Elope in Gatlinburg: The Ultimate 2021 Guide to Gatlinburg Elopement Packages

Why should I elope in Gatlinburg?

With three entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the center of town, Gatlinburg is one of the most popular places to get married in the United States. The park is full of incredible mountain scenery and there is so much to do, so it’s an impressive spot to combine your elopement and honeymoon! Never taking itself too seriously, Gatlinburg is home to a host of kooky attractions like Dollyworld and the forever-Christmas-themed Inn at Christmas Place. It is also the perfect base for outdoor adventures like white water rafting, zorbing — and even skiing in the winter, as Gatlinburg boasts the only ski resort in the entire state. If you’re keen to unwind during your Gatlinburg elopement, moonshine was legalized in 2009 and distilleries are popping up all over town. You can also visit the Rocky Top Wine Trail just northwest of Gatlinburg proper for a vineyard tour and tastings at the area’s five producers.

What time of year is best to elope in Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is one of the few places that is stunning year-round, so no matter what season you decide to hold your Smoky Mountain elopement, nature will supply! Because of the abundance of trees and greenery, fall is a breathtaking time of year to visit, especially if you’re looking to elope in the Smoky Mountain National Park. Spring is also a colorful season, especially when the rhododendrons are in bloom, painting the area with bright pink colors that make for a beautiful backdrop. If you’re looking for a winter wonderland elopement, you may want to look elsewhere (like Colorado!), as snow can be sparse in the cooler months. Whichever season you choose for your Gatlinburg elopement, you’ll have stunning scenery to soak in.

How do I make my elopement legal in Gatlinburg?

There are plenty of places to elope in Gatlinburg, and the marriage license application process is relatively easy and straightforward. First, ensure you and your partner have a form of identification – driver’s license, passport or military ID – and visit the local city hall. You’ll need to have your Social Security number handy, but you can leave your Social Security card at home. If you’ve previously been married you will need an official copy of your divorce decree, so ensure you have that in hand prior to going to obtain your marriage license. Once you acquire your marriage license, it will be valid for 30 days so ensure you tie the knot within that window.

The State of Tennessee also does not require any witnesses at your ceremony, so if you’re planning on eloping alone, there’s no need to invite anyone along for the celebration! You can visit Sevier County’s website for any additional questions specific to your needs.

How much does it cost to elope in Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is somewhat of a hidden gem: with incredible scenery and affordable prices, this spot is a must for anyone who doesn’t want to drain their wallet. While you can easily hold your elopement for under $500, incorporating additional elements or vendors can increase your final wedding day costs to the thousands. You’ll also want to take into account any traveling costs associated with eloping in Gatlinburg, as well as necessary expenses like hotel or housing accommodations, food, and transportation to and from your ceremony venue. Be sure to also factor in the fees associated with applying for your marriage license, which can range anywhere from $40 – $100 depending on your residency.

Can I get married the same day in Gatlinburg?

There is no waiting period for receiving your marriage license, meaning that you can get married the same day as you apply! Just be sure to use your license within 30 days of when it was issued for your ceremony to be valid.

What time of day should I plan my Gatlinburg elopement?

Because Gatlinburg is surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, it’s somewhat of a valley – meaning that it’s crucial to know when sunset is and recognize that the sun will dip down behind the mountains far prior to sunset. To ensure you have enough lighting for your ceremony we highly recommend holding your ceremony mid-morning to early evening, with ample time before the sun fully sets. Do your best to avoid afternoon ceremonies so you’re not getting harsh or direct sun. If you do perform your ceremony in the afternoon, choose a gazebo or forested area to hold your Gatlinburg elopement to deflect any harsh light that may occur. If you’re unsure, reaching out to your vendors to check in on their recommendations is always a good idea!

How much time do I need to plan an elopement in Gatlinburg?

While we recommend allowing yourself a little wiggle room – three to nine months – we’ve planned Gatlinburg ceremonies with as little notice as a week. The biggest task on your list is to ensure you’ve got a plan in place to get your marriage license, otherwise your ceremony won’t be legal. As long as you have that in place, we can perform ceremonies quickly and easily.

Article written by

Janessa White

Janessa White is the co-founder of Simply Eloped and has helped thousands of couples plan elopements. Janessa thinks elopements are the ultimate way to tie the knot. She feels her happiest when building - teams, programs, ideas

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Read the real stories of couples who eloped in Gatlinburg!

Josie + Jake

Josie & Jake envisioned a woodland wedding and, in the end, that is what they had at the historic Ely’s Mill in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. But the journey to reach this fairytale ending was not without a few bumps in the road. COVID kept pushing back their plans for a big wedding and, finally, they decided to simply elope! A naturally beautiful forest filled with moss covered trees and, of course, a waterfall, became the perfect backdrop for them as they exchanged their vows during an emotion filled day. Keep reading to find out how Jake & Josie met, how they fell in love and what made them choose Simply Eloped for their picturesque elopement.

Why did you decide to elope?

Josie: We originally planned to be married in August 2020! COVID wrecked our plans over and over so we finally said, “forget it”. I’m so thankful we did. We could not have imagined a more beautiful, stress-free ceremony.

How did you find Simply Eloped?

Josie: Simply Eloped was recommended by a coworker.

How did you know Simply Eloped was the right fit for you?

Josie: Simple. That was the keyword.

What attracted you to the venue you eloped at?

Josie: Woodland fairy vibes! That was my goal as a theme and Ely’s Mill in Gatlinburg, Tennessee provided that feel.

Tell us about your experience with Simply Eloped leading up to and on your big day!

Josie: Everyone was great! They communicated effortlessly with us and prepared us the best they could!

How did you celebrate your elopement?

Josie: We had dinner with our immediate family, bridal and groom parties. It was amazing to have everyone at such a beautiful location. It really felt like a destination wedding!

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Savanna + Alex

Savanna & Alex seemed an obvious match to their friends. It took some Facebook convos and a spectacular first date to convince the two of them. They asked Simply Eloped to help them plan an intimate wedding at Ely’s Mill in Gatlinburg. The city held a special place in their hearts as it was where they had taken their first big vacation together and where Alex had proposed to Savanna. The old-world feel and stunning scenery were just what they had envisioned for their special day. They eloped under the pavilion and celebrated afterward with family and friends. Read more about Savanna & Alex’s Tennessee elopement with Simply Eloped.

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement? What were your favorite moments about eloping there?

Savanna: Ely’s Mill checked all of the boxes we were looking for as far as a venue was concerned. We wanted somewhere surrounded by nature, but it was still easily accessible and would allow us to have a good bit of our friends and family there. Neither of us had visited Ely’s Mill before the wedding, so there were some nerves involved due to that. It turned out to be perfect, though. Pictures can only capture a glimpse of how beautiful it is.

How would you describe your elopement venue to someone who has never been there?

Savanna: If you want the feel of being surrounded by nature but still want some of the amenities that come with more classic wedding venues (i.e., a changing room or covered ceremony space), then Ely’s Mill is perfect. You get an old-time rustic feel from the structures and the old cars, but you also get a feeling of being one with nature. Trees surround you. You can hear the stream bubbling, birds chirping, everything you could want in an outdoor ceremony.

What things did you do before the wedding? How did you get ready? How did you feel in the moments leading up to your elopement?

Savanna: We had a very relaxed morning together at our cabin and just kind of waited it out until it was time to get ready. I was so crazy nervous! I met my sister at the salon to get our hair and makeup done. It helped calm my nerves getting to spend time with her and joke around. I left to head to Ely’s Mill, and my heart started pounding! I was very nervous and excited up until our first look. As soon as I saw him, it’s like a huge wave of relief came over me. I had my best friend with me, and we were in it together, so everything was perfect.

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Traci + Clay

Traci & Clay met in middle school, but it took Clay a little longer than Traci to realize this was a forever deal. The two of them knew that they wanted a wedding that all about their commitment and not a huge party. So they worked with Simply Eloped to marry at the Smoky Mountain National Park in Tennessee. They were thrilled to have family join them in front of the mountains for their heartfelt ceremony. Afterward, the newlyweds and their guests celebrated with a steak dinner in Gatlinburg. We love the his&hers white cowboy hats, the trendy bouquet, Traci’s beautiful off-the-shoulder gown with flowing veil, and Clay’s laid-back style. Read more to find out why they think every couple should elope!

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement?

Traci: We loved the simplicity and scenery of our destination. We didn’t need any decorations or backdrop with the mountains behind us!

How would you describe your elopement venue to someone who has never been there?

Traci: Simple and beautiful!

What did you do before the wedding? How did you get ready? How did you feel in the moments leading up to your elopement?

Traci: My mom, two friends, and I all got ready together. I was very excited but anxious about things not going as planned. In the end, everything worked out, and once I saw Clay, it was all okay!

Clay: I spent the afternoon with Traci’s brother and Dad, just hanging out on the porch until it was time to go. I was so excited and couldn’t wait to see her.

How did you choose to celebrate your elopement?

Traci: Afterward, we ate at Peddlers Steakhouse In Gatlinburg with friends and family. It was great! We also spent the rest of the week in Pigeon Forge and had the best time.

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Amanda + Joseph

Sometimes things just happen for a reason! Amanda & Joseph started to date in high school after texting each other endlessly during a trip Amanda took with her family to Gatlinburg. So it only made sense for them to elope in that city. They chose Simply Eloped to help them plan a serene and peaceful ceremony at Ely’s Mill in Tennessee. We love the gorgeous details…delicate hair jewelry, the peony and rose bouquet, the unique floral bracelet, and Amanda’s stunning lace gown. The couple had family (including their well-dressed dog, natch!) around them as they exchanged vows in the beautiful pavilion. Read on to find out why Amanda & Joseph were so excited to elope!

Where did you choose to elope, and why did you choose that destination?

Amanda: We chose Gatlinburg because we both have been there with our families throughout the years. We were friends in high school, and my family drove to Gatlinburg during Spring Break of 2016. On that trip, Joseph and I messaged each other the entire time and eventually confessed that we liked each other! We got home the following week, went on a date, and officially started dating on March 28th, 2016. We chose to elope because we have always wanted a small wedding with just family.

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement? What were your favorite parts about eloping there?

Amanda: Out of every single venue we found, Ely’s Mill seemed the most natural and serene. The creek in the background and the location of the venue were perfect.

How would you describe your elopement venue to someone who has never been there?

Amanda: It was very peaceful, quiet, and away from the tourists of Gatlinburg. Mountains and a creek surrounded us. It was perfect.

What did you do before the wedding? How did you get ready? How did you feel in the moments leading up to your elopement?

Amanda: Joseph and I stayed separate the night before, so I talked a lot with my mom that night in our cabin. On the day of our wedding, I helped with last-minute decorations for our wedding/reception. It was super exciting getting my hair and makeup done before the ceremony!

How was your experience with Simply Eloped?

Amanda: I would recommend it to anyone! Simply Eloped allowed us to have a beautiful wedding without us having to stress about anything.

How did you choose to celebrate your elopement?

Amanda: We celebrated with family! We went to Dollywood, different breweries, Margaritaville, the Islands’ Ferris Wheel, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

What words of encouragement do you have for those considering eloping?

Amanda: If you are looking for a small wedding, you want Simply Eloped! Talking with your day-of helper, the photographer, and the officiant makes things so much less stressful.

Officiation by: Rev Thomas Orange
Photography by: Miranda Hancock
Planning by: Simply Eloped
Venue: Ely’s Mill, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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Lindsay + John

It took a Bumble match to get these two together though Lindsay had noticed John long before their first date. Once the connection was made, though, it’s been love ever since! However, between their busy lives and Covid-19, they realized that they did not want a large wedding. Simply Eloped stepped in and helped them create an elopement vision at The Old Mill in Gatlinburg. Lindsay & John shared their vows in the pavilion, and the family watched from a distance. Read on to enjoy hearing about a Christmas proposal and a rented cabin for their elopement.

How did you meet? What was your first impression of one another?

Lindsay: We met for the first time at a local BBQ restaurant where my husband (now) was working. I kept telling my parents how cute he was, and, a few years later, we matched on Bumble, and it’s been love ever since!

When did you first fall in love? How did you know?

Lindsay: I would say after the second date. The first date wasn’t good because we both were shy, but our personalities started to bloom after the second date. I think that was when we first started falling for each other!

How did you propose or accept the proposal?

Lindsay: He proposed in Christmas town in NC because he knows Christmas is my favorite time of the year! He got Santa involved, and while taking pictures, Santa said, “I have another picture idea.” Santa then handed me an ornament, made by my best friend, that said, ‘will you marry me?’ on it, and I bawled like a baby. Of course, I said ‘YES’!

What do you love about your partner?

Lindsay: Everything! He’s so selfless, has an amazing personality, loves to no end, loves my dog (that’s a must), and of course, he’s the most handsome thing ever.

What is the greatest strength of your relationship?

Lindsay: Communication. It took some working on, though.

Why did you decide to elope?

Lindsay: It was cheaper, and it was during covid, so we didn’t want many people there anyway. I wanted my grandma there, and if we had a big wedding, she wouldn’t have been able to go.

How did you find Simply Eloped?

Lindsay: Facebook

How did you know Simply Eloped was the right fit for you?

Lindsay: When Megan helped with everything and was there whenever I needed her!

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement?

Lindsay: We had our first getaway trip together to Tennessee, so we thought that was the perfect fit.

What did you do before the wedding? How did you get ready? How did you feel in the moments leading up to your elopement?

Lindsay: We rented a cabin with eight people (family/friends), and we just had fun. The night before, we had some drinks to calm our nerves and just had fun instead is stressing. Leading up to the elopement, it was stress-free, thanks to Simply Eloped.

Tell us about your experience with Simply Eloped leading up to and on your big day!

Lindsay: It was perfect! Megan was amazing and made sure everything was in place for us. My hair and make-up artist, Katerina, was amazing! She brought all my visions to life, and she was so fun! I loved every minute of working with Simply Eloped. It was so stress-free.

How did you celebrate after your elopement?

Lindsay: I’m a full-time college student at the moment, so we are going on our honeymoon in December of this year!

What words of encouragement do you have for those considering eloping?

Lindsay: DO IT!! It was so stress-free and so worth it. We are having a big reception back home this October, and I do not regret a thing.

Photography by: Maddie Kay
Hair & Makeup by: Emily Van Scoy
Planning by: Simply Eloped
Venue: The Old Mill, Gatlinburg

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Elope in Gatlinburg

Why is Gatlinburg awesome

Everything you need to know about eloping in Gatlinburg

Places to elope in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Elopement Packages

Officiation services

Enactment of ceremony

Advice on ceremony locations

Ceremony Coordinator to aid with operations of day

Everything from the

Photography of ceremony

Digital transfer of 75+ edited images

Ceremony Coordinator to aid with operations of day

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Nosegay bouquet & boutonniere of your choosing

Ceremony Coordinator to aid with operations of day

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2 Hours Total of Photography

Ely’s Mill Reservation OR Smoky Mountain National Park Permit

1 Hour of Videography

Long-form video of Ceremony & 1-2 minute Highlight Reel

Ceremony Coordinator

Hair & Makeup for One Person

Wildflower Experience

Add-Ons

EXTRA PHOTOGRAPHY

EXTRA PHOTOGRAPHY

Flowers

Flowers

Smoky Mountains National Park Permit Coordination

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Engagement Shoot

Engagement Shoot

Ceremony Coordinator

Ceremony Coordinator

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Hair & Makeup

Relationship Coaching

Relationship Coaching

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Our Team

Why should I elope in Gatlinburg?

What time of year is best to elope in Gatlinburg?

How do I make my elopement legal in Gatlinburg?

How much does it cost to elope in Gatlinburg?

Can I get married the same day in Gatlinburg?

What time of day should I plan my Gatlinburg elopement?

How much time do I need to plan an elopement in Gatlinburg?

Janessa White

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Elope to the Mountains

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How to Make An Elopement Special: 6 Fun and Easy Details

4 Tips You Should Know If You're Eloping With Family

Elopement Announcements: 5 Ways to Say “We Eloped!”

Why did you decide to elope?

How did you find Simply Eloped?

How did you know Simply Eloped was the right fit for you?

What attracted you to the venue you eloped at?

Tell us about your experience with Simply Eloped leading up to and on your big day!

How did you celebrate your elopement?

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement? What were your favorite moments about eloping there?

How would you describe your elopement venue to someone who has never been there?

What things did you do before the wedding? How did you get ready? How did you feel in the moments leading up to your elopement?

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement?

How would you describe your elopement venue to someone who has never been there?

What did you do before the wedding? How did you get ready? How did you feel in the moments leading up to your elopement?

How did you choose to celebrate your elopement?

Where did you choose to elope, and why did you choose that destination?

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement? What were your favorite parts about eloping there?

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