Heirloom Portraits : A history we love to love
Let’s be real: trends come and go faster than your toddler can destroy a clean living room. But heirloom photos? They’re forever. Think of them as the Chanel bag of photography—classic, always in style, and something you’ll proudly pass down one day. These aren’t just photos; they’re time capsules, locking in the laughter, the crooked baby teeth, and the “oh my gosh, look how tiny they were” moments.
The whole idea of heirloom photography dates back to when people had to sit perfectly still for minutes just to get one portrait (no thank you). Now we have it easy—yet somehow, we take fewer meaningful portraits. Heirloom photos give you that museum-worthy vibe that makes your family look like a total masterpiece.
Want to nail the heirloom look?
Think elevated but not stuffy. Neutral colors, textures like linen and wool, and settings with a soft natural glow. Basically, outfits that would make your great-grandmother proud but don’t scream “staged Sears photo circa 1999.”
Future-you will thank present-you for booking an heirloom session. Trust me, when your kids are taller than you and rolling their eyes at family photos, these portraits will be the ones you grab first when you want to remember how sweet they once were.
Step 1: Book the Session (Let’s Make This Official)
The heirloom journey begins when you hit book now and we lock in a date for your session at Chateau Chelsea, my dreamy, light-filled studio on an acre of gorgeous property just 20 minutes from downtown Nashville. This space was designed for heirloom photography—soft natural light, airy backdrops, and just enough charm to make your portraits look like they belong in an art gallery.
Step 2: Styling & Outfits (No Stress, I’ve Got You Covered)
The best part? You don’t have to stress about outfits. I have EVERY size for both boys and girls stocked at Chateau Chelsea—from 6 months to 10 years—so you can just show up and let me do the magic. We’re talking heirloom-level clothing from some of the most beloved brands.
If you’d like to purchase your own smock, here are some brands I’d recommend:
Feltman Brothers – Classic, hand-embroidered pieces that scream “timeless Southern charm.”
Cecil and Lou – Beautiful smocked dresses and outfits that look like they came straight from a vintage family album.
La Coqueta – A European take on heirloom with high-quality, delicate fabrics and stunning detail.
Percy & Tyne - A local Nashville Brand, owned by Macy Mulligan (owner of Plaid Rabbit Gifts)
Petit Ami - A mix of fresh and classic
Strasburg Children – Elegant pieces designed with ruffles, lace, and that perfect “Sunday best” vibe.
Step 3: Session Day (You Just Sit Back and Watch the Magic)
Once you arrive, I’ll walk you through outfit options and we’ll pick the perfect look (or two) for your child. Whether it’s a cream linen dress with hand-smocked details or a soft pastel romper, you can be confident your child will look like a painting come to life. I handle everything—from getting the right light to encouraging those natural smiles—so you can relax while I work my toddler-whisperer magic.
Step 4: Gallery Reveal (Aka: The Happy Cry Moment)
After your session, you’ll get a curated gallery of timeless portraits that will make you gasp. (Tissues encouraged.) From there, you can choose your favorite images for fine-art prints, framed heirlooms, or keepsake albums. These aren’t just photos for Instagram—they’re art pieces your family will treasure forever.
Ready to create heirloom portraits your great-grandkids will fight over?
Let’s make magic together. Book your heirloom session with Urban Bay Photo today!