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Hi there! I'm Emily.

I’m a Tennessee-based wedding and family photographer with over six years of experience. My passion is helping you feel relaxed in front of the camera while capturing meaningful moments that will be cherished for generations.

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The Mills | Maple Grove Estate Wedding

wedding

October 1, 2025

A Joy-Filled Maple Grove Estate Wedding | The Mills

As a Knoxville wedding photographer, there are some venues that just feel like they were made for timeless, heartfelt celebrations—and Maple Grove Estate is absolutely one of them. Tucked away on over 15 acres with a stately 1799 manor as the backdrop, it blends Southern history with romantic garden charm in the prettiest way. The Mills’ wedding day was full of warmth, laughter, and those sweet in-between moments I love to capture.

A venue with history (and gorgeous light)

Maple Grove’s tree-lined drive, sweeping lawns, and historic mansion photograph beautifully in every season. The grounds offer multiple portrait spots within steps of one another, so we were able to keep the day relaxed while still creating a variety of looks—from airy garden portraits to classic, editorial images on the front steps.

Getting ready: calm, cozy, and close

Having generous on-site getting-ready rooms meant everyone could be together without feeling crowded. Hair and makeup finished just down the hall from where we hung the dress, and the natural window light made those quiet pre-ceremony moments extra dreamy. (The venue includes dedicated get-ready spaces—so helpful for a smooth timeline.)

Down the aisle & portraits

The Mills chose a to have their first look while Lyndsey walked down the the aisle. What a special moment! For their portraits, I kept things simple and candid—lots of movement, soft prompts, and time for them to breathe it all in. Their joy came through in every frame.

A heartfelt ceremony on the lawn

With the mansion as a backdrop and guests seated across the lawn, their ceremony felt both intimate and elegant. Personal vows, happy tears, and the sweetest walk back up the aisle as everyone cheered—it was pure magic.

Cocktail hour on the porch

Instead of a standard cocktail hour, The Mills treated their guests to an experience: signature cocktails, a classic ice cream station (Simply Sweet Ice Cream Catering), and a live portrait artist (Amanda Mary Elder Art) capturing quick watercolor sketches. Watching friends see their portraits revealed—between bites of ice cream and sips of something perfectly chilled—made for the sweetest, most candid photos.

Reception details that felt like “them”

From tables capes with pops of color to buttery candlelight, the design complemented the estate’s character without competing with it. The dance floor stayed full, and the bride, Lyndsey, slipped into the most fun sequence dress to keep the party going!

Why I love photographing Maple Grove Estate

My approach blends film and digital to create images that feel honest, luminous, and timeless—perfect for a historic garden setting like Maple Grove. Film slows us down just enough to notice the feeling of your day; digital lets us move quickly and capture every laugh and happy tear. Together, you get the best of both.

Maple Grove Estate Wedding Tips

Lean into the venue’s architecture. Plan 10–15 minutes for portraits on the front steps and along the tree-lined drive—iconic Maple Grove backdrops that feel timeless.

Build a buffer into your timeline. Everything is close by, but adding 5–10 extra minutes between events keeps the day unhurried (and gives us room for those candid, in-between moments).

Consider a first look. With the grounds this pretty, a first look maximizes portrait variety while keeping you present with guests after the ceremony.

Ask about included rentals. Chairs, tables, and cocktail rounds are available with the venue’s package—often a budget saver and a logistics win.

Planning a Maple Grove Estate Wedding?

Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate garden ceremony or a full-estate celebration, Maple Grove is such a beautiful canvas for your story. If you’re looking for a Knoxville wedding photographer who values real moments and a relaxed, personal experience, I’d love to connect.