Think about where you’d like to go
Gatlinburg is considered the wedding and elopement capital of the South. It is a popular option for either due to its amazing beauty and the fact that it is the gateway to the Smoky Mountains. It has some of the most accessible elopement locations in the United States and it is up to you to decide where you would like to go.
Pick a date
Gatlinburg and the entire Smoky Mountains area is beautiful throughout the year. From the spring wildflowers to the fall foliage, the landscapes are always breathtaking and a perfect backdrop for your elopement. So, pick a date based on your preferences.
Find more informations about travel visas and wedding documentation
If you are a resident of the United States, travel Visas shouldn’t be an issue. However, you will require some wedding documentation such as a marriage license and a Special Use Permit if you plan to hold your wedding ceremony in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Book your accommodation
Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains area is such a popular destination for weddings and elopements since it is highly affordable. So, book your accommodation close to where you plan to hold the ceremony.
Find a place to exchange your vows
You should ideally choose a venue that speaks to your heart. Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains offer so many options from Chic to Country and many actually have amazing mountain backdrops. The area has so much amazing beauty that you will feel compelled to bring elements of that beauty into your special day. Any of the 10 places discussed here is an excellent option.
Book your other vendors
Once you set the elopement date and reserved your accommodation, you should also start reaching out to other vendors to secure the date. Elopements are just as special as traditional weddings and you should find the right balance of planning all the details from things such as the table décor, florals, ceremony archways, pastor/officiant, or anything else you might dream of. Please note that these vendors too must first obtain approval before offering their services in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Plan your travel
Do you plan to drive to Gatlinburg? Take a flight? It is up to you to determine which mode of transport is ideal for your elopement. However, you must decide which option you would like to go with before the date of the elopement. If you prefer, you can always use an agency to handle most of your travel booking, itinerary, etc.
Book your photographer
A photographer will play a key role in your elopement. He/she will capture every awesome moment of your elopement. It is always advisable to hire a photographer that’s accustomed to the Smoky Mountains. He/she must also have a permit to offer photography services within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park if that’s where you plan to exchange your vows.