I Am Jackson: Darren Lykes

View fullsize

Darren Lykes

What is your hometown? 

I was born in McLemoresville, TN, and raised in Atwood. I came to Jackson to pursue a career in photography. I’ve been in Jackson for 19 years. 

What is your profession?

I’m a professional photographer at my core, but over the years my brand has evolved into some event planning and production. 

Where have you volunteered or contributed your time in efforts to give back?

Over the years I’ve served on numerous boards and volunteered for several nonprofits and in 2016 was named the youngest recipient of the Foundation’s Jackson Award for volunteer service. My current involvement and volunteer efforts are focused on The Community Foundation of West Tennessee where I am a trustee, Jackson Pride where I am a founding member, The Ned advisory board, Hidden Tracks advisory board, Our Jackson Home/Porchfest advisory board, and Miss Tennessee Volunteer board of directors.      

What are some of your favorite things about Jackson? 

My entire adult life has been spent in Jackson. The friendships that I’ve built and nurtured and the people who have helped me grow professionally are what make Jackson special to me. Jackson is unique because there are so many opportunities to get involved and make a difference in the things that affect you personally or the community as a whole. 

Three words that best describe you. 

Loyal. Creative. Grateful. 

What is the last thing you Googled?

Belgian Loafers (always shopping) 

Favorite place for going out?

Lord knows I love to go out to eat, whether it’s Los Portales for dinner or Bonwood (out South) for breakfast, but my all time favorite place to dine would be my home, because I love to entertain. It could be a group of 30 or 1 friend having coffee and conversation on the couch. 

What is one thing that you do not go a day without?

Music…all day every day. I get the most inspired by music. All kinds. 

Finish this statement, I AM JACKSON because… 

I AM JACKSON because this is where I’ve made my home, my business, and where I’ve invested my time in doing the work to promote positive change. I AM JACKSON because anytime I travel I make it a point to talk about Jackson and how much I love it here. I sometimes feel like an ambassador of Jackson! Maybe I am?