Your Wedding and Engagement Guide

First Things First

Looking to get engaged or married here in the Smoky Mountains? This checklist will help you cover all the bases to help you write one of the newest chapters in your life. If you are planning to visit the area to create your special of occasion the following list will make sure you don’t forget a thing.

 The first thing you need to do before you begin planning is to book your cabin or chalet. This is important because once you know where, in the Smoky Mountains, your rental is located you can do a specific search for vendors near you.

The most helpful tool to use to search for vendors in the Smoky Mountains is Google. Once you know the area where you will be staying, you can do a quick Google search such as: Florists in Pigeon Forge, or Bakeries in Gatlinburg. Google will provide a list as well as a site map telling you exactly what part of Sevier County your vendor is located. Some vendors say they serve the area but are actually located in Knoxville. Using one of those vendors, while staying in Gatlinburg, may increase fees associated with time and delivery.

Where to begin?

Flowers

One of the most important items for any engagement or wedding are flowers. Flowers add to the overall ambiance you are trying to achieve. Romantic engagement? Perhaps roses or just rose petals? For a wedding, you might want your favorite flower or arrangements to coincide with the color scheme. Sevier County has a variety of talented locally owned flower shops.

Venue

Obviously the mountains are the perfect backdrop for an engagement. A lovely hike turns out to be life changing. A stop at one of the many scenic overlooks becomes an unforgettable beginning chapter to forever. However, weddings in the mountains, though possible, require more than just a quick stop.

Weddings in the park require a Special Use Permit from the park and must follow specific guidelines. Completed applications for Special Use Permits for weddings and other special events, along with a non-refundable $50 application fee, must be received by the park no less than 14 days prior to the start of the event. Click here for a map of approved wedding locations in the park.

Other Unique Locations

Of course you don’t have to get married in the mountains. Sevier County has many different types of wedding venues to choose from. From chapels to rustic barns to conference centers. All ranging in size from intimate to up to 400 guests. We are sure you can find the perfect place. One example of a unique wedding venue is 4 Points Farm. Located on the southeastern side of Gatlinburg near the Glades. This converted barn is perfect for an outdoor or indoor wedding.

Many venues even come with catering, officiant and photography services bundled in!!

Photography/Videography

Of course, you don’t want to forget to create a visual memory either. We have many area photographers and videographers that can help catch the magic of the moment. You want to make sure that you get someone who knows what they are doing. Check to make sure they have a website, and they specialize in what you need at that time. Surprise engagement? Post engagement? Wedding day? Just photos? Video? Do you want a seasoned professional or a young visionary? Google’s search feature also lists years of experience.

Don’t Forget

The things mentioned above are important but also don’t forget:

Tennessee Wedding License

Officiant

Bakery/Caterer

And if doing this all on your own seems a bit overwhelming, especially if this is a destination wedding, this area also has wedding and event planners that can help ensure your special day goes off without a hitch (or with one since you are getting married!). Planners can help you curate the engagement/wedding of your dreams. There are also special occasions services that will come to your cabin to decorate and deliver goodies prior to check-in making the special moment even more romantic.

Book Your Stay

A cabin in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg with an incredible mountain view will also be a great location for vows, romance and entertainment. 

How about a cabin? All of our cabins is specifically designed to create an unforgettable experience.  We have several that are perfect for romance. Mountain views, cozy fireplaces, huge King-size beds, opulent private Jacuzzis, hot tubs, and more await guests. Choose from secluded cabins and cabins with views. We have a large selection of romantic honeymoon cabins in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Let American Patriot Getaways be your destination for all things wedding.  With cabins for every group, size and budget, you’re sure to find the perfect home away from home this autumn.  Book online or give our friendly Reservation Department staff a call at 800-204-5169 today. 

Be sure to check out all of our vacation guides for planning your Smoky Mountain getaway.  You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest area information!