Tanner and Grace

Told on:

September 22, 2025 in Cades Cove, Tennessee

Event Summary:

A Smoky Mountain Elopement to Remember

Getting Ready in a Cozy Cabin in the Smoky Mountains

When I think about Grace and Tanner’s elopement, I can still feel the softness of that early autumn morning—cool air drifting through the Smokies, sunlight settling gently between the trees, and the kind of stillness that makes you breathe a little slower.

Walking into their cabin felt like stepping into a story I already loved. Grace isn’t just a bride to me—she’s someone I’ve known for nearly my entire life, someone who feels like family. And on this morning, everything felt sacred. Tender. Personal.

Then came the sweetest surprise: both of their moms had driven down to witness the elopement. The cabin filled instantly with warmth—mothers fussing lovingly, eyes brimming, smiles they couldn’t hide.

As Grace slipped into her wedding dress with her mother by her side, I had to remind myself I was there to photograph and not cry. There is nothing quite like that moment—a mother fastening her daughter into her gown, the years humming quietly beneath their hands.

With everyone ready and the mountains calling, we stepped outside into crisp air and began the drive toward Cades Cove.

A Private First Look and Personal Vows in Cades Cove

The day before, I had scouted every corner of Cades Cove to find a spot that felt cinematic, intimate, and true to Grace’s vision—romantic, whimsical, a touch editorial. When I found it—an open field framed by two towering trees with the mountains wrapping around us—it felt like the place had been waiting just for them.

By mid-morning, sunlight began warming the valley. Grace and I had curated a personalized Spotify playlist ahead of time, filled with songs meaningful to them. I played it softly as they stood back-to-back, taking steadying breaths, their hands trembling with excitement.

Their first look was tender and emotional in the way only true love can be. And when they began reading their private vows, the entire valley seemed to pause. The wind brushed through the tall grass, the mountains stood guard, and the moment unfolded exactly as it was meant to—quiet, intimate, unforgettable.

Afterward, we moved into portraits, letting the tenderness of their vows linger. Then came one of my favorite moments of the entire day: Tanner scooping Grace into his arms and carrying her across the tall grass so her dress wouldn’t snag. Simple. Sweet. Effortless. Them.

Romantic Smoky Mountain Portraits Full of Light, Love, and Serendipity

The next hour felt like wandering through a dream. We traveled between the scenic spots I’d planned—fields glowing with morning light, rustic wooden fences, and sweeping mountain views that felt straight out of a painting.

Grace wanted their portraits to feel romantic, whimsical, candid, and editorial. And truly, the Smokies delivered. Every frame felt like a love letter.

At one location, another couple celebrating their first anniversary approached us. When they learned Grace and Tanner were also getting married that morning, they gifted them a bottle of sparkling wine. Two couples. One shared anniversary. A moment of spontaneous celebration. It was pure mountain magic.

An Emotional Ceremony Surrounded by Tennessee Mountains

After portraits, we reunited with their moms and drove to the ceremony site. A local minister met us there, ready to officiate a ceremony that felt simple, heartfelt, and full of meaning.

Grace and Tanner held hands beneath a wide Tennessee sky as they exchanged their vows, the mountains rising behind them like a blessing. With rings placed and vows spoken, they became husband and wife.

We took family photos with the mountains stretched endlessly behind them, and then they shared their first dance right in the open field—a quiet, tender sway beneath the morning sun. Just the two of them, savoring the moment their forever began.

A Sweet Cabin Celebration to End the Perfect Elopement Day

We ended the day back at their cabin, tucked into the trees. A cozy tablescape awaited them—simple, intentional, full of personal touches that made it feel like home.

They cut their cake, shared ice cream, laughed with their moms, and soaked in the feeling of being newly married. No rush. No noise. Just presence.

It was exactly the way an elopement should feel—quiet, heartfelt, deeply personal.

Why This Elopement Meant So Much to Me

Grace’s family has been intertwined with mine for decades—our moms have been best friends since high school. So photographing her elopement wasn’t merely work—it was a privilege, a memory I’ll hold close forever.

This Smoky Mountain elopement was gentle, emotional, meaningful, and so full of love. A day woven with intention and surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.
Truly one of my favorite love stories I’ve ever had the honor to document.

Planning Your Own Smoky Mountain Elopement?
If you’re dreaming of private vows in the mountains, a sunrise ceremony, or an intimate celebration tucked away in nature, I’d be honored to help you bring it to life.
Let’s create an elopement experience that feels deeply personal, intentional, and beautifully you.