Abby's Abandoned Greenhouse + ATL Skyline Shoot | Makenzie's Memories
As soon as I found out I was going to be in Atlanta for a few weeks, I knew I wanted to do a styled shoot or two. I posted on Instagram that I was looking for some models, and Abby volunteered. Abby and I have been best friends for almost seven years now, so I knew this was going to be good! We decided on two locations - an abandoned greenhouse and a parking deck with a view of the ATL skyline. The results were jaw-dropping.
Even though I'd seen pictures, this greenhouse and the Briarcliff property far exceeded my expectations. I kept squealing repeatedly throughout the shoot. It was hot and the mosquitos were crazy, but it was SO, so worth it. I mean seriously?!? Alllll the heart eyes, y'all.
After some research and reading, I found the story behind this property super fascinating! It was owned by "Buddie" Candler, the son of a Coca-Cola co-founder. His 42-acre property had these greenhouses, two pools, and even a zoo! I read that he named his four elephants Coca, Cola, Refreshing, and Delicious. Eventually, he donated his exotic animals to what is now Zoo Atlanta, reportedly giving them their first tiger. The mansion itself was finished in 1920, with three stories and over forty rooms. He even had an elevator. Candler sold his place in the 40's. By 1965, the mansion was a mental institution, and remained so until it's closing in 1997. Emory University purchased the place in 1998, and it has remained abannoned since then.
To be honest, I could've stayed at the greenhouse forever, but we needed to go to the next location. Before we left, Abby went to change into her second outfit and realized she left her shirt in her car...which was an hour back in the wrong direction. We frantically tried to figure out what to do and I offered her my tank top...but that solution left me without a shirt. Long story short, Abby took my tank top and I put on her jumpsuit. Yep, I definitely looked like a marshmallow holding a camera for the rest of the day, but hey, do it for the shot right?
That's a wrap on Abby! This by far is one of my favorite shoots I've ever done, and it wouldn't have happened without my beautiful best friend/model and my rockin' assistant/driver/other half Kemper. I am always so grateful for the good people in my life, and for the opportunity to do what I love!! P.S. If you want to shoot with me, head over to the contact tab and shoot me a message. I'm based in Dallas but also visit ATL & upstate SC often.