How to elope in Nashville
A progressive bastion in the heart of the American south, Nashville is Tennessee’s capital and most populous city. A small wedding or elopement in Nashville is ideal for the couple that loves vibrant nightlife, American history, and excellent food. Nashville elopements aren’t adventure elopements—they’re classy affairs for city lovers that want a stunning wedding on a budget. Known as Music City, Nashville is the home to a stretch of downtown known as Music Row: the Ryman Auditorium (aka the “Mother Church of Country Music”), the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Musicians Hall of Fame, and the Grand Ole Opry. Add in the countless live music venues and country music stars that call Nashville home, and you’re sure to be taken by the city’s unique rhythm. And it’s not just music: the Belmont Mansion, historic plantations, and numerous parks mean you’ll never be without something to do.
Where are the best places to elope in Nashville?
From natural backdrops to pastoral scenes to urban glam, there’s a Nashville venue to suit every small wedding and elopement!
Despite being close to downtown Nashville, Drakewood Farm feels like you’re way out in the country. Forty acres of rolling hills surround an 1850s mansion, three barns, and a cedar grove, ideal for couples who want an intimate, wooded ceremony site without having to go far. If you’re interested in hosting a small wedding in Nashville, this venue typically allows for up to 40 people, although with Covid-19 that number is currently 16. The historic Cheekwood Estate & Gardens has 55 acres of lush gardens with multiple locations, all of which allow for up to 10 guests – perfect for a Nashville elopement. The sprawling grounds boast a nice mix of art and nature, while the stately, Georgian-style mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places. Do note, it can be tricky to book this location more than 60 days out. Another multi-purpose event space is White Avenue Studio, located in Nashville proper, just minutes from downtown. This event space is great for either an indoor or outdoor intimate ceremony, with a garden area and an indoor space that boast high-vaulted ceilings and lots of natural light. Think of this venue as a blank canvas to bring your small wedding day dreams to life. This venue allows up to 20 guests usually, but with Covid-19 that number is currently capped at 16. Lastly, there’s Iris Garden: many locals don’t even know about this city garden, which sits on the grounds of the Ellington Agricultural Center. If you want to catch the flowers in full bloom, book your elopement from April through June. Although this venue isn’t currently open due to Covid-19, when it is open up to 20 guests are allowed.
How much does it cost to elope in Nashville?
Despite being a big city, a Nashville wedding can be very affordable, especially if you elope! Many couples choose to save money by driving to Nashville, staying in Airbnbs, and eating at the city’s famous fast-casual dining establishments. Note that during certain city-wide events, such as the Country Music Festival in June or AmericanaFest in September, prices on hotels tend to rise. Eloping in Nashville does have a slightly higher price point than other Tennessee locations like Gatlinburg, but even if you go all out on your elopement, it’s still going to be much more affordable than a traditional ceremony. Our most popular Nashville venues require rental fees in addition to our elopement packages, so you’ll want to budget accordingly.
Our elopement packages in Nashville start at $450 for a basic ceremony that includes tailored advice, a custom wedding script, and the officiation of the ceremony itself. Elopement packages that include photography and flowers range from $900 to $3,425 for our top-end offering. As with all of our destinations, we’re super flexible and you can always add things on, such as a musician or extra photography time.
