If you’re dreaming of a romantic, nature-filled celebration with heartfelt moments and thoughtful details, you’re going to fall in love with Reina and James’s pink and navy forest wedding at Chapel in the Hollow. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, our woodland venue offers the perfect setting for couples seeking a micro wedding filled with emotion, connection, and beauty—and this August day was a perfect example.
A Forest Wedding in the Smoky Mountains
Reina and James made the trip to our secluded venue for an intimate wedding that combined natural beauty with elegant style. They dressed the chapel in soft pink and navy fabric—two colors that look stunning against the greenery of East Tennessee’s forests—and enhanced the look with our ombre pink florals and candlelight package for a romantic glow.
As an added touch of personality, Reina brought in potted plants to sit alongside the lanterns on the steps, giving the setting a warm, lived-in feel that blended beautifully with the surrounding woods.
A Bride Radiating Fairytale Glamour
From the moment Reina stepped into view, it was clear this was a day to remember. Her strapless wedding gown featured vine detailing on the bodice and a flowing train that swept the forest floor like something out of a dream. She paired it with rhinestone heels from David’s Bridal, sparkling like stars beneath the canopy.
But the true showstopper? Her veil, delicately embroidered with white floral appliqués and accented with pearls. It was a piece of wearable art that gave her look a touch of soft, ethereal beauty.
Getting ready was a family affair. Her mom and sisters helped her into her dress, and she shared two tender first looks—one with James, and one with their sweet son. Her bouquet included a photo of her late father, and she carried one of his shirts with a sentimental phrase tucked nearby, keeping his presence close to her heart.
James looked sharp in a classic navy suit from Todd’s Menswear, perfectly coordinating with their son, who played the very important role of Ring Security—complete with a tiny suit and briefcase.
Reina surprised James with a lapel pin bearing a photo of his grandfather, and his emotional reaction was one of the most touching parts of the day.
A Ceremony Full of Meaning
The ceremony was brimming with personal touches. Reina’s mom walked her down the aisle, and their son met her halfway, symbolizing the merging of their lives as a family. The couple chose a dear friend to officiate, which made the vows feel even more personal and connected.
One of the most beautiful parts? A unity candle ceremony, with both of their mothers lighting the candles to symbolize the joining of families. The entire moment radiated warmth, love, and light—both literally and figuratively.
From the Bride:
James and I met at local bar in Bay City Michigan in 2014. The placed was called Lucky’s Pub&Grill. James was out with friends for a Batchelor party and as soon as I walked into the bar, I told my good friend Madison that one day I was going to marry him!
When James and I met during his friend’s Bachelor party, James and I hit it off great! Two weeks later James invited me to his friend’s wedding, and ever since then we never stopped seeing each other! Here we are 11 years later and still going strong!
James proposed in October of 2023. We mentioned that he wanted to take me out to dinner and that I needed to hurry so we wouldn’t be late. James took me to Downtown Bay City Michigan. He wanted to take me closer to the water and that’s where my two older sisters were. They had been waiting for us to surprise us!! My sister Angel took pictures of us and afterwards we all went and celebrated with a few drinks!
We chose East Tennessee for our pink and navy forest wedding because we love traveling to Tennessee during the summer!!!
James and I have been together for 11 years. We have a 10-year-old son. Zeke is our pride and joy and being able to celebrate with him is so exciting!! James and I were never into rushing things but this year we decide to finally tie the knot!! It’s been a long time coming but were excited to see what the future has in store for us!!
We love Tennessee!! We chose date of Aug. 21st, 2025, because I love attending the Jeep Invasion, we decided to knock both things out at once!
James and I enjoy family time. We enjoy taking random road trips! We enjoy hunting and fishing.