Dreamy Fairhope, Alabama Photoshoot with Ave & Liv: Coastal Fashion, Golden Sunsets & Luxury Cottages
A Coastal Escape: Photographing Ave & Liv in Fairhope, Alabama
As a wedding photographer based in Wichita, Kansas, I’m always searching for fresh light, beautiful locations, and creative inspiration. This spring, I found it all in the charming bayside town of Fairhope, Alabama.
The soft coastal glow, moss-draped oaks, and serene waterfront views made the perfect backdrop for capturing Ave & Liv’s latest feminine, breezy collections. From downtown streets to the iconic Municipal Pier, every spot felt like it was designed for timeless, editorial-style photography.
The Fairhope Collection by Ave & Liv
The Fairhope Collection brings effortless summer romance to life with 31 stunning pieces — flowy maxi dresses, flirty mini dresses, matching sets, delicate florals, playful stripes, and lightweight eyelet lace. It’s the kind of collection that feels perfect for vacation photos, styled bridals, or destination sessions.
“Ave and Liv Swim is all about celebrating how fun it is to be a girl—embracing femininity through ruffles, vibrant colors, and playful patterns—while delivering elevated quality and a flawless fit!”
Where We Stayed: Lucia Bleu Fairhope Cottages
Our home base for the entire trip was Lucia Bleu Fairhope Cottages, and it truly felt like stepping into a dream. These luxurious vacation rentals sit on the bluffs overlooking Mobile Bay, nestled among ancient oaks and magnolias. Just minutes from downtown Fairhope and an easy walk to the Municipal Pier, the location couldn’t have been more perfect for our photoshoot.
Each cottage offers a serene, Caribbean-inspired escape with king-size beds, soaking tubs, fully stocked kitchens, and private back patios that open to lawns with sweeping bay views. We loved the private plunge pools, high-end finishes, hand-carved details, fresh flowers throughout, a welcome bottle of wine, curated music, and even cruiser bicycles for exploring the Eastern Shore. The whole vibe is spa-like, romantic, and incredibly rejuvenating — ideal for a girls’ getaway, creative retreat, or styled shoot.
Waking up to coffee on the patio with views of the water and sailboats was pure magic and set the tone for every productive, beautiful day.
One of my favorite memories was watching the sunset over the water with sailboats gently floating by. The sky melted into the softest pinks and golds, reflecting across Mobile Bay while the pier created the most romantic silhouette. It was incredibly dreamy — peaceful, warm, and the kind of golden-hour light that makes everything feel magical.
A Sweet Farewell at The Kind Cafe
Before leaving town, we stopped by The Kind Cafe. I ordered the honey cinnamon latte, and it was absolutely delicious — the perfect balance of sweet honey, warm cinnamon, and smooth espresso. The staff was insanely friendly, and the whole space had the cutest, welcoming vibe. It was the ideal way to say goodbye to such a charming Southern town.
Watch the Behind-the-Scenes Vlog on YouTube
Want to see the full experience? Head over to my YouTube channel to watch the vlog from our Fairhope trip! You’ll get to come along for the photoshoot days, explore the cottages, catch the golden-hour magic at the pier, and even join me for that honey cinnamon latte at The Kind Cafe. It’s filled with all the behind-the-scenes moments, outfit changes, and coastal vibes you won’t want to miss.
Fairhope, Alabama, completely stole my heart with its soft coastal light, friendly Southern hospitality, and endless photographic inspiration. If you love travel, fashion shoots, and dreamy destination content, I hope this post (and the vlog) encourages you to add Fairhope to your list. I can’t wait to share more images from the shoot soon and plan my next creative escape!
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