Kristen and Ernie’s sunny spring micro wedding at Chapel in the Hollow was a charming celebration filled with personal touches and rustic elegance.
They chose a beautiful palette of sand and champagne fabric, perfectly complemented by our blush and bashful florals, creating a soft and inviting atmosphere for their special day.
Kristen looked absolutely radiant in her sleeveless dress, featuring delightful layers that danced in the sunlight. Her hairstyle—half-up with cascading curls—added a touch of romance. Ernie matched the laid-back elegance in jeans paired with a crisp white dress shirt and a tan vest, looking dashing as he awaited his bride.
A special and heartwarming addition was Kristen’s flower granny, who joyfully tossed petals before her grand entrance. Kristen’s daughters played a significant role, helping her get ready and walking her down the aisle, adding layers of family love to the ceremony.
Ernie’s reaction to seeing Kristen was priceless, uttering“Damn” in awe of his beautiful bride, encapsulating the joy and surprise of the moment. The couple’s chemistry was undeniable, making every snapshot shimmer with their love.
Kristen also showcased her creative flair by arranging a stunning cake table adorned with fun thrifted items, making the cake a delightful focal point.
The celebration continued with photos among the mossy trees and in the field framed by the majestic mountains, capturing the essence of their perfect day in the Smoky Mountains.
Congratulations, Kristen and Ernie! May your life together be as joyful and sunny as your wedding day!
From the Bride
We met while Working public safety at UT Football Games. GO VOLS! We picked Chapel in the Hollow because we were born and raised in East Tennessee.On our wedding day we look forward to celebrating with family and friends in a rustic setting followed by a nice steak dinner at Ye Olde Steakhouse. We picked this date because we both have fun and laid-back personalities. April 1st shouts ‘I’m a fool for you”.We enjoy our weekend getaways, but our favorite place to be is at home with each other and the animals.
Michele and Scobbie’s lavender elopement at Chapel in the Hollow was a vision of elegance and simplicity. They chose a serene palette of lavender and cream to adorn the chapel, creating a soft and romantic backdrop for their special day.
Michele looked stunning in her simple white dress, featuring a lacy long-sleeved top and silky smooth bottom, perfect for the spring chill. Her lavender and white bouquet added a delightful pop of color, while her cute boots brought a touch of whimsy and comfort to her bridal ensemble.
Scobbie complemented her perfectly in a sharp lavender suit, the boutonniere echoing the tones of Michele’s bouquet, showcasing their coordinated and thoughtful style.
Their love for each other was palpable, filling the chapel with warmth and joy. After the ceremony, they were eager to capture their newlywed bliss, so we visited some of the most picturesque spots on the property—the log, the old truck, and the field framed by majestic mountain views.
Their elopement was not just an expression of their love but a celebration of their journey together, intimate and beautifully true to themselves. Congratulations, Michele and Scobbie, on a day as beautiful as your love for each other!
From the Bride
“There is never a time or place for true love. It happens accidentally, in a heartbeat“ We met on Facebook. I (Michele) was scrolling one evening in a group I was just bored and killing time. I came across an introduction photo of this lady (Scobbie) and something just kept pulling me back to that photo that evening. So I got up the courage and commented under it saying “ hey I work not far from where you live”. After commenting back and forth for a while, she asked for permission to private message me. Of course I said yes! After talking for a while we exchanged numbers. We both were definitely not looking for anything but friendship. Somehow it grew so quickly and effortlessly. I knew the first moment I saw her in person that she was my forever. There was never a doubt, a question or hesitation.
Our first date was different than most normal dates. We had planned on going to dinner and a movie. I came down with Covid so we had to cancel. So Scobbie decided if we couldn’t do it in person we would do it another way and that’s what we did. We FaceTimed each other and ate dinner together through FaceTime and watched a movie. The movie was City of Angels. Even though I fell asleep a few times ( from fever) she never hung up. She stayed right there watching the movie and watching me sleep. It was perfect.
I ( Michele) proposed to Scobbie. We went on our first vacation together at a cabin. I had planned to propose on our second night there but things changed and I proposed on the first night. Was still perfect.When Scobbie and I decided to elope she found this venue and knew that it was perfect and romantic and meant for us. On our wedding day I am most looking forward to saying our vows and it being so intimate with it just being us there.
What Makes the Smoky Mountains
a Special Place to Elope?
Guest Post by Emily Bradley
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, unforgettable wedding, the Smoky Mountains offer a breathtaking natural setting that will feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Rolling peaks cascade down into mystical woodlands, hiding falls and valleys lush with foliage and wildlife, and a romantic, hazy hue hangs in the air. With such charmingly rustic vistas, it’s no wonder couples flock to this ethereal destination to say, “I do.”
But what is it that makes the Smoky Mountains such a popular choice for destination weddings? Let’s find out.
Incredible, Unspoiled Scenery
Of course, these iconic mountains are famous for their stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re standing on a mountaintop surrounded by endless views or tucked away beside a waterfall or in a quiet woodland glade, the entire landscape offers plenty of magical backdrops for your wedding. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly captivating here, as golden light fills the misty peaks and creates a scene dripping with romance.
As the mountains cover around 522,427 acres, you’ll want to explore some of the key locations before deciding where to host your nuptials. Ascend the peaks for panoramic views, explore the valleys for lush meadows, or discover your own idyllic spot along the Roaring Fork Nature Trail – dotted with serene waterfalls and historic buildings.
Year-Round Beauty
There’s no bad season to get married in the Smoky Mountains. Spring offers a colorful backdrop of wildflowers, summer glows with vibrant greenery and warm sunshine, fall brings fiery orange and golden foliage, and winter creates an enchanted, snow-dusted wonderland. Depending on the aesthetic you want for your special day, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding breathtaking photo opportunities.
You’ll need to obtain a permit from the national park to get married here, unless you opt for an intimate micro-wedding in the foothills of the mountains on private property. Aside from being more sustainable and cost-effective, these offer an accessible location that feels incredibly personal and secluded, with all the beauty of the mountains as your backdrop. After the big day, there’s no need to worry about jetting off for your honeymoon – you’ll already be in paradise.
Charming Local Culture
The foothills of the mountains are teeming with attractions, from the lively Gatlinburg to the timeless charm of Pigeon Forge. You’ll find yourselves warmly welcomed, and you can expect first-class hospitality from a plethora of local wedding professionals who know the best hidden spots, secrets of the area, and other vendors to help create your perfect wedding experience.
As the Smoky Mountains are rooted in the Southern Appalachian region, this location also boasts mouth-watering food options for your wedding feast. Wow your guests with an authentic Tennessee BBQ, dine in elegance on fresh mountain trout, or try the classic biscuits and gravy.
The Perfect Place to Start Your Next Chapter Together
For couples seeking a destination wedding in a place that is stress-free, deeply emotive, and abundant in natural beauty and unforgettable views, the Smoky Mountains are ideal. The ancient peaks and forests sweep anyone who visits away with their peaceful ambience, and you can host a unique, intimate celebration tailored entirely to your preferences and needs here.
Stephanie and Robby’s drizzly micro wedding at Chapel in the Hollow was a cozy and intimate affair, filled with love and lush greenery. They opted for a charming decor of hunter green and white fabric, beautifully complemented by our succulent florals.
Stephanie exuded elegance in her sleeveless dress, her mid-length veil delicately edged with beads catching the soft light. Robby looked sharp in his blue suit jacket and tie, mirroring the day’s serene vibes.
The couple’s children played a special part in their day; Stephanie’s daughters were adorable in coordinating pink dresses, and Robby’s son was smart in a crisp white dress shirt. Together, they stood by their parents during the ceremony, enhancing the family-focused atmosphere.
Adding a personal touch, Stephanie and Robby crafted wooden coasters as favors for their guests, a lovely memento of their union. As family photos wrapped up, a gentle drizzle began, setting a magical scene for their couple photos amidst the enchanting woods of East Tennessee.
Despite the rain, Stephanie and Robby’s spirits remained undampened as they celebrated their love surrounded by the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Congratulations to this wonderful couple on a truly memorable day!
From the Bride
We met through family. Our first date was simple we watched a movie and ate pizza.Neither of us proposed we just decided together that the time was right. The Chapel in the Hollow was discovered by a close friend of mine. When I first saw it, I knew this was the place that I wanted to be married. It is just so beautiful and peaceful. On our wedding day we are both looking forward to making that vow to each other and God that we will always be one. We also are very excited to share this day with some of our family and friends.
We love to travel, and we love new adventures like kayaking and cruising to new islands. We can be open and honest with each other, respecting and understanding each other’s thoughts and opinions. We love to laugh, and we love experiencing new things together. We just love to be with each other every day living our best lives. Neither one of us has ever been married. We never believed that we would find the right person. God had a different plan for us though. He truly did bless our paths and brought us together.
Amber and Calvin’s family micro wedding at Chapel in the Hollow was a heartwarming celebration of love and unity, beautifully set against a backdrop of dusty blue and white decor, enhanced with our vibrant blue and yellow florals.
Amber was a vision in a long-sleeved dress adorned with a tulle overlay, her hair flowing beautifully down her shoulders. Calvin looked dapper in a navy vest paired with a crisp white dress shirt, embodying the joyful spirit of the day.
One of the ceremony’s most touching moments was when Calvin presented Amber’s daughter with a special necklace, symbolizing her important role in their union and their lives moving forward together. This heartfelt gesture brought tears to many, highlighting the depth of their blended family’s bonds.
The couple penned their own vows, with Amber visibly moved as she declared her love and commitment, a testament to their deep connection and the emotions of the day.
Their ceremony was truly a family affair, with friends and relatives participating in the processional and contributing to the joyous atmosphere. A memorial table was thoughtfully arranged to honor loved ones who could not be there, accompanied by our elegantly lit and flower-adorned glass jars on the pews, adding a warm glow to the venue.
Despite a light drizzle, the spirit remained high as we captured family memories at the chapel, and later ventured to the highlands and a field with a stunning mountain view for intimate couple photos, all under the gentle spring sprinkles of East Tennessee.
Congratulations, Amber and Calvin! Your wedding was a beautiful blend of family, love, and memory-making, set in the serene Smoky Mountains. May your lives together be filled with as much happiness and love as your special day!
From the Bride
We met through a friend. When we met, he was living in Poplar Grove, IL and I was living in Jonesboro, AR. I was going through my divorce and he absolutely saved me in every sense of the word. Until I met him, I had no idea what love truly was or that it could actually exist in this fashion. Now, I couldn’t imagine my life without him and I don’t want to. He truly completes me and makes me and our daughter feel safe, loved, and worthy.
Our first date was at a restaurant called Fat City Grill. I picked him up from the airport the day before and we decided on this place for breakfast the next morning. He tried chocolate gravy for the first time, and figured out southern proportions are not like the north! Our first family date was at the local fair. We spend the evening riding rides, eating carnival food, and melting in the humidity. He got introduced to the South in September and quickly realized that long sleeves aren’t a thing down here when it’s sweltering.
On October 17, I lost my grandmother. She was my last living grandparent. I was devastated, but comforted by the fact that I knew she was at peace. We had already scheduled our first vacation together to the Smoky Mountains and we were set to leave the morning after her death. I wanted to cancel. My dad talked to me and absolutely would not let me cancel. My mamaw absolutely loved the mountains and he insisted that we go in her honor. On October 19, we returned home from our date night that consisted of cheesecake on a stick from the Chocolate Monkey and delicious mouth watering steak at The Peddler. I was upstairs with Livvy Kate (daughter) and he called up, “Can you guys come downstairs?” I walked down and he was at the bottom stair landing on his knee, a ring in his hand. I was shocked, ecstatic, and overjoyed. I couldn’t say yes fast enough.
This wedding is incredibly symbolic to me (as is everyone else’s I’m sure), but I lost my last grandparent on October 17. My mamaw and papaw’s favorite place in the world was the Smoky Mountains, so I’ve selected this location as an honor to them. It is also the location that we visited every summer together with my cousins since I turned 15. We’d all stay in the same cabin and looking back, it’s some of my most treasured memories with my grandparents
What am I looking forward to most on our wedding day? Honestly, the photos are 100% the MOST important thing to me. My parents can’t make it to the wedding & my future husband’s only grandparent can’t make it either…so the photos are #1 priority for us. Sorry for rambling! My nanny & poppa (other grandparents) were married on March 29, so the date is an honor to them.
For fun we video game & we 3D print things. We also enjoy date nights of trivia, singo (bingo with songs!), and an occasional movie. We’re avid board game players as well and love watching “Survivor” as a family.
