The Rise of the Estate Wedding in the South

There’s a reason estate weddings are everywhere in 2025 — and it’s not just because they look good on Instagram (though, trust me, they do). It’s because couples today are craving weddings that feel intentional, elegant, and deeply personal. They want a space that reflects who they are, not just a blank canvas. And estate venues — with their timeless architecture, blooming gardens, and rich histories — offer that in abundance.

As a wedding photographer based in Knoxville, Tennessee, I’ve had the privilege of capturing weddings at some of the most beautiful estates in East Tennessee, and let me tell you: there’s nothing quite like it. The way the light spills through old windows in the late afternoon, the quiet magic of walking through a garden just before the ceremony, the charm of historic homes that have seen generations of love — it all creates an atmosphere that’s as romantic as it is unforgettable.

If you’re in the thick of wedding planning and wondering whether an estate wedding is right for you, here’s my two cents: if you love the idea of timeless beauty, a sense of story, and the kind of venue that feels like an experience in itself, then absolutely yes. Whether it’s an intimate garden gathering or a black-tie affair with a hint of Bridgerton drama, an estate gives you a backdrop that elevates every detail of your day.

And if you’ve already chosen that route — first of all, great choice — the next step is making sure those moments are documented in a way that does justice to your vision. That’s where I come in.

Why I Love Photographing Estate Weddings

Estate weddings speak to the heart of what I love about photography: the mix of storytelling and art. These venues offer texture, depth, and elegance that you simply can’t replicate in a standard banquet hall. As a photographer, I get to play with light and shadow, natural landscapes, architectural framing, and so many other elements that bring your images to life.

But more than anything, it’s the emotion of the day that I’m after. The tear your mom wipes away during the ceremony. The way your partner looks at you as you walk down a flower-lined path. The little squeeze of the hand during your vows. Estate weddings tend to create space for those moments — quiet, meaningful, and authentic — and I make it my job to notice and preserve them.

My style is often described as natural, editorial, and emotional. I blend classic portraiture with candid storytelling, so you get the full picture: the polished, frame-worthy shots and the behind-the-scenes joy and chaos. I want you to look back on your gallery and feel everything.

A Local Photographer Who Knows the Venues (and the Light)

Being a Knoxville native and full-time wedding photographer means I’ve worked at many of the area’s most beloved estates — like The Bleak House, Crescent Bend, Maple Grove. I know the best corners for portraits, the most flattering light throughout the day, and how to plan a photo timeline that actually works with the venue (not against it).

This isn’t just about logistics — though those are important too — it’s about maximizing what makes your venue special. I scout locations, communicate closely with planners and coordinators, and come to your day prepared with a plan that still leaves space for spontaneity. Because trust me, those in-between moments — the ones we didn’t script — are often the ones you’ll love most.

What You Can Expect When You Work With Me

I’m not just showing up with a camera. I’m showing up as someone who deeply cares about your story and wants to help you feel relaxed, supported, and fully present on your wedding day. I take a calm, friendly, and collaborative approach — because the best photos come when you feel comfortable and seen.

From our first consultation to gallery delivery, I’m here to guide you. Need help building a photo timeline? I’ve got you. Nervous about posing? I’ll coach you through it in a way that feels natural. Want to include heirloom details, a vintage car, or a golden retriever ring bearer? I’m so here for it.

I believe that wedding photography should be personal, artistic, and intentional — and I work hard to create that for every couple I work with.

Photographer: Hayley Howard Photography

Venue: The Bleak House

Florals: Thistle and Lace Florals

Hair and Makeup: Chop Chop Beauty Club

Tuxedo: Bellarios Tuxedos

Dress: Dalliance Gown Rentals

Estate Weddings Deserve to Be Remembered Beautifully

If you’re planning an estate wedding in Knoxville or East Tennessee in 2025, I’d be honored to be considered as your photographer. These weddings are more than just events — they’re experiences, full of nuance and memory and heart. I want to help you remember it all, beautifully and honestly.

So here’s my invitation: let’s chat. Let’s dream up what your day could look like, and how we can capture it in a way that feels just right for you. Whether you’re exchanging vows under a canopy of trees or dancing the night away in a historic ballroom, I’d love to be there to tell your story — one frame at a time.