How to elope in Tennessee

If you're idea of an epic elopement involves sharing your vows in a wild, surreal destination- Tennessee will go above and beyond!
As elopement experts, we have done a ton of research on eloping all over the world, and created in-depth guides for adventurous couples just like you!

Table of contents:

Emily

Owner + Lead Elopement Planner, Photographer & Videographer

MEET THE
LOVE UNCHARTED

team!

Heyyy, I'm Emily! The founder of Love Uncharted and the OG elopement photographer of the crew!
When I'm not busy planning and documenting epic wedding days, you can find me exploring on two wheels, loving on my fur babies, or day-dreaming about my next adventure!

yASMINE

Elopement Planner & Photographer

Elopements have allowed me to bring my love for photography and adventure together in such an epic way!
When I'm not scouting for locations or taking photos of an awesome couple on their wedding day, you can find me hitting the trails!

The Best Time to Elope in Tenneessee:

When choosing your destination and date for your elopement there are several factors to consider- such as tourism, weather, and scenery. Each season brings something unique to the table, and there are pros and cons to eloping in Tennessee during every season!

Summer (June- September)

Tennessee has very hot and humid summers, often seeing temperatures in the 90's. Some areas, especially the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and towns like Galtinburg and Pigeon Forge, will be incredibly busy. This is a great time of year to enjoy Tennessee's rivers and waterfalls!

Fall (october- November)

Fall in Tennessee is stunning, with fiery shades of yellow, orange, and red! The smokies are very popular during the fall for tourists, so you may still have some difficulty avoiding crowds when it's time for peak fall foliage.

Winter (December- february)

Tennessee experiences very mild winters, however snow isn't completely off the table. There are chances of ice on roads, especially in higher elevations, making travel difficult and some locations inaccessible. While Tennessee can see below freezing temperatures, crowds are at an all time low!

Spring (March- May)

While Tennessee still experiences cold snaps in the early spring and often has rain, dogwoods and flowers are blooming, and temperatures are mild but warming up! This is also a great time of year to check out Tenneessee's rushing waterfalls, such as Fall Creek Falls.

Where to elope in Tennessee:

While we try to keep information about elopement locations updated as frequently as possible, things are always changing!
It's important to always do research and contact the national/ state parks in advance to get information on the latest guidelines, requirements, and restrictions!
When we help you design your epic elopement experience, I will always provide the most recent information regarding permits and guidelines for locations!
Be sure to leave no trace when visiting beautiful outdoor locations- it is crucial for the health and longevity of the environment.


The Mountains;

Commonly known as home of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee has so many stunning areas featuring rivers, waterfalls and mountains! Other than Great Smoky Mountain National Park, areas such as Lookout Mountain, the Roan Highlands, and Big South Fork National River all have stunning scenery!

Things to consider:

  • While Tennessee experience very mild winters, ice and some snow is possible in higher elevations. Have a backup plan in place in case your original plans are affected by closures.

Our top five locations for elopements:

Roan Mountain State Park
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Rock Island State Park
Cherokee National Forest

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
While we 100% believe in transparency, as elopement experts we have dedicated a lot of time searching far and wide for hidden gem locations that are less crowded, and more surreal!
While we recommend general areas, gorgeous state and national parks, and other popular locations- we have a personal database of thousands of locations across the United States! When you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you find locations that perfectly suit your unique elopement.

Ready to start planning your epic elopement?
GET IN TOUCH!

Obtaining a marriage license in the state of Tennessee

If you're looking to obtain your marriage license in the state of Tennessee, here's what you need to know and what you will need to bring when picking up your license:

  • Both parties must present in person a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID, passport, military ID, or Tribal/BIA card.
  • There is no waiting period.
  • Tennessee does not require witnesses but doesn require an officiant to sign the marriage license.

A marriage license cost between $94- $108 in Tennessee.

tennessee has so much more to offer than just epic views...

When most people are thinking of eloping, they don't intitally think to include some epic activities and experiences into their elopement timeline! However, not only does it make for some badass photos, it also fills up the day with some excitment versus driving around and looking for scenic spots!

There are so many fun things you can do in Tennessee, such as:
  • Zipling
  • Hiking and Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Kayaking
  • Rent an ATV
  • Whitewater Rafting

You need a Tennessee photographer who truly understands epic elopements

We have spent years mastering the art of elopements in some of the most surreal and epic destinations across the globe, and Tennessee is one of our favorite places to plan epic wedding days!
While we're pretty good at documenting the adventure (if i do say so myself,) we also do SO MUCH MORE for our adventurous couples.

Some things you can expect when booking your elopement with us in Tennessee is:
  • Experts who have spent years planning unique elopements.
  • A team of two hype girls who are honored to celebrate your big day with you.
  • Expert advice on locations, weather, and other logistics.
  • A timeline that is designed to keep your day running smoothly (as well as a backup plan.)
  • Help booking other vendors, such as HMUA's, florists, private chefs, etc.
  • Recommendations on local activities that can add some fun to your elopement.
  • Answers to all of your questions!

Tennessee
ELOPEMENT PACKAGES

Photo and Photo + Video Packages Available.

What Every Tennessee Elopement Experience Includes:

From 4 Hours to Multiple Days of Coverage that Preserves your Epic Day

In-Depth Planning to create your Personalized Elopement Experience

No Added Fees- All Travel Costs for the Whole Crew are Covered

Experiences Starting at $3,400
Couples Typically invest $5,400

Pricing Includes Tax + Travel.

FAQ ABOUT ELOPING in Tennessee

"Do I need a permit to elope in Tennessee?"

"Do I need a permit to elope in Tennessee?"

Some locations, such as national parks and state parks, typically require a special use permit or a wedding ceremony permit when you are having a ceremony within the park. Some parks only require a permit if the wedding/ elopement will have over a certain number of people within your group. If you are just enjoying the park and having photos done, you may not need a permit for your elopement, but a photo/ film permit may be necessary for your photographer or videographer.
Be sure to check each location's regulations and requirements to ensure your elopement day goes as smooth as possible!
If you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you with all of the logistics and legalities of your elopement day!

"How much does it cost to elope in Tennessee?"

"How much does it cost to elope in Tennessee?"

You can elope in Tennessee for as little as your marriage license! Marriage licenses in Tennessee typically cost $94- $108, and if you're visiting national or state parks you may need to pay an entry fee. We typically find that our couples spend anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000+ depending on what they have planned for their experience! Keep in mind that this also includes airefare, lodging for several nights, rental car, wedding attire, vendors, activities and more!
Choosing to elope doesn't necessarily mean choosing the cheaper option (though it definitely can be,) it just means you are investing into an experience that is worth the money! Think about it, you're basically having your dream vacation AND marrying your best friend!

"When should we book our elopement photographer & videographer?"

"When should we book our elopement photographer & videographer?"

We can plan an epic experience with as little as a few weeks notice, however, we recommend you book your elopement photographer and videographer as soon as possible- even if you aren't sure when or where you will elope!
We have helped couples plan a truly epic wedding day when all they knew is they wanted somewhere scenic and full of opportunities, so even if your ideas are vague, don't hesitate to reach out!
There are endless possibilities when it comes to planning a truly unique and epic elopement! While these are only a handful of adventurous ideas, there are no rules nor limits when it comes to what your wedding day can look like.
The most important thing is that your elopement makes your wildest dreams come true, and that the day truly aligns with you and your partner!

Not sure where to start when planning your epic elopement?
We are a team of adenture-loving elopement experts who have planned and photographed unique elopements across the world!
Click here to learn more about eloping with Love Uncharted!

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