Simply Willson Acres

Simply Willson Acres

Built By A Photographer…For Photographers

Updated as of 11/30/25:

After so many of you chimed in (and truly blew us away!) about staying open after Christmas Minis, we made a big ol’ heartfelt decision… we’re sticking around!

We won’t be fully shutting down before our Late Summer 2026 Grand Opening after all and instead, we’ll be shifting into limited hours so we can keep sharing the space and keep building something magical behind the scenes.

Here’s the plan:
✨ We’ll be closed for the holidays and taking all of January to reset, refresh, and refill the greenhouse with all the goodness it deserves.
✨ We’ll reopen in February 2026 for Saturdays & Sundays only, 11 AM to sunset.

A tiny heads up: while we’ll be open, we’ll also be working on projects throughout the property. So please watch your step and expect a little buzz of busyness as we work to create something truly beautiful for our grand opening next summer.

Thank you … seriously … for the love, the excitement, the support, and the gentle shove that encouraged us to keep the gates open a little longer. We can’t wait for you to see what’s coming next!

Scroll down for booking.

We will be open for Christmas Minis from October 20th- December 21st 2025

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • Simply Willson Acres is in its soft-opening stage for 2025, which means a few things are still in progress—including restrooms. We’ll have a permanent, on-site restroom when we officially do our grand opening in 2026.

    Temporarily we will have a Portable Restroom out for anyone who may need it.

  • When you arrive at Simply Willson Acres, parking is available on the concrete area by the first red barn. We invite you to arrive up to 10 minutes early for your session.

    We understand the flow of a creative day—sometimes you need a few extra minutes to unload, set up your gear, and review notes. That’s why we build a small buffer into our schedule, so you can ease in, settle, and start your time here without feeling rushed.

  • The greenhouse is best suited for smaller gatherings and creative sessions. It comfortably accommodates a family group of about 7–10 people.

  • Our greenhouse measures 12x28 feet, making it one of the largest of its kind in Genesee County. Spacious yet inviting, it offers plenty of room for creative sessions, family gatherings, and styled events while still maintaining an intimate, rustic charm.

  • We love when furry (or feathered!) family members are part of your story, and we do allow animals for sessions at Simply Willson Acres.

    We simply ask that you let us know ahead of time if you plan to bring an animal. This helps us prepare, as we do have dogs on the property who are kept in a fenced area but are let out regularly. Knowing in advance ensures we can keep our dogs inside during your session, creating a safe and distraction-free environment for all animals involved.

    Animals are not permitted inside the greenhouse itself

  • For the safety of our land, guests, and future events, we maintain a strict no-fire policy at Simply Willson Acres. This means no open flames, no smoking (including cigarettes, cigars, or similar items), and no fire-based sessions are permitted on the property.

    Our goal is to keep the acres safe, serene, and enjoyable for everyone who visits. Thank you for helping us protect this space.

  • Simply Willson Acres is a privately owned property located directly behind our family home. Because of this, we ask all guests and visitors to respect our space and policies.

    • By Appointment Only – The property is available strictly by scheduled appointment. There is no free roaming or unannounced visits permitted.

    • Respect & Safety – Harassment, trespassing, or creating a hostile environment will not be tolerated and will result in legal action.

    • Surveillance – For the safety of our family and guests, the property is monitored by 24-hour security cameras.

    • Boundaries – Please do not litter, cross into our personal fenced areas, speed down our driveway, or interact with our dogs through the fence should they happen to be outside.

    Our goal is to keep Simply Willson Acres a safe, welcoming, and peaceful space for all who visit.

  • As of 2025, Simply Willson Acres can accommodate a maximum of 6-7 cars at a time. This helps us maintain a safe, organized, and serene environment for all guests and sessions on the property.

  • (After our Christmas Mini/Holiday Launch)

    Soft Launch Hours of Operation:

    (Feb→Sept)

    Saturdays & Sundays: 11AM-Sunset

    After Grand Opening Hours Of Operation:

    Mon: 10am-5pm

    Tues:10am-5pm

    Wed & Thurs: Closed for Maintence

    Fri: 10am-5pm

    Sat: 9:30am-Sunset

    Sun: 9:30am- 6:30pm

  • Simply Willson Acres observes time off for rest, family, and celebration during the holiday season. We are closed on all major holidays, as well as:

    • Thanksgiving – Closed the day of

    • Christmas – Closed for the entire week of Christmas

    This ensures our family (and yours!) has the chance to fully enjoy these special times together.

  • We are hoping to have the Christmas Carriage up by the time of Christmas Mini Opening. If we do, we ask for no one to sit inside/on the carriage at the moment but, photos may be taken with it.

  • Yes, boudoir is allowed!
    We fully welcome tasteful boudoir sessions on the property. To keep our space comfortable and respectful we do require that all intimate body parts remain covered (no explicit or NSFW imagery is permitted on the grounds.)

    Exciting news: We’re currently working on a dedicated, private boudoir area planned for 2026, designed specifically with boudoir photographers and their clients in mind. Trust us… it’s going to be amazing. Stay tuned!

  • As of 2025, we do not offer elopements at the acres just yet. However, our dream is to grow Simply Willson Acres into a space that can host intimate ceremonies, and we are planning to begin offering elopement options in 2027/2028 once the property is further developed.

  • Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own props and décor to personalize your session. However, all items must be fully removable and leave no damage behind.

    • No nails, screws, glitter, confetti, fake snow, or open flames.

    • Please take everything with you when you leave—if you brought it, it must go home with you.
      Help us keep the property beautiful for everyone!

  • Yes, small speakers and music are allowed, as long as the volume remains respectful. We are a private residence so:

    • Please no loud or disruptive music that can be heard across the property.

    • No amplified DJ-style setups.
      Think cozy ambiance, not concert vibes.

  • Light snacks and drinks are allowed. Please avoid messy items, glass bottles, or anything that could harm wild animals or the grounds.

    • No alcohol permitted at this time.

    • All trash must be taken with you when you leave.
      Picnic-style setups are welcome!

  • Yes, drones and videography are permitted with safety and privacy in mind.

    • Drone operators must follow FAA guidelines.

    • Please respect any guests or neighboring properties—no flying over private areas.
      If livestock are present visiting, drones must stay grounded.

  • If GPS tries to send you toward Outdoor Adventures keep going! Our street is just a couple roads further. Our entrance is a long driveway and the Simply Willson Acres sign/ W 4243 sign. if you hit the dirt road part of Gale Rd you’ve gone to far. There is also a map provided below.

    • You’ll have my phone number to text upon arrival.

    • Please do not enter unannounced/without an appointment this is also our home.
      We’ll make sure you’re guided in smoothly!

Our
company ethos

At Simply Willson Acres, everything we create is rooted in heart, heritage, and home. We believe in slowing down, savoring moments, and celebrating life’s milestones in spaces that feel both magical and deeply grounded.

We are more than just a place…we are a family dream brought to life. A husband, a wife, and their daughter, pouring love into every corner of these acres so others can find joy, connection, and beauty here.

Every event, every session, every gathering matters. When you choose Simply Willson Acres, you’re not just booking a location, you’re stepping into a story. A story of family, togetherness, and the belief that small moments create the biggest memories.

We honor simplicity, but elevate it with rustic charm and thoughtful detail. Our land isn’t just meant to be seen it’s meant to be felt. Whether you’re here to capture memories, or attend a workshop…you matter.

Because at Simply Willson Acres, you aren’t just supporting a business. You’re supporting a family, a dream, and a legacy of love.

While we are waiting for the official drone images of the property

We wanted to at least give you a little map of Simply Willson Acres to help navigate your sessions!

We understand sometimes the GPS will try and re-route you to Outdoor Adventures. Here’s a little map to try and help until we fix the problem! :)

The Greenhouse is just the beginning of this Journey!

Between the months of Oct-Dec we are opening for soft launch of the greenhouse BUT we are adding SO MUCH MORE before Summer 2026 Grand Opening! It’s a surprise for now so, stay tuned !

We would also LOVE to hear from you! It’s a space for photographers so… you guys should also be able to share some input right?!

Send us a message! We care about what you think!

Testimonials

Client Love

Community

Testimonials • Client Love • Community •

Cozy, quaint, and absolutely wonderful. SWA is a great place for creatives to work, and the owner is so supportive! I definitely recommend Simply Wilson Acres for your booking needs!
— Enduring Depictions
✨ I recently rented this space for my Christmas minis and WOW , I was so impressed. Every single one of my clients absolutely loved the location, and having the space heated was perfect for my tiniest clients. 🤍🎄
Truly such a cozy, beautiful spot , I’m already excited to come back!
— KC Photography
I just did my first Christmas mini session here and I highly recommend this place! It is gorgeous and the owners are super friendly will be using again!
— HS Photo
If you’re wondering if you should book with simply Willson Acres- this is your sign that you absolutely should. This is THE BEST place for sessions in Genesee county trust me - I have been to all of them!

I had an engagement session at Simply Willson Acres Thursday the 9th. It was absolutely STUNNING. I found the property very easily, it was easy to find parking for me and my couple, and Kristine and Ethan were so nice throughout the entire booking process and session itself!

Even better - there were SO many different things we could do. You want just open fields and trees? With beautiful, wispy flowers and greenery - this place is perfect . You want to add some rustic props? Great ! There are so many! Love a good rustic green house? Don’t worry the outside makes SUCH a good backdrop. That’s not even to mention the inside!! There is a camper that you can use for a backdrop! Big beautiful log arches that made for so much fun. And guess what?! The sun sets just beyond the trees giving off a STUNNING golden hour that enhances the tree colors - ESPECIALLY for fall time. I mean this place is beyond perfect! If I could, I’d give ten stars.

It’s in a great location - many options for my couples to go out to eat afterward. I will be shooting here ALL the time.
— Moonrae Photography
Did my first set of Holiday Minis here and I’m absolutely obsessed! Such a beautiful and inclusive venue, made with a lot of love, care and attention! Photographer/client basket filled to the brim of things for those “oh dang it” moments. Not only that the space is warm and cozy which is perfect for those cold Holiday photos without it’s feeling like you’re freezing your butt off! 10/10 always recommend!
— Moss & Elder Photography

2026 PACKAGES:

(Under construction/Grand Opening Packages)

Weekday at the Acres:

Available Monday–Friday

Enjoy the calm and charm of Simply Willson Acres during the week ,perfect for creatives who love a little extra breathing room. From golden-hour portraits to styled shoots, you’ll have full access to our magical greenhouse and outdoor spaces.

Includes:

  • Full access to the greenhouse + surrounding property

  • Use of available props + décor

  • Power access for lighting setups

  • On-site parking

$70.00 per Hour

Weekend at the Acres:

From sun dappled pathways and natural landscapes to the warm, light-filled greenhouse, every space is a canvas for portraits or creative shoots. Perfect for photographers and creatives who want a variety of textures, moods, and backdrops all in one hour.

Available Saturday & Sunday

  • Includes:

    • Full access to the greenhouse + surrounding property

    • Use of available props + décor

    • Power access for lighting setups

    • On-site parking

$80.00 per Hour

Contact Us

Any questions or concerns? Don't Hesitate to reach out!

As always : You are important, you are loved & you are worthy.

Warmest Regards,

Simply Willson Acres Family