This past summer Todd and I took our very first trip away together since having a baby. We left Iris with my mom and as hard as it was to leave her, I sincerely think it was good for our souls to have our first baby-free weekend. So much so, that our next one is coming up soon. This occasion was for a wedding of one of our old friends, Cory Branan. He married the lovely Rebecca at The Shack Up Inn in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

I had heard about the Shacks, but had never been. An hour and a half south of Memphis, this compound of a hotel is one of a kind. The property is made up of renovated sharecropper shacks and an old cotton gin. They did an amazing job at keeping the character, but giving guests the comfort they would expect on vacation. Our shack had an ice cold air conditioner, surprisingly comfortable bed, and amenities that were honestly way more useful (and unique) than the stuff at regular hotels – BC powder and La Croix sparkling water for hangovers, a water gun for the heat, and Moon Pies because, well, you’re in the south. Also, when you check into your room, you can check out a guitar to use during your stay. It is the crossroads after all.

I can’t wait to go back… and bring all my friends.

They are long overdue, but here are some photos of the property
and then a few of our journey.

Road trip!

Key to our “shack”

the grounds

THE best room amenities.

Friday night at Red’s Juke Joint in Clarksdale.

Exploring the Shack Up Inn property

the wedding set up.

the beautiful couple!

Yep. Joaquin Phoenix was there annnnd I snuck a photo.

Wedding: day

Wedding: night

The drive.