Need a guide to planning your smoky mountain wedding? You said yes! Your heart is still fluttering, your ring is sparkling, and you can’t stop staring at your hand. You’re engaged! But once the initial whirlwind of emotions settles, a new question arises: What’s next?

It will be a beautiful journey, but we know it can also feel overwhelming. From choosing a date to finding the perfect venue, there are so many moving pieces. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic elopement in the Smoky Mountains or a grand celebration with all your loved ones, here’s how to get started.

Take a Moment to Soak It All In

Before you dive headfirst into wedding planning, take a beat. Celebrate with your fiancé. Share the news with close family and friends. Pop a bottle of champagne. Enjoy this chapter—you’ll only be engaged once!

If you love to document milestones, consider snapping a few engagement photos. The Smoky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for capturing the joy of this season. You’ll treasure these moments, and they’re perfect for save-the-dates or wedding websites.

Dream Big and Set Your Vision with this Guide to planning your Smoky Mountain Wedding

Close your eyes and imagine your perfect wedding day. What do you see? Is it an intimate ceremony on a mountain overlook, a cozy barn wedding, or a lavish ballroom affair?

Talk with your fiancé about what you both want. Do you envision a rustic-chic wedding in the heart of the Smokies or a boho celebration surrounded by wildflowers? Make a mood board or create a Pinterest collection to start piecing together your ideas.

This is also a good time to talk about the size of your wedding. Are you keeping it small and personal, or inviting everyone you know? Having a rough guest count will help guide many of your decisions moving forward.

Set a Budget (and Stick to It!)

Ah, the budget talk. It’s not the most glamorous part of wedding planning, but it’s crucial. Sit down with your fiancé and anyone else contributing financially to determine a realistic budget.

Break it down into categories:

• Venue
• Food and drink
• Photography and videography
• Attire
• Music and entertainment
• Decor and flowers
• Hair and makeup
• Transportation

Remember, it’s okay to prioritize. If stunning Smoky Mountain wedding photos are a must-have, allocate a bit more for a great photographer and adjust other areas accordingly.

Choose Your Date and Book Your Venue

The Smoky Mountains are a beautiful wedding destination year-round. Each season offers something unique—from blooming wildflowers in spring to vibrant fall foliage. Choosing your date may depend on the scenery you envision, as well as availability for key venues.

When considering venues, think about logistics. Do you want a venue that offers both ceremony and reception spaces? Would you prefer a spot with accommodations on-site or nearby for your guests? The Smoky Mountain Wedding Association can be a valuable resource in finding trusted local venues that match your vision.

Once you have your venue, you’ve got your date! Send out save-the-dates, especially if you’re planning during a popular season or if many guests will be traveling.

Hire Key Vendors Early

Great vendors book up quickly, especially in a destination wedding hotspot like the Smoky Mountains. Here are the key professionals to consider securing early:

• Photographer/Videographer: Your wedding day will fly by, but photos and videos will help you relive the magic.
• Wedding Planner: Whether you need full planning services or just a day-of coordinator, a planner can make your life so much easier.
• Caterer: Delicious food leaves a lasting impression. Many venues have preferred catering lists, so ask for recommendations.
• DJ/Band: Music sets the tone for your celebration. Think about whether you want a DJ who can mix up a variety of genres or a live band for a specific vibe.
• Florist: Flowers can transform a space. Many florists can also help with decor elements beyond blooms.
• Officiant: If you’re not using a family member or friend, book a professional who aligns with your ceremony style.

Pro Tip: The Smoky Mountain Wedding Association offers a vetted list of trusted local vendors who know the ins and outs of mountain weddings.

Planning for Your Guests is a big part of planning your Smoky Mountain Wedding:

If you’re hosting a destination wedding, help your guests make the most of their trip. Provide information on accommodations, travel tips, and local attractions. The Smokies offer incredible experiences, from hiking and scenic drives to visiting charming towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Consider creating a wedding website where guests can find all the details in one place. Include itinerary information, dress codes, and fun suggestions for things to do in the area.

Make It Personal

The best weddings are the ones that feel personal. Think about how you can incorporate meaningful details into your day:

• Include Local Flavor: Whether it’s serving moonshine cocktails or incorporating native wildflowers, little touches can celebrate the Smoky Mountains.
• Plan Special Moments: Write personalized vows, create a memory table for loved ones who can’t be there, or incorporate traditions that reflect your story as a couple.
• Surprise Your Guests: Small gestures, like a s’mores bar by a fire pit or a mountain-inspired welcome gift, can make your wedding feel extra special.

Stay Grounded and Enjoy the Ride

Wedding planning can be stressful, but remember what this is all about: your love. When things get hectic, take a break. Go on a date where you promise not to talk about wedding plans. Lean on your support system, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

The Smoky Mountains are a place of natural beauty and serenity—let that energy guide you. Take a hike, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and find calm in the chaos.

Guide to Planning Your Smoky Mountain Wedding: Be Present on Your Big Day

When your wedding day arrives, let go of perfection. Things might not go exactly as planned, but that’s okay. Be present, soak in every moment, and remember to look around and take mental snapshots of all the love surrounding you.

Your Smoky Mountain wedding will be beautiful, not just because of the scenery, but because of the love and joy you bring to it.

Congratulations on your engagement! We’re so excited to see how your love story unfolds here in the heart of the Smokies. Please reach out to our partners, each an exception guide to planning your smoky mountain wedding in his or her own right, can be of any assistance. 🙂