Smoky Mountain Weddings are world famous for their gorgeous scenery and old-style charm. There are, however, lots of decisions to make before the big day arrives. The following are 5 tips for planning your Smoky Mountain Wedding.
1. Pick the Perfect Place
Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are each great locations to hold a Smoky Mountain Wedding. They are both small resort cities located near incredible mountains, ridges, and countryside. Each of these choices provides plenty of options and wedding packages for couples to choose from. You can get married in a quaint wedding chapel, in a park, or in an outdoor location along the mountainside.
2. Decide on the Best Season
Spring and summer are great times to visit the Smoky Mountains. The mountains, however, can be just as breathtaking during the fall and winter seasons. The season you choose is a matter of personal taste, but there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a date. The winter will likely provide more availability and will be less expensive. Spring and summer are popular times but it will be more crowded. Autumn in the mountains is simply stunning but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in late fall.
3. Visit Several Months Before the Wedding
Visit as far ahead of the wedding as possible. Picking the perfect cabin, caterer, and entertainment is always easier when seeing places and talking to people in person. Start by going online to look for locations and vendors. Narrow your choices down to three or four before making an actual visit. This way you can taste samples, listen to music live, and actually spend time in the beauty and grandeur of the mountains before making your final decisions.
4. Prepare for Guests
If family or friends will be joining you on your special day make sure to help them with their accommodations. You may be eligible for a discount when renting hotel rooms in town or several cabins in the mountains if you rent with the same company. It’s also a good idea to provide the option of participating in activities while guests are there for the wedding. A guided hike is a great activity to plan for either the day before or after the wedding. Don’t forget to have wedding gifts for attendants and favors for guests. This is especially important if they have traveled extensively to come to your wedding.
5. Don’t Forget the Details
Choosing a beautiful cabin, selecting the perfect dress, and ordering a stunning cake are all items on the list that you’re unlikely to overlook. There are several other items that are just as important. Contact any clergy or justice of the peace that you want to officiate your wedding several months ahead. Make sure to get a marriage license in time as well. Be sure to plan and schedule the rehearsal dinner and any necessary beauty appointments several weeks in advance.