For both the bride and groom their wedding day is all about them. Make sure you are OK with giving up the one day when everyone is gathered together just for you. If you don't like being the center of attention then an elopement is perfect. If you like the idea of your family and friends coming together and focusing all their attention on you for the day then you may want to consider a more traditional wedding.
Do you have an overbearing parent, sibling, grandparent or friend who thinks they know what you want more than you do? If you don't like making decisions then they may be helpful. But they can also be the source of stress when you don't need or want their help. It may be a good idea to leave them at home so you can enjoy your wedding day without being pressured into things you don't want. You can always go back home and let them plan a party for you so they feel like they're helping.
Big weddings sometimes become more about decorations, festivities and schedules than celebrating your love for one another. An elopement is an intimate experience all about the two of you and your promise to share your lives with one another.
An elopement obviously costs much Less than a traditional wedding. Think about what you can do with those savings. According to the wedding website The Knot, the average wedding in 2023 cost over $30,000. Couples who decide to elope in Gatlinburg generally spend less than $5000 including travel, lodging, meals, entertainment and of course their Smoky Mountain elopement package. Many of them Use the money they save on a down payment for a home, an extravagant honeymoon or paying off debt. Some couples simply can't afford a $30,000 wedding but still want a special day.
Before making your decision to elope be sure you can handle the potential guilt you may feel when your friends and family find out about your Smoky Mountain elopement. Only you know how disappointed they may be and how it could effect your relationship. Think about how you'll feel on your wedding day without them present to share in your excitement.
Even though a typical elopement in Gatlinburg only includes the bride and groom it doesn't mean you can't have any guests. Most of the locations and packages we offer for elopements are suited for small groups. It's much easier to tell people, I'm sorry but the place where we are getting married only allows 10 people so it's just going to be immediate family rather than we don't want a bunch of people there so your not invited.
Elopements generally produce better, more creative photography. By keeping things simple you'll feel less stress and therefore be more relaxed for your photography session. Your photographer will have time to be more creative without the strict timeline that comes with a large wedding. There are many unique locations suitable for elopements in the Smoky Mountains that offer photographic opportunities unavailable at more traditional wedding venues.
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