Getting Ready Wedding Photos in the Smokies
When couples think about elopement photography, their minds often go straight to the mountain views, the vows, and that first kiss. And yes, those moments are breathtaking! But what about the quiet anticipation before the ceremony? The soft rustle of a dress being zipped, the nervous laughter, the way the morning light pours through a cabin window? Getting ready wedding photos are where your elopement story truly begins. And as a Gatlinburg elopement photographer, I can tell you that these intimate, unscripted moments are often the most emotionally rich and visually beautiful parts of the day.
Let’s talk about why getting ready wedding photos absolutely belong in your elopement timeline.
What Are “Getting Ready” Photos?
“Getting ready photos” capture the behind-the-scenes of your wedding day. Usually the hour or two leading up to your elopement ceremony. And no, you don’t have to be in a big bridal suite surrounded by a dozen bridesmaids to make this part of the day meaningful.
In an elopement setting, this could look like:
You sipping coffee on a cabin deck as the mountains wake up
Pinning a boutonniere with shaky hands and a huge smile
Writing last-minute vows by the fire
A first look with your partner on the back porch
Lacing up hiking boots next to your wedding attire
This is where your day begins, and where so much emotion quietly unfolds.
The Emotional Storytelling Behind the Lens
Getting ready wedding photos are all about storytelling. These images capture the energy before the ceremony: the nerves, the stillness, the laughter, and those fleeting expressions of “this is really happening.”
One of my favorite elopement memories is from a cozy Gatlinburg cabin where the bride read a letter from her groom before slipping into her dress. The tears in her eyes, the way she held that note close. It was a moment that deserved to be remembered just as much as the vows on the mountaintop.
Whether you're getting ready separately or together, these moments document your love story in its rawest form. They show the build-up of the wedding day anticipation.
Best Places in Gatlinburg to Get Ready
Gatlinburg is full of dreamy spots for getting ready. I always recommend choosing a location that reflects the vibe of your elopement and offers plenty of natural light. Here are a few favorites:
Cozy mountain cabins: Think vaulted ceilings, large windows, fireplaces, and rustic charm. Look for cabins in places like Chalet Village or along the Arts & Crafts Loop.
Modern Airbnbs with views: For couples who want clean lines and minimal distractions, a modern cabin with a Smoky Mountain view is a photographer’s dream.
Historic lodges or chalets: Add character to your getting ready story with a unique space full of personality.
In addition, choose a space that’s close to your ceremony location. Especially if you're eloping in places like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Foothills Parkway, or Greenbrier. Less drive time means more photo time (and less stress!).
How to Fit Getting Ready Wedding Photos Into Your Elopement Timeline
You don’t need a full wedding-day schedule, but a little elopement planning goes a long way. I recommend setting aside 30 to 60 minutes for getting ready photos, depending on whether you’re prepping together or separately.
Here’s how it might look:
30 minutes: One partner getting ready + detail shots
60 minutes: Both partners getting ready separately + flatlays + optional first look
As your Gatlinburg elopement photographer, I’ll help you build a relaxed timeline that allows us to capture these beautiful moments without feeling rushed.
What to Include for Gorgeous Flatlays + Details
Getting ready photos are also the perfect time to photograph your special details. The little things that tell your story in a big way. Here’s a checklist of items to set aside for detail shots:
Rings (all of them!)
Vow books
Perfume or cologne
Jewelry or cufflinks
Invitation suite or elopement announcement
Florals (especially a loose stem or two from your bouquet)
Family heirlooms or personal keepsakes
Place everything in one spot, like a tray or keepsake box, so we can style it quickly and beautifully. You’ve put so much heart into these little pieces, so let’s make sure they’re remembered!
Capturing the Full Chapter of Your Day
Your Gatlinburg elopement is more than just the “I do.” It’s the way your hands shake zipping that dress. The shared coffee before your first look. The laughter echoing through a tiny cabin kitchen. Getting ready photos complete the story, from beginning to end.
When you look back on your gallery, I want you to remember the full emotion of the day. Not just the summit views or the vows under the trees, but the real, beautiful, in-between moments too.
If you're planning your dream elopement in the Smoky Mountains and want to capture every piece of your love story, I’d be honored to help. Let's create a day (and a gallery) that feels like you from start to finish. Reach out today!
