Presenting the Winners of The Styled Challenge Wedding Design and Best Wedding Photography Competition at the Blecken Pavillion, Memphis Botanic Garden
Congratulations, Emma Cockerham, Infinity Events, for Bespoke Award & Social Media Award
Congratulations, Ethan Thomas Events, for Best Florals
Congratulations, Elizabeth Hoard Photography, for Best Flat Lay
Congratulations, Tiffany Hanlon Photography, for Best Photography
Designer Emma Cockerham thrives on challenges—especially when merging a couple’s opposing visions into a cohesive, stunning design. The styled shoot at the Memphis Botanic Garden was inspired by the beauty of compromise, blending timeless elegance with natural garden elements.
The design team brought classic ballroom aesthetics into the lush garden setting, embracing current trends and beyond while maintaining timeless appeal featured metallic accents, linenless tables, textural ivory linens, and up-close crystal details. The custom stationery by Lucky 13 Letters tied it with a butterfly motif, reflected in flat lays, individual cakes, and even a butterfly release at the shoot’s end.
Floral design by Ethan Thomas Events embraced organic garden vibes for the ceremony, with color-blocked designs from the altar to the aisle. For the reception tables, Emma chose low, full florals that photographed beautifully from every angle.
The chandelier hangers were wrapped in greenery, seamlessly blending into the lush surroundings. Key rentals from industry creatives from Mahaffey Tent & Event Rentals, Elegant Chair Solutions, and White Door Events helped bring the vision to life.
Flat lay styling by Elizabeth Hoard Photography highlighted the design’s intricate details and stationery elements. The models, Suzannah and Charlie—clients of Infinity Events 2024—brought authenticity and chemistry to the shoot, enhanced by attire from Maggie Louise Bridal and American Tuxedo Bartlett, along with makeup by Kasey Acuff and hair by Happy Hair Lady.
This collaboration of talented vendors showcases how two opposing ideas can create something truly unforgettable.
Photography: Tiffany Hanlon Photography | Designer: Emma Cockerham, Infinity Events | Cake: Crave Sweets Bakeshop | Calligraphy: Meaghan Willis, Lucky 13 Letters | Hairstylist: Heather Giffith, Happy Hair Lady & Co. | Linens: Elegant Chair Solutions | Florals: Ethan Thomas Events | Makeup Artist: Kasey Acuff | Rentals: Mahaffey Tent & Rentals | Rentals: White Door Events | Bridal Gown: Maggie Louise | Groom Tux: American Tuxedo Memphis | Flat Lay Design: Elizabeth Hoard Photography | Models: Suzannah & Charlie Palmer | Butterflies: Clearwater Butterfly |
The Styled Challenge is a curated wedding design and photography competition spotlighting visionary talent in the industry. Each hand-selected team is challenged to conceptualize and execute a ceremony, reception, and “wild card” space—transforming premier venues across the country into immersive wedding environments.
Designs are judged by the editorial team at Southern Bride for creativity, cohesion, and innovation, with top honors awarded in key categories. Winning concepts are celebrated across Southern Bride’s platforms, including the print magazine, SouthernBride.com, and social media—offering both prestige and elevated exposure.
See more from The Styled Challenge Memphis:
Simone Elise Events wins the Trendsetter Award, Memphis Botanic Garden
Best Design Award, Dani Cymone Events – The Styled Challenge, Memphis
