How to plan your elopement in the Great Smoky Mountains

ELOPING IN THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS 

 Are you dreaming of an elopement in the stunning Great Smoky Mountain national park but feeling overwhelmed by the logistics? Don’t worry! I’m here to guide you on turning your elopement day into a dreamy adventure in the Smokies! If you have any questions you can always email me and I will answer on all your questions.

 
What is an Elopement? 

An elopement is a magical escape for two lovebirds to travel on an intimate marriage journey to the most incredible places you can think of, filled with spontaneity and romance. In today’s world, elopements are becoming increasingly popular, with more couples opting for this uniquely personal experience. And with the breathtaking beauty and convenience of the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s no wonder many choose to exchange vows here!  
The Great Smoky Mountains is a diverse place to get married; either you want to have a big wedding with 200 guests or elope with just the two of you in the breathtaking Smoky mountains. It is an incredible place for everyone’s needs. From waterfalls to the majestic mountains and rivers, to Cade’s Cove filled with wildflowers, we can find a location you will never forget. Nothing can beat Gatlinburg scenery especially if it is in a fall. Fall colors in Smoky mountains TN are breathtaking. 

Best Times to Elope in the Smoky Mountains.

Every season in the Smokies has its own charm, but spring and fall stand out with cooler temperatures, fall foliage and less humidity. Fall is particularly busy, so planning ahead is key to securing your dream wedding location! October would be the most gorgeous and busiest month of the year. If you are into pumpkin spice and warm colors, a fall wedding would be your best choice. If green foliage and colorful wildflowers are more your style, a spring elopement would be perfect season. If you are newly engaged I highly recommend to pick your wedding season before you pick your wedding venue.

Budget Check.

Before diving into elopement planning, assessing your budget is essential. Costs can vary depending on factors like lodging, vendor prices, and guest considerations. The average total cost for an elopement in the Great Smoky Mountains is under $10,000, compared to an average wedding cost of $30,000.

Pros and Cons of Eloping.

Pros and Cons of Eloping: 

Pros: Spontaneity, adventure, and cost-effectiveness.  

Cons: Potential absence of some family members and traditional gifts. 

 Your Elopement Checklist.

Obtain a marriage permit from government website www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/commercial-filming-and-still-photography.htm. Here you can find everything about permits and locations.

- Hire an officiant. 

- Witness not required by the state of Tennessee.

 -Both parties must be 18+ years old.

- Bring valid ID and birth certificates. 

- Essential vendors: photographer, officiant, florist, and makeup artist. 

- Dress to impress! Wedding attire is a must for your special day. You can bring your dress or you can always rent one here.

Ask me for vendor recommendations.

Approved Ceremony locations

Post-Elopement Celebrations

Consider hosting a cabin party with catering companies or enjoying delicious Southern cuisine at a local restaurant to celebrate your love story in the Great Smoky Mountains!

Fun Family activities while in the Smokies

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are filled with fun activities for any ages. My favorites are Anakeesta (favorite proposal spot), The Island, Dollywood, Soaky Mountain, Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show, Dolly Parton Stampede and Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud. None of them will disappoint! 

Enjoy beautiful photos from above of Raelee and Austin’s elopement in Cades Cove, Smoky Mountains.

A few words from the bride:

“I could not have chosen a better photographer to capture our day! Gulnaz didn’t just take photos she captured all of the emotions and our personalities through the lens. She helped make our day more special than we could have ever dreamed of! Coming from out of state and trying to plan everything in less than 2 months seems like chaos but she helped me find everything I needed for our big day and took photos that will forever hold the love that we share”. Raelee Thompson