Steamy August Country Elopement in the Smokies
Shawn and Eric – August 22, 2025
If you’re dreaming of a sweet, intimate wedding nestled in the woods with just the right touch of Southern charm, Shawn and Eric’s romantic country elopement at Chapel in the Hollow will give you all the inspiration you need. 🌿💍 Set against the lush, late-summer forest of East Tennessee, this heartfelt celebration proves that love is even more magical the second time around.
A Perfect Country-Inspired Setting
Shawn and Eric traveled to the Smoky Mountains to say “I do” in a setting that was as serene as it was stunning. They dressed the chapel in a soft blend of dusty blue and white fabric, accented by blue and white florals from Chapel in the Hollow, creating a timeless and peaceful aesthetic that blended effortlessly with the surrounding forest.
Their choice of decor channeled relaxed elegance—ideal for couples seeking a country elopement with a refined yet earthy feel. The warm tones of the wood chapel, paired with the gentle August sunlight filtering through the trees, made for the dreamiest backdrop to celebrate love. 🌳✨
The Bride: Cowgirl Chic Meets Forest Goddess
Shawn looked radiant in a strapless ethereal lace gown from AZAZIE, floating effortlessly with every step she took. The real showstopper? She paired her gown with classic brown cowboy boots—a playful, country-style twist that fit her personality perfectly and gave the day that extra “Southern bride” charm. 🤠
Her hair and makeup were flawlessly styled by Organic Infusion Hair & Nail Salon, giving her a polished glow while still letting her natural beauty shine through. Effortless curls and soft glam made her feel like a woodland goddess.
And in true independent bride style, Shawn walked herself down the aisle—strong, glowing, and ready for her next chapter. 💫
The Groom: Rugged Romance
Eric kept things simple and stylish with Ariat jeans and a classic button-down, staying true to his laid-back, country roots. The casual look was not only practical in the August heat—it was authentic to who he is. And let’s be honest, nothing beats a groom who shows up comfortable, confident, and 100% himself. 💙
A Ceremony Full of Heart
One of the most touching moments of the day came during the ceremony when Eric surprised Shawn with a brand-new wedding band—a gesture so full of emotion it left everyone teary-eyed. 💍😭
Their ceremony was officiated by Ian Parrott, and joined by Shawn’s two children and their partners, making it an intimate, family-centered elopement that overflowed with love. Everyone played a part in creating a warm, welcoming space for this couple’s second chance at forever.
Champagne Toasts + Epic Views
After their sweet “I dos,” the group popped open bottles of champagne to toast the newlyweds, filling the forest with laughter, cheers, and that irresistible sparkle of celebration. 🥂✨
The family took a few photos together at the chapel, and then it was time for romantic couple portraits. From the dreamy mossy tree to the twisting forest trails and the scenic mountain overlook, the Smokies offered one jaw-dropping photo spot after another. The light hit just right, and the love between these two? Unmistakable.
Second Chances, Mountain Magic, and Country Love
There’s something so powerful about a second-chance love story, especially when it’s celebrated in a peaceful forest hideaway like Chapel in the Hollow. Shawn and Eric’s day was proof that romance doesn’t follow a timeline—and that sometimes, the most beautiful love stories come when you least expect them.
From cowboy boots to champagne flutes, mossy trails to mountain views, this country elopement in East Tennessee was full of sweetness, sincerity, and sunshine.
From the Bride:
We met by happenstance and it was meant to be. It was a tale of two souls lost in this world finally finding one another. Some fairy tales really do come to life and we are ready to live our happily ever after. As all first dates, there are moments of nerves, uncertainty and what-ifs. However, although we didn’t say it that first date, we knew this one moment changed eternity for us both.
He proposed on Valentine’s Day. He kept it casual and did it in private at home, but it was a Yes for the world to hear! We are both lovers of mountains and the countryside. We took our first vacation to East TN and told ourselves this would be the perfect place for a country elopement, and here we are! I am most excited to become Mr. Podbilski’s bride and taking his last name as mine. This is the beginning of the second half of our lives and we can’t wait to make the most of it.
Dreaming of Your Own Country Elopement?
Chapel in the Hollow specializes in intimate weddings and elopements in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re planning a second chance at love, a micro wedding, or a spontaneous elopement, we’re here to help you make it magical. 💫
Start planning your dream day now or browse real wedding stories and ideas on our Instagram and Pinterest for more inspiration.
Vendor Team That Made the Magic:
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Event Management: Sarah with Custom Love Gifts & Events
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Chapel Florals: Chapel in the Hollow
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Bouquet: Sola Wood
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Dress: AZAZIE
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Photography: Star Noir Studio
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Menswear: Ariat
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Rings: Kay Jewelers and Rings By Lux
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Officiant: Ian Parrott
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Hair and Makeup: Organic Infusion Hair & Nail Salon
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