I don’t get the opportunity to photograph a lot of Alabama weddings. When Jessie and David shared they’d be hosting their wedding at Hatcher Farms Venue, I was psyched. It’s the perfect location for an all-in-one wedding — getting ready options for both the bride and the groom, ceremony space, and reception. Keeping everything in one place without the need for transportation means more time to document all of the pieces of the day, helps minimize the “where’s Aunt Susan?” moments, and gives you time back to celebrate your new marriage, just the two of you. 

The rain held off all day until 30 minutes before the ceremony. The tough call was made to bring the ceremony indoors. This is normally such a bummer for my couples- they spend time and energy on the venues and details they pick out for ceremony locations. But Hatcher Farms not only made the switch in record time, their indoor solution still provided a beautiful backdrop for Jessie and David’s nuptials. 

Getting Ready: 

The girls got ready in Hatcher Farms’ beautiful bridal suite with the lovely ladies from Wonderstruck Studios. The day doesn’t always allow for it, and often my brides require the help of their bridesmaids to get in their dress and get ready, but Jessie was able to do a first look with her girls and it did not disappoint! 

The gents got ready in the groom’s suite in typical record time. The space provides a great masculine backdrop for prep photos for the guys and easy access to the reception space to mix and mingle with guests before the festivities begin. 

David and Jessie opted to skip the first look but wanted a chance to chat first – so we moved to the corner of the building for a first touch. This is always a favorite alternative move of mine, especially when couples may be feeling those pre-ceremony jitters. 

Ceremony:

The indoor ceremony captured the hearts of Jessie and David’s family and friends. Staying in the AC definitely had its perks in the summer heat! While the setup was a little non-traditional, the intimacy was there. The florals by Christy T&Ts Florist added the perfect romantic touch throughout the day, both indoors and out. 

Portraits:

Jessie was mindful of keeping her dress pristine, so we kept portraits close to the venue’s covered and paved areas rather than wandering the full property – a great reminder that even in the rainy season, Hatcher Farms Venue has plenty of beautiful backdrops close to the building if a muddy hem isn’t in the plan. 

Reception:

The food spread by Naman’s Catering was immaculate. The drinks by Bottles Up Mobile were flowing. Jessie and David had a full line-up of reception games, including a hilarious elimination-style scavenger hunt that ended with 2 people searching the venue up and down for the groom, the shoe game, and my favorite, anniversary dance. They also had a 360 photo-booth alongside the epic beats by Port City Entertainment, who set the dance floor up for a great mix of modern favorites and Persian dance music that kept the crowd going well into the evening. 

At Hatcher Farms, there’s no shortage of backdrops for wedding photos — sweeping property views if you’ve got time and a rain plan, or covered, paved spots right by the building if you’re protecting a dress or racing the weather. Either way, hire vendors who can adapt with you, and you’ll come away with something beautiful.

I’ve known Jessie and David for a few years now – our kids are in the marching band together ,which means plenty of Friday nights on the sidelines playing one of my favorite roles as “band bonus mom” before we ever talked about photographing their wedding. They are some of the warmest, most encouraging people I know. Their day showcased their love for not just each other but their community. Getting to document this day for them was an absolute honor and a pleasure. Wishing you two the best in your new adventure!  

Vendors

• Venue:Hatcher Farms Venue
• Photographer: Meg Burke Photography
• Hair & Makeup:Wonderstruck Studios
• Florals:Christy T&Ts Florist
• Catering:Naman’s Catering
• Bar Service:Bottles Up Mobile
• Entertainment/DJ:Port City Entertainment