Golden Hour in Jasper County, GA
This was such a sweet session! Anytime I have the opportunity to photograph on a private estate, you can bet I'm going to be jumping for joy! J&J are the sweetest small business owners who I met at a vendor day at The Sixty Two, an elegant wedding venue with a charming country vibe in Madison, GA. While I was sadly already booked for their October wedding date, we both felt like we connected so well that I had to photograph their engagement! And, really, how could you not feel at immediately ease with J's wide smile and warm personality??? It was like spending an afternoon with friends - the session just flew by!
When J&J let me know that they had never had professional photos made before, I almost couldn't believe it. Despite both of them expressing some uncertainty over being in front of the camera and their lack of experience, they giggled and laughed their way through the entire experience!
What do you think? Did they knock it out of the park? (I certainly think so!!!)
Three Reasons to Consider a Private Estate for Your Wedding or Engagement
If you've ever wondered if you should ask that friend or family member with a S T U N N I N G private estate or countryside property (you know the one!) if you can photograph your engagement session (or even host your wedding!) at their property, here's a little extra encouragement (besides the photos from J & J's session!):
- It's unique. If you want a setting that's outside the norm, this is a perfect option! More than likely, few (if ANY) brides will have the opportunity to use that specific location. If the idea of having your engagement photos or wedding at the exact same venue as every other bride in your area is a no-go, this is perfect option!
- It's (almost always) truly private. So you and your fiancée are feeling a bit nervous about the potential of being photographed or getting married in front of a random passersby and/or complete strangers. A private estate is just that: completely private and blessedly dog-walker free! Take a deep breath and relax, knowing you can just be your selves!
- You don't have to worry about it being booked or busy. Whether you're looking for the perfect wedding venue or planning your dream engagement session, it can be challenging to find an available date or time of day/year that isn't super busy! When it comes to private estates, you'll be worrying less about if it's going to be super crowded at 5 PM on a Saturday and more excited about how stunning that glowing golden hour light is going to make your photos look!
Need more convincing? Check out my Pinterest board filled with Private Estate wedding & engagement inspiration! Or, take a peek at my real-life couple, Shelby & Cade, who had their engagement session AND wedding hosted at two different private family estates.
