How to Elope in Tennessee — Everything You Need to Know
Thinking About Eloping in Tennessee? Here's Where to Start.
Eloping has completely changed. It's no longer about sneaking off to a courthouse — it's about choosing an intentional, intimate wedding day that's entirely yours. And Tennessee might just be one of the best states in the country to do it.
From the misty ridgelines of the Smoky Mountains to downtown Nashville's neon-lit streets, Tennessee offers elopement backdrops for every couple. And at Raine Studios, we've photographed elopements all across the state — from the Tri-Cities to Knoxville to Nashville and beyond.
Getting a Marriage License in Tennessee
Before anything else, here's what you need to know about the legal side:
• Tennessee marriage licenses are issued by the County Clerk's office in any county
• There is no waiting period in Tennessee — you can get the license and get married the same day
• The license is valid for 30 days statewide, no matter which county issued it
• Cost is typically $100–$115 depending on the county
• Both parties must appear in person with valid government-issued ID
Note: Marriage law can change — always verify current requirements with your local county clerk before your elopement date.
Best Places to Elope in Tennessee
Tennessee has no shortage of stunning elopement spots. Some favorites:
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park — waterfalls, overlooks, forest trails. No permit required for ceremonies under a certain size.
• Downtown Nashville — Broadway, Centennial Park, the Gulch. Urban, editorial, full of energy.
• Roan Mountain — one of the most dramatic landscapes in the entire Appalachians, especially in spring and fall.
• Johnson City and the Tri-Cities area — scenic, uncrowded, and full of hidden gems that most couples overlook.
• Laurel Falls and the Watauga Lake area — quiet, lush, and stunning year-round.
What to Include in Your Tennessee Elopement
The beauty of an elopement is that you get to decide. Some couples keep it to just the two of them and a photographer. Others bring a small group of their closest people. Either way, here are elements worth considering:
• An officiant — a friend can get ordained online in Tennessee
• Vows you actually wrote yourself
• A meaningful location, not just a pretty one
• A celebratory meal or experience afterward
• A photographer who can capture it all without making it feel like a photo shoot
Why Raine Studios for Your Tennessee Elopement
Raine Studios is based in Johnson City, TN and has photographed elopements across East Tennessee, Asheville NC, Nashville, Charleston SC, and beyond. We specialize in vibrant, romantic, documentary-style photography for couples who want their day to feel real — not staged.
We're LGBTQ+ friendly, laid-back, and genuinely invested in making your day feel like yours. Visit chasingraine.com or email chasey@raine-studios.com to start the conversation.
