Forest Biker Wedding

Jody and Jeff – October 24, 2025

When Jody and Jeff chose Chapel in the Hollow for their forest biker wedding, they brought together two worlds — the wild freedom of the open road and the quiet magic of the woods. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Chapel in the Hollow offers a serene, intimate space for couples who want something beyond the traditional — just as this couple envisioned.

A Ceremony that Rides to a Different Beat

Amid the towering trees and soft autumn light, Jody and Jeff said “I do” surrounded by nature and the gentle rustle of leaves. They dressed the chapel in cream and textured rust fabric, paired with the venue’s lantern package for a warm, rustic glow that felt perfectly at home in the forest. Their design was simple but deeply personal — every detail chosen to reflect their relaxed, adventurous spirits.

Jody looked stunning in her strapless high-low gown, a creative rework of a full-length wedding dress that she cut down herself to show off her adorable short boots — and a bit of attitude. 😎 Jeff kept his look effortlessly cool, wearing jeans, a white dress shirt, and a suit jacket — a perfect nod to classic biker style with a touch of mountain charm.

Tradition & Personal Touches — Handfasting Meets Biker Style

Their ceremony, led by Rev. Sharon Gloff, was rich with meaning. They chose a handfasting ritual, a Celtic tradition symbolizing the binding of two souls. Their cord, ordered all the way from Ireland, included colors selected for their personal significance — a powerful representation of unity, strength, and everlasting love.

And because Jody knows how to make an unforgettable moment, she wrote and professionally recorded a song just for their exit. As the melody floated through the forest, it created one of those once-in-a-lifetime memories — a true romantic mic-drop moment that no one will forget.

Love, Freedom, and Forest Magic

After the ceremony, they captured family portraits at the chapel before exploring the property for couple photos. The wooded paths and rustic textures of Chapel in the Hollow’s grounds made the perfect backdrop for their love story. As the day faded into evening, they ended their session with shots of the two of them on Jeff’s Harley, the chrome gleaming softly in the October light.

It was the perfect blend of love, freedom, and forest magic — a day that celebrated who they are at their core: two souls meant to ride through life together.

Why Chapel in the Hollow Was the Perfect Fit

• Designed for micro weddings — The venue comfortably hosts up to 35 guests, ideal for couples who value intimacy and connection.

• Immersed in nature — You get the look and feel of a national park wedding without the need for permits or long hikes.

• Customizable style — From rustic to romantic, moody to minimalist, you can make the space entirely your own.

• Photographer-approved — With soft natural light, multiple ceremony backdrops, and year-round seasonal beauty, it’s a dream for stunning wedding photos.

To the Bride & Groom-to-Be Who Ride into the Woods

If your dream wedding includes boots under your dress, the rumble of a motorcycle, and vows whispered beneath the trees, Chapel in the Hollow might just be your perfect match. It’s a place where freedom meets forever — where love stories like Jody and Jeff’s are written under open skies and forest canopies.

To start planning your own unique forest biker wedding, visit chapelinthehollow.com and discover how to create your custom celebration among the trees.

Vendors

• Rings: Schwartz Jewelers, Cincinnati, OH

• Officiant: Rev. Sharon Gloff

• Florals: Solawood

• Event Manager: Jayley with Custom Love Gifts & Events

• Photography: Star Noir Studio

• Venue: Chapel in the Hollow

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Rain-Kissed Fall Tennessee Wedding

Madison and Riley – October 21, 2025

When folks ask what a perfect fall wedding in Tennessee looks like, we love telling the story of Madison and Riley — and how their big day at Chapel in the Hollow turned into something truly magical, even when a little rain tried to steal the show.

Setting the Scene

Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Chapel in the Hollow offers an intimate, woodsy venue that’s tailor-made for couples who want natural charm with stress-free planning. Madison and Riley picked this spot for its authentic outdoor ceremony space, dramatic forest backdrops, and that soft fall glow you only get in East Tennessee.

(Psst — if you’re reading this and planning your own day, check out the venue’s Rainy Day Plans to see how they keep everything running smoothly no matter what the weather brings!)

A Palette of Romance

Madison and Riley’s style perfectly reflected the season. They dressed the chapel in peach and sand fabric paired with blush and bashful florals, creating a soft, romantic palette that glowed against the misty forest. It was the kind of aesthetic that whispers elegance while embracing cozy autumn vibes.

Madison looked breathtaking in her long-sleeved lace gown with a medium-length train — the perfect blend of sophistication and fall warmth. Riley complemented her beautifully in a timeless tan suit that fit right in with the natural setting of the Smokies.

When the Rain Showed Up … and Made Magic

Right in the middle of the ceremony, the skies opened up — but instead of stopping the moment, it turned it into something unforgettable. The Chapel in the Hollow team tucked the couple under the eaves of the chapel, creating a cozy, intimate space where they exchanged vows while rain softly pattered around them.

During family photos, it poured. But Madison and Riley didn’t miss a beat — they laughed, they hugged, they made the best of it. Then, when the storm finally passed, the newlyweds ventured out into the misty forest for portraits that looked straight out of a fairytale. Puddles shimmered on the road, fog drifted through the trees, and the soft wet leaves created that cinematic glow every fall bride dreams about.

It may have been a chilly October afternoon, but the warmth between these two could have lit up the entire forest.

Why This Matters for Your Fall Tennessee Wedding

Embrace the unexpected. Weather can change fast in the Smoky Mountains, but rain adds magic — and Chapel in the Hollow is designed for it.
Choose soft, romantic tones. Peach, sand, and blush look incredible under fall light and complement the golden leaves beautifully.
Pick attire that matches the season. Lace sleeves, textured fabrics, and warm neutrals photograph beautifully and keep you cozy.
Let nature be part of your story. A rain-kissed ceremony or foggy forest photos can become the most memorable parts of your day.
Keep it intimate. Chapel in the Hollow is perfect for small weddings (up to 35 guests), so every moment feels personal and heartfelt.

Pro Tips for a Smoky Mountain Fall Wedding

• Plan your ceremony around golden hour for that dreamy glow.

• Always have a rain plan — and trust your venue team.

• Bring layers for those crisp fall evenings.

• Use the forest backdrop for natural romance — mist, leaves, and all.

• Don’t stress if the weather doesn’t cooperate — it’s often the “imperfect” days that make the most perfect memories.

From the Bride

Riley and I met the summer of 2022 off of Tinder, we would exchange texts and stay in touch with each other until we decided to finally meet each other in person. From the moment we met, we were inseparable. Regardless of how boring or small our plans were we wanted to do them together. We started officially dating October 21st, 2022. Riley had asked me to be his girlfriend and I thought he was joking but he proved he was serious about it. When we first got together, We were overjoyed with our similarities and our same passions in life. It just felt like we were meant for each other. Our first date Riley had planned a romantic evening on his family’s property off in the woods. When I got there he had set up chairs for us to enjoy the sunset while we could really connect with one another. It was small and completely perfect in every way. That date made me realize just how much we enjoyed each other’s company.

We had both been talking about it for a while before it happened. Ultimately, we decided to get out of town and take a spontaneous trip to Florida. After we had set out to leave, Riley told me he really wanted to propose to me while we were on this trip. We decided to stop on the way to Florida and pick out my engagement ring together. It was such a wonderful trip together and I enjoyed being apart of the engagement as a couple. Riley and I do not keep secrets and do not like huge surprise so this was non traditional but perfect for our relationship. Just like our engagement- we went out on a whim with our wedding planning. We originally were shooting for 2026 to get married but a mutual of ours had gotten married at the Chapel during spring 2025. I really fell in love with the venue so during the middle of Summer 2025 I decided to reach out and book the Chapel. I invited everyone super close to us to enjoy an intimate fall wedding in Tennessee. We are huge fans of nature and the beauty it holds. We absolutely love our decision to get married at this small chapel with our family and friends. We are over the moon about getting married. The thing we look forward to most is finally becoming one as a couple in God’s eyes. Our wedding date October 21st, 2025 is special to us because it will be our 3 year anniversary on our wedding. We love being able to keep the same day to celebrate forever.

For fun Riley and I love to go to the movies for date nights and dinner. It gets us out of the house but still allows us to relax after our busy work weeks. We also enjoy playing card games together- we are very competitive. We like to learn about history a visit museums. We also love taking trips to state parks and enjoying the beauty of them. A typical night for us is cooking dinner together and watching our favorite shows. If you need some recommendation we enjoyed Dexter, Bates Motel, House, YellowJackets, The Big C, and You.

Madison and Riley’s rain-kissed fall wedding in Tennessee is proof that love always shines through — even when the clouds roll in. Their day at Chapel in the Hollow was filled with laughter, warmth, and forest magic that only the Smoky Mountains can offer.

If you’re dreaming of your own autumn micro wedding or rainy-day elopement, explore Chapel in the Hollow’s wedding packages and start planning a day that feels like your very own fairytale.

Vendors:
Florals: Chapel in the Hollow
Dress: Oleg Cassini from David’s Bridal
Photography: Star Noir Studio
Menswear: Amyox
Invitations: The Knot
Officiant: Ian Parrott
Hair and Makeup: Bride
Venue: Chapel in the Hollow

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Intimate Family Celebration at Chapel in the Hollow

Trisa and Brett – October 20, 2025

When love and family come together beneath the golden glow of autumn in the Smoky Mountains, the result is pure magic. ✨ Trisa and Brett chose Chapel in the Hollow for their intimate family celebration — a heartfelt day filled with joy, warmth, and the kind of quiet moments that remind us what weddings are truly about.

A Celebration of Love and Simplicity

Set in the heart of East Tennessee, Chapel in the Hollow offers the perfect mix of rustic charm and forest tranquility. For their wedding day, Trisa and Brett embraced the season’s natural beauty by dressing the chapel in sand and textured rust fabric, paired with bohemian florals and the simple pumpkin package. The soft tones and cozy textures created a welcoming autumn glow that reflected their love — warm, grounded, and full of heart.

Their celebration was small by design — an intimate gathering surrounded by the people who matter most. Micro weddings like this one let couples focus on connection and meaning rather than stress and spectacle, and Trisa and Brett’s day was a beautiful example of how simplicity can shine the brightest.

Elegant Attire with a Touch of Sparkle

Trisa looked stunning in a short, floaty gown with spaghetti straps, perfect for the relaxed yet elegant vibe of the day. Her silver pumps added just the right hint of sparkle, catching the light with every step. Brett complemented her perfectly in a classic black suit, timeless and sophisticated — the ideal look for a groom celebrating his forever in the Smoky Mountains.

Together, they radiated warmth and happiness — every glance, smile, and touch between them was full of quiet joy and deep connection.

Family, Friendship, and Meaningful Moments

What made this celebration truly special was the personal detail woven throughout the day. Trisa’s maid of honor, a friend of 45 years, stood faithfully by her side — a testament to lifelong friendship. Brett’s brother served as best man, keeping things light and heartfelt.

Though Trisa’s parents couldn’t be there in person, she carried a small photo pin attached to her bouquet, keeping their presence close to her heart.  It’s those little personal touches that make weddings at Chapel in the Hollow so powerful — every couple brings their own story, and every story finds its place in the forest.

A Toast to Love and New Beginnings

After their sweet, spiritual ceremony, Trisa and Brett shared a champagne toast surrounded by their loved ones. The soft laughter, clinking glasses, and crisp October air created a memory that will stay with them forever.

Once the festivities settled, they took time for couple portraits — first at the chapel and then among the mossy trees and quiet roadways that frame the property. As the afternoon light filtered through the forest canopy, everything glowed in a soft, golden hue — the perfect backdrop for a love story that feels both timeless and deeply personal.

From the Bride

We met online and had our first date at a LJ Schooners Dockside Restaurant located in Niceville Florida. Our first date went extremely well. Conversation was easy and it just felt right. After dinner and drinks, we walked along the docks, looking at all the boats.

Brett proposed on his boat while we were at a popular spot in Destin Florida called Crab Island. My daughter was visiting from Pennsylvania and he had it planned for awhile. I was completely taken off guard and had no idea! It was extra special since my daughter got to witness it.

Although we live in Florida among beautiful beaches, we wanted something different for our wedding. Tennessee is such a beautiful state and wanted to get away from traditional beach weddings that everyone seems to have when they live in Florida. We are looking forward to having a beautiful small wedding in the woods with friends and family! We picked this date because we wanted a fall wedding.We both love boating, fishing and golfing.

Vendor Love

• Venue + Florals: Chapel in the Hollow

• Bouquets: Touch of Grace by Tiffany

• Officiant: Ian Parrott

• Hair & Makeup: Expressions Hair Design

• Photography: Star Noir Studio

Why Couples Love Intimate Weddings at Chapel in the Hollow

Trisa and Brett’s wedding captures what couples adore about Chapel in the Hollow: an intimate, stress-free experience surrounded by the beauty of nature. Whether you’re planning a micro wedding, elopement, or family celebration, this venue provides a peaceful setting that allows your love story to take center stage.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s heartfelt, relaxed, and surrounded by forest magic, explore our wedding packages and start planning your own unforgettable day in the Smokies.

White Pumpkin October Elopement at Chapel in the Hollow

Shelby and Tanner – October 20, 2025

There’s something magical about fall in the Smoky Mountains — crisp air, golden light filtering through the trees, and the cozy charm of seasonal décor. For Shelby and Tanner, October was the perfect month to say “I do” at Chapel in the Hollow, where their white pumpkin elopement combined boho elegance, heartfelt details, and the breathtaking beauty of East Tennessee.

A Romantic Boho Setting

Shelby and Tanner chose to dress the chapel in sand and cream fabric paired with our bohemian florals and signature white pumpkin package. This dreamy combination created a soft, romantic palette that glowed beautifully in the cool October morning light. The pumpkins added a festive touch that perfectly celebrated the season, while keeping the look timeless and elegant.

If you’re looking for October wedding inspiration, white pumpkins are a versatile choice — neutral enough to fit boho or classic styles, but still seasonal and chic. Pairing them with textured florals and warm-toned fabrics brings in just the right amount of fall magic without overwhelming your wedding design.

The Bride’s Boho Elegance

Shelby was every bit the boho bride. She wore a nude gown with embroidered lace, scalloped edges on the train, and flowing Stevie Nicks-inspired sleeves that floated gracefully with every step. To complete her look, she chose a veil with embroidered lines that added a touch of vintage romance.

Her bouquet was especially meaningful. Shelby tied in a special trinket containing her father’s ashes, ensuring he was with her in spirit as she walked down the aisle. It was a deeply personal detail that made the ceremony even more emotional and memorable.

A Groom with Autumn Style

Tanner looked sharp and seasonally stylish in a dark burgundy suit, adding richness and depth to the fall-inspired color palette. The bold hue paired perfectly with the soft, neutral tones of the chapel décor and Shelby’s gown — a perfect example of how grooms can use their attire to complement and enhance the wedding theme.

A Ceremony Filled with Love & Light

Shelby walked down the aisle alone, carrying her bouquet and her father’s memory close to her heart. Their intimate ceremony, officiated by Ian Parrott, was full of quiet emotion, making the most of the serene Smoky Mountain morning.

After the vows, we captured stunning portraits with Star Noir Studio. Shelby and Tanner wandered among the vines in the woods, strolled down the forest road, and finally soaked in the views at a nearby field where the mountains stretched across the horizon. The cool morning light created a soft, ethereal glow that made every moment feel like a painting.

Why Couples Love October Elopements

October is one of the most popular months for weddings in East Tennessee — and for good reason. The weather is cool and comfortable, the leaves are beginning to turn, and the natural light is unbeatable. At Chapel in the Hollow, couples can choose seasonal décor like white pumpkins, lanterns, and fall-toned fabrics to customize their perfect autumn ceremony.

For couples seeking an intimate, meaningful celebration, a micro wedding or elopement in the Smoky Mountains offers the best of both worlds: breathtaking views without the hassle of permits required in the national park, and a cozy venue designed just for small weddings.

From the Bride

Our families were neighbors , met each either many years ago and came across each other years later and never separated from each other. We went to Red Lobster on our first date and talked in the truck for hours.

Tanner proposed, I was getting ready for my best friends wedding and he sent our dog into the house with a ring on her collar that was asking me to marry him. We both decided East Tennessee would be perfect since we love the mountains! On our wedding day we are looking forward to just soaking in all the love! We love to hike, walk around, experience new places together. 

Wedding Day Team

• Venue & Chapel Florals: Chapel in the Hollow

• Bouquet: Bride

• Invitations: Zazzle

• Hair & Makeup: Bride

• Officiant: Ian Parrott

• Photography: Star Noir Studio

Shelby and Tanner’s white pumpkin October elopement was a beautiful reminder that love is in the details — from meaningful keepsakes to seasonal touches and everything in between. If you’re dreaming of a fall wedding in the Smokies, let us help you create your own love story surrounded by the magic of the mountains.

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