A Misty Forest, Moody Vibes, and a Love That Casts a Spell
If you’ve ever dreamed of a dark October elopement that blends moody romance with mystical forest vibes, Courtney and Alex’s wedding at Chapel in the Hollow is the perfect spellbinding inspiration.
Set against the backdrop of misty East Tennessee woods, their day was filled with intimate moments, haunting beauty, and the kind of raw emotion that leaves you breathless.
A Perfect Venue for a Dark Elopement in the Smokies
Courtney and Alex knew they wanted something personal, romantic, and a little unconventional — a day that felt deeply them. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Chapel in the Hollow delivered all of that and more.
With customizable fabric and floral options, a secluded woodland setting, and packages designed for micro weddings and elopements, it’s no wonder couples seeking unique celebrations are drawn to this magical venue.
For their elopement, Courtney and Alex chose black and cream draping accented by our moody floral package — a stunning contrast that enhanced the rich colors of fall and set the tone for their dark romantic theme. Explore more of our moody florals and drapery combos here.
The Look: Witchy Elegance Meets Autumn Drama
Courtney was the embodiment of gothic elegance in her flowing black wedding gown from JJ’s House, complete with Stevie Nicks-inspired sleeves that danced with every breeze. The dress moved like magic, echoing the soft rustle of leaves in the October air.
She paired her look with a black stone wedding set that shimmered with quiet power — a unique, bold choice that matched the overall aesthetic of the day. Her bouquet from Sola Wood Flowers added earthy texture and everlasting beauty.
Her mom helped her get ready, a sweet behind-the-scenes moment that added depth to the day, while her dad walked her down the aisle, creating a moment full of emotion, memory, and love.
Alex kept his look clean and timeless in black pants and a black dress shirt, letting the setting and their connection take center stage.
The Ceremony: Mist, Music, and Meaning
As Courtney walked down the aisle to“Ordinary,” the fog rolled softly through the trees, wrapping the ceremony in a dreamy atmosphere. The song choice, heartfelt and unexpected, set the emotional tone.
Surrounded by their immediate family, the couple stood beneath the chapel’s arch and read their own vows, each word weighted with meaning, humor, and genuine love. There wasn’t a dry eye in the forest — just the sound of leaves crunching, mist rising, and two hearts promising forever.
A Rainy Day Adventure in the Forest
After the ceremony, family photos were taken at the chapel — a charming structure designed for just these types of moments.(Check out our chapel gallery for more inspiration.)
Then came the adventure portion of the day — and this is where their dark October elopement truly came alive.
We wandered through:
A nearby graveyard, where they twirled under a black umbrella, adding a spooky, romantic twist
The tunnel of trees, offering a natural cathedral feel
A highland meadow blanketed with golden leaves
A rain-slicked road, perfect for reflective shots with moody mist and soft light
The photography by Star Noir Studio captured every enchanting moment — the rain-dappled details, the glances between newlyweds, and the gentle intimacy that surrounded them all day.
Tiny Details, Big Impact
Courtney and Alex’s elopement was filled with carefully chosen details that elevated the day from beautiful to unforgettable.
Officiating by Ian Parrott(our resident officiant here at the chapel) kept the ceremony deeply personal
The venue’s florals were provided by Kochetova Flowers, specially curated to match the moody theme
Even the rain felt intentional — as if the forest itself had blessed the day with mist and magic.
Why October is Perfect for a Moody Micro Wedding
October is one of the most popular months for weddings in East Tennessee — and for good reason. The crisp air, the changing leaves, and the moody, soft lighting create the perfect setting for romantic forest elopements.
At Chapel in the Hollow, we see a surge in dark wedding themes, from gothic glam to vintage witchcore and everything in between. You can even add on candles, lanterns, and extra moody floral packages to make your vision come to life.
A Day That Felt Like a Spell
Courtney and Alex’s dark October elopement was more than just a wedding — it was a moment suspended in time. Moody, misty, and magical, it reminded us of what happens when you trust your vision and create a day that feels uniquely yours.
Whether you’re dreaming of a candlelit ceremony beneath fall leaves, a black wedding dress that flows like smoke, or a quiet moment in the woods with your love — we’re here for it.
Let us help you plan your misty mountain magic.
From the Bride
We met through family, but were both in other relationships at the time. Our first date was at a pumpkin patch. We walked all around, saw zoo animals, and walked through a corn maze. He proposed. We went up to North Carolina for his annual family Christmas dinner. Just before we left to go to dinner, we decided to take pictures in front of the Christmas tree. After we had taken a couple of pictures, he pulled the hidden ring box out of the tree and got down on his knee!
We love the mountains in East Tennessee and really wanted to be somewhere where we would be able to see the fall colors for our wedding, since we don’t get that in Florida. We are looking forward to having a beautiful, intimate ceremony and finally getting married! We love to go to the beach or explore new areas when the weather is nice. Alex loves to collect anything miniature!
What a joy it was to witness the magic of autumn unfold for Alyssa & Clayton as they celebrated their love at Chapel in the Hollow — tucked into the forested foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. With only their closest family by their side, their mid-afternoon ceremony and portrait session captured the spirit of the season and the sweetness of an intimate micro-wedding.
A Ceremony Wrapped in Fall Elegance
As the leaves were turning and the air carried that delightful chill of a mountain autumn afternoon, Alyssa & Clayton arrived at the chapel for a ceremony that was classic, timeless, and absolutely rooted in the moment. The couple opted for all-white fabric draping and white florals to decorate the chapel space — elegant and pure, striking a bold contrast next to the rich amber and vermilion tones of the surrounding trees.
Alyssa stunned in her spaghetti-strap gown with a sweeping long train, paired with a short pearl-studded veil that shimmered softly as she moved. The light in the wood-lined hollow seemed to dance around her. The moment her brother walked her down the aisle, you could feel the sweetness of the family bond — quiet, meaningful, and full of love. Meanwhile, Clayton chose something relaxed and perfect for a mountain setting: jeans topped with a cream suit jacket. A subtle nod to formality, yet totally aligned with the forest backdrop and laid-back vibe.
The entire ceremony was attended only by immediate family, making every glance, every exchange of vows, and every turn of the page feel deeply personal. Such a precious way to honor the union of two people who clearly cherish simplicity, sincerity, and a strong connection to nature.
Portraits That Whisper “Smoky Mountain Autumn”
Once vows were exchanged, the couple moved into portrait mode. The afternoon began in the bridal suite — where the soft side-light and colorful leaves framed the couple beautifully — and continued outside among the trees. From there, we stepped onto the rain-kissed road, glistening under soft gray skies and reflecting the day’s emotion in every puddle. Then, in the open field where the Smoky Mountains rolled through a veil of mist, the setting turned cinematic — all hushed tones, fall air, and that quiet sense of being wrapped in nature’s arms.
Our last stop was the tree tunnel on Millstone Gap Road, where a canopy of crimson, gold, and russet leaves created a natural cathedral of autumn splendor. It was quiet. It was heartfelt. It was everything you hope for when you choose a mountain micro-wedding with soul.
Why Their Choice of Venue Made All the Difference
Choosing Chapel in the Hollow means choosing a place intentionally designed for just this kind of meaningful, intimate, character-filled celebration. The venue supports up to 35 people and offers a relaxed, stress-free experience — exactly what Alyssa and Clayton envisioned. With several outdoor woodsy ceremony backdrops and a charming bridal suite for getting-ready moments, this space is built from the ground up for beautiful weddings in the East Tennessee woods.
From the Bride
We met in Agriculture Class in high school, and it has been love ever since! For our first date we sat around a bon fire for 6 hours with our best of friends. Clayton proposed, we took a trip to St. Augustine, Florida and he popped the question on the dock next to a yacht.
Our families always travel to Tennessee for vacation every year, & we thought no better time to get married than when the leaves are changing! I can’t wait to marry the man of my dreams of course. Also looking forward to, seeing how proud the families are of both of us. We picked this date because we hope to get married while the leaves are changing. We LOVE to sit at the house, honestly. If we do go out we both love trying new foods or watching a movie.
Vendor Spotlight & Details
Event Management: Custom Love Gifts & Events (Lindsay)
Dress: The Bridal Outlet
Menswear: Belk
Photography: Star Noir Studio
Videography: Yugen Productions
Hair & Makeup: Summerlynn Beauty
Rings: Kay Jewelers
Shoes: Target
Venue & Floral Styling: Chapel in the Hollow
Your Takeaway: A Fall Wedding You’ll Remember
Choose your backdrop with intention. When the leaves are turning in the Smokies, nature does half your decor for you. Alyssa and Clayton leaned into that with white decor that popped beautifully against fall foliage.
Keep it intimate. Fewer guests = freedom to roam, pause, breathe, and truly savor the moment. Whether you’re inside the chapel or out in the field under misty mountains, the energy stays pure and personal.
Time your light. Late-afternoon in the mountains gives you golden hour and that moody, mist-filled look we all crave for fall portraits. Use the road reflections, the tree tunnels, the field vistas.
Look for a venue that supports simplicity and creativity. With up to 35 people, Chapel in the Hollow gives you the flexibility to keep things meaningful, creative, and exactly the way you want it.
If you’re dreaming of your own autumn wedding — crisp air, colorful leaves, mountains rolling in the background, intimate numbers, beautiful light, no stress — imagine yourself walking hand-in-hand at Chapel in the Hollow. Explore packages, ceremony locations, and how to book your date.
Here’s to love that feels like the forest: rooted, wild, and timeless. 🤍🌄
Spontaneous Fall Elopement
at Chapel in the Hollow
Cathy and Cecil – October 29, 2025
There’s something magical about saying “yes” when the leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and you decide to let love lead the way. That’s exactly what happened when Cecil and Cathy chose our little woodsy hideaway in the Smokies for their spontaneous fall elopement—and it was nothing short of perfect.
A Ceremony Wrapped in Autumn Joy
From the moment Cathy and Cecil set foot on the property, the forest did its thing: rich golds, deep rusts, and warm ambers dancing in the morning mist. The vibe was already set. Together, they wrapped the chapel in billows of gold and textured rust fabric, pairing it with our signature boho florals and a colorful candle package that made everything glow with autumn warmth and effortless elegance.
As they walked down the aisle side by side—smiles wide, hearts full—they embraced the simplicity and joy of their choice. Cathy in her short white dress, biker boots, and tall socks with adorable bows; Cecil in jeans and a dress shirt, laid-back yet intentional. Edgy + sweet. Casual + meaningful. Together: beautiful.
Why This Moment Was Just Right for the Smokies
Choosing a spontaneous elopement at Chapel in the Hollow means prioritizing love’s momentum over endless planning. Our venue specializes in intimate weddings and elopements in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains—and we designed it to be stress-free, relaxed, and deeply photographed. The setting gives you lush woodland ceremony backdrops, a private feel (yes, no mega crowds or permit hassles), and the kind of golden-leafed magic that only fall in the Smokies brings.
For Cecil and Cathy, the forest painted itself: mist drifting, mountains glimpsing in the distance, rich reds and golds blanketing every corner. They leaned into it. Let the moment lead. Chose what felt right.
Wander, Laugh, Light, Repeat
After the heartfelt “I do,” we ventured out together: in the chapel, by the vintage truck that adds such a fun character to the property, down to the creek where light filtered through autumn branches, and finally out in the open field where the fog rolled in just enough to give the mountains that dreamy “Smoky Mountain magic” look.
One of the best parts of a spontaneous elopement with us? You don’t feel rushed. You can laugh. You can pause. You can go barefoot (if you want). You can let it be joyful rather than perfect. And you can soak in that forest-morning light, the textured leaves, the rustle of wood, and the two of you just living in the moment.
For the Bride + Groom Who Want This
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Yes — that feels like us,” let me tell you what you’re signing up for when you choose Chapel in the Hollow:
A woodland-charm venue outside of the heavy tourist zones, nestled in the Smoky Mountain foothills, built with elopements and micro-weddings in mind.
Capacity for up to ~35 people, making it intimate yet still able to include your closest.
Options for a short-notice (“book and go”) elopement or a full hour to photograph every angle of your love story—because yes, this deserves documenting.
A place where your style (rust + gold + boho candles) and your vibe (easy-going, fun, meaningful) can come together seamlessly.
Love Notes to Cecil + Cathy
Cathy, your mix of biker boots and a short white dress? Pure perfection. The way you looked into one another in the soft October light said everything. Cecil, you brought relaxed confidence—and together you created something unforced and beautiful. Thank you for trusting us, inviting us into your spontaneous decision, and letting the Smokies frame your story.
Ready to Let Fall Decide Your “Yes”?
When the leaves are falling and the forest is calling, the best thing you can do is listen. If you’re considering an elopement (or micro-wedding) that feels like you, check out our venue page and let’s make magic in the mountains: no mega stress, just you two + the forest + your love story.
From the Bride
Well we meet through some friends. A little wild but we meet and it’s like we connect! Well for our first date he came to pick me up out of the parking lot of where I had dropped my friend off to the bar. He pulls up on a motorcycle and said come on let’s go have a drink. Well I had a little dress on and was like naw I can’t. He said yes you can! So of course I did and we went to have a drink and we have been together ever since.
Cecil asked me to marry him on Christmas day of 2024. My daughter, her little family, his son, and my Aunt were all with us. It was amazing. I was never so happy. After being together 6 years and he finally ask me I was the happiest women around. Well I lost my daddy back in April so I just could not do the whole big wedding thing. We do plan on having a big wedding next year for family and friends and my grandson will be walking me down the aisle. So for now we decided to elope in East Tennessee since we both wanted to be married. On our wedding day I can’t wait to have his last name and for him to be my husband. We love to ride our bike, spending time with our kids and grandkids and getting to watch my grandson play football.
Victoria and Colton’s wedding at Chapel in the Hollow was the perfect blend of romance, heritage, and misty mountain magic. Tucked away in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this intimate afternoon ceremony captured everything couples love about East Tennessee weddings — cozy forest charm, heartfelt emotion, and that unforgettable Smoky Mountain mist that turns every moment into something cinematic.
A Cozy Autumn Setting
Victoria and Colton chose an October date that brought the forest to life in soft shades of sage and gold. They dressed the chapel in dusty sage fabric paired with bohemian florals and the candle + lantern package, creating a warm, romantic glow against the cool mountain air. As the mist rolled through the trees, it wrapped their ceremony in a soft, dreamlike atmosphere that made their vows feel even more sacred.
The Chapel in the Hollow offers a private, woodland setting that feels like a secret hideaway — perfect for couples who want the beauty of the Smokies without the crowds or need for national park permits. With space for up to 35 guests, it’s an ideal venue for a micro wedding that focuses on connection, nature, and intentional celebration.
A Bride with an Eye for Meaningful Details
Victoria’s day was filled with thoughtful, personal touches that made everything feel uniquely theirs. She brought a new perfume to commemorate the occasion, a beautiful wedding invitation featuring an illustration of the chapel, and cookie favors that added a sweet, whimsical touch. Her bouquet, crafted by Kochetova Flowers, tied together soft greens and muted autumn tones — perfectly complementing the natural surroundings.
Her mom and sister helped her get ready, adding layers of love and laughter to the morning. When she stepped into her off-the-shoulder white gown with a medium train and a long, filmy veil that floated in the mountain breeze, she looked like she’d stepped straight out of a fairytale.
A Ceremony Filled with Emotion and Tradition
Colton, looking sharp in his navy suit from Joseph Abboud, waited at the end of the aisle — and when he saw Victoria, he couldn’t hold back tears. It was one of those raw, emotional moments that define a wedding day.
The ceremony was deeply personal, featuring handwritten vows and a Scottish handfasting ritual to honor Colton’s heritage. With cords wrapped around their joined hands, the couple symbolized the binding of their lives and hearts. It was the perfect touch — blending modern love with timeless tradition against a mist-shrouded Smoky Mountain backdrop.
After the “I Dos”
Once the ceremony ended, Star Noir Studio captured stunning portraits of the couple and their families at the chapel before venturing to the nearby forest road and the field with mountain views. The light fog and moody October sky made every image glow. Victoria’s veil danced softly in the breeze, and together they looked utterly radiant — two souls in love, surrounded by nature’s quiet beauty.
Why Couples Love Misty Mountain Weddings
There’s something magical about a misty Smoky Mountain wedding — the way the clouds settle low over the trees, the quiet hush of the forest, the feeling of being completely wrapped in the moment. For couples like Victoria and Colton, that peaceful atmosphere turns a wedding into an experience — one filled with emotion, intimacy, and awe.
If you’re dreaming of a romantic micro wedding surrounded by nature, Chapel in the Hollow offers everything you need — flexible booking options, curated décor packages, and multiple forest backdrops that make your day uniquely yours.
From the Bride
Like many modern love stories, ours started online- though it almost didn’t happen! Colton actually messaged Victoria two months before they ever started talking. Life got busy, and his message sat patiently waiting. Then one rainy Saturday afternoon, Victoria decided to scroll through her old messages. That’s when she saw his message again- and something told her to finally reply. What started as a simple message on a quiet, rainy Saturday afternoon turned into endless conversations, laughter, and eventually, love. Looking back, it feels like fate waited for just the right moment to bring them together. After a few days of talking nonstop, we finally decided to meet in person. Colton picked Victoria up for their very first date- a mix of excitement and nervousness filled the air. He opened the car door (a true gentlemen) and we headed to a cozy Italian restaurant in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia called Orofino’s. Over plates of pasta, laughter and easy conversation any nerves melted away. What was supposed to be just dinner turned into hours of talking and realizing how naturally everything seemed to click because the two of us. By the end of the night, both of us knew this was something special- the kind of first date you don’t forget. Colton actually ended up moving in with Victoria just a few weeks later; and the rest is history.
Colton had been planning the perfect proposal with Victoria’s mom for weeks. Using her late-Aunt’s diamond to design a one of a kind engagement ring for Victoria. The original plan was to pop the question in front of her parents’ wine barrel at Effingham Manor Winery, a place that held special meaning. Everything was set- or so he thought. When the day finally came, they arrived at the winery only to find the staff packing up all the Christmas decorations in the barrel room, right in front of her parents’ wine barrel. Not exactly the romantic backdrop Colton had imagined! Thinking quickly, and keeping his nerves in check, he decided to work with Plan B. Later that evening, back at Victoria’s parents’ house, she had no idea what was coming- mostly because she had just woken up from a nap. Still sleepy and completely unsuspecting, she walked out of the room to find Colton down on one knee. It may not have been the great winery proposal he’d planned, but it turned out to be something even more special; perfectly imperfect, genuine and full of love.
East Tennessee will always hold a special place in our hearts. It was the first place we ever went on vacation together. There’s something about the beauty of the mountains and the way time seems to slow down when we were there that felt just right to us. When it came time for us to choose a place to say, “I do”, the decision was easy. East Tennessee wasn’t just a destination; it was where some of our favorite memories began together, and the perfect place to start the next chapter of our lives. We are both looking forward to the moment we can finally see each other at the aisle. After all the planning and anticipation, that first look- surrounded by the people we love the most- will be the moment everything feels reel. We cannot wait to say our vows and begin the rest of our lives together.
Our wedding date is more than just a day on the calendar- it’s where our story truly began. It’s the date of our very first date and the day we officially become a couple. From that moment on, it’s been “our day”, the one that marked the start of everything that’s brought us here. Choosing 10.28.2025 as our wedding date felt like the perfect way to come full circle- to celebrate the love that started on that day and to begin our forever on the same date that started it all. We are a very laid-back couple and love being with each other, whether it is going to a restaurant, concert, or sitting at home snuggled up with our dogs.
Whether you’re envisioning a misty October ceremony, a snow-kissed winter elopement, or a lush spring woodland celebration, the team at Chapel in the Hollow can help you create your dream wedding in the Smokies. Explore our wedding packages, browse real love stories on our wedding blog, and start planning your own unforgettable day surrounded by nature and love.
A Love Story Wrapped in Mist and Moss in the Smokies
On a drizzly October morning, the woods of the Chapel in the Hollow came alive for the intimate union of Savannah and Jaden. If you’re considering a micro-wedding with moody vibes, woodland magic, and heartfelt personal touches, this story is for you.
Setting the Scene
Situated in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Chapel in the Hollow is designed specifically for couples seeking an intimate ceremony with relaxed, whimsical rustic flair. The venue supports gatherings of up to 35 people, offering outdoor woodsy ceremony backdrops that feel like the national park — without the permits and crowds.
For Savannah and Jaden, the early-morning mist added a dreamy softness to the evergreen-kissed forest. The guest list was small and meaningful, focusing in on their love, family unity, and unique style.
The Bridal Portrait of the Morning
Savannah floated down the aisle in a spaghetti-strap gown, the long glittery train shimmering in the misty light. Her cathedral-length veil, adorned with colorful florals, trailed behind like a storybook flourish. With the help of her mom and bridesmaids in the bridal suite, she stepped into a moment crafted with love.
When her dad escorted her down the aisle — aided by one of the bridesmaids carrying that magnificent veil — and her mom pressed play on the ceremony music, the family-in-motion moment felt tender and real. These small rituals: a mother’s support, a father’s escort, friends close-by — they turned an October morning into something timeless.
The Groom’s Reaction & Signature Rings
As Savannah approached, Jaden’s breath caught. He gasped — the kind of reaction you only get when the person you waited for appears, glowing and genuine. In that moment, the world hushed.
They exchanged rings that were nothing short of characterful:
Jaden’s ring was engraved with the Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope Millennium Falcon, a wink at his playful side.
Savannah’s ring featured a moss agate kite stone — raw, elegant, and full of nature-driven meaning.
These rings weren’t just jewelry — they told their story.
Decor, Details & Mood
The chapel was draped in hunter green fabric, perfectly echoing the forest palette. Complimented by the bohemian florals and candle package from the venue, the scene glowed softly as the morning light filtered through misty pines. Green, gold, and natural textures created a moody, enchanted aesthetic that suited the early October hour.
Detail shots captured:
The glittering train of the gown against wooden pews.
Close‐ups of moss agate and Millennium Falcon-engraved rings.
Flickering candles reflecting in dew-kissed glass jars.
Hunter green drapery swaying in the breeze.
Walking into Forever
At ceremony’s end, a wonderfully whimsical moment: Savannah’s bonus dad brought out a step stool so she could climb up and kiss Jaden — taller in heels, veil billowing, laughter shared — a perfect snapshot of joy.
After the group photo (everyone cheering in the forest’s hush), the camera time was devoted to the couple. Wandering among mossy trees and vines, they sank into the forest’s hush. Then, a slight pivot: they explored the small cemetery nook on the grounds, where gravestones and creeping vines created a slightly spooky, mythic feel.
Picture this: Savannah as a modern-day Persephone, cloaked in blooms and woodland stillness, surrounded by nature’s quiet mysteries. They embraced the rain, the mist, and the ethereal landscape — proving that a little drizzle only makes the mood richer.
From the Bride
We met through a friend and at first we just wanted to be friends but after 2 years we ended up dating and falling in love. On our first date we went to this really fancy place called Melting Pot and we sat and talked for hours about life. Jaden proposed to me on New years 01/01/2024 we got down on one knee right at 12:00am.
I always visited East Tennessee as a kid and both of us love the forest and mountains. We are looking forward to being married in front of all of our loved ones. We picked this date because it is close to our favorite holiday. We love to cosplay and go out to conventions together.
If you’re dreaming of a micro-wedding that doesn’t sacrifice style or story, consider the following:
Time of day matters. An October morning offers soft light, quieter symptoms, and an intimate vibe.
Color palette sets the tone. Hunter green, moss textures, candlelight — all pull a forest wedding into something moody and magical.
Personal touches win hearts. The Millennium Falcon engraving, moss agate stone, step stool kiss — these are the moments guests will remember.
Weather is part of the story. Rain didn’t stop them — it elevated the day. At Chapel in the Hollow, the outdoor setting encourages you to lean in to nature and let it shape the mood.
Photography-first venue. The property is curated with photography in mind — lots of “nooks and crannies” for intentional portraits.
Savannah and Jaden didn’t just choose a venue. They chose a moment—soft light, forest hush, and a little rain that whispered magic into their morning. Their micro-wedding at Chapel in the Hollow wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a story. One you’ll find yourself returning to, image by image, detail by detail.
If you’re planning your own micro-wedding and craving a forest, fog, candle-lit aesthetic for an intimate guest list, let this be your inspiration.
Here’s to love in the woods, wild rain kisses, and the beautiful unknown ahead. 💚✨
