Rainy and Romantic Elopement at Chapel in the Hollow. Gatlinburg photographer

Hannah and Brad’s Smoky Mountains Wedding Story

Hannah and Brad are high school sweethearts. After years of dating, they chose to skip the big wedding and elope with just close friends and family. When Hannah reached out to me about capturing their elopement, I was so excited. Right away, I suggested a mountaintop elopement in North Carolina. It would’ve been a short drive and a light hike — the views would’ve been incredible!

But last year, Hurricane Helen hit that area hard. Some roads were washed out, and there was no guarantee they’d be open by the time of their wedding. So, Hannah made a change of plans and picked something just as magical.

She chose to elope at Chapel in the Hollow, a beautiful rustic venue tucked near the Smokies in Seymour, Tennessee. I was thrilled to shoot at that charming little chapel again. It has such a cozy, fairytale feel, especially for a small and intimate wedding.

Tennessee Weather and Wedding Day Magic

Of course, Tennessee in May means rain — and it did not hold back! It rained nonstop that week. On Hannah’s wedding day, we were crossing our fingers and hoping for a break in the storm. Thankfully, the rain stopped just in time for the ceremony.

While Hannah was getting ready, it was pouring. But right before she stepped into her stunning wedding dress, the skies cleared. Her gown was so flattering, and her veil? It was massive and covered in tiny pearls — absolutely breathtaking.

Let’s talk about her bridal bouquet. It was bursting with color! So vibrant and full of texture — one of the prettiest bouquets I’ve ever photographed.

Tennessee Weather and Wedding Day Magic

Of course, Tennessee in May means rain — and it did not hold back! It rained nonstop that week. On Hannah’s wedding day, we were crossing our fingers and hoping for a break in the storm. Thankfully, the rain stopped just in time for the ceremony.

While Hannah was getting ready, it was pouring. But right before she stepped into her stunning wedding dress, the skies cleared. Her gown was so flattering, and her veil? It was massive and covered in tiny pearls — absolutely breathtaking.

Let’s talk about her bridal bouquet. It was bursting with color! So vibrant and full of texture — one of the prettiest bouquets I’ve ever photographed.

Emotional First Look With Her Dad and Brother

Before the ceremony, Hannah planned a first look with her dad and younger brother. It was emotional and sweet. As soon as her little brother saw her, he teared up. They hugged, and you could feel how much love was in the room. That moment meant everything to her.

Intimate Ceremony at Chapel in the Hollow

Then it was time to walk down the aisle.

Brad waited at the top of the chapel steps. As Hannah walked up, he turned around — and the joy on his face said it all. Their ceremony was simple, beautiful, and quiet. The soft sound of the rain in the background made it even more romantic.

After they said their vows, the owner of the chapel led us to a nearby wildflower field. Even though the rain started again, we took some of the most romantic rainy-day wedding photos ever! The mist, the soft light, the flowers — it was dreamy.

Bridal Portraits on Foothills Parkway

To end the day, we took a scenic drive to Foothills Parkway. It was misty and foggy, with the most perfect Smoky Mountain backdrop. The road was quiet — we had it all to ourselves. Hannah’s long veil flew in the breeze, and we created some stunning Smoky Mountains bridal portraits.

Even with all the rain, this elopement was everything they dreamed of. Romantic, peaceful, full of love and laughter. And the best part? They headed straight to their honeymoon that same night!

Chapel in the Hollow Elopement Photographer

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, emotional elopement in the Smoky Mountains, I’d love to help you plan and capture your perfect day. Whether it’s raining or sunny, every couple deserves a wedding story that feels like them.

Get in touch with me to book your Smoky mountain wedding or for help planning a unique Tennessee elopement full of heart and adventure. As a weeding photographer in Gatlinburg I would love to be a part of your day.