Outdoor Summer Elopement in the Smokies:
Romantic Forest Wedding
Whitney and Cari – June 21, 2025
Some love stories are meant to be told under the trees, surrounded by wildflowers, candlelight, and the hum of summer. Whitney and Cari’s outdoor summer elopement at Chapel in the Hollow was one of those unforgettable celebrations — a perfect blend of personal, poetic, and absolutely magical.
A Personalized Forest Ceremony
Tucked into the heart of East Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, Chapel in the Hollow provided the dreamiest backdrop for Whitney and Cari’s elopement. They chose to drape the outdoor chapel in soft cream fabric accented by our signature bohemian florals and a glowing candle package, setting a romantic tone that perfectly complemented the lush green surroundings of a Southern summer.
Adding a sweet DIY touch, the couple hung mason jars on the pews, each filled with fresh blooms they hand-picked from Hobby Lobby — proof that even small details can make a big statement.
Bridal Looks with Bold Personality
Cari radiated elegance in a strapless white ballgown from David’s Bridal, with layer upon layer of tulle creating a soft, ethereal silhouette. Her look was elevated by a pearl-studded veil, a matching necklace, and just a touch of sparkle — classic bridal beauty with a whimsical twist.
Whitney, meanwhile, brought the wow-factor in a teal suit from SuitShop paired with a black shirt and nude sandals. The contrast of bold color and relaxed footwear gave their elopement a fun, contemporary edge — and we’re absolutely obsessed with how effortlessly their styles complemented each other.
Meaningful Touches That Made the Day
Every detail of their day was rooted in sentiment. Whitney and Cari brought along the family Bible and a cherished heirloom ring box, each adding a layer of history and heart to their ceremony. As they walked down the aisle together — a beautiful symbol of unity — emotions ran high. Cari couldn’t hold back her tears, and neither could we.
They shared a post-ceremony toast with champagne poured from a vintage crystal decanter, paired with a decadent chocolate cake displayed on our rustic wooden table. It was simple. It was intentional. It was perfect.
Forest Adventures & Summer Glow
Following the ceremony, we whisked them away for couple portraits in all of our favorite photo spots: the mossy tree, the highland overlook, and the creek bed, all glowing in that hazy summer humidity. The forest was alive with vibrant greens, and their love lit up every frame.
Captured by Star Noir Studio, their wedding gallery showcases the romance of an intimate outdoor elopement — every stolen glance, every heartfelt smile, and every dreamy detail.
Planning Your Own Outdoor Summer Elopement?
If Whitney and Cari’s wedding has you dreaming of exchanging vows under the trees, now is the perfect time to plan your own outdoor summer elopement in the Smoky Mountains. At Chapel in the Hollow, we specialize in intimate weddings that are deeply personal and effortlessly beautiful. Whether you’re envisioning something classic, bohemian, or totally unique, our all-inclusive packages and scenic forest location are designed to bring your vision to life.
From the Bride
We met on a blind date. We met at a local restaurant and sat outside. It was November and it was a beautiful evening. We enjoyed cocktails and fantastic food.
Whitney proposed to me in our backyard. She had put fairy lights and jars with candles all over the trees. She made flowers out of pages from the book The Notebook. There was a chest with champagne and a ring box on it under the tree. My grandfather is from Seymour, TN. We have been coming to these mountains my entire life and knew it would be the perfect place to begin our married lives together. On our wedding day I am looking forward to committing myself forever to my best friend.
We love to go on adventures together. Traveling is one of our favorite things from swimming with exotic fish to riding in a horse drawn sleigh in the middle of winter. We always have fun together.
Whether you’re newly engaged, planning your elopement, or returning to celebrate an anniversary, Chapel in the Hollow is here to make your special day magical. Let the forest be your chapel and the mountains your witnesses. Check our calendar to see if your date is available.
