I’ve had a camera in my hand since 2006, and I am passionate about capturing the beauty and magic of your family’s current season at the iconic Cheekwood Gardens. This stunning location provides the perfect backdrop for preserving those real, joyful & cherished moments in photos.
Let’s document the little smiles, the big family bear hugs, the dad jokes, and the joy of simply being together, surrounded by the breathtaking gardens and landscapes that Cheekwood offers. No matter the season, Cheekwood provides a picturesque and unique setting for your family portraits—whether in spring’s vibrant blooms, summer’s lush greenery, fall’s rich hues, or winter’s serene charm.
Every family deserves timeless photos that tell their unique story, and it would be an absolute honor to work with you to create images that you’ll treasure for years to come.
For some of you, the idea of hiring hair and makeup for yourself for your photography experience seems a little extravagant...it's not.
As a mom, I know all too well the time, effort, planning, troubleshooting and fire extinguishing that goes into everyday life...let alone family pictures. I've seen many family session where everyone is polished, happy, and ready to roll. Then I look up and see mom scrambling to slap on some makeup and desperately trying to fix her hair in the visor mirror.
Imagine being able to nurse your little one while your hair is being gently styled. Or letting Dad run point on the kids in the comfort of your own home, while someone is attending to you. What if you could show up to family photos relaxed, confident, and beaming? Not just "managing".
This is why I want to serve mamas with the extra convenience of bringing hair and makeup. It's okay for someone to tend to you for a few minutes with the same love and intention you lavish on your family.
Lady, you are already gorgeous, but I want to indulge you with a little self-care before your Cheekwood session!
CAN WE CHAT?
"If you are in the Nashville area, hit up Dolly for your family photos. Dolly captured the most amazing moments with my family at the Cheekwood."
"I just can't believe how many great photos Dolly was able to capture of my little ones at Cheekwood!"
"She patiently accommodated my family’s requests for group photos at Cheekwood."
first up: CONTACT
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You've thoroughly combed through my website, blog and Instagram feed and you like what you see. So the next step is setting up a time to chat to make sure we're the perfect fit for one another.
LET'S TALK details
After your initial contact form has been processed, we will discuss which package is the best fit for you and your family's milestone portraits at Cheekwood.
I'll send over a contract with the date + your next steps on how to secure a permit to photograph at Cheekwood!
THE SESSION
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It's time to take your family portraits! I will be sure to send over a "check-list" of items to pack so that the little ones will have a fun experience!
Also, if you decide on a package which includes a Hair and Makeup Artist, we will arrange a time for them to do your hair and makeup at least 2 hours before the session!
gallery REVEAL
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2-3 weeks after your session I will send over your final gallery! Don't forget: full sessions include up to 70 edited images & I'll also send over a photo print release! I've got you covered!
-Alicia Beasley
We had the best experience!! Dolly did family photos and smash cake photos for our son’s 1st birthday. She was so sweet and so patient with us. She booked the studio for us so it was all such an easy experience! Even my husband said it was an enjoyable experience - high praise from a dad!
"We had the best experience.
The photos are BEAUTIFUL."
from past clients
-Megan Dacus
Dolly has captured some amazing moments for my family through the years! She is extremely professional and made our family sessions a breeze (which isn’t always easy with 3 young kids!!) From newborn sessions and milestones to cake smash shoots and Christmas photos, I’m forever grateful for the beautiful keepsake shots she captured for us. Our photos turn out truly amazing every time! 💗
"I’m forever grateful for the beautiful keepsake photos"
from past clients
-Emily Isaacs
Dolly is an absolute dream to work with, starting from first contact with her to gallery day! She is incredibly responsive and professional. She actually responded with a personal video she made when I first contacted her, literally within minutes of my email, which was a wonderful touch!
"Dolly is an absolute DREAM to work with!"
from past clients
For investment details and availability, please send a message using the contact form. I accept a very limited number of family sessions each month and Cheekwood sessions begin at $575
(*NOTE: this does NOT include the $400 permit fee)
I offer three different family photography packages and you can check them out as soon as you fill out my contact form to start the inquiry process!
FREQUENTLY
asked
QUESTIONS
Do I need to pay a permit fee to shoot at Cheekwood Gardens?
What happens if it rains on our session day?
If it rains, we’ll coordinate with Cheekwood's events team and reschedule as needed. *This does not guarantee that the permit will be moved*
What should we wear for our Cheekwood session?
I’ll send you a family style guide with outfit inspiration to help coordinate your looks. If you prefer a professional stylist, I can recommend someone amazing in Nashville.
How long will the Cheekwoord session last?
Each session typically lasts 90 minutes, giving us plenty of time to capture a variety of beautiful moments in different spots throughout Cheekwood.
free family portrait style guide —
a free style guide
Planning a family photo session can feel overwhelming, but I’ve got you! Grab my free guide to plan, prepare, and get excited for your next session with confidence.
plan & style your session