Little Wedding in the Woods at Chapel in the Hollow

Jennifer and Scott – May 30, 2026

When it comes to weddings, bigger isn’t always better. Sometimes the most meaningful celebrations are the simplest ones — a gathering of loved ones, a beautiful setting, and two people excited to begin their next chapter together.

That was exactly the case for Jennifer and Scott’s little wedding in the woods at Chapel in the Hollow. Nestled in the forest of East Tennessee near the Great Smoky Mountains, their wedding day was full of family, laughter, sweet moments, and the kind of genuine joy that reminds us what weddings are really about.

From emotional family moments to playful bubble-filled portraits, every part of their day felt relaxed, heartfelt, and completely authentic to who they are as a couple.

A Forest Wedding with Romantic Spring Colors

Jennifer and Scott chose Chapel in the Hollow for their intimate wedding in the woods, creating a celebration that felt both elegant and wonderfully down-to-earth.

For their ceremony décor, they selected cream fabric paired with our blush and marsala florals. The soft neutral tones blended beautifully with the surrounding forest while the rich marsala accents added warmth and romance.

One of the things couples love most about getting married at Chapel in the Hollow is how naturally beautiful the setting already is. The towering trees, woodland paths, and peaceful atmosphere create an incredible backdrop without requiring elaborate decorations.

The blush and marsala florals added just the right amount of color while still allowing the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountain forest to shine.

On this warm spring day, the fresh East Tennessee greenery provided the perfect setting for an intimate wedding surrounded by family and friends.

A Beautiful Bride with Her Own Style

Jennifer looked absolutely beautiful.

She chose a strapless wedding gown featuring a corset back and a short train, creating a classic bridal look that felt timeless and elegant. Her long lace-edged veil added a romantic touch and floated beautifully during portraits throughout the property.

But one of our favorite details?

Her Nike sneakers.

There’s something wonderful about a bride who prioritizes comfort while staying true to her personality. The sneakers were practical for exploring the property and perfectly suited the relaxed atmosphere of the day.

Jennifer’s sister and daughter helped her get ready, creating some incredibly sweet moments before the ceremony. Those quiet moments spent with loved ones before walking down the aisle often become some of the most treasured memories of a wedding day.

Scott looked equally happy and relaxed, and together they radiated excitement from the moment they arrived.

You could tell these two weren’t focused on perfection or elaborate traditions—they were simply excited to get married.

A Daughter’s Special Role

One of the most emotional moments of the day came when Jennifer’s daughter walked her down the aisle.

Family played a huge role throughout Jennifer and Scott’s wedding day, and having her daughter escort her to the ceremony made the moment even more meaningful.

Micro weddings often allow for these deeply personal moments because the focus remains on the people who matter most.

As Jennifer made her way toward Scott, surrounded by the forest and the people they love, the emotion was palpable.

The ceremony itself was filled with smiles, laughter, and heartfelt moments as they exchanged vows and officially became husband and wife.

Unique Wedding Rings with Personality

Jennifer and Scott also chose wedding rings that reflected their individual styles.

Scott selected a dark metal band that perfectly suited his look, while Jennifer’s ring featured a stunning dark stone that immediately caught everyone’s attention.

Traditional doesn’t always mean right for every couple, and we love seeing couples incorporate details that feel personal and unique to them.

Their rings were beautiful examples of how wedding traditions can be customized while still remaining timeless and meaningful.

A Bubble-Filled Celebration

After they were pronounced married, Jennifer and Scott made their way back down the aisle through a shower of bubbles.

There is something incredibly joyful about a bubble exit.

Guests of all ages can participate, the photos are always magical, and it creates an atmosphere of pure celebration.

The bubbles sparkled in the afternoon sunlight as family and friends cheered them on, creating one of the happiest moments of the day.

And the bubble fun didn’t stop there.

After family photos, we recruited all of the kids to help us create even more bubble-filled portraits of the newlyweds.

The result was laughter, giant smiles, and some incredibly fun photographs that perfectly captured their personalities.

Exploring the Smoky Mountain Property

Once family photos wrapped up, it was time for Jennifer and Scott to enjoy some quiet moments together as newlyweds.

For their couple portraits, we explored several of our favorite spots, including:

• The Mossy Tree
• The Highland Area
• The Mountain View Field

Each location offered a completely different feel while still showcasing the beauty of East Tennessee.

The mossy tree brought all the woodland romance couples love when planning a forest wedding.

The highland area offered beautiful open views and gorgeous natural light.

And, of course, the field with the mountain view provided that iconic Smoky Mountain backdrop that makes weddings in this area so special.

Even though it was a warm spring day, Jennifer and Scott never stopped smiling.

Their happiness was contagious.

From the Couple: 

It was a typical modern age love story – we both swiped right on Bumble. Been together every since. Cute fact is we are both still saved in each others phone with the last name Bumble. For our first date, we did dinner downtown and then went walking around a local park

Scott proposed on our 1 year anniversary. The 1st month we were getting to know each other his son was in the hospital alot and so we had a lot of dates just sitting at a duck pond by the hospital and he proposed there.

We are most looking forward to celebrating with family and friends. 

For fun, we enjoy a good game night. We’re home bodies.

Why Couples Love Small Weddings in the Woods

Over the past several years, more couples have discovered the beauty of having a smaller, more intentional wedding.

A little wedding in the woods offers something many traditional weddings can’t:

• Less stress
• More meaningful interactions
• More time together
• Beautiful natural scenery
• Flexibility to personalize the day
• A relaxed atmosphere focused on love and family

Jennifer and Scott’s wedding perfectly captured all of those benefits.

Instead of worrying about a huge production, they spent their day surrounded by the people they love most while creating memories that truly reflected who they are as a couple.

Planning Your Own Little Wedding in the Woods

If you’re dreaming of a romantic forest wedding near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or the Great Smoky Mountains, Chapel in the Hollow specializes in intimate weddings, micro weddings, and elopements designed to help couples focus on what matters most.

Helpful planning resources:

• https://chapelinthehollow.com/
• https://chapelinthehollow.com/pricing/
• https://chapelinthehollow.com/photo-gallery/
• https://chapelinthehollow.com/contact/

Whether you’re planning a simple ceremony for two or a family-focused micro wedding like Jennifer and Scott’s, there’s something incredibly special about exchanging vows surrounded by the beauty of the Smoky Mountain forest.

A Joyful Beginning

Jennifer and Scott’s little wedding in the woods was proof that a wedding doesn’t have to be elaborate to be unforgettable.

It simply needs love.

From Jennifer’s daughter walking her down the aisle to their unique rings, bubble-filled celebration, and joyful portraits throughout the property, every part of the day reflected what mattered most to them.

A hot spring afternoon, a forest full of fresh greenery, and two people completely in love.

That’s a pretty perfect way to start forever.

Elevated Forest Chapel Micro Wedding
in the Smoky Mountains

Kelsi and Austin – May 28, 2026

Some weddings feel effortlessly elegant from beginning to end, and Kelsi and Austin’s spring afternoon micro wedding at Chapel in the Hollow was exactly that. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, their celebration blended timeless style, meaningful family traditions, gorgeous florals, and a sense of adventure that made every moment feel uniquely their own.

From emotional aisle walks to handwritten vows and a wildflower first dance in the mountains, their wedding was a beautiful reminder that intimate weddings can be every bit as meaningful and unforgettable as large celebrations.

A Thoughtfully Planned Spring Wedding in the Smokies

Kelsi and Austin chose Chapel in the Hollow for their forest chapel micro wedding in East Tennessee, and they truly made the most of their experience by booking our three-hour package.

One of the biggest advantages of an extended wedding timeline is the ability to slow down and enjoy every moment. Rather than feeling rushed from ceremony to photos, they were able to spend quality time with family, enjoy their celebration, and fully immerse themselves in the experience.

The couple dressed the chapel in rich hunter green fabric, perfectly complementing the lush spring landscape surrounding them. To elevate the design even further, they partnered with Echelon Florist, whose stunning floral arrangements adorned the chapel and decorated the hanging pew jars.

The result was sophisticated, romantic, and perfectly suited to a spring wedding in the Smoky Mountains.

The deep green accents blended beautifully with the fresh East Tennessee foliage, creating a setting that felt both elegant and connected to nature.

A Bride with Timeless Style

Kelsi looked absolutely breathtaking.

She chose a stunning gown by Anthropologie Weddings featuring a feminine silhouette and a slit that revealed a delicate lace layer beneath. The dress was romantic yet modern, offering the perfect balance of sophistication and personality.

To make the gown uniquely hers, she added custom sleeves that created additional movement and drama. Paired with a matching veil and exquisite lace heels by Badgley Mischka, the entire bridal look felt effortlessly refined.

Her hair, styled by Southern Strandz Salon and Spa, completed the look beautifully and held up perfectly throughout the afternoon.

Austin looked equally handsome in a navy suit accented by a live floral boutonniere that tied seamlessly into the day’s color palette. The combination of his classic suit and Kelsi’s romantic bridal style created a timeless aesthetic that looked incredible against the forest backdrop.

Family at the Heart of the Celebration

One of the things we love most about micro weddings is how personal they can become, and Kelsi and Austin’s ceremony was filled with meaningful family involvement.

Austin’s mom and dad had the honor of walking him down the aisle, while Kelsi’s mom and dad escorted her to the chapel. These moments always carry so much emotion, and you could feel the love surrounding them as they prepared to begin this next chapter together.

Their ceremony itself was beautifully personal.

Austin’s aunt served as officiant, making the ceremony even more meaningful. Their sisters each shared readings during the service, while Austin’s brother held the rings.

Rather than relying on traditional ceremony wording, Kelsi and Austin chose to write their own vows. Those personal promises brought laughter, tears, and countless smiles from everyone gathered beneath the trees. It’s one of the reasons we often encourage couples planning a Smoky Mountain micro wedding to consider writing their own vows. Those personalized words become some of the most memorable moments of the entire day.

Celebrating with Family and Friends

After the ceremony, everyone gathered for family portraits at the chapel before moving into a relaxed celebration.

The newlyweds shared a toast with their guests and spent time mingling with family and friends, soaking in the excitement of finally being married.

One especially sweet moment came when we took Kelsi’s dad over to visit our vintage tractor for a few photos. His excitement was contagious (even though he was disappointed in the brand, lol), and it became one of those unexpected memories that make wedding days feel so personal and genuine.

These are often the moments couples remember years later—not just the ceremony itself, but the small interactions, laughter, and family connections that happen throughout the day.

Exploring the Property for Portraits

Once family photos wrapped up, it was time for what may have been one of our favorite portrait sessions of the season.

Kelsi and Austin fully embraced the adventure.

One of the benefits of getting married at Chapel in the Hollow is the incredible variety of photo locations available right on the property. Rather than traveling between locations, couples can experience multiple distinct backdrops in a single portrait session.

For their newlywed portraits, we explored:

• The Graveyard
• The Mossy Tree
• The Archway
• The Highlands
• The Forest Road
• The Creek
• The Mountain View Field

The graveyard added a touch of moody romance and personality that fit their adventurous spirit perfectly. The mossy tree and archway offered classic Smoky Mountain forest charm, while the highlands and creek showcased the natural beauty that makes East Tennessee such a sought-after wedding destination.

As beautiful as all those locations were, the field may have been the highlight.

Surrounded by blooming wildflowers and rolling mountain views, Kelsi and Austin shared a private first dance as husband and wife.

The combination of the open field, spring blooms, and mountain backdrop created one of those magical wedding moments that feels almost cinematic.

From the Couple: 

Austin and Kelsi got to know each in the summer of 2016 through mutual friends. They spent many of summer days together boating on lake mendota. Their relationship evolved into long distance dating through college, moving to the Twin Cities together, and now getting married. <3

Our first date was a run, followed by chipotle haha. An activity first date is a good idea, incase the chat is bad, luckily that was not the case.

Austin proposed! In December of 2024, he surprised Kelsi with a proposal overlooking the city in Salzburg. He even coordinated a private photographer to capture the moment. It was so sweet and thoughtful.

We love national parks, hiking, mountains and greatly enjoyed a trip to the smoky mountains in the past. It was a great destination location for guests.

We are most looking forward to getting married surround by nature and our close family members.

For fun, we love traveling, hiking, ice skating, running

Why Couples Love Spring Afternoon Weddings in the Smokies

Spring is one of the most popular seasons for weddings in the Smoky Mountains, and Kelsi and Austin’s day showed exactly why.

Spring afternoon weddings offer:

• Comfortable temperatures
• Vibrant greenery
• Blooming wildflowers
• Soft natural light
• Longer daylight hours
• Gorgeous mountain views

The lighting throughout the afternoon was particularly beautiful. Soft sunlight filtered through the trees, creating the dreamy glow couples often hope for when planning a forest wedding.

For couples considering a spring wedding near Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, afternoon ceremonies provide plenty of time for family celebrations while still allowing for beautiful portrait opportunities throughout the property.

Planning Your Own Smoky Mountain Micro Wedding

If Kelsi and Austin’s wedding has you dreaming about a romantic forest wedding in East Tennessee, Chapel in the Hollow specializes in intimate weddings, micro weddings, and elopements designed to feel personal, stress-free, and meaningful.

Helpful resources for planning your own celebration:

• Wedding Packages at Chapel in the Hollow
• Smoky Mountain Micro Weddings
• Photo Gallery
• Contact Chapel in the Hollow

Kelsi and Austin’s wedding was the perfect example of what happens when elegance, family, nature, and personality all come together. From their heartfelt vows to their wildflower first dance in the mountains, every detail reflected who they are as a couple.

And honestly, that’s what the very best weddings are all about.

Romantic Spring Afternoon Elopement in the Smoky Mountains

Mallory and John – May 27, 2026

There’s something undeniably magical about a spring afternoon in the Smoky Mountains — the soft breeze through the trees, the fresh greenery covering the forest floor, and the warm golden light filtering through the woods. Mallory and John’s beautiful elopement at Chapel in the Hollow captured all of that magic perfectly. 🌿✨

Their wedding day was emotional, elegant, and incredibly heartfelt — the kind of intimate celebration that reminds you weddings don’t have to be huge to feel meaningful. Surrounded by family and tucked away in the East Tennessee forest, these two created a wedding day that felt deeply personal from beginning to end.

A Cozy Spring Elopement in the Smokies

Mallory and John chose a gorgeous spring afternoon for their elopement near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, and the weather could not have been more perfect. The woods were glowing with that fresh spring green that makes the Smoky Mountains so breathtaking this time of year.

For their ceremony décor, they chose cream and dusty sage fabric paired with Chapel in the Hollow’s wildflower florals and candle and lantern package. 🌿🕯️

The combination felt soft, romantic, and timeless while still blending beautifully with the surrounding forest. The warm candlelight added such a cozy atmosphere to the chapel space, especially tucked beneath the towering trees.

One of the reasons couples love eloping in the Smokies during spring is because the landscape naturally creates an incredibly romantic setting. The mountains begin waking back up after winter, wildflowers start blooming, and the forest feels lush and alive again.

At Chapel in the Hollow, the natural beauty of the property becomes part of the wedding design itself, allowing couples to keep things elegant and intimate without needing elaborate décor.

A Bride Straight Out of a Fairytale

Mallory looked absolutely breathtaking. 🤍✨

She wore an off-the-shoulder corset-style gown with dramatic layered fabric that moved beautifully every time the breeze caught it. Her dress had such an ethereal, romantic quality to it — soft, flowing, and impossibly dreamy against the forest backdrop.

Paired with short heels and a long billowy veil, her entire bridal look felt elegant while still perfectly suited for a woodland elopement in the Smokies.

Her daughters, friend, and mother helped her get dressed before the ceremony, making those quiet getting-ready moments especially emotional and meaningful. Those little behind-the-scenes moments are often some of the most treasured parts of an intimate wedding day — the laughter, nerves, final touches, and excitement building before the ceremony begins.

Meanwhile, John looked incredibly handsome in a classic grey suit that paired beautifully with the dusty sage color palette and the soft spring tones surrounding the chapel.

Their children looked absolutely adorable as well, with their daughters wearing dusty sage dresses and their son matching his dad in a little grey suit. 🥹

It made the whole day feel even more family-centered and heartfelt.

An Emotional Walk Down the Aisle

One of the sweetest moments of the day came when Mallory’s dad walked her down the aisle. 💕

As soon as John saw her coming toward him, he broke into the biggest smile.

That moment — when couples first see each other during the ceremony — is always emotional, but there was something especially genuine and joyful about these two. You could instantly feel how excited they were to finally be marrying each other.

Their ceremony was full of heartfelt vows, quiet emotion, and the kind of happiness that radiates through every photo.

They also exchanged incredibly unique wedding rings that reflected their personalities beautifully. Mallory’s ring featured a pale blue stone that shimmered softly in the afternoon light, while John wore a gold band with a carved woodgrain pattern — such a meaningful and distinctive detail for a forest wedding. 💍

It’s those personal touches that make intimate elopements feel so authentic and memorable.

Romantic Portraits Around the Property

After the ceremony, we captured family photos at the chapel before their guests headed out, leaving time for the newlyweds to slow down and truly enjoy the rest of the afternoon together. 🌿📸

One of the best parts about having an elopement at Chapel in the Hollow is the variety of portrait locations all throughout the property. Couples can experience multiple completely different backdrops without ever needing to leave the venue.

For Mallory and John’s portraits, we explored:

• The chapel
• The mossy tree
• The creek
• The road through the woods

And honestly? Mallory’s dress floating through every location felt like something out of a romantic woodland fairytale.

The movement in her gown combined with the soft spring breeze and glowing forest light created such a poetic atmosphere throughout their portraits.

The creek added a peaceful, natural feel while the mossy tree gave us that signature Smoky Mountain forest magic couples love so much. The wooded road, lined with lush greenery, created some especially cinematic moments that felt timeless and romantic.

Why Spring Afternoon Elopements Are So Popular

Spring afternoon elopements in the Smoky Mountains have become increasingly popular for good reason. 🌸

Afternoon ceremonies offer:

• Soft natural lighting
• Comfortable temperatures
• Lush spring scenery
• Beautiful forest greens
• Romantic golden hour portraits
• Relaxed timelines

Unlike rushed all-day wedding schedules, intimate elopements allow couples to actually enjoy their wedding day together.

That slower pace often creates more authentic moments, more emotional connection, and more opportunities to simply soak everything in.

At Chapel in the Hollow, couples can create a wedding day that feels intentional and stress-free while still having access to gorgeous Smoky Mountain scenery and professional wedding vendors.

From the Bride: 

We worked together in the police department. John trained me and afterwards we were inseparable. For the first date, we went for sushi and a walk in the park. He proposed to me while I was at work. We chose East Tennessee because I wanted to get married in the mountains. We like to build legos and play board games.

Planning Your Own Smoky Mountain Elopement

If you’re dreaming about a romantic spring elopement surrounded by forest and mountain views, Chapel in the Hollow offers an intimate and customizable experience designed specifically for micro weddings and elopements in East Tennessee.

Helpful planning resources:

• 👉 Smoky Mountain Elopement Packages
• 👉 Wedding Gallery at Chapel in the Hollow
• 👉 Chapel in the Hollow Wedding Information
• 👉 Contact Chapel in the Hollow

Vendor Team

• Venue: Chapel in the Hollow
• Photography: Star Noir Studio
• Videography: Yugen Productions
• Event Management: Custom Love Gifts & Events
• Dress: Allure Bridals from The Manhattan Bride
• Bridesmaid Dresses: JJ’s House
• Menswear: Moon Tuxedo
• Rings: Etsy
• Officiant: Ian Parrott

A Soft and Romantic Smoky Mountain Love Story

Mallory and John’s spring afternoon elopement was everything we love about intimate weddings in the Smokies. 🌿🤍

Family-centered.
Relaxed.
Emotional.
Beautifully personal.

From the soft candlelight at the chapel to the flowing movement of Mallory’s gown through the forest, every part of the day felt romantic in the most genuine way.

And honestly? The way John smiled at her all day long may have been the sweetest detail of all.

Sweet May Afternoon Elopement in the Smoky Mountains

Hannah and Jerod – May 25, 2026

There’s something incredibly peaceful about a simple wedding in the woods — no pressure, no overwhelming timeline, just two people completely focused on each other and the beginning of their next chapter. That’s exactly what Hannah and Jerod created with their beautiful May afternoon elopement in the Smoky Mountains at Chapel in the Hollow. 🤍🌿

Surrounded by the fresh spring greenery of East Tennessee, these two embraced a relaxed, heartfelt wedding day full of quiet joy, timeless details, and those dreamy Smoky Mountain views couples travel from all over to experience.

Their wedding was proof that simple can still be absolutely stunning.

A Romantic Smoky Mountain Elopement in the Forest

Hannah and Jerod chose Chapel in the Hollow for their intimate spring elopement, and May could not have been a more beautiful time for it. The woods were bursting with fresh green leaves, the mountains were glowing in the distance, and everything felt alive with that unmistakable Smoky Mountain spring energy. 🌿✨

Located near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Chapel in the Hollow is designed specifically for couples looking for intimate weddings and elopements surrounded by nature. With towering trees, mountain views, and multiple portrait locations all on one property, it’s easy to see why so many couples fall in love with having a forest wedding in East Tennessee.

For their ceremony décor, Hannah and Jerod kept things classic and elegant with flowing white fabric and matching white florals. 🤍

The monochromatic palette looked incredibly timeless tucked into the woods. Instead of overpowering the natural beauty around them, the décor enhanced the peaceful atmosphere of the forest.

One of the things couples love most about getting married at Chapel in the Hollow is that the setting itself becomes part of the décor. The surrounding trees, filtered sunlight, and lush mountain landscape create such a naturally romantic environment that even the simplest wedding setup feels magical.

A Relaxed and Timeless Wedding Style

Hannah looked absolutely beautiful in a long-sleeved lace wedding dress that felt soft, elegant, and effortlessly romantic. The lace detailing added texture and timeless charm while perfectly complementing the forest setting. 🤍✨

She paired the gown with Lane Boots, giving her bridal style just the right touch of relaxed Southern personality. We absolutely love when couples blend elegance with comfort and authenticity — especially for Smoky Mountain weddings where the atmosphere naturally feels laid-back and intimate.

Jerod matched the vibe perfectly in jeans, a crisp white dress shirt, and a navy suit jacket. His look struck that perfect balance between polished and comfortable, which fits so many East Tennessee micro weddings beautifully.

One of the best things about intimate weddings is that couples truly get to dress like themselves. There’s less pressure to follow rigid traditions and more room to create a wedding day that actually reflects who they are together.

For Hannah and Jerod, every detail felt genuine and easy.

Walking Into Marriage Together

One of the sweetest moments of the day came at the start of the ceremony.

Instead of one person waiting at the altar while the other walked down separately, Hannah and Jerod chose to walk down the aisle together, side by side. 🥹

There’s something deeply symbolic and emotional about that choice.

It shifts the energy of the ceremony from “presentation” to partnership — two people intentionally entering marriage together at the exact same moment.

In intimate elopements and micro weddings, couples often feel more freedom to personalize traditions in ways that feel meaningful to them. Whether it’s walking in together, sharing private vows beforehand, including family members in unique ways, or choosing a relaxed timeline, those personal touches are often what make these weddings so memorable.

Their ceremony was simple, heartfelt, and filled with genuine happiness. Even in the heat and humidity of a Smoky Mountain spring afternoon, they never stopped smiling at each other.

Exploring the Smoky Mountain Wedding Venue

After the ceremony, we spent time exploring some of the most beautiful photo locations around the property for couple portraits. 📸🌄

One of the biggest advantages of having a micro wedding or elopement at Chapel in the Hollow is the variety of scenery available without needing to leave the venue. Couples can enjoy forest paths, mountain views, mossy trees, open fields, and rustic details all within one private location.

For Hannah and Jerod’s portraits, we explored:

• The chapel
• The archway
• The field with the mountain backdrop
• The gravel path near the parking area

The afternoon light filtering through the trees gave everything a soft, glowy warmth that felt especially dreamy against the fresh spring greenery.

And honestly? Sometimes the simplest portraits become the most beautiful because couples are relaxed enough to simply enjoy each other.

That’s exactly how Hannah and Jerod’s session felt.

Easy laughter.
Quiet moments.
Hand-holding between photos.
The kind of peaceful happiness you can feel instantly when you’re around a couple deeply comfortable with each other.

Why Couples Love May Elopements in the Smoky Mountains

May is one of the most popular months for Smoky Mountain elopements, and it’s easy to understand why. 🌿

Spring in East Tennessee brings:

• Vibrant green forests
• Blooming wildflowers
• Comfortable temperatures
• Longer daylight hours
• Gorgeous mountain views
• Soft romantic lighting

It’s the perfect balance between the coolness of early spring and the intense heat of summer.

Afternoon ceremonies in May are especially beautiful because the light becomes warmer and softer later in the day, creating gorgeous photography conditions throughout the forest and mountain overlooks.

At Chapel in the Hollow, spring weddings often feel especially magical because the property comes alive with fresh growth and vibrant colors after winter.

From the Couple: 

Like most millennial couples we met on hinge … there is not too much more to the story. Our first date was in Jefferson City. We met at a local Mexican restaurant. It was very laid back . We talked for several hours.

Jerod proposed. We hiked into SMNP along cataloochie creek. This was the first place Jerod and I went fly fishing together.

We chose East Tennessee for our elopement because we live here. We love it. We think this is one of the prettiest places.

We spend most of our time outside. We fly fish, ride horses , or hang out with our 3 dogs.

Planning Your Own Smoky Mountain Elopement

If you’re dreaming about a relaxed wedding surrounded by the beauty of the Smokies, a micro wedding or elopement may be the perfect fit.

Helpful planning resources:

• 👉 Smoky Mountain Wedding Chapel Information
• 👉 Elopement Packages in the Smokies
• 👉 Wedding Inspiration Gallery
• 👉 Contact Chapel in the Hollow

Vendor Team

• Venue: Chapel in the Hollow
• Photography: Star Noir Studio
• Dress: Macy’s
• Menswear: Belk
• Shoes: Lane Boots
• Officiant: Ian Parrott
• Florals: Chapel in the Hollow Florals

A Joyful Spring Wedding in the Smokies

Hannah and Jerod’s wedding day was proof that an elopement doesn’t need elaborate details or a packed timeline to feel meaningful. 🤍🌿

Sometimes all you really need is:
A quiet forest.
A mountain backdrop.
And the person you can’t wait to spend forever with.

Their sweet May afternoon elopement was simple, emotional, joyful, and full of the kind of moments that truly matter.

And honestly? That’s exactly what a Smoky Mountain wedding should feel like.

Family Micro Wedding

Katie and Brandon – May 23, 2026

Katie and Brandon’s wedding day at Chapel in the Hollow was the kind of celebration that reminds us what weddings are truly about — love, family, connection, and creating meaningful memories together. Their intimate family micro wedding in the Smoky Mountains was filled with emotional moments, soft spring beauty, and the fresh green magic East Tennessee is known for this time of year. 🌿🤍

Surrounded by the people who matter most, Katie and Brandon created a wedding day that felt deeply personal from beginning to end.

A Sweet Smoky Mountain Family Wedding

Nestled in the woods near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Chapel in the Hollow is known for intimate weddings that allow couples to focus less on stress and more on meaningful moments. Katie and Brandon embraced that atmosphere completely for their spring micro wedding. 💍✨

The couple chose to dress the chapel in flowing white fabric paired with our succulent florals and matching succulent wreaths lining the pews. The overall look felt soft, earthy, and perfectly connected to the forest surrounding them. 🌿

One of the reasons couples love getting married at our Smoky Mountain wedding venue is because the natural beauty of the woods becomes part of the décor itself. Especially in spring, when East Tennessee bursts into vibrant greens after rain showers, the entire property feels lush and alive.

And on Katie and Brandon’s wedding day? The forest absolutely glowed.

A Spring Wedding Full of Fresh Greenery

Earlier rain showers had rolled through the Smoky Mountains before the ceremony, leaving everything unbelievably verdant and vibrant. 🌧️✨

Rainy spring mornings in East Tennessee create some of the prettiest wedding scenery imaginable. The moss becomes brighter, the trees deepen into rich emerald tones, and the soft cloud cover creates incredibly romantic lighting for photography.

By the time Katie and Brandon said “I do,” the rain had moved on, leaving behind cool spring air and a forest that looked straight out of a fairytale.

The succulent-inspired décor blended beautifully into the natural surroundings, creating a wedding aesthetic that felt timeless, modern, and organic all at once.

A Beautiful Bride with Effortless Style

Katie looked absolutely stunning. 🤍

She wore a sleeveless wedding gown with a slit that brought just the right amount of elegance and modern bridal style to the day. Paired with chunky heels, her look balanced sophistication with comfort — perfect for a relaxed forest micro wedding.

Her hair and makeup by Alter Ego Bridal & Events gave her a soft, romantic glow that worked beautifully with the fresh spring atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Brandon embraced the laid-back Smoky Mountain vibe perfectly in jeans, a crisp white dress shirt, and a tan vest. The combination felt relaxed, stylish, and authentic to who they are as a couple. 🌿

One of the things that makes micro weddings so special is how comfortable couples feel being themselves. Without the pressure of a massive production, couples often lean into styles and choices that genuinely reflect their personalities instead of following rigid traditions.

Katie and Brandon’s wedding felt exactly like that — easy, heartfelt, and real.

A Ceremony Centered Around Family

The emotional center of the day was undoubtedly the ceremony itself. 🥹

Katie’s mom helped her get ready, creating those sweet quiet moments before everything officially began. Then came one of the most touching moments of the day: her dad and bonus dad walking her down the aisle together.

It was such a beautiful representation of love, support, and family unity.

And if that wasn’t emotional enough, Katie’s dad also performed the ceremony.

There’s something incredibly meaningful about having a parent officiate your wedding. It transforms the ceremony from simply formal to deeply personal, and you could feel the emotion woven through every word spoken that day.

Their children also played important roles in the ceremony, making the entire wedding feel centered around not just a marriage, but a family coming together. 💕

Family-focused micro weddings have become increasingly popular in the Smoky Mountains because intimate wedding settings allow couples to prioritize connection over performance. Instead of managing a giant guest list and packed timeline, couples can slow down and truly experience the moments unfolding around them.

That energy was everywhere throughout Katie and Brandon’s wedding day.

Why Families Love Smoky Mountain Micro Weddings

There’s a reason so many couples choose micro weddings and elopements in East Tennessee. The Smokies naturally create an environment that feels intimate, peaceful, and romantic.

Couples planning family-centered weddings especially love:

• Smaller guest counts that allow meaningful interaction
• Relaxed timelines
• Outdoor forest settings
• Scenic mountain photography locations
• Flexible ceremony options
• Less stress and pressure
• More opportunity for personalization

Romantic Portraits in the Smoky Mountain Forest

After the ceremony, we spent some time capturing family portraits at the chapel before stealing the newlyweds away for couple portraits around the property. 📸🌿

For Katie and Brandon’s portraits, we explored:

• The chapel
• The mossy tree
• The vines

The post-rain spring greenery made every location look especially magical. Soft diffused light filtered through the trees while the damp moss and fresh leaves created a rich, romantic atmosphere that only spring in the Smokies can provide.

Their chemistry together was effortless. They laughed easily, stayed close throughout the portraits, and fully embraced the peacefulness of the forest around them.

Those are often the moments couples remember most after intimate weddings — not the big production pieces, but the quiet in-between moments where they finally get to breathe and simply enjoy being married.

From the Bride: 

Brandon was my parents’ neighbor. They tried for a couple years to set us up, but timing was never right. I purchased a new home and had plumbing issues, after calling my parents in search of a plumber, my parents called Brandon. He came out and began working on the house. A few months later, I had an extremely high water bill with no changes inside the house. I called mom and she was convinced I had a leak. Again, calling Brandon to come check. This time, we began texting and eventually went on a date and the rest is history. We were together 5 months before getting engaged and marrying 3 months later.

For the first date, Brandon picked me up at my house, and we went to eat. My sister and nephew babysat my daughter. My 11 year old nephew tracked me on Life360 the entire date. At the two hour mark at dinner her stated “well their date must be going very well”.

Brandon proposed with our kids there to assist. It was Friday, Feb. 13th. We were planning to go to dinner for Valentine’s Day with the kids, my sister, brother in law, and nephew. He had told his kids to go get dress. I was in the living room with my daughter Ellie. His son JD walked in and said “Katie, I have a question” and then the longest pause ever as he paced the living room, “what would you say if Daddy asked you to marry him?’ I responded with “he would just have to ask me for my answer”. His daughter Aubree said “what if he asked you right now?” When I turned to look at her, he was on one knee with a ring. My first words were “oh my God” because the ring was insane and I was not expecting a proposal at all. I looked at my daughter and she was so excited even at 7 months old. I immediately said yes!

I wanted a small elopement style wedding, but still wanted our closest family and friends there. I wanted a small chapel like church. I am not a super over the top of flashy bride. I wanted something simple where at the end of the day we were just married without all the extras. I started researching chapels. There was nothing in Kentucky that wasn’t insanely expensive. I stretched out to Tennessee and found the Chapel in the Hollow.

I want a laid back wedding that I get to marry my best friend with our children and family by our sides. I want some amazing photos to remember the day by.

We looked at so many dates. We finally narrowed it down to a day in May and October. I was leaning more toward October to allow planning time. Brandon said “I do not want to wait that long to marry you”. So we picked May and began wedding planning.

Our life is consumed with kids. Between my daughter that’s 10 months, his 8 year old daughter, and his 11 year old son, we spend all our weekends with the kids usually at baseball games. The very few times we have a day or date night to ourselves we generally go to dinner, catch a movie, and go to bed early for a full night of uninterrupted sleep. However, we do enjoy the outdoors, gardening and playing with the kids. We enjoy cooking together and trying new recipes. We also spend a lot of time with my family.

Planning a Smoky Mountain Family Micro Wedding

If you’re considering an intimate wedding surrounded by nature and meaningful family moments, a Smoky Mountain micro wedding may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Helpful planning resources:

• 👉 Smoky Mountain Micro Wedding Venue Information
• 👉 Elopement & Micro Wedding Packages
• 👉 Wedding Inspiration Gallery
• 👉 Contact Chapel in the Hollow

Vendor Team

• Venue: Chapel in the Hollow
• Photography: Star Noir Studio
• Dress: David’s Bridal
• Menswear: Wrangler
• Rings: Kay Jewelers
• Hair & Makeup: Alter Ego Bridal & Events
• Shoes: Twisted X
• Officiant: Keith Colwell

A Wedding Day Full of Love and Togetherness

Katie and Brandon’s wedding was proof that the most meaningful celebrations are often the simplest ones. 🤍🌿

No pressure.
No overwhelming production.
Just family, love, laughter, and a beautiful spring day in the Smoky Mountains.

And honestly? That kind of magic never goes out of style.