Crescent Bend
There’s something endearing about a place that has stood the test of time. Crescent House & Gardens, located west of downtown Knoxville, is home to an 1834 house and Italian gardens that cascade down to the Tennessee River. I’m sure original owner Drury Armstrong never envisioned his home and farmland as a popular wedding venue. I do like to believe, however, that Drury, his wife, and sons, would take great pride that the beauty of this place is celebrated by many who choose to marry here. It truly is an enchanting venue where I delight in capturing the celebration and intimate moments of a couple’s special day at this Knoxville, Tennessee wedding venue.
History
In 1832, Drury Armstrong purchased land along the Tennessee River to build a farm and home for his family. Armstrong named the farm “Crescent Bend” in honor of the grandiose view of the river bend. He and his wife, along with their two young sons, moved into their new home in October of 1834.
Throughout the years, Drury Armstrong purchased additional land, expanding his Crescent Bend farm. Ten percent of what is now the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was once owned by Armstrong and was a part of his farm.
The house was used as both a command center and a hospital during the Civil War. Encampments and skirmishes occurred on the farm and the Armstrong home is believed to have been a safe house for the Underground Railroad. According to Armstrong family descendants, the hidden trapdoor under the main staircase led to a room used to shelter runaway slaves.
After the Civil War and the deaths of both sons in 1896, the house and farm passed among several owners. Today, The Toms Foundations owns, operates, and maintains Crescent Bend House & Gardens.
The Setting
If you’re searching for a wedding venue that offers ambiance, romance, and natural beauty, then Crescent Home & Gardens is a perfect choice. It is a wedding photographer’s dream simply for the multiple settings that provide enchanting backdrops. The historic home, cascading formal Italian gardens, fountains, and terraces are downright stunning against their Knoxville, Tennessee setting. Several wedding and reception options include:
Weddings:
- The River Lawn, overlooking the Tennessee River
- The Roman Fountain Terrace
Receptions:
- The River Room, an indoor option for a reception
- Dance and dine under large yet elegant tents
The Convexi Holly Maze Garden and the beautiful Japanese Maple trees are additional settings that make for great photography.
The Crescent House & Gardens accommodates up to 250 guests. Nighttime weddings are especially magical, with lights highlighting the fountains and illuminating the outdoor tents. Talk about magical—what if there is a crescent moon on the night of your wedding at the Crescent House & Gardens? While we can’t control the phases of the moon, even a full moon over the Tennessee River is romantic in itself.
Rain or shine, the staff work hard to ensure each wedding is as magical as possible. The staff is experienced in working with brides from out-of-state who must accomplish their planning from a distance.
For a complete list of options for your wedding and reception, contact Crescent Bend House & Gardens today. The staff is highly rated on review sites such as The Knot and Wedding Wire. They provide a range of services and coordination, including catering and flower options.
The Location
Crescent Bend House & Gardens is located along Kingston Pike, just west of downtown Knoxville. Described by former brides as easy to find, the venue offers plenty of parking for guests.
From the Knoxville Zoo to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s plenty for guests to see and do while in the area. Visit Knoxville, the official tourism site for the city, is a great resource for additional information, including hotels for out-of-town guests.
Eastern Tennessee is a beautiful setting for sealing your love. It’s also a convenient location for friends and family located throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Whether you are native to the area or live elsewhere, visiting the Knoxville area is a great way to learn first-hand why so many choose to marry here. The Crescent Bend House & Gardens offers tours so be sure to schedule a visit. Before traveling a long distance, call ahead and schedule an appointment with their wedding coordinator too. After touring the property, chances are, you’ll have a date on the books before you leave.
Erin Morrison Photography
I am a storyteller who believes in capturing the true emotion of your special day. My specialty is natural light, and documentary photography. There is no “shot list” with me. I focus on the moments that reflect the love of the day among the bride and groom, and their family and friends.
My experience includes photographing more than 70 weddings in the Knoxville and surrounding area. Your wedding day is your special day and the photographs should bring smiles for years to come. I especially enjoy working with couples early in their wedding planning process—from the engagement up to their wedding day. No matter where along your journey we meet, I enjoy getting to know you so that I can best capture your personalities and the spark that leads to marriage.
Where you celebrate your special day is an important decision. Choosing a historic site with beautiful gardens is an option many people dream about. The Crescent Bend House & Gardens, with its historic home, Italian cascading gardens, and magnificent fountains, is a total package of ambiance and romance. If you’re interested in the Crescent Bend House & Gardens as your wedding venue, contact me to discuss availability, rates, and photography options. I’m truly honored when selected as a wedding photographer. Let’s chat soon about your plans and my services.
