Elope in Tennessee: Your Guide to a Romantic and Hassle-Free Wedding in the Heart of Nature
Essential Steps for Elope in Tennessee – Marriage License and Savings Tips
Elopement in Tennessee involves some important steps, starting with obtaining a marriage license. Both partners must appear in person at the county courthouse to complete the registration. You don’t need to be a resident of the county, but you must present proper identification such as your driver’s license, passport, visa, or green card. Some counties even allow you to begin the process online to save time. The cost of a marriage license in Tennessee is $100. However, there’s an opportunity to save money. By presenting proof of completing pre-marital counseling, you can receive a $60 discount, reducing the cost to around $40. This not only saves money but also promotes growth and understanding as a couple. Remember, counseling isn’t just for couples facing difficulties; it’s a great way to learn more about each other.
Who Can Officiate?
In Tennessee, your ceremony must be officiated by a licensed minister or a member of the legislative system. Online ordinations are not recognized. If you prefer a friend or family member to perform the ceremony, consider having a minister step in for the vows or get married by a judge at the courthouse beforehand.
Witness Requirements:
Unlike some states, Tennessee does not require a witness to sign the marriage license. This means you can elope with just you and the officiant. However, if having a witness sign is important to you, some licenses do include a space for that.
The Best Time to Elope in Tennessee:
Tennessee offers beautiful weather year-round, making it an ideal location for elopements. Each season has its own unique charm, so let’s break down what you can expect:
Springtime Elopements in Tennessee – Plan for Beauty and Rain:
Springtime in Tennessee is perfect for outdoor elopements, with temperatures ranging from 67°F to 75°F. However, be prepared for the possibility of rain. Planning a backup location is essential to avoid last-minute stress. If you’re flexible with your timeline, you can adjust your schedule to avoid any storms.
Summer Elopements in Tennessee – Beat the Heat and Crowds:
Summers can be hot, with average peak temperatures around 89 °F. Early summer is particularly lovely, with green trees and blooming flowers. If you’re eloping in the mountains, temperatures rarely exceed 80 °F. Make sure you plan for breaks to cool off indoors and stay hydrated. Summer also means crowded parks, so expect some onlookers unless you choose a remote location or private land.
Fall Elopements in Tennessee – Perfect Weather and Stunning Colors:
Fall is the most popular time for elopements in Tennessee due to the beautiful weather and stunning fall colors. Temperatures range from 74°F during the day to 48°F at night. Peak fall colors typically occur from late October to early November. Due to its popularity, book your lodging and vendors well in advance.
Winter Elopements in Tennessee – Quiet, Cozy, and Magical:
Winter in Tennessee is off-season for tourists, making it a perfect time for a quiet elopement. Temperatures are mild, with highs around 49°F and lows around 30°F. Snowfall is possible in the mountains, adding a magical touch to your ceremony. Dress warmly and plan for the coldest weather to stay comfortable.
What to Wear for Your Elopement?
Your attire should match the season. For summer, choose breathable fabrics like tulle, organza, and chiffon for dresses, and lightweight wool, cotton, or linen for suits. A shawl or wrap can help with cooler mountain temperatures. For winter, opt for warm fabrics like wool and tweed for suits and satin, polyester, and silk for dresses. Layering is key, so consider nude leggings, jackets, and gloves. Ensure some parts of your day are spent in heated areas to warm up.
Choosing the Best Day to Elope:
Weekday vs. Weekend:
Consider eloping on a weekday. Vendors are more available, and parks are less crowded. Weekday elopements offer a more intimate adventure, making you feel like the only person in the world.
Top Locations to Elope in Tennessee:
Fall Creek Falls State Park:
Known for its waterfalls and breathtaking overlooks, Fall Creek Falls is a busy but beautiful spot. A weekday elopement here can help you avoid the crowds.
Cherokee National Forest:
With stunning views from the Ocoee River to Roan Mountain, Cherokee National Forest is perfect for adventurous couples. The hikes can be strenuous, but the vistas are worth it.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains is a favorite for small weddings and elopements. Photographers need a permit, so discuss this with your photographer in advance.
Prentice Cooper State Forest:
This hidden gem near Chattanooga offers perfect sunrise elopement spots with stunning views.
Ijams Nature Center:
With a forest and quarry, Ijams Nature Center provides a unique backdrop with minimal hiking required. It accommodates both small elopements and larger weddings.
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area:
Featuring hidden waterfalls and overlooks, this area is ideal for couples seeking a more adventurous elopement. Some parks require a special use permit ranging from $0 to $300, so factor this into your costs when comparing locations.
Fun Things to Do When Eloping in Tennessee:
Waterfall Adventures:
Tennessee is known for its beautiful waterfalls. Spring and fall are ideal for waterfall hopping, but even in summer, you can find stunning falls to cool off.
Hiking:
If you prefer quiet forests or breathtaking overlooks, Tennessee offers plenty of hiking options to suit all skill levels.
Urban Elopements – Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Nashville:
Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Nashville add an urban flair to your elopement. Find local businesses, savor multi-course meals at various restaurants, and soak in the city vibes.
Tennessee’s Diverse Music Scene – Perfect Soundtrack for Your Elopement:
Tennessee’s music scene is vibrant. If you hire a band from Nashville or students from a local university, your musical dreams can come true. And it’s not just country music—whatever your taste, you can find the perfect soundtrack for your elopement.
Plan Your Dream Elope in Tennessee at A King’s Lodge:
Eloping in Tennessee offers endless possibilities for memorable and intimate wedding memories. With beautiful landscapes, diverse locations, and a bit of planning, you can create the perfect elopement day. If you choose a waterfall, a mountaintop, or a quiet forest, Tennessee has something magical for every couple. So start planning your dream elopement in Tennessee today! Ready to book your dream vacation? Use our easy online booking system or contact our friendly staff to assist you with your reservation. We look forward to inviting you to A King’s Lodge
FAQ’s
- What is the process for obtaining a marriage license in Tennessee?
A: To obtain a marriage license in Tennessee, both partners must appear in person at the county courthouse. You will need to provide proper identification such as a driver’s license, passport, visa, or green card. Some counties allow you to start the application process online, which can save time. The cost of a marriage license is $100, but you can receive a $60 discount if you provide proof of completing pre-marital counseling, reducing the cost to $40.
- Who can officiate our elopement ceremony in Tennessee?
A: In Tennessee, your ceremony must be officiated by a licensed minister or a member of the legislative system. Individuals with online ordinations are not recognized as officiants. If you prefer to have a friend or family member conduct the ceremony, you can arrange for a licensed minister to step in for the vows or get married by a judge at the courthouse before your elopement ceremony.
- Do we need a witness for our elopement in Tennessee?
A: No, Tennessee does not require a witness to sign the marriage license, which means you can elope with just you and the officiant. However, some marriage licenses include a space for a witness to sign, if that is important to you.
- What are the best times of year to elope in Tennessee?
A: Tennessee offers beautiful weather year-round, making it an ideal location for elopements in any season:
– Spring: Temperatures between 67°F and 75°F, with a possibility of rain.
– Summer: hot with average peak temperatures around 89°F, but cooler in the mountains.
– Fall: most popular for elopements due to stunning fall colors and temperatures ranging from 74°F during the day to 48°F at night.
– Winter: mild temperatures with highs around 49°F and lows around 30°F, with occasional snowfall in the mountains.
- Where are some of the best locations to elope in Tennessee?
A: Tennessee offers a variety of beautiful locations for elopements, including:
–Fall Creek Falls State Park: is known for its stunning waterfalls and overlooks.
– Cherokee National Forest: offers amazing views and adventurous hikes.
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Cades Cove is a favorite spot for elopements.
– Prentice Cooper State Forest:is ideal for sunrise elopements with breathtaking views.
– Ijams Nature Center: Unique forest and quarry backdrop, suitable for both small and large weddings.
– Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Features hidden waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Some locations may require a special use permit ranging from $0 to $300.
