Best of 2017 | A Year In Review | The Hatches - Tennessee Wedding & Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch January 10, 2018

@thehatchesphoto - 2017 Best Nine - Instagram

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Where do we even begin?

It's that time of the year where we reflect on our past year and reminisce on our memories. I don't know if many other photographers felt this way, but I had this overwhelming feeling, that I really didn't do much this year. (I know call me crazy, I was always somewhere doing something) I don't know why I was stuck in this mindset but I'm glad I got stuck there because it pushed me to start going through all of my images from 2017 and prove myself wrong.

Well that was a mistake. Not a mistake as in that I couldn't prove myself wrong, (because I surely did) but a mistake as in - "shit, how am I going to narrow this down?"

I didn't get all of my stats together this year like I did last year with how many states we visited and how many weddings we shot and yadda yadda because, if we're being honest, the only people who genuinely are interested in that are other photographers so they can figure out how to "one-up" someone else.

JK. (only half kidding) LOL

This year we focused on feelings, emotion and how to sustain images that make you feel like you were there. We really wanted to put into perspective how intimacy meant more than something sexual, but being completely vulnerable with your partner in a way where empathy and adoration poured from your body language. Judging by the images below, i think we did a pretty good job.

Our main goal was to find ourselves in our work. Meaning : to become what we wanted our images to interpret. Romantic, Fleeting, Intimate and Adventurous. Marriage is a commitment and a journey within itself, just embrace it.

One of our biggest accomplishments in 2017 (besides bringing our 3rd baby boy into the world) was The Real Workshop. My dear friend, Elizabeth Hoard and I had the chance at hosting our own wedding workshop back in August of 2017. We held it at Petit Jean State Park with 9 incredible speakers, 50 new and established photographers and a rugged trek to a waterfall while 8 and 1/2 months pregnant. Didn't really think that last one through. But we made it out alive. Barely.

I'm not going to sell you on why we started this workshop or how we came across the idea but if you are interested, click the link above and read allllll about it.

We danced, laughed, ate, traveled and saw more this year than we ever have. We learned from mistakes and we broke new grounds. We couldn't be more grateful for 2017 than we already are. Especially, with the amazing clients and new friends it brought us.

We have SO much to look forward to in 2018. Here's to this past year and all of its glory.

*cheers*

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A Bohemian Inspired Waterfall Wedding | Gatlinburg, Tennessee | The Hatches : Wedding + Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch July 12, 2017

MR & MRS CHURCHILL

When I first had my meeting with Brianna, she had already filled me in on how determined she was to have us photograph her wedding day. This girl stole my heart from the very start. I couldn't get over her precious little family and her gypsy heart. She was my free spirit bride. Heck if it wouldn't have been 28 degrees during their engagement session, she would have gone barefoot.
(Note : I looked out for her safety haha, no frozen piggies here!)

Brianna, Kelsey (Connor & Co.) and I all sat down at Muddy's in Midtown and began planning away. The more Brianna talked about her wedding, the more I fell in love. With her, the idea of her wedding and her ADORABLE family. Just wait until you see them, SO CUTE.

It was calling for rain all day for her wedding. Yet there wasn't a cloud in the sky on the day of. We got so much sunshine. It was glorious! Most of everything for their wedding was done by friends and family, and the florals were bought wholesale and put together by Kelsey. I even had the pleasure of helping and donated some decor and made Brianna's floral crown for her.

This family quickly became my family, too. They're WHOLE family, yes WHOLE, was so inviting and so caring and made sure that Jacob and I were more than comfortable during our stay. We spent the whole weekend with them!

During their reception, Brianna made a special video for Cody. I won't spoil it, I'll let you see as you scroll down ;) But their daughter also had some news that she was too excited to share. So during Brianna's mom's speech, Aubrey announced that she was getting a little baby sister or brother. It was PRICELESS! And a surprise to their guests!

Unfortunately, after a couple of weeks, Baby C was born sleeping. My heart shattered in two for this family. I am so glad that they have become so dear to me and my family. I know that I am attracting the right clients for me because they all become my family by their wedding day.

Brianna and Cody are some of the most genuine hearted people I have ever met. I am honored to call them friends and humbled to have been able to document their milestone in life.

Here are some of our favorites from their wedding day in Gatlinburg! See their awesome vendors at the bottom! <3

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Brianna's gift to Cody was simply priceless. She gathered up pictures from all over the world that had notes on them from strangers on Facebook saying how far Brianna's love reached for him. He cried. She cried. Their parents cried. It was so moving.

Venue : Serenity Falls Cabins & Rentals

Dress : Coco Medley

Flowers : Kelsey Connor

Floral Crown : Emily Hatch

Coordinator / Planner : Connor & Co.

Photography : The Hatches Wedding + Elopement Photography

Spring Inspired - Intimate Backyard Elopement | Memphis Tennessee | The Hatches Wedding and Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch May 11, 2017

AARON + ANNA

Connor & Co. and I were itching to play around with lots of florals since all of the greens from spring rains were starting to pop through this dreadfully dead season we've been in lately. We popped into Fresh Market and got lots of pretty colors to use and spent the day making the arrangements and bouquet.

Aaron and Anna were available to come hang out with us and fight off all the summer bugs for a few hours and boy were we glad! Their chemistry was unbelievable. Not needing any direction from us, they became one together in their movements right before my very eyes. I WAS IN LOVE.

Having been recently married, their love poured outwards even more than I had originally planned to shoot. But I wasn't going to stop them. Sometimes when you just feel it, you go with it. No matter what. And 9 times out of 10, it turns out way better than you anticipated.

Wall Doxey State Park was our "backyard" for this bright and intimate Spring Inspired Elopement. One of my favorite places to shoot.

I had an absolute blast getting to know Aaron and Anna this evening. They made me feel like a cool kid.

One thing I wanted to capture with this styled shoot was the emotion and chemistry between a couple and their interactions to bring out the heart gripping feelings when you're in the presence of someone you love deeply. Anna and Aaron made that extremely easy for me. I love the happy and joyous moments but I also love the soft and serene moments between two people. Every marriage has both along with many other moments. It isn't easy, but its worth it when those hard times pass. There is nothing greater than going through life and all of its curveballs with someone who knows you inside and out better than you know yourself.

A Cloudy Romantic Engagement | Downtown Memphis - Spring Creek Ranch | Memphis Tennessee | The Hatches Wedding and Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch April 27, 2017

JESSICA & JORDAN | ENGAGED

The Hatches | Memphis, Tennessee Wedding Photographers | Destination and Elopement Photographers | memphis-nashville-tennessee-utah-colorado-arkansas-washington-norway-arizona-wedding-photographer-elopement-unique-moody-modern-minimalist-journalisti…

Meet Jessica and Jordan. One couple who was beyond my expectations for clients. I can say that by the end of this post you'll have fallen in love with them, too.

Jessica is full of life and has the most contagious laugh. Jordan thinks the world of Jessica. Their love seeped into the images we created that day. It was almost impossible for them to take a bad picture! We started at an automotive shop not far from their wedding venue, Loflin Yard. It was rather cold, after all it was January, so getting inside the building made for some fun and cozy shots. We were even welcomed by a train! Haha. I don't know who had more fun, the conductor or Jessica! :P

We made our way towards Spring Creek Ranch for their second location and when we arrived, it blew my mind! The staff was more than accommodating and went way out of their way to make sure we had a great time enduring the cold and windy weather.

After stocking up on hot coffee and heated golf carts we proceeded to ride around the golf course and pick different spots to play around in! We had a ball. From wrong turns to jumping in and out long enough to warm our hands and feet.

Their wedding is Wednesday, May 3 at Loflin Yard and we cannot WAIT to watch these two become one at this eclectic venue and work alongside some AMAZING vendors such as Pickler Events, Deedra Stone, White Door Events and Klassey Productions!

We will see you guys soon!! <3

A Dreamy Canoe Engagement | Sunset at Shelby Farms | Memphis Tennessee | The Hatches - Wedding and Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch April 26, 2017

The Hatches | Memphis Tennessee Wedding and Elopement Photographer | 2016 Year in Review | the-hatches-memphis-tennessee-utah-colorado-arizona-washington-wedding-elopement-photographer-unique-dark-and-moody-creative-urban-journalistic-canoe-engageme…

R A L P H & S A R A H | E N G A G E D

When I say "Dreamy Canoe" I literally mean.... Dreamy Canoe. Holy cow did we get lucky with this AMAZING light at Shelby Farms for Sarah and Ralph's engagement session! We had wine and cheese and lots of flowers, what more could you ask for? OH YEAH. That sunset! The colors in the sky were almost as romantic as the love between S + R. I wish I could live this day over and over again. Hands down, easily in my top faves.

I could talk about this session forever but I'll let you see the images because, they're way more interesting ;)

Hope you love them!

The Hatches | 2016 : A Year in Review | Memphis Tennessee Wedding and Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch January 3, 2017

2016 : A YEAR IN REVIEW

THE HATCHES | MEMPHIS TENNESSEE

SO for starters I have to just say.... Wow. That about sums it up. 2016 was the year I discovered who I was and who I wanted to be. 2016 took me to new places I had never seen before. 2016 gave me friendships, I've never dreamed of before. I have grown in my work and my style and have had clients become lifelong friends.

YOU guys have made this year one HELL of a year. We traveled more than we ever have but not as much as we are going to. We have so so so much to share for whats in store for 2017 but for now we want to remember 2016 and some of the best times of our lives.

We've traveled to 9 States, shot 31 Weddings, and 106 Sessions. We also flew on a plane for the first time.

2016 : You were kick-ass.....

2017 : Take notes. Its only up from here.

THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS. WE LOVE YOU.

*I didn't get a chance to post every single session. Please do not feel discouraged, I have so much more to share from 2016. This is just the beginning! <3*

An Intimate Mountainside Engagement At Sunset | Heber Springs Arkansas | The Hatches : Memphis Wedding + Elopement Photographer

Emily Hatch November 14, 2016

AN INTIMATE MOUNTAINSIDE ENGAGEMENT

HAYLEY + ZACH | HEBER SPRINGS, AR

Mountains and waterfalls and sunsets, OH MY! But even more "oh my!" because its one gorgeous couple like Hayley & Zach. Who will also be tying the knot THIS saturday! Hayley and Zach are one couple who made it very evident in the very beginning on how important their wedding pictures were to them and added on a Day After Session for when they get back from their honeymoon for even more pictures of them in their wedding attire. DREAM BOAT CENTRAL RIGHT HERE, FOLKS.

There are so many things that you spend money on when planning your wedding but one thing that sticks around after you've broke out your cake on your one year anniversary and finally sent out that last Thank You card, are the images and video from your day. Photographs are the only tangible thing left after your day BLOWS past you.

Don't put it on the back burner, if you want your photos to last you for years and years, make it on the top priorities of your list right next to Venue and Date.

Back to Hayley and Zach ;) Meet the most intimate and lovey and adventurous couple. We met for lunch at this cute little mexican restaurant, that didn't have margaritas (bummer), but had some hella good cheesy chicken over rice. We then just drove. We found the creek and man made waterfall close by but everything else was us just driving and pulling over. These are my favorite types of sessions because I get SO MUCH in such a short amount of time.

I had to narrow it down, tremendously but here are some of my favorites!
Congrats Mr & Mrs Horne! Can't wait to see you guys on Saturday!

The Hatches | Hayley & Zach | Adventure Engagement Session | Heber Springs, Arkansas | Wedding + Elopement Photographers | heber-springs-arkansas-engagement-wedding-elopement-waterfalls-mountains-adventurous-couple-unique-intimate-lifestyle-nature-w…

AND OUT OF NOWHERE HERE COMES THIS FREAKING PINK SKY!!!!!

A Playful Sunrise Anniversary Session | Shira + Wesley | The Hatches - Memphis Wedding Photographers

Emily Hatch November 13, 2016

A PLAYFUL SUNRISE ANNIVERSARY SESSION

SHIRA + WESLEY | MEMPHIS TENNESSEE

WOW. That's what I'm going to start with. Shira and Wesley were every photographer's DREAM to capture. From the moment they stepped out of their car to the very last frame, they lit up the world around them. When Shira smiled, Wesley smiled. When Wesley laughed, Shira laughed. I had never met a couple more in sync like these two.

They both, despite the freezing cold, had me laughing until my sides hurt. They were so... energetic and full of love and emotion for each other, I had VERY little direction to give them. I literally sat and soaked up every second of their relationship. And I have ZERO complaints.

Shira is also a photographer, Shira Marie Photography, so photographing them came as easy as their love for each other. Wesley admires Shira. You could see it in his face. And Shira adores Wesley, you can see it in her smile. I LOVE these two, I hope I get to photograph them again!

Here are some of my absolute faves, I hope you guys enjoy! <3

The Hatches | Sunrise Anniversary Session | Shira + Wesley | memphis-tennessee-sunrise-anniversary-session-marriage-intimate-fun-eccentric-bright-couples-romantic-adventurous-playful

A Moody and Adventurous Engagement | Fall Creek Falls | The Hatches - Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographers

Emily Hatch November 10, 2016

A MOODY & ADVENTUROUS ENGAGEMENT

FALL CREEK FALLS

JEREMY + AMANDA

The Hatches | A Moody and Adventurous Engagement Session | Falls Creek Falls | Cookeville, Tennessee | Memphis Tennessee Elopement and Wedding Photographers | memphis-tennessee-elopement-and-wedding-photographer-fall-creek-falls-cookeville-utah-colo…

Jeremy + Amanda contacted us for an Adventure Session as their engagement session a few months ago and we immediately started looking for a new park to go explore. She sent me a few waterfall choices and we were totally in love with Fall Creek Falls in Cookeville, TN.

We got to know Jeremy + Amanda and they got to know us. We talked about hobbies, bands, movies and laughed at ourselves more than anything, we found out none of us are very coordinated when walking narrow trails haha.

We met at the suspension bridge and then proceeded to walk further into the woods. I tell you there is nothing better than a few walks in the woods. I say a few because we walked the same trail 3 times due to being unsure which way to go lol. Needless to say we always have fun on these types of sessions.

Locked away from cell phone service, we let Jeremy + Amanda take their time with each other and really embrace their love for each other. Its hard to narrow down when we get couples like J + A who make our job so easy. Here are some of our favorites from their session!!

Now.... let's schedule a movie night ;)

" I'VE FALLEN IN LOVE WITH ADVENTURES; SO I BEGIN TO WONDER, IF THAT'S WHY I'VE FALLEN FOR YOU."

A Southern Wedding In The Sunflowers | Laurel Rose Manor | Como, Mississippi | The Hatches - Wedding Photographers

Emily Hatch October 31, 2016

A Southern, Summer Wedding In A Sunflower Field at Laurel Rose Manor

Matt & Sarah Wigington

SEPTEMBER 03, 2016

Sarah is the younger sister of my beloved best friend, Meagen and she is the polar opposite. I love it haha. Sarah is reserved and just goes with the flow. Which is exactly how her BEAUTIFUL wedding day went at Laurel Rose Manor; the home of her parents, Dr Mike and Mrs Lisa Cockrell.

When I tell you guys how I love this house, I don't quite think you just really understand why I love this house. I first saw this beautiful landscape in 2014 when Meagen got married here and I was blown away by the variety that this stunning piece of architecture offered. SO naturally, later when Sarah was to be wed here, I already knew the property enough to visually plan ahead on how we were going to shoot.

If you make it all the way to the bottom (because there are a LOT of images shared here LOL), the beautiful decor and placements were constructed by my AWESOME friend, and former bride of mine from April, Kelsey Connor with her company Connor & Co.
You need to check her out if you are planning ANY event... She is a GODSEND!! #blessyoukelsey

These are some of my favorites from their whole day. Sarah made for one stunning bride and Matt was dapper in his timeless suit. Take the time to let these two know how loved they are!!

CONGRATS MR & MRS WIGINGTON!

The Hatches | A Southern Wedding in the Sunflowers | Laurel Rose Manor | Como, MS | Destination Wedding Photographers | como-mississippi-wedding-utah-arizona-tennessee-colorado-photographer-sunflowers-southern-charm-glamour-rustic-inspiration-sunset

VENUE : LAUREL ROSE MANOR

DRESS : BAREFOOT BRIDE

BOUQUETS : HOMESTEAD FARMS

PLANNING/COORDINATOR : CONNOR & CO

DJ : KYSO ENTERTAINMENT

DECOR : KELSEY CONNOR & EMILY HATCH

CAKE : EMILY COCKRELL

An Affectionate Waterfall Engagement | Nathan & Allie | Petit Jean State Park | Wedding Photographers - The Hatches

Emily Hatch October 5, 2016

NATHAN & ALLIE

I will start this blog off by saying, my legs are STILL SORE. Although that could be argued with the fact that I'm always on a trail of some sort, hiking into some kind of wooded area.

We took separate vehicles and used Snapchat to fire questions back and forth to each other. We probably had the most fun with this. It helped us get Allie and Nathan's interests and hobbies and quirky little stories and helped them open up to us and really let us in on their love life.
Not in a "nosey" kind of way but in a way where we could all trust each other enough to get the emotions and vibes we were trying to pull from them.

"What is something that Nathan is stronger with where you are weaker?"

"What's your favorite thing to do on Sunday mornings?"

"What is something that you two are looking forward to on your wedding day?"

We were completely blown away at the chemistry between these two. The laughs, the talks, the movements, all of it, simply intimate. We didn't pay attention to time or the people around us, we were just living in the moment and connecting with new friends. I, for one, am SO excited for their spring wedding at the beautiful venue, Bonne Terre.

May can't come fast enough and we cannot wait to celebrate you guys ALL DAY as you take your next step into the adventure of marriage <3

Thank you both for allowing Jacob and I to invade your personal space and make some magic with ya ;)

The Hatches | Petit Jean State Park | Waterfall Engagement Session | Destination Wedding Photographers | petit-jean-state-park-engagement-session-moody-romantic-unique-adventurous-wedding-photographer

An Elegant And Modern Midtown Wedding | David and Jennifer | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | The Hatches

Emily Hatch August 19, 2016

DAVID + JENNIFER

It was a romantic setting for David and Jennifer as we gathered at this inanely beautiful Italian restaurant, The Farmer, in the heart of Midtown Memphis, Tn.

Jennifer and I had met prior to their wedding and she told me all about this cute little place, but I had NO idea that it was this freaking gorgeous.

Talk about every photographer's dream venue!

It was so simple and filled with greenery and every shade of florals all around the corners. It pains me to say that they have moved since I photographed this wedding but my word, pictures don't do this place justice.

BUT! The night was only getting so much better.

When Jennifer arrived, I had just finished getting some detail shots of the venue and of their decor when I turned the corner and stopped DEAD in my tracks. Jennifer had the most BEAUTIFUL white satin dress on and I was BLOWN away. I'm not kidding. She was, without a doubt, a complete knock-out!

David's reaction (pictured below) was extremely close to my very own!

Jacob and I couldn't have been more excited to be able to witness such a presence of love and fellowship between friends. We can't thank David and Jennifer enough for allowing us the honor of documenting their wedding day. We wish you guys many years of happiness as you embrace this journey in your life ahead! <3

Emily + Jacob Photography | The Hatches | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | David & Jennifer | An Elegant Midtown Wedding at The Farmer | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-italian-restaurant-modern-elegant-satin-dress-twinkle-lights-brid…

VENUE / CATERING : THE FARMER

PHOTOGRAPHERS : EMILY + JACOB PHOTOGRAPHY

DRESS : LOW'S BRIDAL

HAIR : LINDSEY GAMMEL

MAKEUP : KENDRICK SIMPSON

CAKE : MISS MUFF'N BAKERY

COORDINATOR : ANNA CAROTHERS

An Intimate Mountainside Wedding in Gatlinburg, Tennessee | Ethan and Shana | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographers | The Hatches

Emily Hatch August 14, 2016

Ethan and Shana Stanford | Gatlinburg Tennessee

An Intimate Mountainside Wedding

It's always fun to hear from friends in your past about documenting their futures. For some reason it makes it that much more to take in. Emotionally. For me, at least.

I grew up playing ball with Shana, Sabrina and Cameron as well as having their mom as my 5th grade teacher. We are from a small town haha. Needless to say, when Shana contacted me to photographer her wedding, I was jumping for joy! I photographed her sister, Sabrina's wedding back in 2014 so naturally I was excited to be back with their family!

After talking about the venue and how much their small wedding meant to them, I was that much more excited for them and to have the opportunity to help them relive this day over and over again. Shana was not your typical bride as she was requesting photos for more of an adventurous person, which is right up my alley! When Shana mentioned the river, I was ready to jump right in. Some of my favorite bride and groom portraits are in this river.

It was so nice to meet Ethan and his side of the family as they were all very welcoming and accommodating. I had such a great time visiting with everyone and capturing Shana and Ethan's wedding day, I truly appreciate you guys asking me and I feel honored to have been a part of your day!

Here are the highlights of their day!

Emily + Jacob Photography | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographers | Ethan and Shana | An Intimate Mountainside Wedding | gatlinburg-tennessee-wedding-photographer-an-intimate-mountainside-wedding-rustic-cabin-bride-and-groom-in-creek-modern-portra…

Venue : Scatterridge Wedding Chapel

Location : Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Contact : scatterridgepm@gmail.com

Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | A Rustic Golf Club Wedding | Andrew and Kelsey | Emily + Jacob Photography

Emily Hatch August 10, 2016

A Rustic Golf Club Wedding | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer| Mr and Mrs Cupples

June was an incredibly busy month for weddings and it was the hottest. No one let the heat interrupt their moods though, this wedding was one for the books!
My husband must be popular in the DeSoto area because most of my brides from this year and next have gone to school with him, or his brother, or at least know someone who knows him (so it seems like haha).

Kelsey was the most relaxed bride and she could care less if anything went wrong that day. She knew by nightfall that she would be Mrs Andrew Cupples, regardless. The BEST attitude to have. I know brides stress over things being absolutely perfect but it's not worth letting it get to you on your wedding day. Enjoy the little moments because the day will pass you by before you finish blinking.

As you'll be able to tell when you scroll down a ways, during reception Kelsey and Andrew had one kick ass DJ : R&R Productions. And people let me tell you, he made the entire room dance. You just couldn't sit still while he was mixing.

Jacob and I were beyond thrilled to have gotten to spend the day with The Cupples and their closest friends and family and even more humbled that they asked us to document their day. We wish you guys nothing but the best in life and we can't wait to see what the future has in store for your precious family!

A Rustic Golf Club Wedding | Andrew and Kelsey | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | Emily + Jacob Photography | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-a-rustic-golf-course-golf-club-wedding-unique-diy-summer

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VENUE : NORTH CREEK GOLF COURSE

DRESS : LOW'S BRIDAL

DJ : R&R PRODUCTIONS

PHOTOGRAPHERS : EMILY + JACOB PHOTOGRAPHY

TUX : MEN'S WEARHOUSE

'MAIDS DRESSES : CORAL REEF \ DAVID'S BRIDAL

CATERERS : AMBER LOVELL - PINK FLAMINGO CATERING

MAKEUP : ALEXANDRA HALL

HAIR : ADORE SALON - SOUTHAVEN, MS

A Garden Sunrise Anniversary Session | Meagen + Mike | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch July 28, 2016

Meagen + Mike | A Garden Sunrise Anniversary

MEMPHIS TENNESSEE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

I honestly don't even know where to begin on this post. It's probably why it has taken me so long to write it.

Rewind back to 2013 when Meagen Montgomery sent me a message filled with questions she had found from an article on Pinterest. I answered each one as best as I could and even though I had no idea at the time, we would become best friends. Not to mention the second time I ever met her, was for her boudoir session as her wedding gift to Mike so we got pretty comfortable with each other fairly quickly LOL. We spent a lot of time talking and it later became about things other than wedding related activities. We were on the road to sisterhood (Mrs. Lisa, Meagen's mom, calls us something different haha) that would later develop into one of the most genuine friendships, I've ever encountered. Meagen and I have way more in common than most people think and it's quite hilarious to watch us act similarly without even knowing it. Just ask our husbands LOL. Meagen has taught me what true friendship is and how you can't get a good friend until you become a good friend, yourself. Who knew, right? ;)

Meagen and Mike own a small business, Alexander's Mobile Pet Grooming Service and are actually the very reason we have both of our dogs! Meagen, on the side of working at her parent's medical office in our hometown The Cockrell Family Medical Center, helps immensely with the process of rescuing and fostering dogs in the Mid South area. She has three pit bull dogs of her own and two of those beautiful beings gave me my sweet, brindled Pitbull/Mastiff BABY. Because that's what he is, one big baby. Meagen has one of the BIGGEST hearts I've ever seen when it comes to these precious animals and I am forever grateful to say that I am friends with her gentle soul.

Fast forward to now, 2016. They've been married for 2 years now and are expecting a baby girl in December. You'd never know in the images because Meagen just has a rockin bod. ;) These two people, Meagen and Mike Alexander, have been one of the greatest blessings to my husband and I. I don't know how we grew up in the same town, lived DOWN THE STREET from each other and didn't even meet until we were in our 20's. Heck, our parents went to school with each other! So much for the small town life, huh? HAHA. I love her parents dearly and I am so thankful to be considered part of their family, The Cockrell Family, and continue to watch them grow.

WE LOVE YOU! Of course we had to end the session with a tasty treat because what pregnant lady doesn't want cupcakes? Happy Be-Lated Anniversary! <3

Haley and Joe | Day After Session - Holly Springs, MS

Emily Hatch July 20, 2016

HALEY & JOE

MAY SIXTEENTH TWO THOUSAND FIFTEEEN

I first met Haley years and years ago, probably 20 in fact, and found it fun that Haley had contacted me for photographs after all this time! We both grew up in the same small town and went to the same small town school. We even went to the same small town daycare when we were kids! Another fun fact, we were both married to the love of our lives on May 16, 2015. Haley had contacted me about a Day After Session after explaining the disappointment in her recent experience with wedding photography. There were tons of images she loved but was just a little bummed over certain ones missed. It can happen. Timelines are so important in wedding planning that often we get caught up in the mix of things and lose track from time to time.

I wanted to give Haley and Joe that awesome feeling again. I wanted them to have someone to look back on later so I helped them recreate moments from the day of by getting them to interact in different ways that would pour through their photographs. What I was feeling from them was coming to life on my camera screen.

I heard a friend once quote "You can spend $10,000 on a wedding and hire a $100 photographer and it will look like a $100 wedding. Or you can spend $100 on a wedding and $2000 on a wedding photographer and it will look like a $10,000 wedding."

This is metaphorically speaking, of course, but you get the gist right? Don't hire someone based on their price. Hire someone based on their style. Their personality. Their relationship with their clients. Hire them for the images that drew you to them in the first place. You won't regret it.

For a list of things to look for when hiring your perfect wedding photographer click here for the article, 10 Tips When Searching For Your Perfect Wedding Photographer!

These are some of my favorites from Haley and Joe's session! I hope you guys enjoy them!

"June 28th, 2014 the journey of a lifetime began. I remember this date specifically because it is the day a charmingly outgoing young man approached me at the gym. After some flirting and conversation, he asked for my number and went on with his work out. I remember leaving that night thinking I would never see or talk to this guy again. What a “player” he must be to hit on me at the gym. Little did I know the same man would get down on one knee and ask me to be his wife a little over a year later. Throughout out the beginning of our journey, there were many times I tried to find a reason for it not to work but what some believe as fate, kept bringing us back together; running into each other, hanging out with the same group of friends, obvious signs we could not ignore. Maybe it was fate, but I believe it was God’s plan showing through. I had found the love of my life, the man you read about in fairy tales, and dream about as a little girl, in Joey. And the best part, he wanted to marry ME! Joey is selfless in every way, gives me butterflies with every kiss, and makes me laugh until I physically can’t laugh anymore but then somehow makes me laugh again.

Once I came back down to reality after all the excitement, all the crazy wedding plans began. I found “THE DRESS”. Bridesmaids dresses and the guys suits were done. We were booking the venue, food, reception hall, and the pictures. I thought I was doing everything right; finding the best prices and asking around for opinions of the people I had chosen to help with the big day. I made extra sure about the photographer because pictures are so important to us. We take pictures of EVERYTHING!!! What I soon learned was that other people's opinions are great but they are not your own. What some thought was a great experience, I saw very differently. The day of the wedding, we spent more time looking for the photographer than we did taking pictures. When the photographer did come around, she was yelling at everyone and even had me crying at one point in the day. The pictures we did take were very posed and I did not feel like we were getting any meaningful shots. But I told myself it would be okay because at least the pictures would turn out good. I was wrong again. Once we received the pictures, most were blurry, had shadows over the picture, or the photographer's equipment was in the background. There were so many special moments missed, such as; Joey seeing me for the first time or my daddy and grandaddy seeing me. Sadly, I will never get these moments back. With our one year anniversary approaching, I would still look back at our wedding and emotions would take over. Not the butterfly happy emotions but the disappointed and bitter emotions. I struggled to get past how one person had affected so much of the day.

We decided to retake pictures in my dress and try to recapture some of those special moments missed. This time I did not care about the price, I wanted the best and I fully believe we got the BEST with Emily Hatch. From the first e-mail, I knew this time would be better. She asked questions about the set up of pictures, the time of day we would want, and things we were interested in. We sent pictures back and forth to give her a clear idea of what we wanted and hoped for. With the first photographer, I did not know what to expect, so I did not realize how much she did not get to know us as people or a couple, or care about what WE wanted captured. Emily cared and wanted us to get exactly what we invisioned. It was finally time to retake our pictures. I was so nervous on the way there. I felt confident the pictures would be great because I had already talked to Emily so much about it and had seen her work before, but with the last experience, I wanted it to be perfect. AND IT WAS!!!!! She immediately had us laughing at one another and in the moment. Real emotion was captured with each click of the camera. I remembered our wedding day in a positive light for the first time, with each picture she showed us. No, it wasn’t the real day and no it wasn’t him seeing me for the first time, but it was picture after picture of the love we share for one another and the happiness we bring to each other. Literal tears filled my eyes, knowing that because of Emily and her passion for photography and capturing moments, I would now be able to look at a wedding picture and smile, laugh, and remember it as I should.

My advice, ALWAYS talk to the photographer for yourself. Allow him/her to get to know you and see if your ideas are the same. NEVER let the price determine who you choose for such a special and important job. Photographers will work with you if you really want them. Emily was a complete joy to work with. Contacting her was always easy and she replied quickly each time. The price was by all means doable and WORTH IT!!! She not only wanted to take great pictures but meaningful and emotional pictures as well. My love for Joey and His love for me can be seen so evidently. That’s all you can ask for."

Emily + Jacob Photography | Day After Session - Haley and Joe | Memphis Wedding Photographer | memphis-wedding-photographer-day-after-session-bride-and-groom-nature-haleyandjoe

A Modern Urban Engagement in Downtown Memphis | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch July 7, 2016

RACHEL & RYAN | MODERN URBAN ENGAGEMENT

"Ryan and I met through his brother, who is one of my closest friends. The first day we became "us" was at a Mississippi State football game. We knew of each other through Connor (his brother), but had never had the opportunity to really get to know one another until that weekend. We spent the entire weekend together, he took me on our first date, and then he had to return back to Jackson MS (an hour away) where he was finishing up his last year of architecture school. I was super disappointed to find out he had just accepted a job in Nashville where he'd be moving within the month. Despite the difficulties of long distance, we decided to try to become a couple. We fell in love with each other quickly, much sooner than either of us had expected, despite the 4.5 hours that separated us. We were a long distance couple for two full years. The last 2 years have flown by and have been filled with so much love, laughter, and adventure.

Taking our engagement pictures with Emily was something I had looked forward to bc I was familiar with her impeccable skill as a photographer. Ryan, however, did not look forward to spending a few hours in front of a camera. It only took a few minutes before we both were aware of how fun Emily was going to make the whole process. Even Ryan admitted that he seriously enjoyed our session! We felt so comfortable around Emily, allowing our session to be super relaxed and fun and allowing us to be ourselves. We never felt posey or awkward. She seriously madethe whole photo shoot so natural, unique, and FUN. We can't wait to spend our wedding day with Emily and Jacob because I know they'll make it such a blast and capture the best moments of our lives in the most beautiful way."

I don't even know where to begin with Ryan and Rachel, I really don't! Rachel and I had communicated through email a ton and we met for coffee at Cafe Eclectic in Harbortown and immediately hit it off. I just knew that her and Ryan were going to be such a fun and outgoing couple! I could literally sit here and talk about how much we laughed during our session and the jokes that were cracked STILL have me laughing. I cannot wait for their absolutely gorgeous wedding in April of next year at Heartwood Hall!

Emily + Jacob Photography | A Modern Urban Engagement in Downtown Memphis | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-modern-urban-engagement-rachelandryan

John David and Aubrey | A Minimal Boho Elopement at Laurel Rose Manor | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch July 6, 2016

A Minimal Boho Elopement at Laurel Rose Manor | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

A while back in the early spring, I had an idea for a styled elopement at one of my favorite locations, Laurel Rose Manor. It is a beautifully landscaped property located in Mississippi in a secluded area so I knew it was going to be perfect for this intimate setting that I had envisioned.

A tremendous thank you to Mr and Mrs Cockrell for allowing me to come run all over your property with my crew! This won't be the last you see of LRM, as their beautiful daughter Sarah and her fiance Matt are getting married there in the early fall of this year!

*pssst. there might be something else in the works but that's all you can know*

Make up and hair was provided by the ever so talented Abrianna Albonetti. You can find her at Hi-Def Salon located in Southaven, MS next to Maria Cantina's!

Last but not least, I have to thank Aubrey and JD for letting me boss them around for a few hours. I'm beyond grateful that they took time out of their schedules to come and help me bring my thoughts to art.

When I thought about doing this elopement I had immediately thought back to when I used Aubrey and JD for my pink cherry blossom tree shoot and I was so in love with their chemistry, I knew that they would be perfect for this vision, too.

Well, I've been keeping these forever, since before Easter, so I'm excited to finally share these with you all! Enjoy and Thank you! I would love to hear your feedback!

Models : John David and Aubrey Little

MUAH : Abrianna Albonetti

Venue : Laurel Rose Manor

Event Planner/Florals/Decor : Emily Hatch

Photographer : Emily + Jacob Photography

Emily + Jacob Photography | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | John David and Aubrey Little | Styled Elopement | Laurel Rose Manor | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-styled-elopement-boho-modern-laurel-rose-manor

Embracing the Adventure of Marriage | Emily + Jacob Photography | Memphis, TN Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch June 21, 2016

EMBRACING THE ADVENTURE OF MARRIAGE

By : Jacob & Emily Hatch

“I’m not interested in light little flings, skin-deep attractions, or long loveless marriages. With you, I only want raw, full-blooded connection, to share a bond full of passion and breathtaking adventure. After all, love is not a pastime, but a privilege.” - Beau Taplin

The journey into marriage is exactly as Jacob and I want to document it; an adventure. What better person to take on this remarkable and moving quest with, than your best friend.

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One of our favorite things to do when we have free time, is to explore. It doesn't matter where we go initially, we just want to see and see it together. It seems funny now, but it never fails that we wind up having a day to ourselves at just the right moments in life. We've both had an exhausting and trying last few weeks with life in general that we had began to close up and become frustrated with ourselves enough that it affected the other.

Marriage is hard, but marriage is worth it.

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Every single time we venture out together just to walk in silence side by side we find a new piece of ourselves falling in love all over again. The bond that we have when we dedicate our full attention on each other, is unlike any bond I've ever experienced. We've managed to discuss our future and things we were hesitant about. It's made for intriguing conversation and some hilarious stories to share with our kids and grandkids one day. We discovered new weaknesses and strengths. We found ourselves again. That one on one time with each other is so vital to your relationship. Yes we, as women, tend to need a little more attention than normal but men need it just as much, if not more.

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We can get so caught up in today's advantages such as social media, tv and internet that we tend to neglect those who matter more to us than how many likes we can get on a picture we posted. It's so easy to get distracted because it's all right there at your finger tips, but so are the hands of your partner.

Too often we take for granted the time we spend with our better half. We want to change that. We want to help you guys practice putting down the distractions in your life and get that connection between you two, back to its roots. What better way to connect than in the middle of nature?

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Our focus behind : Embracing the Adventure of Marriage is a self explanatory title. We want to encourage you and your partner in your adventure together along your journey from relationship to marriage. We want to reveal your story from within you and bring it to life in photographs that you could hang on your wall for your friends and family to enjoy every time they come by for a visit. And think about the stories YOU will tell from those images! We know how important it is to have that one on one time with your significant other because no one understands you better than them. We want to give you that one on one time.

We are offering a special session for our couples (married or not) in order to have that necessary bonding time with the love of your life. We call them; Adventure Sessions. You guys and Jacob and I will load up into our cars and head out to explore while documenting the chemistry between you as a couple and as individuals. We have a list of locations all around the mid-south that have walking trails, impeccable parks and breathtaking landscapes.

If you are interested in doing an adventure session with your partner click the button below!

BOOK AN ADVENTURE SESSION

Josh & Kristina | Waterfall Elopement in Kentucky | Memphis, TN Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch June 16, 2016

JOSH & KRISTINA - An intimate, waterfall elopement in Corbin, Kentucky.

DOG SLAUGHTER FALLS

Don't let the name fool you. Sunday, June 12, 2016

Josh and my husband go way back. Like "highschool buddies, skipping class, late night trips to taco bell" back. I couldn't even begin to tell you all of the stories I've heard from their friendship but it makes me so happy that he's got a best friend like that.

On Saturday, we drove up to Kentucky and scoped out some spots but mostly we just wanted to see Josh and Kristina. We hadn't seen them since WE married more than a year ago! Josh gave us the honor of standing beside Jacob on our wedding day but we were completely humbled when he asked us to photograph his elopement to Kristina. And BOY was I glad that we were there. The atmosphere alone was incomparable. I can usually nail details on describing what I was surrounded by, but I can't. The words aren't there. You just had to be there.

Sunday we got up SO early, but it was totally worth it. I wasn't even my normal grumpy self when I haven't had my coffee yet :P I had traveled with a giant cooler in my backseat so that I could transport the flowers from my favorite florist, Memphis Center City Wholesale in Bartlett. That morning I cut the stems and put the bouquet and Kristina's crown together and we headed to their hotel to help get them ready. I mean they were family to us basically.

We traveled down a dirt road off the highway for a few miles and then hiked a little over a mile to the falls and I fell in love. It's not the biggest waterfall but it was simple and secluded and that's exactly what we were looking for.

We could not have had a better time in Kentucky! We laughed. We cried. We tripped over roots and rocks and slid down hills. And then we laughed some more. I'm so sad that we were all limited on time spent together but this won't be the last we see of them. My heart is so full, we love you guys! CONGRATULATIONS!

MR & MRS SELLERS

Emily + Jacob Photography | Memphis Wedding Photographer | Elopement Photographer - kentucky-wedding-photographer-joshandkristina-elopement-waterfall-fineartphotography

PHOTOGRAPHY - EMILY + JACOB PHOTOGRAPHY

VENUE - DOG SLAUGHTER FALLS / CORBIN, KY.

FLORALS/MUAH - EMILY HATCH