The scenery of the majestic mountain landscape coupled with beautiful year round weather makes the Smoky Mountains one of the most popular wedding destination spots in the country. This Tennessee haven is well-equipped for weddings and easily boasts 20,000 ceremonies each year. Here is everything you need to know about planning your Smoky Mountain wedding:
How to Prepare for Your Wedding
Preparations can be made in less than a day, especially with the help of some of the local lodges who can make the arrangements for you. If you choose to make plans on your own, you have free reign to prepare the type of wedding you desire for your special day. Licenses are even available on Saturdays. What ever option you choose make sure you plan each detail meticulously when it comes to licenses and identification records. For example, there are price variations on licenses depending on whether the couple is a resident of Tennessee or not. However, a plus for marrying in the Smoky Mountains is that Tennessee does not have a waiting period.
Where to Have Your Wedding
It’s no problem if you want an elaborate wedding or a casual one, the Smokies provide options for all couples! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park provide a beautiful backdrop to any ceremony. Some of the most popular wedding spots for a Smoky Mountain wedding include Cades Cove, Spence Cabin, the Appalachian Clubhouse, and Greenbrier. All of these locations are absolutely stunning year road and make beautiful wedding pictures! if you love Autumn colors, we recommend planning your wedding in the Fall season, so you can have a background filled with yellows, oranges, and reds for your ceremony.
Necessary Permits and Approvals
If you plan on getting married in the park, you will need a Special Use Permit. These permits are required for all events including the ceremony, reception, and wedding photography. It typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks for your permit request to be approved, so plan ahead. If you are using a wedding planner, they need to authorized to conduct business in the park. Additionally, all caterers, photographers, officiants, limo drivers, and other paid service provides need to obtain approval.
Where to Stay
When deciding where to stay for your destination wedding, it is informant to book a hotel that is going to meet all your needs. When you stay with us, we will make sure your lodging is something you don’t have to worry about during the stress of planning your wedding. All of our offered amenities, including a private balcony, hot tub, and honeymoon suits, will make your trip unforgettable! Let us be a part of your special day and provide you with everything you could need!
While you’re exploring the area before or after your Smoky Mountain wedding, check out all the things to do in the Smokies and try out everything from attractions to one-of-a-kind restaurants. Make this trip one to remember! We look forward to seeing you!
