If you’ve ever imagined exchanging vows under a canopy of trees with sunlight filtering through the leaves and your closest loved ones by your side, then Jessica and Scott’s intimate East Tennessee elopement will absolutely steal your heart. Held at the enchanting Chapel in the Hollow, this woodsy wedding in the Smoky Mountains was equal parts emotional, elegant, and deeply meaningful.
An August Ceremony in the Smokies
Jessica and Scott chose an August wedding date for their forest celebration—warm, golden, and filled with the earthy scents of late summer in the Smoky Mountains. They styled the chapel in white and hunter green drapery, accented by white florals from Chapel in the Hollow’s collection, giving the space a clean, elegant look that blended seamlessly into the woodland surroundings.
The overall aesthetic was timeless and nature-inspired—perfect for couples who want the magic of the mountains without sacrificing sophistication.
The Bride: Radiant with Forest Queen Vibes
Jessica looked like she stepped straight out of a woodland fairytale. Her spaghetti strap wedding gown featured an illusion bodice and a delicately beaded lace train that trailed beautifully behind her as she walked down the aisle. Her soft glam makeup and elegantly swept side hairstyle by Southern Sirens gave her a glowing, effortless bridal look that complemented the natural setting flawlessly.
The finishing touches—sunlight, smiles, and sweet details—made her entire bridal style feel elevated but grounded in the heart of the forest.
The Groom: Honoring His Roots
Scott began the day in his military uniform, a powerful and heartfelt tribute to his service. The sight of him waiting beneath the forest arch as Jessica approached—his children walking just ahead—made for an emotional moment that was felt by everyone present. For their couple portraits, he transitioned into a classic black suit, showcasing his timeless style and love for his new bride.
A Ceremony Made for Family
This wasn’t just an elopement—it was a family-centered celebration. Their three children were the only guests, making this moment deeply personal and emotional. Their daughters walking ahead of Jessica down the aisle added a tender layer of meaning to the day, and Scott’s face lighting up when he saw her said everything that words couldn’t.
Their ceremony, officiated by Ian Parrott, was quiet, sweet, and filled with the kind of intentionality that makes small weddings so special.
Photo Adventures in the Forest & Beyond
After their “I do’s,” the couple explored some of Chapel in the Hollow’s most beloved photo spots with Star Noir Studio: the vine tunnel, woodland paths, mossy trees, and open fields—each one offering a new layer of magic and mood.
But the adventure didn’t stop there. To top off their Smoky Mountain elopement, they headed to Foothills Parkway for a second photo session—because when you’re surrounded by some of the most breathtaking views in East Tennessee, you take full advantage.
From the Bride
We met online. For our first date Scottie booked a suite at Caddy’s Golf Lounge & Craft Eatery, where we could have fun playing games on a golf simulator. We wanted to do something interactive, instead of a typical dinner style date. We had so much fun!
Scottie proposed, on our one year anniversary. Having 3 kids we don’t get regular dates so we were making sure to have something nice planned for our anniversary. Throughout the day he surprised me with a gift card for a mani/pedi, and flowers. We went out for dinner at The Caroline, had a really nice meal. Then we went to Caddy’s, where we had our first date. Unbeknownst to me, Scottie had booked the same suite we had on our first date. We were picking games that we wanted to play, and there was a knock at the door. Scottie’s sister walked in and she had this beautiful canvas size family photo. I thought maybe just another gift he was surprising me with. I was confused while she was there though, so I turned around to look at Scottie and he was down on one knee, and asked me to marry him. It was incredibly thoughtful and sweet!
We knew we didn’t want a traditional wedding, and we liked the idea of keeping it as stress free as possible. Scottie wanted a destination wedding, but we aren’t “beach” people. So we started looking for something more “us” and came across the idea of something in the mountains. We look forward to “officially” blending our family and becoming husband and wife!