Tennessee Elopement Packages
If you’re thinking of eloping and Tennessee is on your radar, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, you’ll learn all about Tennessee, where to elope, how to elope, and if this is the place for you. Let’s jump in!
Why Elope in Tennessee?
Unique Geography
Tennessee's distinctive geography spans from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Mississippi River floodplains. Eastern Tennessee is dominated by the Great Smoky Mountains, while Central Tennessee offers rolling hills, valleys, and numerous caves. In the west, the Mississippi Alluvial Plain supports extensive agriculture with major rivers, including the Tennessee and Cumberland.
Mild Weather Year Round
Tennessee has moderate temperatures and distinct yet gentle seasons. Winters are generally mild, with light snowfall and cool temperatures, while summers are warm but not excessively hot. Spring and fall are great times of year with comfortable temperatures.
Semi-Simple Marriage Laws
There are no residency requirements and no waiting period to marry. Marriage license costs are a little more expensive than average, but an optional premarital preparation class can reduce them. Common law marriages are also not recognized.
What is Tennessee Known For?
History
Tennessee is known for its early Native American civilizations, role in the American frontier, and contributions to Civil Rights. The state played a major part in the Civil War, with significant battles such as Shiloh and Chattanooga. Additionally, Memphis is known as the birthplace of blues and rock 'n' roll, while Nashville is considered the heart of country music. Tennessee is also the home state of three U.S. Presidents—Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, and Andrew Johnson—each of whom played crucial roles in shaping the nation. So, if you’re a history buff, this might be just the place for you.
Small Towns
Small towns in Tennessee are filled with history and the iconic Southern charm. Walking through feels like stepping back in time to our colonial days, with cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, and vintage storefronts. For all my chick-flick fans out there, think about the childhood town of our beloved Ally Hamilton from “The Notebook,” which took place in South Carolina - but perfectly represents the southern romanticism you’ll find in Tennessee.
That Honky Tonk Vibe
A lively, nostalgic, and distinctly Southern atmosphere, including saloons, vintage decor, neon signs, country music, line dancing, and a cold one alongside Momma’s homemade biscuits and gravy in a rustic, small-town dive bar.
What Animals Are Unique to Tennessee?
Tennessee's biodiversity includes unique animals like the Tennessee cave salamander, hellbender salamander, and Southern Appalachian brook trout. It’s also home to more well-known species like the bald eagle and gray bat.
Is Eloping in Tennessee Right for Me?
Not the perfect fit? Try these similar states instead:
Kentucky
North & South Carolina
Georgia
How to Elope in Tennessee
Learn about commitment ceremonies!
Obtain a Marriage License:
Couples have the option to purchase a marriage license for $93 to $107, depending on the county. However, if you complete an optional premarital preparation course and submit a notarized certificate of completion from the course provider, $60 of the license fee will be waived.
Find an Officiant:
In Tennessee, only a licensed minister or a member of the legislative system is allowed to officiate the ceremony. Online ordinations are not recognized. However, if you want a friend or family member to be involved in the ceremony, they can participate in certain parts of it, but the official vows must be performed by a recognized officiant.
Consider Permits and Regulations:
If you plan to elope in a national park, state park, Forest Service land, or BLM land, be sure to work with your elopement photographer to check if permits are required for your chosen location and what regulations there might be. Some popular locations may have limited availability or additional fees.
When is the Best Time to Elope in Tennessee?
Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.
Spring (March to May)
The temperatures range from 50-65 °F in March, gradually warming up to 70-80 °F in May. Unexpected cold fronts often show up in March, but May brings sunny and warm weather. It’s the best time to visit Tennessee, with blooming botanical gardens, national parks, tulips and jasmine.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s°F. This is the height of tourist season, particularly in areas like Nashville and the Smokies. Due to the influx of visitors, accommodations and popular areas can be expensive and harder to find privacy in.
Fall (September to November)
Autumn brings cooler temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s°F. The state is famous for its fall colors, especially in the Smoky Mountains. It’s still popular for tourists due to the colors, active wildlife, and Halloween-esk activities, so booking venues or other accommodations in advance is best due to the high demand.
Winter (December to February)
Winter varies from west to east, with milder weather in the western part and colder temperatures in the east. Typically, temperatures range from the 30s to the 50s, and there is occasional snowfall in higher elevations like the Smokies. Tourism typically slows down due to the off-season, and accommodations are generally more affordable and readily available (except around the holidays.)
Where to Elope in Tennessee
Read about whether you should elope in a State or a National Park!
National Parks
State Parks
USDA Forest Service:
Bureau of Land Management:
BLM does not manage land in New Hampshire.
Unique Stays
Luxury Treehouse, Nashville
Modern Mountain Cottage - Cookeville
The Sassafras Dome Earth Home - Johnson City
Cabin by Bear Lake - Cookeville
Secluded, Recycled Cabin - Goodlettsville
Riverfront Getaway with a View - Chattanooga
Most Popular Elopement Locations in Tennessee
Ruby Falls Overlook in Chattanooga
Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in Nashville
Cedarwood Weddings in Nashville
Percy Warner Park in Nashville
Heartwood Hill in Rossville
Where to Visit for Unique Photos in Tennessee
Have the freedom to choose a unique elopement location and a variety of smaller, lesser-known areas that make for creative and memorable photo opportunities. Remember, these are only a few examples! I have many more options we can visit together
Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
Historical monuments, a World War II Memorial, and urban and green backgrounds.
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
A prehistoric Native American ceremonial site with ancient earthworks, waterfalls, and overlooks.
Roan Mountain State Park
Rhododendron gardens, hiking trails, and plant blooms.
Iris Garden at Ellington Agricultural Center
A botanical garden featuring thousands of iris varieties, ponds, and walking paths.
Please respect all natural areas and leave it better than you found it. Vandalism will result in the closing and protection of such unique areas.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Tennessee
Luxury
marriage license — $107
3 night luxury airbnb stay — $1500
photographer — $9000
bouquet, boutonniere, florals — $1000
wedding dress — $3000
suit purchase — $1000
private chef — $600
5-6” custom cake — $350
hair + makeup — $300
Great Smoky Mountains permit fee — $50
Total: $16,907
Low Cost
$47 — marriage license
$500 — 3 night airbnb stay
$3000 — photographer
$300 — bouquet + boutonniere
$500 — wedding dress
$200 — suit rental
$200 — restaurant dinner + drinks
free – national forest ceremony venue
free — DIY hair + makeup
Total: $4,747
Tennessee Elopement Packages
All elopement packages include:
All Travel Fees (prices don’t change per location!)
Customized Location Options
Permit Assistance
Personalized Vendor Options
Activity Suggestions Unique to You
An Elopement Timeline
Every elopement gallery includes high-resolution digital images with printing rights and a private online gallery to view, print, download, and share with your family and friends to relive the day with you - forever!
4 Hour ~ $3000
This package is perfect for couples who want a simple elopement experience. It includes getting ready, a short hike to the ceremony location, and couples portraits.
8 Hour ~ $5000
This package is perfect for couples who want to spend a day of adventure together, such as a long hike, off-roading, or visiting multiple locations. It's great for capturing the complete story of your elopement day. Typically, couples who are eloping and want to document their day for their friends and family who couldn't attend will choose this package. It's also ideal for couples bringing their friends and family along and would like to have their reception captured. Your reception could be as simple as having pizza with your loved ones or as elaborate as a private chef serving a three-course meal during a welcome dinner.
12 Hour ~ $7000
This package is perfect for couples wanting complete elopement coverage. It offers the ultimate storytelling experience, from waking up and having coffee with your partner to roasting marshmallows on a fire after sunset. This is an ideal option for couples looking to document their entire day with their guests included. Couples eloping alone also select this package to document every detail for their loved ones at home.
Multi-Day ~ $9000
Perfect for couples wanting a multi-day experience with a lot of adventure. This package is best if you want to elope in one epic location and experience another the following day. An example of this would be eloping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and driving 4x4’s the next day to locations off the beaten path, saddling up for horseback riding, or zip lining through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Tennessee Elopement Checklist
An all in-one, comprehensive guide on how to elope. From an iceberg in Alaska to a boat deck in the Florida Keys, this guide will give you all the steps on how to plan your perfect elopement day.
Unique Things to Do in Tennessee
Whether you want to celebrate or combine a fun honeymoon with your elopement experience, there are a variety of unique things to do around the state that will add to your fun.
Read about the best places to honeymoon in the US.
Find the Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains
Please note that during the second week in June, trolleys run from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the Little River Trailhead at Elkmont. The trolley is the only transportation in and out unless you are a registered camper at Elkmont. If you want to take the shuttle, you must register for the lottery, which has only 1,800 parking spaces and over 20,000 entries. Your best bet is registering to camp at Elkmont, which accepts reservations up to 6 months in advance.
Visit the Concrete Parthenon (another unique photo opportunity!)
Visit the famous Bell Witch Cave
Closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from June through August.
Visit the Rugby Colony
Please note, this historic town with their Victorian chapel hosts residents and active services. If you would like to attend a service or even get married here, please read the requirements and reach out to the church for more information.
Visit George Boedecker's Sculpture Garden
Visit Fortress of Faith (Greenback Castle)
Please note this was and is currently being built by 1 man named Junior. This is not an official tourist location and he does not ask for fees when showing folks around or maintaining the property. Please be courteous and consider bringing a gift or donation when visiting his property and admiring his hard work.
Tennessee Elopement Timeline Examples
Which Elopement Package is Right for Me?
4-Hour Elopement Package:
This package is for couples looking for a simple and intimate elopement experience that prefer a shorter ceremony and a relaxed atmosphere while still having their day captured.
This package is right for you if:
You want a short and intimate ceremony.
You prefer minimal planning and coordination.
You prefer natural decor and scenic backdrops.
You prefer to stay closer to your accommodations.
8-Hour Elopement Package:
This package is perfect for adventurous couples who want a full-day elopement that includes multiple activities or exploring locations.
This package is right for you if:
You want to explore multiple locations and activities.
You want to have a full day but not too much stress in planning.
You want to include a larger group of friends and family.
You want to incorporate multiple outfit changes or additional decor.
12-Hour Elopement Package:
This package covers the entire elopement day from start to finish. It's perfect for couples who want to capture every detail and moment of their elopement experience.
This package is right for you if:
You want to document everything without feeling scheduled or rushed.
You want to include extended friends and family or have a formal reception.
You prefer to include elaborate decor.
You prefer the freedom to switch between activities and locations with ease.
Multi-Day Elopement Package:
This package is ideal for adventurous couples who want to combine their elopement with a getaway or honeymoon, spanning over multiple days with complete coverage.
This package is right for you if:
You want to combine elopement with a romantic getaway.
You prefer to explore multiple locations.
You want to include extended friends and family or have a formal reception.
Couples can dream of a charming and romantic elopement when choosing Tennessee. Choose from the Great Smoky Mountains, the iconic countryside, or bold, urban cities like Nashville. With a straightforward process, couples can enjoy a stress-free experience with the flexibility to travel to other states and locations. If you’re ready for a the honkiest tonkiest elopement of your life - let’s strap up our boots and get goin’!
Do you think Tennessee might be the place for you? Let me help you choose the best locations, acquire permits and documentation, and capture your elopement in the way you dreamed it would be. Are you ready to get started?