Photographing: Families, Faith, Food & Fun!

Historic Banning Mills: Top 5!

05.22.25

I wanted to share the TOP 5 AMAZING things about Historic Banning Mills, but I’m really struggling to narrow it down because there’s SO much to LOVE! But, here I go…

1. A Variety of FUN ACTIVITIES!
There’s SO much to do at Historic Banning Mills! If you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ve GOT to go ZIP-LINING! If you love the water, spend a peaceful day KAYAKING. Did I mention all the hikes and bridges?!?

This year, the girls and I went HORSEBACK RIDING and drove all around on the SWINCARS. Not only were both activities so enjoyable, the scenery was simply beautiful!

2. GORGEOUS PROPERTY!
I could spend days and days simply exploring. There are lakes, waterfalls, beautiful trees, historical areas, bridges and bubbling streams all over. To me, nothing is much more therapeutic than enjoying nature.

3. DELICIOUS FOOD!
If I lived closer, I would certainly be dropping in frequently just to enjoy their amazing menu! Not only is it plated beautifully, but it is so fresh and flavorful. We were able to enjoy a wonderful dinner, as well as a really fun brunch!
(Check out last year’s menu here: https://christymartinphotography.com/historic-banning-mills/ .)

4. ACCOMMODATIONS!
I’ve been fortunate to stay at their treehouse and cabin! Both were fantastic and exceeded my expectations. This year, they are offering a cabin in the woods with the most BEAUTIFUL view you could imagine! The big porch overlooks a stream below. It was SO peaceful! Inside, there’s everything you need to unplug and relax.

5. I only have ONE left?!?! Okay, it’s GOT to be the PEOPLE!
The entire staff at Historic Banning Mills is so kind, friendly and helpful. The entire process is so professional and efficient. There’s warm smiles all over the property. (Even the resident cats are patient and sweet when Ruthie and I scoop them up into our arms!)
Another thing that I love is how the staff take PHOTOS of your during the activities. (This is GREAT for moms who are RARELY in photos, right??!) You’ll receive a link with all your complimentary photos that you can download.

Since I’ve technically reached my limit, I’ll go ahead and add (under “PEOPLE”), really, the BEST thing about Historical Banning…

It’s a place that allows you to press pause on all life’s obligations and problems and CONNECT FULLY with the people who are most IMPORTANT in your life!

That’s what this trip was for me, at least! I enjoyed every second of hiking, exploring, trying new activities, eating delicious food, watching ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ DVD and making new memories with my girls!

Call them today to schedule your adventure!
Use promo code: CM25 to receive 15% OFF ROOMS (good until December 31, 2025)!

https://historicbanningmills.com

Last year’s ADVENTURE: https://christymartinphotography.com/historic-banning-mills/

Show Hide 2 comments

Timberline Glamping at Amicalola Falls

05.12.25

Use promo code School25 for a weekday in August to receive your second night FREE! Spread the word!

There’s so many beautiful hikes and waterfalls in Georgia. Ruthie and I were excited to finally check out Amicalola Falls! Yes, there’s a lot of steps, but the view was BEAUTIFUL and worth it (…even with my aging, creaky knees)!

GLAMPING is our FAVORITE option because it combines the beauty of the outdoors with the luxuries of a hotel. The amenities were SO pretty! There was a huge ‘back porch’ with a fire pit, hammock, chairs, table and plenty of space. We slept ‘under the stars,’ but also in a comfy bed… with soft sheets… and at a perfect temperature! Being at Amicalola Falls overnight gave us a whole EXTRA day to do more hikes and exploring.

If you’re looking for a TERRIFIC option at Amicalola Falls, look no further than TIMBERLINE GLAMPING! I look forward to returning and making even more memories!

Show Hide 1 comment

Elizabeth’s Senior Photos

05.08.25

I couldn’t resist pulling out a photo from when Elizabeth was just a lil’ girl. But for now, we’re CELEBRATING her SENIOR year!

Show Hide 0 comments

River Forks Glamping Adventure

04.23.25

There is one big problem that keeps me from unwinding and immersing myself into nature’s beauty- PACKING! Sheets, pillows, quilts, flashlights, firewood, mugs, air mattresses, ice, chairs… and we haven’t even talked about pitching the TENT yet!

If anyone else is like me, GLAMPING is a wonderful solution!

When I walked into my Timberline Glamping tent, it was decorated better than my own house (… and smelled like one of those bougie hotels)! Every detail was thought-out and intentional. I loved the books, notebooks, stick-like pencils, vintage refrigerator, heat & air unit, extra fans, coffee maker and mugs, and, most importantly, COMFORTABLE PILLOWS & BEDS!

There are so many fun add-ons that make the trip even MORE fun! The paddle board provided HOURS and HOURS of laughs! We also enjoyed the cornhole and giant Jenga.

The River Forks campground was so secure and safe. In addition to the fire and hammocks at our own site, there was still so much to do there! The girls played on the playground, explored the woods and played on the beach area.

If you’re looking for a place to get-away and enjoy nature, while still enjoying all the extras, check out River Forks Timberline Glamping! We truly made SUCH sweet memories that will last forever!

Show Hide 0 comments

Wild Animal Safari (& Homeschool Adventures)

04.08.25

I recently wrote ’10 Reasons NOT to Homeschool’ -or rather the LIES that kept ME from doing it. Fear of isolation is a big reason many are afraid to start, but it does NOT have to be that way! As a matter of fact, the homeschool group at my church not only keeps us BUSY, but we’ve all made excellent friends along the way!

My friend posted on our homeschool site that Great Wolf Lodge was having a Homeschool Week with discounted prices. Sign me up! The waterpark was clean, fun, well-monitored and, most importantly, had WARM water! But my favorite part, hands-down, was singing worship songs together that night.

And if you’re in the area, Wild Animal Safari can’t be missed! We chose to drive their van. And based on the horns and excitement of some of their wildlife, not driving our own vehical was a wise decision!

We had SO much fun feeding all the wildlife! They were so happy to see us, but also very gentle as they took their food. You can visit as long (or as little) as you’d like. The experience took us about an hour, but we would have certainly stayed longer if we weren’t trying to get ahead of Atlanta traffic.

Show Hide 1 comment

Shelbie & Banks

04.06.25

If I had to dream-up a perfect session…

Show Hide 0 comments

Joey & Christiana

03.11.25

I met Christiana five years ago when my family first walked into the doors of what would soon become our beloved church home. She and her sisters quickly greeted us and made us feel so loved and welcomed. Each week, our conversations would grow longer and longer. Before long, this entire family had become wonderful friends.

It’s been so fun watching Christiana grow-up over the years. I’ve watched her point my children, as well as others, to the Lord through an emphasis on God’s word. I’ve learned many new dances through her business! And I’ve even gotten to travel with her to see her favorite small town, coffee shops and wild flower fields… taking photos all along the way!

I am so happy she has found the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with! What a FUN time to celebrate this BEAUTIFUL season in their lives! I’m SO thankful I got to be the one to capture these memories!

Congratulations to you and Joey!

Show Hide 1 comment