A Free Spirited Smoky Mountain Elopement
Iris + Rufus June 5, 2025 💙🌿✨
Some love stories don’t need grand stages or long guest lists — just two people, a little bit of forest magic, and a whole lot of heart. That’s exactly what Iris and Rufus brought to their free spirited Smoky Mountain elopement at Chapel in the Hollow. With 11 years of love behind them and a lifetime ahead, they turned a quiet East Tennessee afternoon into a celebration that was beautifully personal, deeply joyful, and completely their own.
If you’re dreaming of an easygoing elopement full of meaning and relaxed charm, this is the inspiration you’ve been waiting for.
A Breezy Setup with Personalized Touches 🌬️💍
For their ceremony, Iris and Rufus chose a soft, airy setup with white and blue fabric draping the chapel — no florals, no fuss, just a breezy, romantic vibe that matched their energy perfectly. It was simple and striking, allowing the natural beauty of the forest to frame their vows in an unfiltered, organic way.
Instead of elaborate decor, they focused on meaningful moments and personal touches — and the effect was magic.
Style with Soul: A Bride Who Shines ✨👢
Iris embraced her own bold, boho style with a short lacy off-the-shoulder dress, paired with chunky statement jewelry and rhinestone boots that sparkled with every step. It was a look that said, “This is me,” and we were obsessed. 🤩
She did her own hair and makeup, keeping everything personal and natural — a perfect fit for a free spirited bride in the Smoky Mountains.
Rufus complemented her beautifully in jeans and a blue dress shirt, keeping it laid-back but polished. The two of them together? Effortless, joyful, and totally in sync.
A Cake Table and a Whiskey Bottle — Yes, Really 🥃🍰
They added a sweet and playful touch with a small cake table — made extra cool by a vintage whiskey bottle from Rufus’s dad’s garage that they repurposed into decor. It was one of those fun, unexpected details that made the day feel even more intimate and unique. These two know how to tell a story — and live one.
Short, Sweet, and Full of Heart 💞
Their ceremony was everything a Smoky Mountain elopement should be — short, meaningful, and full of light. Officiated by Ian Parrott, the vows were spoken with smiles and soft glances that said it all. After 11 years together, their connection radiated through every look, every laugh, and every quiet pause between words.
They exchanged rings, shared a sweet kiss, and just like that… they were married. 💙
Epic Portraits, Mountain Backdrops, and Love on the Road 🛻🏞️
Post-ceremony, we headed off for some unforgettable couple portraits — snapping shots at their truck, along the forest road, and in a sun-drenched field with Smoky Mountain views in the background. With Star Noir Studio behind the camera, every moment was captured with a balance of rugged charm and quiet romance.
This wasn’t just a wedding. It was a celebration of 11 years of commitment, adventure, and showing up for each other — and the start of an exciting new chapter, too.
Planning Your Own Free Spirited Smoky Mountain Elopement?
If Iris and Rufus’s story has your heart fluttering, you’re not alone. Their wedding is the perfect example of how a free spirited Smoky Mountain elopement can be relaxed, romantic, and filled with authentic beauty.
At Chapel in the Hollow, we specialize in helping couples create intimate wedding days that reflect who they are — whether that means rhinestone boots, vintage whiskey bottles, or a field full of wildflowers. Whether you’re celebrating 11 years together or just starting out, we’re here to help you make your “I do”s feel magical. Check out our calendar to see if we have your date available!
Vendor Details:
📍 Venue: Chapel in the Hollow
📸 Photography: Star Noir Studio
💐 Florals: Designed by the Bride
💍 Officiant: Ian Parrott
💄 Hair and Makeup: Bride
Iris and Rufus — your love, your laughter, and your unapologetically joyful energy made this day unforgettable. Thank you for letting us be a part of your forever. 💙🌿