How to Plan a Beautiful Elopement on Roan Mountain, Tennessee | Carvers Gap Trailhead
Randi + Anthony’s Roan Mountain, Tennessee Elopement | Carvers Gap Trailhead
Everything You Need to Know to Plan a Simple, Beautiful Day
Thinking of eloping but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Planning an elopement can feel exciting but also a little overwhelming—especially when you're doing something non-traditional. That’s why we’ve pulled together the most common questions couples ask us when planning their elopement in the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond.
Whether you're dreaming of a sunrise hike, a quiet ceremony in the forest, or a courthouse followed by dinner under string lights, this guide is here to help. Reach out to Emilie
Q1: Is eloping legal? How do we make it official?
Yes! Eloping is 100% legal, but the key is knowing your state’s marriage license rules. Here in Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina, you’ll need to:
Apply for a marriage license (in person at a courthouse, no blood tests required).
Bring proper ID (driver’s license or passport usually works) and all documents of previous divorces (timing right?, I know).
Pay a small fee (typically $50–$70).
Bonus tip: You’ll also need an officiant (ME!), and depending on state, no witnesses or 1–2 witnesses depending on location.
Q2: How far in advance should we start planning?
Elopements can be planned in as little as a few days—or a year out!
We recommend giving yourselves 1–6 months, especially if:
You want to book a specific photographer or location
You need to arrange travel or accommodations
You’re inviting a few close guests
That said, we've helped couples plan beautiful, meaningful elopements with less than two days notice!
Q3: What do we actually do on the day?
That’s the best part—you can do anything you want.
Some ideas from past elopements we’ve photographed:
A morning hike to say vows at sunrise
A slow, cozy cabin morning with handwritten letters and coffee
A courthouse ceremony followed by dinner at your favorite restaurant: think- small town~ walking the streets hand in hand
Champagne in the woods, barefoot vows, and dancing under string lights
Gathering at the local brewery or cider house. Emilie has all the connections for this. Just ask.
Think about what feels like you as a couple—and build the day around that.
Q4: Should we still hire a photographer for an elopement?
Absolutely. Your elopement deserves to be remembered and celebrated just as much as any big wedding. A photographer doesn’t just take photos—they help guide the timeline, scout the best locations, and capture all the moments you didn’t even know were happening.
We love documenting elopements because they’re real, raw, and full of meaning.
Q5: What should we pack or prepare for?
Here’s a quick elopement essentials checklist:
Marriage license and pen
Comfortable shoes + a backup pair
Layers (mountain weather changes fast!)
Vows, letters, or keepsakes
Snacks + water
A Bluetooth speaker for your favorite song with songs loaded so no wifi needed
Bug spray, sunscreen, and tissues
And if you’re hiking or heading off the beaten path, let someone know your plan just in case. Have a meet up spot with cell service and then drive to the location with your photographer together.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Eloping is about freedom—but that doesn’t mean you have to figure it all out on your own.
From timeline help to location scouting and vendor referrals, we’re here to make this easy and meaningful for you.
If your heart is pulling you toward something simple, intentional, and full of love—trust that instinct. Your elopement day can be whatever you want it to be.
📩 Ready to start planning your Appalachian Mountain elopement?
Send me a message and let’s dream it up together. I’m here to guide, support, and cheer you on—every step of the way.