24 Reasons to Elope in Tennessee this 2024
If you're planning to get married surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, I'll definitely recommend Tennessee. This charming southern state has so much more to offer beyond its famous country music and barbecue. It's an ideal destination for couples planning to elope in 2024. Here are 24 reasons why Tennessee is the perfect place to exchange vows!
1. Breathtaking Scenery
Tennessee has the most beautiful scenery for your elopement. Whether its mountain views, waterfalls or meadows, Tennessee has it all! Tennessee is home to the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, which are part of the larger Appalachian mountain range. Perfect location to tie the knot!
Read more: Elope at the Smoky Mountains
2. Best Sunsets
If you're a sunset enthusiast like me, you absolutely have to visit the Foothills Parkway! It's my top spot for catching breathtaking sunsets, and guess what? You can even elope there! For just $50, you can exchange vows in a stunning location with panoramic mountain views and a sky painted in shades of orange.
3. Easy to get married
Getting married in Tennessee is super easy! All you need is your ID and to be over 18. That's all! You can apply for your marriage license online and then swing by to pick it up. No need for witnesses, but you will need someone to officiate or legally sign your marriage license. Getting the license will set you back about $100.
Read more: How to elope in Tennessee
4. Mild Weather
Tennessee weather is perfect for elopements year-around. Look for me every season is good, you just need to get prepared. Winters here are not that crazy like Colorado for example and you can also find snow on the mountains. In my humble opinion spring is the best time to elope in Tennessee, you can find lush greenery, colors and perfect weather for your elopement. Fall is magic and clear skies in summer are amazing!
Read more: When to elope in Tennessee
5. Southern Hospitality
Known for its warm and welcoming locals, Tennessee will make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. That’s one of the reasons why I moved to Tennessee, it’s because since the first time it felt like home.
6. Adventure Activities
If you’re looking for an adventure elopement, you gotta elope in Tennessee! Here are tons of things to do, hiking, kayaking, paddling, camping and more. You can even rent a helicopter ride! I love camping and hiking adventures so if you want an elopement photographer who takes you to a dope location to exchange your vows, hike with you and document your day. I’m right here!!
7. Delicious Food
ohh Barbeque! Heck yeah! If you love barbecue, I know a couple places that won't disappoint you! But I’m pretty sure that there are tons of good options!
8. Scenic Drives
Imagine cruising through the most beautiful mountain views! If you’re not really into hiking, here are great options for you because there are many cool drivable locations with stunning views!
9. Stunning Waterfalls
I gotta say that I'm obsessed with waterfalls and Tennessee has many stunning ones! There are many beautiful waterfalls where you can exchange your vows. I have a list with some of my favorite waterfalls.
Read more: The best waterfalls to elope in Tennessee
10. Wildlife Activity
Keep an eye out for Tennessee's diverse wildlife, from black bears and elk to eagles and otters, as you explore the great outdoors. Cades Cove at the Smoky Mountains is the best spot to find them! Don’t be surprised if while you’re saying your vows there will be extra guests! Just try to keep your distance please!
11. Local Breweries
Beer-loving couples will appreciate Tennessee's burgeoning craft beer scene, with local breweries serving up a wide variety of brews to suit every palate.
Read more: The best breweries close to Gatlinburg
12. Seasonal Festivals
Whether you're eloping in spring, summer, fall, or winter, Tennessee's calendar is packed with festivals and events celebrating everything from music and food to culture and heritage.
13. Budget-friendly
Eloping in Tennessee is not just budget-friendly, it's also eco-friendly! State parks and the National Park welcome couples to tie the knot amidst nature's beauty. They even have special spots set aside just for ceremonies. All you need is a permit, which typically costs between $50 and $200. That's a steal compared to traditional venues! And guess what? I've got the scoop on some hidden gems where you can elope without needing a permit, especially if it's just the two of you.
Read more: The best locations to Elope in Tennessee
14. Local Artisans
Support local artisans and craftsmen by incorporating handmade décor and gifts into your elopement celebration.
15. Cute Small Towns
Looking to explore some adorable small towns in Tennessee? You're in for a treat! These towns feel like stepping into a storybook, with their cozy vibes and welcoming locals. One of my personal favorites is Chattanooga—it's got some fantastic spots for your elopement. And if you're into a bit more hustle and bustle, don't miss out on Gatlinburg, Townsend, and Pigeon Forge. They're perfect if you're looking for a more touristy vibe but still want that small-town charm. So, whether you're wandering off the beaten path or diving into the tourist scene, Tennessee's cute small towns have something special to offer!
Read more: Guide to Elope in Chattanooga
16. Charming Accommodations
Tennessee offers a variety of cozy cabins tucked away in the woods or luxurious boutique hotels, catering to every preference and budget. With a range of prices, you'll find beautiful cabins to suit your needs. Opting for a cabin elopement is a fantastic choice, especially if you're celebrating with family. Many cabins boast stunning mountain views, providing the ideal backdrop for an intimate ceremony.
17. Live Music Scene
Music is the heart and soul of Tennessee, and you can't visit without experiencing some live tunes. Add a touch of country charm to your elopement with a live band or musician.
18. Legendary Moonshine
Add a bit of Tennessee flair to your celebration with a tasting of locally distilled moonshine. Raise a toast to your love with this iconic spirit, which has deep roots in Tennessee's history and culture.
Read more: The best moonshine close to gatlinburg
19. Rich History:
Explore Tennessee's rich history and heritage at historic sites like Graceland, the Ryman Auditorium, and Civil War battlefields.
20. Endless Honeymoon Options
Thinking about having a "honeylope"? That's where you tie the knot and then dive right into your honeymoon adventure! Tennessee is the ultimate spot for it. You can have your intimate ceremony and then kickstart your honeymoon right away. Whether you fancy camping under the stars or taking a scenic drive to another cool spot, Tennessee has you covered. And here's the best part: you won't have to drive too far to find another amazing destination to spend a couple of days. Within just 2-3 hours, you'll discover some seriously awesome locations to keep the honeymoon vibes going strong. So, if you're up for an endless honeymoon adventure, Tennessee is where it's at!
21. Camping adventures
Camping adventures in Tennessee offer tons of amazing spots where you can have a blast! Imagine setting up camp in the breathtaking Smoky Mountains or another beautiful state park. It adds that extra special something to your elopement day! And if you've got a camper, you absolutely have to bring it along for the ride. There's just something magical about waking up surrounded by nature, with the fresh air and the sounds of wildlife all around you. So, if you're up for an unforgettable experience, camping in Tennessee is the way to go!
22. Family-Friendly
Tennessee is a fantastic place to elope with your family! You'll find stunning spots where you can have a small ceremony with your loved ones. The Smoky Mountains offer a variety of options, as do other state parks. Plus, many of these places have lodging available, so your family can stay close by and enjoy the whole experience with you. It's a great way to make your special day even more memorable by sharing it with the people you care about most. So, if you're thinking about eloping in Tennessee, it's definitely family-friendly!
23. Accessible Nature
You don't have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy Tennessee's stunning natural beauty. Many of the state's most scenic spots are easily accessible, with paved paths, boardwalks, and overlooks that provide breathtaking views without the strenuous trek.
24. Easy Travel Access
Getting to Tennessee for your elopement is super easy! You've got options: you can hit the road for a classic road trip adventure, or you can hop on a plane and fly straight here! If you're eyeing East Tennessee for your special day, flying into Knoxville is your best bet. It's closer to awesome places like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, where you'll find all sorts of enchanting spots to tie the knot. So, whether you're driving or flying, getting to your dream elopement destination in Tennessee is a breeze!
Looking for a Tennessee Elopement Photographer?
Hey there! My name is Luciana.
So, you've decided to elope in Tennessee, but the whole planning thing is making you feel a bit overwhelmed? No worries! You don't have to navigate all that on your own. Besides capturing those incredible moments, I'm here to be your guide right from the beginning.
Let's keep it stress-free because, hey, isn't that the whole point of eloping? You shouldn't have to deal with wedding planning chaos. I've got a bunch of cool location ideas to share with you so you can pick the one that feels just right. Need permits? No problem—I'll guide you through that if the location requires it. Looking for a cozy cabin? I've got lodging suggestions to save you from endless searching.
Growing up surrounded by Peruvian mountains, adventure is practically in my DNA. Whether it's hiking to a cool spot or catching that sunrise, count me in. You're not just getting a photographer; you're getting an adventure buddy ready to capture one of the most important days of your life. Plus, I might just bring a bottle of champagne to celebrate!
This sounds like a good fit? Awesome! Reach out so we can start planning your Tennessee Elopement!
You can also take a look to my Tennessee Elopement Packages
