A Romantic Spring Morning Micro Wedding in the Forest:
Dreamy“I Do”s at Chapel in the Hollow
Luke and Abigail – May 25, 2025
If you’ve ever imagined a wedding that feels like stepping into an early morning fairytale — quiet, heartfelt, and surrounded by nature — then Abigail and Luke’s spring morning micro wedding in the forest at Chapel in the Hollow will sweep you off your feet.
Set against the peaceful backdrop of the Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee, their ceremony was everything a forest micro wedding should be: meaningful, low-stress, and full of personal touches that celebrated not just their love, but their families and their future.
A Serene Setting for a Forest Ceremony
To set the scene, Abigail and Luke chose soft white fabric draping for the chapel paired with our bohemian-inspired florals — a dreamy combo that perfectly matched the soft, overcast light of a spring morning. The design was minimal but intentional, creating a romantic setting without overpowering the natural beauty of the forest around them.
There’s something so magical about morning weddings here at Chapel in the Hollow — the forest is quiet, the light is gentle, and everything feels fresh and full of promise. It’s the perfect time to celebrate a new beginning.
Elegant Bridal Style Meets Laid-Back Vibes
Abigail looked like she walked straight out of a bridal editorial. She wore a spaghetti strap silk wedding gown with a flowing train and a tasteful slit — a look that was effortlessly chic with just the right touch of drama. Her bridal style was modern and minimal, and she did her own hair and makeup, embracing the simplicity of the morning and letting her natural beauty shine.
Her accessories — from her Olive and Piper jewelry to the Badgley Mischka heels from DSW and Dillard’s — added a subtle sparkle without taking away from the relaxed, intimate vibe of the day.
Luke brought the perfect contrast with a forest green suit from Jos. A. Bank, pulled together with a boho floral boutonniere from our in-house floral collection. Together, they were a vision of modern elegance and forest romance.
A Family-Focused Ceremony
One of the most touching moments of the day? Both of Luke’s parents walked him down the aisle, while Abigail’s parents escorted her — a beautiful and symbolic way to include their families in the journey ahead. Moments like these are what make micro weddings so meaningful: they allow space for connection, intention, and unforgettable memories.
They exchanged personal vows that had everyone wiping away a tear or two. You could feel the sincerity, the laughter, and the deep respect they have for each other in every word they shared.
Portraits in the Forest + A Sweet Reception to Follow
After sealing the deal with a kiss and some joyful applause, we spent some time taking family portraits at the chapel before venturing off for couples photos. We hit some of our favorite spots — the mossy tree, the creek, and the open field — and the springtime forest was putting on a full show with blooming greens and soft filtered light.
Later, they planned to continue the celebration at Bella Event Venue in Maryville, creating the perfect two-part experience: an intimate forest ceremony followed by a relaxed reception with family and friends. This format is becoming a favorite for couples who want the best of both worlds — and we’re all for it!
From the Bride
We met on Hinge! Of course it was a dating app, and we struck up a conversation based on my 2 little dogs and her 6 cats. We semi-spontaneously met up for our first date at a Barnes and Noble near the mall, where we sat and chatted for a good couple hours. Soon after (what would eventually become our third date), Luke was planning to take a Wednesday off of work to go hike Mt. Leconte, and Abby mentioned that she also had Wednesday off. Luke, somewhat hesitantly, asked if she would be up for an all-day 13-mile hike up and down the mountain, to which she agreed. The rest is history! We hiked, talked, and strained to get up the mountain, snagged dinner at a cute diner on the way home, and were hooked onto each other. Luke proposed about a year and a half later during another hike to the top of Mount Leconte. It was a good surprise when we were (almost) alone at the top of the mountain during a gorgeous March morning, and Luke pulled out a ring when we sat and enjoyed the clear, sunny day.
We live in Alcoa, absolutely love nature and the mountains, and it only makes sense to keep a very connected-with-nature setting for our wedding since it’s such a core part of how we met, connected, and subsequently have lived our lives. On our wedding day we are looking forward to Being married, of course! Making an official commitment to each other as we continue forward in our lives. 5/25/25 is a nice repetitive date (easy to remember!) and the holiday weekend works super well for family and friends to travel to the area.
We love hiking, biking, being outdoors, staying active in the gym, trying all kinds of new foods, exploring new cities (and were recently traveling Japan for 2 weeks with our friends!), Luke likes to drum and occasionally plays in some local student shows, Abby likes to sew and has been challenging herself to create new things (most recently, an adorable stuffed goose and hopefully some homemade clothes soon)
Dreaming of Your Own Spring Morning Micro Wedding in the Forest?
If Abigail and Luke’s wedding day is speaking your language, here’s your sign to go for it! A spring morning micro wedding in the forest is ideal for couples who crave a peaceful, nature-filled celebration with just the right amount of elegance.
At Chapel in the Hollow, we offer customizable wedding packages designed to make your day easy, beautiful, and uniquely you — whether you’re dreaming of silk gowns and green suits, boho florals, or simply saying“I do” beneath the trees.
A Simple Evening Micro Wedding in the Forest:
Dreamy Smoky Mountain“I Do”s
Allie and Devon – May 24, 2025
If you’ve ever dreamed of exchanging vows under a canopy of trees as the sun begins to set, surrounded by your closest loved ones and the peaceful sounds of nature… Allie and Devon’s wedding is the perfect inspiration. Their simple evening micro wedding in the forest was everything we love about intimate celebrations at Chapel in the Hollow — relaxed, romantic, and beautifully personal.
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, our forest chapel provided the ideal backdrop for this sweet couple to begin their forever. From the soft light filtering through the trees to the emotional family moments, this wedding was a perfect example of how simplicity can be absolutely stunning.
A Peaceful Forest Setting with Personal Touches
For their ceremony, Allie and Devon chose soft cream drapery for the chapel — a timeless neutral that let the natural beauty of the forest take center stage. They opted out of additional florals for the space and instead let Allie’s bouquet do the talking — a gorgeous boho-inspired arrangement filled with pampas grass, soft mauves, and dried textures that added the perfect earthy touch.
The chapel glowed with understated elegance, proving that a simple micro wedding in the forest doesn’t need a ton of decor to be breathtaking. All it really takes is thoughtful styling, a little personality, and a whole lot of love.
Radiant in Lace and Pearls
Allie was the picture of romantic charm in a sleeveless gown with a lace-edged train, pearl-studded heels, and a short beaded veil that shimmered with every step. Her mom helped her get ready in the bridal suite — one of those quiet, emotional moments we love to see before a walk down the aisle.
Her father beamed with pride as he escorted her through the forest path toward Devon, who looked incredibly dashing in a navy suit and couldn’t stop smiling the moment he saw her. Their vows were heartfelt, their connection unmistakable, and their happiness absolutely contagious.
A Sweet Celebration with Family and Forest
They were joined by their two bridesmaids, two groomsmen, and the cutest little guest of honor — baby Maisyn — who snuck into a few family portraits, making them even more special. These kinds of cozy, tight-knit weddings always bring us back to what matters most: love, connection, and shared joy.
Allie and Devon added charming touches to our wooden forest table with candles, curated decor, and a naked cake from Cakes by Bakin’ Bishop — simple and sweet, just like their entire celebration. After some family photos, we stole them away into the woods and open field for portraits under the overcast sky, capturing the kind of soft, moody magic that only a Smoky Mountain forest elopement can deliver.
From the Bride
We decided to get married in the area because we both love traveling to Gatlinburg! We have been in January, and now in May. I have been many times with my family and love the scenery. We are looking forward to spending the day with our family on our wedding day. We honestly just chose a random day:) we kept our regular anniversary date as the 24th but we started dating July 24, 2020. We like to hangout with our friends, play with our daughter, watch scary movies, play disc golf, go on walks, amusement parks.
Planning Your Own Simple Evening Micro Wedding in the Forest?
If Allie and Devon’s wedding speaks to your soul, you’re not alone. Whether you’re dreaming of a low-key elopement with just the two of you or a micro wedding surrounded by your closest friends and family, Chapel in the Hollow is the perfect venue for a simple evening micro wedding in the forest.
With customizable packages, beautiful natural settings, and a team that helps bring your vision to life, we make planning easy — so you can focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love.
Let us help you plan a peaceful, heartfelt, and stunning simple evening micro wedding in the forest here in the Smokies. Reach out today to start crafting your one-of-a-kind celebration.
Bold, Beautiful, and Blooming with Love:
A Dreamy Forest Elopement in the Smoky Mountains
Dani and Jackie – May 24, 2025
There’s something truly magical about a forest elopement, especially in the heart of the Smoky Mountains — where tall trees whisper blessings and soft mountain breezes carry your vows into the wild. When Dani and Jackie said“I do” beneath the canopy at Chapel in the Hollow, their love lit up the forest in the most beautiful way.
Their wedding was everything we love about elopements: intimate, emotional, unique, and filled to the brim with personality. From their bold fashion choices to their heartfelt vows, this Smoky Mountain forest elopement was nothing short of unforgettable.
A Romantic Setup for a Spring Forest Celebration
For their woodland ceremony, Dani and Jackie chose a color palette that felt straight out of a fairytale: dusty sage and lavender fabric dressed the chapel in soft elegance, while our lavender florals brought texture and pops of purple that mirrored the new blooms of spring.
The entire scene was peaceful and romantic — a private moment in nature where the only sounds were birdsong, rustling leaves, and promises whispered between soulmates.
Two Brides, Two Stunning Styles
Dani and Jackie came ready to wow. Dani wore a gorgeous white gown adorned with floral details that looked as if the forest itself had gifted it to her. Jackie, never one to shy away from making a statement, wore a stunning black dress covered in blooms, showing us exactly what fierce femininity and romance look like when they meet in the middle of the woods.
Their bouquets were filled with purples and blues, echoing the colors of the forest in spring. Their rings? Uniquely them — crafted as beautifully and intentionally as the love they share.
This was more than a wedding — it was a celebration of authenticity. And that’s what we believe forest elopements are all about: showing up exactly as you are, and choosing each other with your whole hearts.
Witnessed with Joy, Celebrated with Love
The only guest at their intimate forest elopement? The legendary Uncle Mike — and let me tell you, this man brought all the joy. He laughed, cried, cheered, and celebrated these two extraordinary women like it was the event of the century. And honestly? It was.
Eloping doesn’t mean going it alone — it means curating a moment that feels real, grounded, and full of soul. Whether you bring a handful of your closest people or say your vows with just the trees as your witnesses, a Smoky Mountain forest elopement offers space for your love to shine.
Enchanted Forest Photo Adventures
After the ceremony, we took our time exploring the woodsy trails of Chapel in the Hollow — capturing dreamy moments at the mossy tree, the archway, and the highland area. These are the kinds of places where magic lingers in the air and golden light filters through the trees like nature’s spotlight.
Dani and Jackie’s love was radiant, and the photos reflect every ounce of it. If you’re dreaming of portraits that feel timeless, earthy, and a little bit enchanted, a forest elopement in the Smokies might be your perfect fit.
From the Bride
During COVID, my first travel nurse contract (Jackie) was Dani’s staff nurse job. I was moved to her hospital less than a week before arriving in Long Island, NY, and I was the only travel nurse assigned to her unit. Dani was assigned to orient me to the hospital on my very first day, despite the overwhelming stress and twice as many patients assigned to us as normal, I loved being in her company. We both mutually expressed (much later) how excited we were that the rest of our faces matched our eyes after we got to finally take off our N95 masks in the break room. After I finished my first travel nurse contract at Dani’s hospital, I convinced her to begin travel nursing with me. We left New York for Maryland and moved into our first furnished apartment in early September (we met in April, began dating 5/24/20).For our first date, I took Dani to a nice steakhouse (Tellers) that is a converted bank. We had a lovely dinner, talked all night, and had 2 bottles of wine. One of those bottles of wine was Duckhorn Cellars. Ever since we have used Duckhorn wine to celebrate many holidays, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions.We both proposed to each other. I (Jackie) proposed first to Dani on NYE 23 to 24, on our best friend’s rooftop in San Francisco at sunset with a view of the city in the background, set up as a Harry Potter theme. I asked her to make an unbreakable vow. Dani proposed to me in February on Pier 39 in San Francisco while taking our dog to build a bear, we walked out to the end of the pier, where Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge are in the background. After asking me to marry her, she made a joking reference to me being her ball and chain.
We hoped to be close to Dani’s aunt/uncle, who have been incredibly supportive of our relationship from the beginning, and then we found and fell in love with your venue. We new it would be the perfect place for us to start of new life as wife and wife. On our wedding day we look forward to being together, saying I do, and getting some amazing pictures! We picked this date because 5/24/25 is our 5-year dating anniversary!
Currently, we are both in graduate school to become CRNAs (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists). We have been fortunate to have a fair amount of time together to do fun things, we enjoy spending time with our dogs (Sadie and Rylie), we are Harry Potter addicts (who would spend all of our time at Universal Orlando if we could), we like to build Legos and we love our local drive in (also another tradition of ours, we try to find one everywhere we live). We will have less time to spend together over the next year, as we will be in clinical 4 days a week and often in different places (sometimes away overnight 3 times a week), even so we hope to be able to take our RV back out camping when we get time off together (it was our home for 3 years while we did travel nursing all over the country and it also holds a special place in our hearts).
Planning Your Own Forest Elopement?
At Chapel in the Hollow, we specialize in creating intimate, customizable elopements tucked deep into the Smoky Mountain forest. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous ceremony or a styled celebration like Dani and Jackie’s, our goal is to help you create a day that feels 100% you.
From floral packages and fabric options to photography and planning guidance, we’ve got everything you need for a stress-free, heart-filled forest elopement in East Tennessee.
Guest of Honor: Uncle Mike, Professional Vibe-Bringer
Rings: Derco Jewelers
Officiant: Ian Parrott
Chapel Florals: Chapel in the Hollow
Congratulations, Dani and Jackie — your forest elopement was a radiant celebration of authenticity, joy, and love without limits. Thank you for letting us be part of your story.
Cozy, Scenic, and Full of Heart:
East Tennessee Engagement Photos 🐾💛📸
Austin + Elizabeth(and Lady!) – May 23, 2025
There’s something incredibly special about getting to photograph the people you love — and when it happens in one of the most beautiful places in East Tennessee, it’s pure magic. I recently had the joy of spending a cozy afternoon with my little cousin, Austin, and his gorgeous fiancée, Elizabeth, and their sweet pup, Lady, for a casual shoot at Chapel in the Hollow. Even though they already had an official engagement session scheduled, we couldn’t pass up the chance to capture some East Tennessee engagement photos while they were in town!
This mini session turned out to be full of laughter, golden light, woodsy backdrops, and one very photogenic dog. 🐶📸
These East Tennessee engagement photos quickly became some of my favorites. Between their natural chemistry, the gorgeous light, and the peaceful surroundings of the Smoky Mountains, everything just clicked. Add in their adorable pup, Lady, and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect photo adventure. 🐶🌿
A Forest Walk Through Chapel in the Hollow 🌲📍
We started the afternoon at Chapel in the Hollow, one of the most romantic and intimate venues in the Smokies — and not just because it’s close to my heart. It’s a dream location for couples who want East Tennessee engagement photos that feel authentic, relaxed, and connected to nature.
The highland area gave us that soft forest light we all love, and it made the perfect setting for Elizabeth’s outfit: a breezy, flowy dress in soft neutrals and yellow tones that fluttered beautifully in the breeze. Her hair was curled to perfection, and she looked radiant from every angle. ✨
Austin rocked a classic look with khakis and a crisp white shirt, letting their sweet connection — and that early spring glow — shine through in every frame. These two were so easy together, constantly laughing and slipping into their own little world, which is exactly what makes for the best kind of engagement shoot.
From Woodsy Trails to Wide-Open Views 🏞️💫
Once we wrapped up our time at the chapel, we made our way to the Foothills Parkway — one of the most iconic photo spots in East Tennessee for a reason. With breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains stretching as far as the eye can see, it’s the perfect way to add a little drama and grandeur to an otherwise cozy session.
The contrast of the intimate forest setting with the wide-open mountain vistas gave us the best of both worlds. These East Tennessee engagement photos capture the spirit of the couple, the season, and the beautiful region they love so much.
Ending the Day at The Abbey in Townsend 🍽️🍻
Of course, no perfect afternoon is complete without a delicious meal, so we wrapped up with dinner and drinks at The Abbey in Townsend — one of our favorite local gems. If you’re planning your own photo adventure or wedding in the Smokies, definitely put this place on your list. Great food, relaxed atmosphere, and just minutes from the Foothills Parkway and Chapel in the Hollow? Yes, please.
Planning Your Own East Tennessee Engagement Photos?
If you’re newly engaged and dreaming of a photo session that feels natural, intimate, and a little adventurous, East Tennessee offers the perfect setting. Between the lush forests, quiet trails, and epic mountain views, it’s no wonder so many couples are choosing to take their engagement photos in the Smokies.
Whether you want to bring your pup, explore the woods, or add a few dramatic landscapes into your gallery, venues like Chapel in the Hollow and locations like the Foothills Parkway offer endless possibilities.
Let this be your sign to grab your partner (and maybe your dog), throw on something you love, and document your love story surrounded by the magic of the mountains.
Location + Details:
📍 Venue:Chapel in the Hollow 📍 Scenic Views: Foothills Parkway 📸 Photography:Star Noir Studio 🍽️ Dinner Spot: The Abbey, Townsend TN 🐾 Special Guest: Lady the Dog
To Austin and Elizabeth — your love is effortless and full of joy, and I can’t wait to see what your wedding day brings. 💍✨
A Sweet and Sentimental
Smoky Mountain Wedding in the Forest
Elizabeth and Corbin – May 22, 2025
If you’ve ever dreamed of an intimate wedding tucked into the lush greenery of East Tennessee, this one’s for you! Elizabeth and Corbin chose Chapel in the Hollow for their Smoky Mountain wedding in the forest, and the result was nothing short of magical. With soft details, heartfelt moments, and nature doing what it does best, this was the kind of day that reminds us why we love what we do.
An Earthy, Elegant Forest Ceremony
For their chapel setup, Elizabeth and Corbin went with a combination that’s quickly becoming a favorite here at Chapel in the Hollow — classic white draping paired with our succulent florals. These lush greens added an earthy, grounded feel to the ethereal forest surroundings, and they took it a step further by adding our succulent wreaths to the pews for a coordinated, organic touch. It was peaceful, romantic, and exactly what you imagine when you think of a Smoky Mountain forest elopement. As cicadas sang in the trees and a cool breeze danced through the forest, it felt like the Smokies themselves were giving their blessing.
Elizabeth’s Whimsical Bridal Look
Elizabeth brought serious forest fairy vibes with her sleeveless gown, which featured a delicate lace train that trailed just long enough for a bit of drama without overwhelming the moment. Her hair was worn down in soft curls, and the bubble braid she added gave her look a playful, bohemian twist that felt right at home in the woods.
Corbin matched the setting perfectly in a tan suit that stood out just enough against the deep greens of the forest. Together, they looked like they stepped straight out of a woodland fairytale.
Family-Focused and Full of Heart
One of the sweetest parts of the day was how much family was involved. Elizabeth got ready with the help of not one, not two, but three moms and her daughter — truly a celebration of generations coming together. Corbin’s dad walked Elizabeth down the aisle, beaming with pride, adding another layer of love to a day already full of it.
Their wedding rings were just as special: Corbin’s was crafted from deer antler by a friend, and Elizabeth’s was a two-piece white gold set with vintage flair — proof that love and personality belong in every detail.
When it came time for vows, emotions ran high. Corbin choked up a bit(we don’t blame him!), and both of them were practically glowing as they said“I do.”
Smoky Mountain Photo Magic
After the ceremony, we took a moment to capture family photos and document the joy of their loved ones before whisking the couple away for some private portraits. From the rustic gate to our open field with distant mountain views, every corner of our venue added texture and depth to their wedding gallery. The combination of natural beauty and heartfelt connection made for a picture-perfect ending to a perfect forest wedding day.
From the Bride
We met online almost 10 years ago! I drove to his house for our first date about 30 minutes away after giving my location to my entire friend group. We had already been talking for a few weeks at that point. We went out for dinner and drinks, then went back to his house and laughed our night away, like we’d known each other for years and then we ordered a late night pizza!
Corbin proposed to me. I was minding my own business in our home, getting ready for the day. Our bedroom door was closed and when I opened the door to our living room…our 3 kids were holding up signs “Will you marry Me” and he was behind them on one knee with a huge bouquet of red roses and after a heart felt speech he popped the question! We love Tennessee! It’s been a vacation spot for us and our children for years. We knew it would be the perfect place to start our married life. On our wedding day Corbin’s looking forward to me taking his last name and spending our lives together. I’m looking forward to the intimacy of spending our wedding surrounded by our parents and kids. I am also looking forward to the photos.
Is this date special? Not really, but the number “2” has always been both of our favorite numbers! It also happens to be the wedding anniversary of some very close friends of ours! When we’re not running our business, or juggling our kids after school activities, we love to fish, go out to eat, binge watch comedy shows or documentaries. We also love watching our Pacers play basketball!
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Planning Your Own Smoky Mountain Wedding in the Forest?
If Elizabeth and Corbin’s wedding has you swooning, you’re not alone! Whether you’re envisioning a quiet elopement or an intimate micro wedding surrounded by your favorite people, Chapel in the Hollow is the perfect setting for your own Smoky Mountain wedding in the forest.
With customizable decor options, flexible packages, and an experienced team ready to make your vision come to life, we’re here to help you create a day that feels like you — from start to finish.
Want to see more real weddings like this? Browse our wedding blog or check us out on Instagram for daily inspiration!
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