There’s something extra magical about a wedding morning kissed by rain, and Christina + Winston’s September “I Do” at Chapel in the Hollow proved just that. With mist rolling through the Smoky Mountains and golden sunflower accents warming up the day, their micro wedding was intimate, family-centered, and full of thoughtful details.
A Cozy Chapel Setting
Christina and Winston dressed the Smoky Mountain wedding chapel in soft dusty sage and champagne fabric, accented with our signature sunflower florals. Christina added her own sunshine with lanterns glowing on the steps and mason jars brimming with bright blooms. The warm tones popped beautifully against the cool, misty morning air — a perfect blend of rustic charm and fall romance.
The Bride + Groom
Christina wore a sleeveless gown from Bicici & Coty by Thomas Bridal Fashions, paired with casual Converse sneakers for comfort and personality. Her hair fell in soft curls, and her radiant smile lit up the aisle. Winston kept it timeless in khakis and a crisp white shirt — the perfect laid-back look for a micro wedding in the woods.
The sweetest moment? Watching his face light up as Christina walked through the archway. Pure magic.
A Family-Centered Ceremony
This was a true family affair. Christina’s daughter carried their pup down the aisle , while her sons proudly walked her to Winston. The ceremony, led by officiant Ian Parrott, reflected their love not just as a couple but as a blended family.
Thoughtful + Fun Details
One of the most unique parts of their day was tied to Winston’s proposal — he popped the question with a gumball machine because Christina loves them. To honor that, they included one at their wedding so guests could enjoy their favors straight from the source!
They also brought a gorgeous cake from Publix, complete with cute table décor that tied everything together.
Embracing the Rain
As family portraits wrapped up, the drizzle picked back up — but that only added to the romance. With clear umbrellas in hand, Christina + Winston strolled through the forest and field for couple’s portraits. The cloudy skies, misty trees, and mountain backdrop gave their photos dreamy, cinematic vibes that only a rainy day wedding can deliver. Proof that a little rain on your wedding day really is good luck.
From the Bride
When I needed a place for me and the kids to live, I was fortunate to be introduced to a man that helps women that are needing a place to live when coming from unique situations. Thankfully he agreed to let me and the kids move into an empty rental that he had on a farm overlooking the water. While I knew it would be a perfect setting for me and the kids to spend lots of quality time together, I never dreamt that I would meet the most perfect man for me on the farm. Winston works for the man I rent from. When I moved in, my landlord told me that if I needed anything or had an emergency to call Winston. He talked very highly of Winston and his character. He told me that I could trust him. I first met Winston about 2 months after I moved in and we have been together ever since. He is every bit as wonderful as my landlord said, and more. On our first date he came over early one morning and we just sat and talked for hours. It was perfect.
Winston proposed. We went on a picnic at Fontana Dam. It was a place that neither of us had ever been, but it was a special place for his parents. He searched for the perfect over look spot. He had my ring in a plastic toy prize container in a pink bubble gum machine. He gave me a quarter to get a gum ball. My quarter was a 1970 quarter, which is his birth year. I got a red gum ball. Then he pulled out another quarter which was a 1978 quarter (my birth year). His quarter gave him the toy container with my ring in it. Then he got down on one knee and asked. East TN is where we live and where we met. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world to us. I can’t wait to become Mrs. Smith and starting our life together as a family. We chose this date because we didn’t want too hot or too cold. September 27 just had a good sound to it for us.
We love getting out on the lake for evening boat rides, camping, golf cart rides, game nights with the family, long car rides, and anything we can do with our sweet dog, Messi.