6 Myths About Eloping

In my time capturing couples who elope to Gatlinburg, I have found that there are a lot of misconceptions about eloping. And while everything has truth spread through rumors, some of these assumptions are just not true. Let’s debunk 6 myths about eloping.

Elopements are Impulsive

So often, it is assumed that when a couple decides to elope, it is a rushed decision and may even be a bad one. This is simply not true and is so outdated. Unlike in the 1950s, an elopement today is as worthy of celebration as a formal wedding. Some couples choose to elope in Gatlinburg because a traditional wedding day isn’t their style. Typically they want something more adventurous and intimate. Making the decision not on impulse but more intentionality. As elopements can take just as much planning ahead as a wedding.

No One is Invited

Elopements are defined as being a smaller party than a wedding. However, this doesn’t mean it has to be just the two of you! Invite your family and closest friends to join you for your ceremony, and then go out to eat after for a celebratory dinner. Or maybe you can invite everyone to an Airbnb and have a get away with your favorite people in the mountains. When you elope, you get to choose exactly how the day plays out.

It’s cheap to elope

Will you save money if you decide to elope in Gatlinburg? Not necessarily. Yes, it is true that many couples save a lot of money when choosing to elope. It is a more cost-effective way to get married. However, it isn’t to say that it is a cheaper way to wed. I think of it as prioritizing your budget in a different way.

For example, you could have a large wedding with a venue, all the vendors, and anything your heart desires. But if a really big wedding isn’t your style, you would rather have an epic honeymoon instead. Skip out on paying for a venue, vendors, and all the wedding fluff. And instead travel with that budget and take more time off work to honeymoon.

Nature lovers only

Elopements can happen anywhere, anyway! Smoky Mountain elopements often include some hiking, but it’s not required. A lot of my locations are right off the side of the road; no hiking is needed to get those stunning backdrops. Your elopement can also include tours, fine dining, or a spa day! Let your preferences and hobbies guide you, because your elopement is all about you! 

It’s not special

This is a myth that really gets under my skin! I have captured so many elopements that I can promise you, it is just as, if not more, special as a traditional wedding. When you elope in Gatlinburg, the focus is on you and your union. Not a big party with exquisite decor. When you take out all the fluff of a traditional wedding, you have so much more room for quiet moments, personal touches, and personalized timelines.

Photography isn’t as important

Your wedding day, whether it is a grand party or an intimate elopement, deserves to be photographed and documented. This day is the beginning of your journey as a family, building a life together, and committing to each other. That is worth just as much photography. No matter how you choose to celebrate.

Are the Smoky Mountains calling your name? Reach out and lets’s start planning your elopement in Gatlinburg.