So, you are planning to elope in Smoky Mountain NP? Smoky Mountain National Park is located at the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. If you are looking for a place to elope that is full of natural beauty and peacefulness then this is the best option! This park’s gorgeous mountains, forests, and diverse wildlife create the perfect backdrop for a dream elopement. If you are looking to elope or you want an intimate wedding day, I believe this national park should be at the top of your list. I know how stressful it can be to plan your elopement or intimate wedding. So, I’ve put together in this post 4 tips on how to elope in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

How to Elope in Smoky Mountain National Park

#1 Fill Out a Special Use Permit:

I know you are excited, and you want to start planning the details of your elopement/wedding but before you start, the first step is to fill out a Special Use Permit. This permit is a requirement from the park authorities. It comes with a non-refundable payment of just $50 – a small price to pay for the stunning vistas and peaceful atmosphere that the Great Smoky Mountains offer! Remember, you have to submit this permit no less than 14 days before your planned elopement.

#2 Get the Necessary Parking Tags:

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is free to enter, but parking within the park isn’t! To make sure your day runs smoothly and without any inconveniences, remember to get your daily parking tags for a fee of $5 each. With this small arrangement, you can enjoy your amazing day without worrying about parking issues! It’s a tiny detail but it makes a big difference.

#3 No Witnesses? No Problem!:

One of the unique aspects of eloping in Tennessee is that it doesn’t require a witness. Unlike many other places, all you need are the signatures of both parties and the officiant! This means you can have an intimate ceremony, free from obligations or expectations. After all, your elopement is all about the love between you and your partner and the commitment you’re making to each other.

#4 Don’t Forget Your Marriage License:

Don’t overlook the legal aspects! The cost of a marriage license in Tennessee is $97.50. Ensure you budget for this and keep it at the top of your checklist! This legal detail is as important as the other elements of your elopement. It’s the official seal of your union and an essential part of your elopement.

What’s Allowed and What’s Not in the National Park

While planning your elopement, it’s also important to know what’s allowed and what’s not in the park. You can bring acoustic instruments for a bit of soft music, Bluetooth speakers for your favorite tunes, floral arrangements like bouquets, and battery-powered candles/lanterns for that romantic glow. Even up to 6 chairs for a cozy, intimate setting is permitted!

However, certain things aren’t allowed to ensure the park’s peacefulness and natural beauty. These include horse-drawn carriages, tents, tables, food, banners, and signs, and the release of wild animals like doves. Balloons, arches, fireworks, fog machines, confetti, flower petals, rice, birdseed, and drones are also off-limits. These rules help maintain the integrity of the park and its natural environment.

Ready To Elope In Smoky Mountain With Me By Your Side? | Taylor Made | Colorado Elopement & Wedding Photographer

I know planning your elopement or intimate wedding can be overwhelming! I can help you with the photography aspect of your day! My Tennessee elopement packages start from just $3500. This package includes four hours of coverage, an Elopement Welcome Guide, a Location Guide, Timeline Creation, professionally edited photos with unlimited downloads, personal printing rights, Instax Polaroids, and travel. It’s a one-stop solution that takes care of all the details for you! If you are ready to elope in this beautiful national park don’t hesitate to reach out. If you want to learn more about who’s behind the lens, head over to my, about me page! Can’t wait to hear from you.