Featured Wedding
Makenna & Jackson’s Unique Creek Wedding in Leipers Fork, Tennessee
A Wedding Day That Was Truly Them
Makenna and Jackson are both from Alabama, but they had a vision for their wedding that was as unique as their love story. They didn’t want a traditional ballroom or barn wedding — they wanted something that felt adventurous, relaxed, and completely true to who they are.
That vision came to life in the woods of Leipers Fork, Tennessee, where they said “I do” in the middle of a creek. Yes, a creek! Guests slipped off their shoes and stood in the cool water as they witnessed a one-of-a-kind ceremony on the edge of a waterfall.
Getting Ready at the Airbnb
The day began at a cozy Airbnb with Makenna, her family, and bridesmaids. When we arrived, she was having her hair and makeup done while football played on the TV — a true Southern Saturday scene.
We got busy photographing her bridal details in the main bedroom: the sweetest pearl-detailed shoes, and a borrowed pair of her sister’s earrings for her “something borrowed.” With the help of her mom, Makenna slipped into her gown and got ready for the day she had dreamed of.
First Looks That Melted Our Hearts
Before the ceremony, we made our way to the property’s old schoolhouse where Makenna shared two first looks.
First, with her dad. The moment was full of emotion — hugs, whispered words, and a few tears (from both him and me behind the camera). Makenna tried to hold back her own tears, not wanting to smudge her makeup.
Next came her first look with Jackson. The way he lit up when he saw her said it all. They shared a private moment reading their vows to one another, while we photographed from a distance to give them space. It was intimate, heartfelt, and completely them.
A Creekside Ceremony in Leipers Fork
Guests began arriving, prepared with bare feet or water shoes, and settled into the creek itself. The bridal party and couple stood on a ledge by a waterfall with a slow, steady trickle of water as the backdrop.
The setting was like something out of a fairytale. With sunlight filtering through the trees and laughter mingling with tears of joy, Makenna and Jackson’s Leipers Fork creek wedding was breathtakingly unique.
A Four-Legged Maid of Honor 🐾
One of the sweetest parts of Makenna and Jackson’s day was the inclusion of her 7-year-old German Shepherd, Willow, as the maid of honor. Willow proudly wore a periwinkle bow around her neck and and slept through most of the ceremony. True to her loyal personality, she was inquisitive at times but remained calm and obedient as her people exchanged vows. During the reception, she was perfectly content to cool off in the creek and lay quietly under the table while guests celebrated nearby. Having Willow there made the day feel even more personal and meaningful — a reminder that weddings are best when they reflect everything you love most.
A Reception Filled with Music & Southern Charm
After their “just married” portraits, we followed the couple down the creek to the reception area. Guests were enjoying mocktails alongside biscuits and jams (the most perfect Southern touch!).
Dinner was served by BAM Foods Catering, accompanied by the elegant sounds of a four-piece orchestra. Afterward came cake cutting, first dances, and plenty of joy-filled photos with friends and family.
The night ended with Makenna and Jackson making their grand exit in an antique bus, complete with the quirkiest, loudest horn that made everyone laugh as the driver honked while pulling away.
An Unforgettable Tennessee Wedding
Bill and I were so honored to document this incredible day. We’ll never forget standing barefoot in a creek, capturing Makenna and Jackson’s vows as they created a memory no one will ever forget.
This Leipers Fork creek wedding proves that the best weddings aren’t always the biggest or the fanciest — they’re the ones that reflect the couple perfectly. And for Makenna and Jackson, this day was exactly that: adventurous, joyful, and completely their own.
The Fabulous Vendors
- Venue – BAMFoods Catering
- Entertainment- Serenade Events
- Caterer – BAMFoods Catering
- Photographer – Collins & Collins Photography
- Hair – Sommer Robinson
- Makeup – KmJay4
- Groom and Groomsmen Suit – Birdy Grey Suits
- Bridesmaids Gowns – Birdy Grey
- Bridal Gown – Essence of Australia Place
- Cake – A Little Taste of Heaven
September 3, 2025
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