Allison + Garrett’s Wedding – Marietta Square | Atlanta Wedding Photographer

Allison and Garrett joined families in a beautiful, sweet ceremony in historic Marietta Square over the 4th of July weekend. Their three children were just as much a part of the ceremony as they were, and it was clear from the start of the day just how much love they already had for one another before officially becoming one family. Allison was absolutely glowing in her gorgeous lace gown, the girls looked adorable in their matching dresses, and Garrett and his son were quite dapper in their khaki suits.

When Allison booked their wedding with me, she said she just wanted to document the love between two soul mates and the celebration of this joyous day with their families and closest friends. From their “first look” at home, to the sand ceremony in a quaint gazebo on the square, to dancing with their kids at the reception at The Strand Theatre, it was a most perfect day. It was a pleasure working with them, and I know they’ll have many, many years of happiness to look forward to as a family!

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VENDORS
Wedding Photography: Melissa Hayes Photography // Ceremony Venue: Historic Marietta Square // Reception Venue: The Strand Theatre // Floral Design:  Carithers Flowers of Marietta and bride’s mother // Hair: Chanda at Van Micheal Salon // Invitations: Paper Affair // Catering:  Carriage House Catering // Wedding Cake:  Carriage House Catering // Guitarist:  Cory Tucker, Rome GA // Dress Designer:  Adrianna Papell // Girls Dresses: Chasing Fireflies

Mulligan Gender Reveal Session – Smyrna | Atlanta Maternity Photographer

When my friend Kristina asked me to be a part of the gender reveal for their first baby, I was ecstatic! I have known Kristina since freshman year of college (we were dorm hallmates) and I became friends with her sweet husband Mike at UGA as well. I can’t believe it’s been almost 10 years since those freshman year days, and I just love that we’re still close.

Kristina and Mike handed off the “secret” envelope with the ultrasound photo to our friend Carson. She filled up a giant painted box with balloons and we met up at our favorite little park in Smyrna for the big reveal. Boy or Girl? Kristina was right all along…. scroll down for the surprise!

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Erin’s Maternity Session – East Atlanta Village | Atlanta Maternity Photographer

Erin and I worked together several years ago, and we’ve kept in touch since then. When I found out she was pregnant, I asked if she and her husband would be up for a portfolio-building maternity session. They graciously agreed, and we decided to shoot at their house as well as down the street in East Atlanta Village, where there is some really cool street art. The nursery is so cute — it’s outfitted with a sweet castle mural (painted by super talented Dad himself), and baby boy will certainly have plenty of fun dragons to play with as he grows older. Given the nursery theme, it was only fitting that we do some photos in front of this GIANT metal dragon sculpture in EAV. I had a blast working with these adorable parents-to-be, and I can’t wait to meet baby boy Dreiling when he arrives next month!

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spring mini sessions now available!

Spring is in the air!! March is just around the corner, and I’m excited to offer my first-ever Spring Mini Sessions for the Atlanta area!

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I’m currently taking bookings for 30-minute mini sessions from March 2nd – April 6th. Photos will be ready just in time for Easter, so it’s the perfect time to dress the kids up and get some great family portraits. No kids? You can still use this offer for couples portraits or family photos with your pets!

Package cost is $100 and includes a 30-minute session at location of your choice for up to 4 people. $25/extra person. You’ll receive a disc of edited images.

BOOK TODAY — spots are limited!
Email melissahayesphotoatl@gmail.com to book.

Morris Family Holiday Session – Buckhead | Atlanta Family Photographer

I had the best time shooting at Lenox Park for the Lindsey and Seth’s holiday session.  It was such a great location for photographing this adorable couple and their spunky little dog, Tuck. I’m always amazed that such a pretty little park is tucked into the middle of the city — you’d never know that there are duck-filled ponds, fountains, and tons of walking/jogging trails just a couple streets over from the hustle and bustle that is the Lenox Mall area. I particularly loved their cozy plaid fleece blanket that Lindsey brought along — perfect for such a chilly evening at sunset!

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