Psst… you don’t need it all figured out.

Bring the dream, and together we'll turn it into a plan.

Emilie, photographer & local planning guide in Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge Elopement Photographer
Let's Plan Your Mountain Wedding

Your day-designed with intention. Ready when you are.

Share your vision and let's build something beautiful together.

Let’s put a placeholder for you and figure out everything together.

Psst… you don’t need it all figured out. That’s my job. Bring the dream, and I’ll help turn it into a plan.

— Emilie

Couple staring at the appalachian mountains during their elopement in the Appalachian mountains of North Georgia photographed by Appalachian Wedding Photography

Not Ready Yet? That’s Okay.

If you’re feeling unsure about the date, location, or even what your elopement might look like — you’re not behind. Most of the couples who reach out start exactly there.

All you need is a little spark of an idea. I’ll help you shape it into a clear, realistic plan that fits your vision and feels easy to execute.

With 25 years in Blue Ridge, I know these mountains, trails, river spots, and logistics well — so you don’t have to figure it out alone.

It’s never too early (or too late) to begin the conversation.

I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming about.

WHENEVER IT FEELS RIGHT, I'M HERE!

Reach out anytime — I’d love to start the conversation.

Here’s What Happens Next

  1. Once you reach out through the contact form, I’ll check my calendar and respond within one business day — though it’s often much sooner (sometimes within the hour). Be sure to check your spam folder just in case. I may also send a quick text so you know I received your message.

  2. If your date is available, we’ll schedule a call to get to know each other and talk through what you’re dreaming up — whether that’s a waterfall hike, a river gathering, or something completely your own.

  3. If it feels like a great fit, I’ll send over a proposal and we’ll make it official. From there, we’ll start planning your day together. I’ll guide you step by step so everything feels smooth and manageable.

Call to get started
Appalachian Wedding Photography — Blue Ridge, Georgia wedding and elopement photographer Emilie Gates logo

The Process

How it Works

Say Hello

Once you reach out through the contact form, I’ll check my calendar and respond within one business day — though it’s often much sooner (sometimes within the hour). Be sure to check your spam folder just in case. I may also send a quick text so you know I received your message.

Prefer to chat first?

I’d love that. There’s no pressure to book during our call—I just want you to feel confident and excited before making a decision.

01

The Creative Collaboration

We’ll confirm your date, secure your spot, and start bringing your vision to life with a short questionnaire. Next, you’ll receive your contract and a timeline and family shot guide filled with helpful tips, along with our notes from our connection call- for a smooth, stress-free photography experience.

From there, we’ll stay connected throughout the planning process- collaborating on ideas, locations, and timing to make sure your dream photos come to life.

02

Bringing Your Story to Light

This is where all our planning comes to life. I’ll create a relaxed, fun atmosphere so you can simply be yourselves and enjoy every moment.

After the wedding or session, I dive straight into editing. I’m just as excited to see your photos as you are, so you can often expect your full gallery within the week.

03

Elopements & Family Reunion-Style Weddings

(828)-557-9689

Emilie Gates is a Blue Ridge, GA based photographer serving the TriState area- Western North Carolina, East Tennessee Mountains and North Georgia

Need my direct line?

Arrangement of pink peonies and green hydrangeas on a white table with scattered greenery and flower petals, and a vase of pink and green flowers in the background.
A woman with black hair in a bun working on a laptop at a wooden table, with a vase of pink and green flowers beside her.
A person arranging a pink and green floral bouquet in a ceramic vase on a white pedestal.
A person arranging pink and green flowers in a white and terracotta ceramic vase on a white pedestal against a plain white wall.
A person arranging a pink and green floral bouquet in a white and terracotta vase on a white pedestal against a plain wall.
Person arranging a beige ceramic vase with pink peonies, green hydrangeas, and decorative grasses on a white pedestal.
A woman in a black dress arranging white orchids and pink roses in a beige ceramic vase on a white pedestal.
A woman with black hair tied in a bun working on a laptop at a wooden dining table with a floral centerpiece of pink and green flowers in a ceramic vase, in a minimalist room.