Recent Events

“Young Spirits” Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, Nashville TN [Published in Bourbon + Magazine, July 2019]

Published on June 17, 2019June 17, 2019 by Heather Durham PhotographyLeave a comment

Photography by Heather Durham on location at Nelson’s Green Briar Distillery in Nashville, TN.
Story by Jake Emen.

Colorful & Modern Wedding Inspiration Shoot at the Hybrid Collective Workshop Hosted by Eric Kelley

Published on June 9, 2019 by Heather Durham PhotographyLeave a comment

Credits/Vendor Team + Instagram Accounts:

Host Photographer: @erickelley

Photographer: @heatherdurhamphotography

Producer and Set Designer: @type_a_society

Floral Designer: @melissabroadwell

Wardrobe Styling: @lexfordays

Hair: @locksbyleslie

Makeup: @jordanbyers

Cake: @trouvaillebakery

Jewelry: @sarahojewelry + @trumpetandhorn

Couture Bags and Jewelry: @mindylamjewelry

Shoes: @badgleymischka

Earrings: @jenniferbehr + @lili_claspe

Backdrops: @telicialee styling mats @jrd_artshop

Rentals: @maykercreative

Plates, Silverware and Glasses: @greystonetable

Stationary: @yonderdesign + @aerialistpress

Ring boxes: @voeu_du_coeur

Floral Pedestal Columns: @lavendersflowers

Jane Elizabeth & Taylor’s Mountain Brook Club Wedding, Birmingham AL

Published on June 6, 2019June 6, 2019 by Heather Durham Photography1 Comment

Jane Elizabeth and Taylor’s April wedding….it was stunning! Just wait to you see the reception floral design. It’s next level gorgeous! The couple even brought their lab “Honey” along for portraits after their First Look. My favorite image of the day? As you are scrolling, look for the black and white, wide reception room shot with JE and Taylor in a moment as if they were the only ones in the room. That image is what I look for at every reception. It encompasses the story of the entire day from planning and design by the talented Meghan Cease of M. Elizabeth Events, to all the important people in your life celebrating with you, and most importantly your joy and emotion in the midst of the moment of it all coming together. It’s everything!

I loved spending the day with this Alabama girl, Arkansas Razorback and their sweet families! I say this every time, but y’all my brides are the sweetest! I feel truly blessed to be invited into your lives.

Music Country Grand Prix Benefitting Saddle Up, Franklin TN

Published on June 3, 2019 by Heather Durham PhotographyLeave a comment

My daughter Olivia and I volunteer for Saddle Up, a therapeutic horseback riding program for kids with disabilities, just down the road from our neighborhood. We’ve seen first hand how caring for the horses and riding soothes these kids and brings them so much joy. It’s truly an amazing place that gives so much to families in our community.

Last Saturday I had the privilege of photographing the Music Country Grand Prix, sponsored by Tractor Supply and benefitting Saddle Up. This event is held at beautiful Brownland Farm here in Franklin, TN.

It was an absolutely perfect first day of June on the farm with sunshine, blue skies, fluffy clouds and nice breezes. I won’t share all of the jumpers, because this blog post would be too long; but I will share an overview of this wonderful event and the winning jumper, David Jennings, owner of Full Circle Farm Jumpers here in Franklin, and his horse Caddie R. Congratulations! If you are in Nashville and have never attended this event, I highly recommend putting it on your calendar for next year. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday with the family!

Mary Wesley & Bradley’s Engagement Session in Birmingham, AL

Published on May 29, 2019June 3, 2019 by Heather Durham PhotographyLeave a comment

I was so excited to finally meet Mary Wesley & Bradley (and her sweet parents) a few weeks ago for their Engagement Session at her parent’s ranch in Birmingham, AL. We connected over our love for the University of Alabama. I can’t wait for their fall wedding; and, of course, as all true southerners do, they considered the football schedule. It’s not on a Saturday home game. Roll Tide! 🙂 Can’t wait to spend the day with these two on October 5th. It’s going to be so much fun. I love them already!

Jane Elizabeth & Taylor’s Cocktails and Rehearsal Dinner at Moonshine at the Elyton and Café Dupont, Birmingham AL Wedding

Published on May 10, 2019June 3, 2019 by Heather Durham Photography1 Comment

Jane Elizabeth and Taylor’s Rehearsal Dinner started with family portraits in the Elyton Hotel’s gorgeous lobby (I’m a little obsessed with its blue walls.) Then, champagne and a sunset view of Birmingham at Moon Shine, the rooftop lounge at the top of the Elyton. Everyone enjoyed a delicious, candlit dinner seated at tables with monogrammed napkins and beautiful florals at Café DuPont. We left with full stomachs and full hearts. Guests parted with a monogrammed gift box of roasted pecans from the groom’s family ranch in Arkansas.

A Q&A with Walton’s Jewelry about choosing antique and estate jewelry and engagement rings

Published on May 7, 2019 by Heather Durham PhotographyLeave a comment

Some of my favorite details to photograph at a wedding are family heirloom jewelry the bride has chosen to wear on her special day. I love hearing the history of the pieces and who else in the family has worn them. These unique pieces aren’t just wedding day details, they are a celebrated generational connection…a part of your story.

Recently, I interviewed Julie Walton Garland, owner of Walton’s Jewelry in Franklin, TN. Here’s what she had to say…

HDP: Tell us about your family business, Walton’s Jewelry. Give us a little history. How long has it been in business?

JWG: My grandmother, Melba Walton, started the store in 1974. She first got started by selling jewelry on the hood of her car at flea markets, next to the chickens that were for sale! She opened Walton’s in its original location in Carter’s Court, the Franklin shopping destination at the time. In 1983 she purchased our current building at 410 Main Street – the best decision she could have ever made!

Julie Walton, owner Walton’s Antique Jewelry

HDP: What is your expertise?

JWG: We specialize in pre-1940’s antique and estate jewelry as well as jewelry repairs and appraisals.

HDP: What sets you apart?

JWG: Not only do we sell fabulous, one-of-a-kind jewelry, we take pride in the quality of our customer service. We are a family business and treat any and everyone that walks through our door as part of our family. Jewelry means different things to different people, but the common denominator is the sentimentality behind it. We care for our customers’ pieces as if they are our own because we understand their sentimental value, not just their monetary value.

HDP: I own one of your art deco diamond rings that I fell in love with the minute I saw it. I see so many amazing pieces that I photograph for you every other week. Tell us how you find your beautiful and unique pieces?

JWG: Our inventory is constantly changing and we never know what we may find or come across from day to day. We purchase our pieces from the general public (anyone can email or call us to set up an appointment). We also purchase from antique dealers, jewelry shows, estate sales/auctions, and on our travels.

HDP: What’s the best advice you could give a partner searching for the perfect antique engagement ring?

JWG: The biggest concern clients have when shopping for an engagement ring for their partner is wondering if they will like the style they choose. These days, there are many ways to do a little bit of spying on what styles he or she likes, i.e. Pinterest, Instagram, etc. My advice would be to do a little snooping first. Also ask his or her friends. If you can’t find any examples of what they like, first start with the basic shape of the ring (round, oval, square, etc.). Once you have it narrowed down, we can help you from there. And, Walton’s has rings for every budget, from conservative to luxury.

HDP: What are 5 tips for purchasing estate jewelry pieces, not just
engagement rings?

JWG:

Try on different styles – you may not realize just how much you love a piece till you try it on!
Because our pieces are one-of-a-kind, know that once it sells, it’sgone. If you fall in love with a piece, don’t hesitate…just purchase it!
Ask questions! We are here to help and are happy to give explanations and clarification.
You’ll know it when you see it. If a piece takes your breath away, then it’s the one!
Our inventory is constantly changing – we are putting out new inventory all the time. If you don’t see a piece you love one day, good chances are that you will the next time you look. You can also follow our social media and website to see our newest acquisitions!

HDP: What details in estate jewelry set it apart from modern-day designs?

JWG: Antique and estate pieces tend to feel less bulky – the filigree details of the past are always airy and refined. Modern day designs, even those that are “antique-inspired” often feel a bit bulkier.

HDP: What is your personal favorite style?

JWG: I love all things diamond from the 1920’s. My style tends to be classic and understated – diamond stud earrings, diamond pendant/necklace, diamond bands all paired with my 1920’s diamond engagement ring. I add a modern twist with my Apple watch!

Walton’s Jewelry is family owned and operated since 1974 and located in
Historic Downtown Franklin, TN. (615) 790-0244

WALTONSJEWELRY.COM

Birmingham Magazine May 2019 Beach Issue Cover

Published on May 1, 2019 by Heather Durham PhotographyLeave a comment

Sometimes it’s the simple concept that conveys the message best! I shot this image during my favorite time of day on the beach in Seaside…afternoon light and glistening water. I’d like to be in that chair right now, what about you?! Don’t miss this great 30A Beach Guide by Birmingham Magazine available on newsstands now.

What to Wear for Your Engagement Session

Published on April 19, 2019April 22, 2019 by Heather Durham PhotographyLeave a comment

I always get asked the question, “What should I wear for my Engagement Session?” and my answer is always a long, solid-color fluid dress, heels and classic jewelry — estate or family pieces if you have them. Long dresses are very feminine. They catch the wind and add beautiful movement when you walk. That movement adds so much interest to your images. And, the fit of your dress should compliment your figure and show off your shape. If an outfit off the rack needs to be altered to fit you well, then do it to look your best. The reason we love so many celebrities’ outfits is that they are custom made to fit their bodies. My favorite silhouettes? It’s no secret that I absolutely LOVE a one-shoulder dress. It’s a hint of sexy, but classy at the same time. I also love simple slip dresses and wraps that accent your waist.

When choosing a dress, keep in mind that solid fabrics are best, because prints and patterns can be trendy and distracting unless they are tiny florals or classic patterns like stripes or checks. Plus, so many trendy outfits can date your images very quickly. Same goes for big, chunky accessories. Choose simple and delicate instead. I love heirloom, estate pieces that connect you to your family and give just enough sparkle. Ask your grandmother if you can borrow her pearl and diamond earrings, or your mother her diamond necklace. If your location makes it a little hard to walk in heels, you can take them off. Holding your shoes as you walk gives the images a more relaxed feel (even though you are dressed up) and also gives you something to do with your hands.

For a second, more casual outfit, well-fitting jeans with heels and a dressy blouse or a tailored jumpsuit, is what I recommend. Both are always a win.

So, to sum it up in a few words…solid, flowy, delicate feminine, and classic with a just hint of sexy and a touch of tailored. If every piece you choose to wear for your session can be summed up in those words then you’ve nailed it and your images will be beautiful and timeless.

Be looking for my next post, which will be a Q&A with Walton’s Jewelry on how to confidently shop for and choose estate jewelry and antique engagement rings.

Dresses: Nordstrom | All jewelry: Estate pieces from Walton’s Jewelry, Franklin TN

Virginia & Matthew’s Cathedral Church of the Advent and Birmingham Museum of Art Wedding

Published on March 29, 2019April 8, 2019 by Heather Durham Photography2 Comments

My first wedding of 2019 was Virginia and Matthew’s beautiful Birmingham, AL wedding planned by M. Elizabeth Events in shades of smoky blue, white and greenery.