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unique elopement photography circle star burst around hiking bride and groom off to their adventure elopement  by Elopement photographer nicole morehead, destination life photography
unique elopement photography circle star burst around hiking bride and groom off to their adventure elopement  by Elopement photographer nicole morehead, destination life photography
Writer's pictureNicole Stutts

A Beautiful Gatlinburg Elopement at Ely’s Mill: A Day to Remember

Updated: Jan 4


Couple has an Elopement Adventure in the Smoky Mountains at Ely's Mill
Images by Destination Life Photography www.destinationlifephotography.com

Hey friends! 💕 I’ve got a beautiful story to share today, and I promise it’s going to be as sweet and magical as the love that inspired it. I had the incredible honor of capturing an amazing Gatlinburg elopement for a wonderful couple from sunny Florida. Yes, you read that right—this love story started on the warm beaches of Florida and ended up in the misty, peaceful forests of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

If you’ve ever wondered about planning a Gatlinburg elopement, this couple’s journey is the perfect example of how simple and stress-free it can be, especially when you have the right team on your side. From the very first phone call, they knew they wanted something intimate, surrounded by nature, and full of authentic moments. After all, an elopement is all about celebrating your love in the way that feels most you. And, honestly, there’s no better place to do that than at Ely’s Mill in Gatlinburg.



Why Ely’s Mill?

Let’s start with a little bit of magic—Ely’s Mill. If you’re thinking of having a Gatlinburg elopement, Ely’s Mill should definitely be on your radar. Nestled in the forest near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this historic venue combines rustic charm with natural beauty in a way that makes your heart skip a beat. From the moment you step onto the property, you’re surrounded by towering trees, a babbling creek, and the peaceful hum of nature—perfect for a couple who wants to celebrate their love away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Ely’s Mill has everything you could possibly want for a romantic, intimate Gatlinburg elopement. It’s serene, stunning, and so incredibly peaceful—just imagine exchanging vows with the sound of a creek nearby and birds softly chirping above. It feels like stepping into a dreamy fairytale, right?



Elopement Couple Portrait Adventure at Ely's Mill, Smoky Mountains Tennessee
Photo By Destination Life Photography www.destinationlifephotography.com/smkymtns

The Elopement Day: Love, Laughter, and a Little Magic

On the day of the elopement, the weather was perfect—crisp mountain air, a touch of fog swirling through the trees, and a soft golden glow that filtered through the canopy of leaves. This couple chose to have their ceremony at Ely’s Mill, where the forest meets history, and the result was nothing short of breathtaking. I’ll admit, I was so excited to capture this Gatlinburg elopement because everything about it was magical. From the couple’s first look to the tear-filled vows exchanged under the towering trees, every moment felt so incredibly authentic.

The ceremony itself was intimate and personal, just the two of them, me behind the camera, and the incredible beauty of Ely’s Mill in the background. I think one of my favorite moments was when the couple took a quiet moment to themselves right after saying “I do,” holding hands and taking in the peaceful forest around them. There’s something about a Gatlinburg elopement that just feels so pure—you’re there to celebrate each other, with no distractions, no fuss, and no pressure.


Couple has cinematic adventure elopement portrait session at Ely's Mill, Smoky Mountain National Park Tennessee
Photo By Destination Life Photography www.destinationlifephotography.com/smkymtns





Stress-Free and Simply Beautiful

Planning an elopement doesn’t have to be overwhelming or complicated. Trust me—I’ve seen firsthand how stress-free and fun a Gatlinburg elopement can be. Whether you’re from Tennessee, Florida, or anywhere else, having a photographer who’s familiar with the area (like me!) can make all the difference in ensuring your day goes smoothly. My goal is to take all the guesswork out of your elopement planning so you can focus on what truly matters—each other.

From helping you pick the perfect time of day to avoid crowds, to guiding you through the elopement process (I even have a list of amazing vendors I can recommend!), I’m here to make your Gatlinburg elopement as easy as possible. I want you to be able to relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings at Ely’s Mill without a care in the world.

I know planning an elopement can feel like a big task, but when you have the right support, it becomes a smooth, enjoyable process. Whether you’re dreaming of a ceremony tucked into the trees at Ely’s Mill or on a mountaintop overlooking the Smokies, I’ll help you craft the perfect experience. Every couple deserves a stress-free day where they can just focus on celebrating their love, and that’s exactly what I aim to provide.


Reach out today! Let’s make your dream Gatlinburg elopement happen with ease and joy!





Couple Elopes in Ely's Mill in the Gazebo along the river in Gatlinburg TN
Photo By Destination Life Photography www.destinationlifephotography.com/smkymtns

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