Eloping to Gatlinburg in the fall may just be the best decision you make while planning your big day. You will fall in love with the rolling hills, darling towns, farmer’s markets, and rich autumn colors. It honestly feels like getting married in the midst of a Hallmark movie! And you really can’t beat the warm glow of a fall sunset as you say your vows and explore the mountains during your bridal photos. For my couples planning to elope this fall, here are my tips for you.

Have A First Look

Most couples imagine that their ceremony will be the most intimate part of their elopement. However, often times, I hear from my couples who chose to have a first look that those moments before the ceremony were the most sacred and intimate time of their elopement day. Having a first look before your ceremony offers a time of reflection together to settle any nerves and connect. In addition, you can say everything on your mind and gush over each other, which you don’t get to do during your ceremony.

Elopement Location

The location you choose for your Gatlinburg elopement will make the biggest difference in how your day will look, as well as your gallery! I have personally scouted out dozens of locations and have selected only the best for my clients. Whether you are looking for a lush woodland wedding vibe, or a secluded mountain top view, I have an elopement location for you!

Check out all of our favorite locations here!

Friends & Family

Every couple is different in how they want to elope. Some want it to be just the two of them, a true old-fashioned elopement. While others want to share this joyous occasion with a few close friends and family members. Who you invite to your Gatlinburg elopement will make a huge difference in the atmosphere of your ceremony and after-party. So choose wisely! Only invite those who uplift and love you and your partner. And choose to include them in whatever way you are most comfortable with!

Ceremony Tips

I could write an entire article on tips for an elopement ceremony (and maybe I will!), but for the sake of this article, I will just share my #1 tip! For your ceremony, choose an officiant that you love and trust. This can be a family member or friend who is an ordained minister. However, most couples will choose a local officiant. I have a list of officiants for my couples who are eloping in Gatlinburg to look through. Each officiant is unique in their personal style, religious preferences, and voice. In addition, I have worked with all of them before and trust them with my couples! Interview your options and see which officiant your feel most comfortable with!

Elopement Photography

Invest in your memories by investing in good photos. At Peaceful Side Elopements, we value professional photography that captures your irreplaceable moments. I started as a Gatlinburg elopement photographer and my passion has brought me here, so you can bet your bottom dollar I only hire AMAZING photographers! We have a variety of packages to meet your photography needs, and will plan with you the best time for your wedding photos based on your timeline!

Gatlinburg In The Fall

Embrace the cool breezes of fall while you elope to Gatlinburg this year! You will be impressed with the colorful foliage, bright blue skies, and dozens of excursions and activities in the area. It is one of my favorite times of year for Gatlinburg elopements, and I know you will love it here just as much as I do!

Ready to plan your Gatlinburg elopement in the Smoky Mountains? Reach out here!