creeping ficus and iron gates that is reminiscent of Charleston or Savannah.

Andy beamed as he watched Lizzy walking toward him, and they renewed their vows in front of their family and friends.

Their reception took place under a white tent in the front yard, and Lizzy and Andy shared their official first dance. (I have to say, I was super impressed with Andy’s dance moves—he was spinning and twirling Lizzy all over the dance floor!)

Sometimes, in life, things don’t work out as we plan. But I believe, as I know Andy and Lizzy do, that God’s plans are always best, and while this day was not what they originally envisioned, it was truly the perfect day for this incredibly sweet and special couple, and I was honored to have the privilege of capturing it!

*Special thanks to Lizzy’s sister Frances for helping with her gown, veil toss, and being just an overall amazing maid of honor/photographer assistant!!

Venue: The Hill, Athens, Georgia (Epting Events)

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Coordinator: Debra Lassiter, Perfectly Polished

Florist: Brett Glenn Florist

Musician: Athena Quartet

Music: Band X

Transportation: Bulldog Limousine

Bobby and Hannah: 2425 Warehouse at 9 Oaks Farm

I first met Hannah when I photographed her sister’s wedding in 2019—and getting to work with her sweet family again was SO exciting!

Bobby and Hannah picked the Warehouse at 9 Oaks Farm for their wedding—and as the days grew closer to Saturday, the forecast wasn’t looking good. We prepared for a 100% chance of rain, but something awesome happened…we got a break mid-day during portraits before the rain returned later that night!! Y’all—we didn’t even have to pull out the clear umbrellas!

Hannah was probably one of the most laid back brides ever…she delighted in wearing her white crocs for photos before the ceremony—that was one of the first things she told Bobby at their first look—that she was wearing crocs!

Hannah’s something borrowed was her sister’s veil—so this was round two of photographing the stunning cathedral length, lace-trimmed veil and it looked just as elegant on Hannah as it did on Chelsea!

Bobby was all smiles when he saw his beautiful bride, and we stayed around the white farm house for their first round of portraits.

Later, when we were working with the guys—Bobby had a bit of a mishap with his boutonniere, but we managed to get the broken flower pinned back on!

At their ceremony, Hannah walked down the aisle with her father under the string lights, and they were pronounced husband and wife!

After a second round of portraits (thanks Bobby for putting up with my “just one more”…) the bridal party was introduced and the reception was a rocking party and celebration of this sweet couple!

I am SO honored to have captured this memorable day for Hannah and Bobby…they are by far one of the sweetest couples!! Hannah even sent me a message the next day thanking me for everything….how amazing is that?? Bobby and Hannah, I enjoyed every minute with y’all, and I truly wish you every blessing as you begin your lives together! Congratulations!!

Venue: 2425 The Warehouse at 9 Oaks Farm

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Second Photographer: Kristal Whitley

Coordinator: Jacki Garrison

Flowers: On Guest

DJ: Randy Burton

Ava Grace: Georgia Senior, Madison

This beauty is the daughter of a friend of mine—her mom, Chasity Burroughs, is a wedding coordinator and we’ve worked so many weddings together! When she asked me about photographing her sweet daughter, Ava Grace, for her senior session I was ecstatic! Ava Grace grew up in historic Madison and wanted the background to reflect her roots there—so we shot her session right on her street!

Ava Grace and her family live close to the famous Thurleston House—and because the owner is a friend, she graciously let us use her stunning historic estate for part of the session. We had so much fun bouncing up and down the street and popping into the manicured yards of neighbors to utilize the homes Ava Grace is so familiar with. We even used her own house and porch!

Ava Grace is a senior at Madison County High School doing post-secondary option and taking college classes. She has been accepted to GCSU and is excited to head south to study marketing this fall. She is just as beautiful inside and out—and I enjoyed every minute of hanging out with this classic southern beauty! Ava Grace, congratulations on your graduation—I know you will excel at GCSU!!

*The homes utilized in these photos were historic, private locations and permission was granted from the owners.

John and Bo: A Lake Oconee micro-wedding

Covid has definitely changed a lot of weddings…including John and Bo’s original plan to marry at Disney world. Instead, they opted for a small, intimate backyard wedding at the home on Lake Oconee belonging to Bo’s parents.

I’ve had the privilege of knowing this sweet family and photographing several events for them—including Bo’s precious daughter’s newborn and six month photos, and her sister Chrissy’s wedding at Empire Mills. The Mitchell family have become sweet friends, and so when Bo decided to plan a micro wedding in her mom’s backyard, I was thrilled to get to spend some time with them again!

I got there early because, well, Bo and Chrissy are just so fun to hang out with, and the day was so relaxed and fun! Gabriella was all smiles watching her mom get dressed, and despite the full sun on the golf course, we managed to find some great portrait spots!

Bo and John said “I do” by the Lake surrounded by their families, and after a round of portraits, they enjoyed a catered dinner with a sweet dessert bar!

Even though it wasn’t her dream Disney wedding, Bo loved her day, and she was every bit the elegant bride! I’m so honored to have been able to capture these sweet memories for Bo and John! Congratulations y’all!!

Brenton and Catie: Empire Mills Madison, Georgia

Brenton and Catie’s early spring wedding out at Empire Mills in Madison, Georgia was truly a beautiful celebration! There was hardly a cloud in the sky all day—and although it was windy, we used that to our best advantage with Catie’s stunning cathedral length veil! I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and photographing Catie’s sweet family for the past few years, and it was such a privilege for me to get to capture this special day for her!

When Kristal and I arrived, we got to work on the bridal details while the girls hung out and finished hair and make-up. Catie’s details were a perfect reflection of her—classic and beautiful. Her lace gown was so elegant! JL Designs did a gorgeous job on her florals—and saved me some pieces to enhance her bridal detail photos! Brenton and his guys came out for photos first so the girls could have a little extra time to get ready. Brenton asked how Catie was doing, which I thought was so sweet.

Once Catie’s mother, Lori, zipped her into her gown and it was time to get her shoes on, her niece, Carson, eagerly settled herself at her aunt’s feet to assist with that task! Catie then shared a sweet first look with her father, and then she and the girls braved the chilly wind to head out for portraits.

Wind can make things interesting and can be a challenge to work around—but with a veil like Catie’s, we were thankful for some wind that assisted with some stunning veil shot. Once Catie’s portraits were finished, she and Brenton had a first look and then we photographed the bridal party before tucking everyone away before the ceremony.

When it was time for the ceremony, Catie’s father escorted her down the aisle to Brenton, who was all smiles as he watched his beautiful bride walk to him. About halfway during the ceremony, Carson decided the rose petals needed to be cleaned up, so she set to work gathering them back into her little basket. Catie and Brenton lit their unity candle, sealed their vows with a kiss and headed back down the aisle joined together as man and wife.

After some gorgeous sunset portraits in the field behind the venue, (huge thanks to their coordinator, Sammy, who is always wonderful about allowing me a few extra minutes with my couples if I need it!!) Catie went to have her gown bustled and then she and Brenton were introduced to their reception where guests welcomed them with cheers. They went right into their first dance as husband and wife, and then Catie danced with her father, Chip. It started out slow and sweet, and then they broke into a fast dance (I was very impressed with Chip’s dance moves!) Following that, Brenton shared a dance with his mother, Margaret. One really neat thing during their reception was that their baker, Debra Adams, stayed after setting up their cake just to make sure to show them how to cut it! A live band kept the guests entertained all evening, and Hallie Jane’s Catering was wonderful as always!

Brenton and Catie enjoyed their time visiting with family and friends, and at the end of the evening were sent off with well-wishes and cheers at their sparkler exit. It was a magical ending to a magical day—and what an honor it was for me to capture it! Congratulations, Brenton and Catie—I wish you every blessing as you begin this new chapter of marriage!

Venue: Empire Mills

Wedding Coordinator: Jackson & June Events, Sammy Kesner assisted by Kelyn Theus.

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Second Photographer: Kristal Whitley

Florist: JL Designs

Caterer: Hallie Janes Catering

Band: Reunion Band

Hair and Makeup: Jessie McNure

Officiant: Todd Lowe

Ceremony Musician: Diane Deariso

Baker: Cake Design by Debra

Zack and Annie: A Pine Knoll Farms Wedding

I had the pleasure of photographing Annie’s cousin, Cassie’s wedding in 2019, and I absolutely fell in love with their sweet family—so when Annie and her mother contacted me about photographing her wedding, I was thrilled to get to work with them!

Annie and Zack chose Pine Knoll Farms in Appling, Georgia for their winter wedding. The farm is spread out and lined with pastures where horses grazed, guineas tip-toed through the grass and a turkey strutted about. There was a charming rustic chapel in the center where Annie and Zack would exchange their vows.

Despite some clouds and rain earlier in the day, the sun broke through the overcast sky at just the right time—giving us some stunning golden hour light to finish portraits at the end of the day!

Annie’s gown and details were fit for a princess—and y’all—her hair piece—wow!! She was hanging out with her girls when I arrived to photograph her details. After finishing those, we went to work with the guys—and had quite the laugh when Zack attempted to get a picture with the turkey.

Later, once Annie was dressed, she had a sweet first look with her father followed by bridal portraits and a first look with Zack at the chapel.

When it was time for her ceremony, the music from "Pride and Prejudice” filled the chapel. The greenery and arrangements with the blooming branches created a whimsical, fairy-tale feel as Annie, her sister and her father rode to the chapel in the horse-drawn carriage.

Annie’s smile lit up the entire space when the doors were opened and her father escorted her down the aisle to Zack. After exchanging vows, they sealed their promises with a kiss, set off down the aisle to place their lock on the gate out front and were whisked away on a carriage ride to enjoy their first few minutes of being husband and wife.

Mr. and Mrs. Goble celebrated at their reception, and were sent off to their happily ever after with sparklers. Their day was truly a fairy-tale, and Zack and Annie—I wish you every happiness and blessing as you embark on this amazing journey of marriage! It was truly an honor for me to capture your day—Congratulations!!

Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography

Second Photographer: Heath Herron

Coordinator: Jacki Garrison

Videographer: Red Line Pros

Hair and Make-up: Kayla Walters

Florist/Caterer: A Family Affair

Scott and Alyssa: University of Georgia Engagement Session

These UGA grads met in Athens—so it was very meaningful to get to shoot their engagement session at a location that holds so much history and so many memories for them! Scott proposed at his parent’s house in St. Pete’s Florida on a dock by the water, and y’all—isn’t Alyssa’s ring gorgeous?? Right now, Scott’s job has this sweet couple residing in Dallas, Texas—but they hope to eventually come back to Georgia. We had a great time hanging out on North campus at UGA on Saturday. The warm spring weather was a welcome change for them after being surprised with 10 inches of snow back home!

I loved the ease with which they were together, and their genuine smiles. They made my job capturing some fun and special moments easy! These two are rapidly approaching their May wedding at the Thompson House and Gardens—and I absolutely can’t wait to capture their day. Congratulations, Scott and Alyssa—you are truly a joy to be around and it is a privilege to work with you both!

Allura Aviation: Branding Session

Branding sessions have risen in importance and popularity—particularly since so many of us have found ourselves working and conducting business online with the changes brought by the recent pandemic. A branding session can be anything from professional headshots to a full shoot highlighting the business owner’s personality, business, and products….because, let’s face it—now more than ever we are conducting business online, and your online brand (ie reputation/presence) is critical to communicating what your business has to offer to potential clients.

When Miles Matthews, owner of Allura Aviation contacted me about rebranding his business, I was excited to have the opportunity to help him create the online content he needed in order to redesign his website and up his social media presence.

Allura Aviation is a company based out of Texas that offers private plane charters for business and personal travel and also donates flights for people in need of medical care through Angel Flights. After chatting with Miles about his vision, we worked together to create a plan and timeline to capture what he wanted to convey.

We spent two days shooting at the Gainesville airport and some other locations to build his content. We had some awesome models come out to help us, and we made sure to get plenty of detailed shots which are great for website fillers/backgrounds, casual and professional headshots of Miles, and lots of social media content! I had such a great time working on this unique branding session—check out Allura Aviation the next time you need to book a flight!

Little Mulberry Park Maternity Session: The Wargo Family

I was so excited to get to see Rebecca again—she was a bridesmaid in a wedding I photographed a few years ago (and was my go-to person at the wedding to help me make sure I had everything I needed!) and when she reached out about to let me know she was expecting again and wanted maternity photos, I was thrilled to get to capture some fun memories for her!

I met Will, Rebecca and their sweet daughter Catherine out at Little Mulberry Park at sunset. Catherine is so excited to be a big sister—and she loved getting some sweet snuggles from mom and dad.

Rebecca looked beautiful in her long, flowy gown. She and Will want to be surprised with the gender of the baby—due in March, but Rebecca is pretty sure the baby might decide to make an early appearance in February. Either way, this sweet family is over the moon excited for their new addition—and I am so happy I was able to capture this special time for them!

Dylan and Emily: Covington, Georgia Engagement

It was a frigid 34 degrees in the morning when I met Dylan and Emily in Covington Thursday morning….but y’all—these two ROCKED their southern style engagement session! I’m a little partial to morning sessions…I love the soft, bright light—and we had plenty of that out at this beautiful historic home built in 1910 and owned by a friend of Emily’s family.

Dylan and Emily met in high school—and even after Emily’s family moved away to North Carolina and returned a few years later, they reconnected and became engaged. It was evident they were crazy about one another—they are both so kind and genuine and it was so easy to be around them.

Sweet Emily gave me a big hug and surprised me with a beautiful gift—a cross made from oyster shells trimmed with gold paint on a canvas. I was SO touched by her thoughtfulness—she is truly so beautiful not only on the outside—but the inside!

We made sure to keep her wrapped in a blanket as we moved from location to location on the estate. Dylan was such a gentleman and held her extra tight to keep her warm. We had a lot of fun despite the cold, and I so enjoyed my morning getting to know them and talking about their wedding plans.

Dylan and Emily, congratulations on your engagement—I hope y’all enjoy these special next few months together as you look forward to your summer wedding later this year!! I absolutely can’t wait to capture your day!

*Dislcaimer: This location is a private home and is not a location that can be used for client sessions in the future.