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Collage of a rustic luxe wedding in a forest setting. Features a couple walking, elegant table setting with greenery, close-up of decor, bouquets, wedding party strolling, ceremony with wooden chairs, and stylish wedding invitations.

Thrifted Rustic Luxe Wedding in the Tennessee Woodlands

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. You’ve found the person you want to spend forever with, so you’ve got to plan a beautiful wedding to commemorate your love. Keeping things eclectic and true to you is all the rage, so why not have a rustic luxe wedding? Rustic luxe weddings embrace thrifted details and the outdoors. This theme also centers on small details instead of extravagant, expensive things.

One amazing couple, Raven and Fryderyk, chose to have a rustic luxe wedding at the Norris Dam Tea Room in Norris Dam State Park. They couldn’t have chosen a more beautiful ceremony. Since it’s your time to plan a wedding, let’s reflect on their day and talk more about how you can host a rustic luxe wedding ceremony on your romantic day.

Refined Details: The Perfect Blend of Rustic and Elegant

If you’re looking to have a wedding like Raven and Fryderyk, you’re in luck! Designing your rustic luxe wedding is all about combining vintage charm with elegant details. And it’s easier than you might think. Here’s how you can bring the magic to life with a focus on every detail, from bridal to ceremony to reception.

Bridal Details

A rustic luxe wedding calls for bridal details that blend timeless beauty with subtle sophistication. Raven’s wedding dress was a perfect example, featuring soft details and an elegant A-line silhouette that complemented the natural surroundings. Pair your dress with accessories like a thrifted fur coat and burgundy red shoes.

Groom Details

Fryderyk’s attire struck the perfect balance between rustic and refined. He wore a tailored dark brown tweed suit, a crisp white shirt, and a simple but elegant tie. He added a boutonniere made with greenery and a single bold bloom for a rustic, luxe touch. Leather shoes and accessories like belts or suspenders add a polished yet rustic vibe. You can also get creative by incorporating a pocket watch or vintage cufflinks to complete the look.

Ceremony Details

The ceremony space is where the magic truly begins. The Norris Dam Amphitheater provided towering trees and a serene woodland setting for Raven and Fryderyk. A wooden arbor adorned with greenery served as a stunning focal point. To make it personal, both bride and groom wrote their own vows. With the amphitheater’s open-air design, the natural surroundings will enhance every moment.

Reception Details

The reception is your chance to blend personal touches with the rustic luxe theme. Raven and Fryderyk’s tablescapes were a perfect mix of vintage and modern. The decor featured brass candle holders with candles, lush greenery, and thrifted glassware. Seasonal flowers can add pops of color to the greenery centerpieces.

A Woodland Ceremony in Tennessee

If you choose a venue like the Norris Dam Tea Room for your wedding, you’re picking an incredibly quaint venue with a cottage feel. This couple opted for the tea room because it fits the vibe with a wood-burning stone fireplace, exposed beams, and a stunning Amphitheater.

The Amphitheater at Norris Dam State Park is a dreamy spot for a rustic luxe wedding, combining natural beauty with a touch of history. Nestled in the woods, it creates the perfect cozy and charming vibe many couples love for a Tennessee woodland wedding. Its open-air design makes it versatile, allowing you to add personal touches and make the space your own. With stunning views of towering trees and Norris Lake just nearby, it’s the perfect location to exchange vows surrounded by your closest friends.

What Are the Specs of the Norris Dam Tea Room?

If you’re interested in getting married in Tennessee, you’ve got to learn more about the Norris Dam Tea Room. Built and designed in the 1930s, the Tea Room at Norris Dam is a classic wedding spot in the area. Here are some things of note about the Norris Dam Room Tea Room:

It Seats Plenty of People: The venue can seat around 100 people. If you’re looking for a small wedding that is still big enough to host all your friends and family, this is the spot for you.

Tables and Chairs Are Provided: You don’t want to be responsible for bringing your tables and chairs to the wedding venue you choose. When you opt for the Tea Room at Norris Dam, all your tables and chairs are provided and wooden and stylish, too.

An Amphitheater Is Included in the Package: This wedding venue is great because you get a reception and ceremony location all in one package. You can have your reception in the tea room and host your ceremony in the amphitheater.

Bathrooms and Kitchen Are Close by: The bathrooms are easily accessible, and there is a kitchen nearby. Whether you want food catered or make it yourself, you can use the kitchen to your advantage. Food is an important part of your wedding, so you want easy access to a kitchen.

You Can Rent Venue for a Day or a Weekend: Your wedding can be short and sweet or a little bit longer. Why? Because you can rent the venue for either one day or a long weekend. If you choose to have a weekend wedding, you can have a rehearsal dinner, and your ceremony and reception.

Intimate Wedding Photographer, Erin Morrison Photography

I love a wedding that is designed with intention. You don’t have to spend tons of money to have a wedding that you love. You have to focus on the small details—you can thrift items, use sentimental items you already have, or buy things for inexpensive prices. Your wedding will be sentimental, beautiful, and memorable if you get creative and make intentional decisions for your rustic luxe wedding.

If you want to learn more about my wedding photography style, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I would love to meet you and your partner to see if we’re the right fit for each other. It would be my pleasure to photograph your wedding!

A split image: on the left, rustic luxe wedding invitations with duck illustrations and gold wax seals are arranged on a wooden surface; on the right, a pair of burgundy heels is displayed on a rustic chair, partially covered by a veil.
Left: A woman in a white dress sits on a wooden swing, embodying rustic luxe as she adjusts her dark shoe. Right: Close-up of a man in a brown suit with a boutonniere of white flowers and greenery, perfect for the chic, yet understated elegance of their wedding.
A man in a suit smiles while adjusting his jacket, standing against a rustic wooden wall. On the right, a woman in a white dress lovingly kisses a small dog wearing a bow tie, embodying the charm of a luxe wedding setting.
Amid a rustic luxe wedding scene, a bride and groom embrace the enchanting forest setting. The bride, draped in a fur shawl, holds a lavish bouquet of white blooms and greenery, smiling radiantly. The groom dons a dark suit with a bow tie, playfully posing among the tapestry of fallen leaves.
Five men in brown suits and bow ties stand outdoors in a forest with autumn foliage, embodying a rustic luxe wedding vibe. They face the camera with serious expressions, holding their suit lapels. Trees with bare branches and fallen leaves create a picturesque backdrop.
A joyful rustic luxe wedding scene in a forest: on the left, a bride in a white dress holding flowers walks with bridesmaids in dark dresses and shawls. On the right, three groomsmen in suits, one adjusting his vest, stroll through fallen leaves. The setting is autumnal and enchanting.
A bride and groom walk down an outdoor path, embracing the rustic luxe wedding theme surrounded by a forest in autumn. The bride wears a white dress, holding a bouquet. The groom and guests are in dark suits. Bridesmaids in navy dresses with fur shawls stand nearby, smiling warmly.
A group of elegantly dressed people, consisting of five women and four men, stands in a wooded outdoor setting reminiscent of a rustic luxe wedding. The women wear dark dresses with fur wraps, and the men are in suits with bow ties. Sunlight filters through the trees, highlighting the scene.
The left side of the image captures a person in a white dress and brown fur shawl, exuding rustic luxe charm, as they hold a bouquet of white and blush flowers with greenery. The right side reveals an outdoor forest setting with a small amphitheater and simple arch, surrounded by towering trees.
A rustic luxe wedding unfolds outdoors with wooden chairs arranged on stone pavement. Beside them, a basket holds paper cones filled with pink and red flower petals, adding elegance. Leafless trees provide a natural backdrop, enhancing the charm of this sophisticated celebration.
A Rustic Luxe wedding setup features a white frosted cake adorned with white flowers and greenery on a glass stand. Surrounding cupcakes complement the centerpiece. Long wooden tables are beautifully arranged with lush greenery, candles, and elegant dinnerware, exuding sophistication.
The table setting exudes rustic luxe wedding charm, showcasing a white plate with a menu surrounded by a gray napkin, silver cutlery, and crystal glassware. A brass candelabra holds three lit candles while evergreen branches add elegance to the wooden table.
A neatly set dining table exudes rustic luxe wedding charm with a white dinner plate, textured gray napkin, and printed menu. Silver cutlery flanks the setting, while greenery decor enhances the elegant ambiance in the background.
A cozy dining setting exudes rustic luxe elegance. On the left, a table is set with glasses, a candle, greenery, and a Table 6 card. On the right, a stone fireplace adorned with greenery sits below a wooden ceiling and fan—perfect for an intimate wedding celebration.
Rustic Luxe Wedding in a wooden cabin features a charming dining setup with long tables adorned with greenery, white candles, and elegant tableware. Large windows invite natural light, enhancing the warm and cozy ambiance tailored for special celebrations.
A groom in a suit stands smiling under a wooden arch adorned with greenery, capturing the essence of a rustic luxe wedding. Wedding guests, slightly blurred in the foreground, watch the ceremony. The background features a forest setting with fallen leaves.
A bride in a white dress and fur stole stands on steps outdoors, holding a bouquet. In the forests rustic luxe setting, a wedding ceremony unfolds with the couple and officiant on a red rug under a wooden arch adorned with lush greenery.
A bride in a white dress and fur shawl glides down the aisle, hand in hand with an older gentleman, toward the groom and groomsmen at the altar. The rustic luxe wedding unfolds amid a wooded area, where guests are seated on elegant wooden chairs.
A rustic luxe wedding unfolds in a forest setting with tall trees and autumn leaves. The bride and groom stand under a floral arch, the bridal party in dark attire nearby. Guests seated in wooden chairs enjoy the ceremonys elegant simplicity amidst natures grandeur.
A couple stands under a wooden arch adorned with greenery during their rustic luxe wedding ceremony. The bride wears a white dress with a fur wrap, and the groom is in a dark suit. An officiant and a man stand nearby in the picturesque wooded setting.
A couple stands under a wooden arch adorned with greenery and flowers, epitomizing a rustic luxe wedding as they hold hands during the outdoor ceremony. A person officiates their vows against a backdrop of autumn foliage and fallen leaves.
A couple is getting married outdoors in an autumn setting, embracing a rustic luxe wedding theme. They kiss under a wooden arch adorned with greenery, then walk down a stone path holding hands, the bride carrying a bouquet and wearing a white dress with a fur shawl.
A couple shares a tender kiss outdoors on stone steps, emblematic of a Rustic Luxe Wedding. The woman in a white dress and brown shawl holds a bouquet, while the man complements her in a brown suit. The blurred trees and foliage create a serene, natural backdrop for their special moment.
A couple in wedding attire poses outdoors, embodying a rustic luxe wedding. The woman holds a bouquet and wears a white gown with a fur wrap. The man dons a dark suit and bow tie. They walk hand in hand through a wooded area, adorned with fallen leaves and old stone steps in the background.
A couple embraces in an outdoor setting adorned with autumn leaves, epitomizing a Rustic Luxe Wedding. The woman, draped in a fur shawl, holds a bouquet of white roses and eucalyptus. They share a kiss on the right, capturing a tender moment against the sunlit backdrop.
A couple embraces in a wooded area with fallen leaves, embodying a rustic luxe wedding vibe. The bride wears a white dress and fur stole, while the groom sports a brown suit. In another image, he holds a bouquet of white flowers and greenery as sunlight filters through the trees.
A couple in wedding attire walks hand in hand through a serene forest, embodying the essence of a rustic luxe wedding. She dons a white dress and fur stole, holding a bouquet, while he is elegantly dressed in a dark suit. The setting sun casts a warm glow over their enchanting moment.
Amidst a forest setting, a couple savors their rustic luxe wedding on terraced grass steps. The woman, in a white dress and fur shawl, cradles a bouquet of white roses. Her partner stands beside her in a suit, enveloped by trees adorned with autumn leaves.
Amidst a setting of rustic luxe charm, a couple shares a tender kiss outdoors. The woman, adorned in a fur stole with a bouquet of white roses, embraces the moment as the man in his brown suit complements the scene. Blurred stone steps and fallen leaves create an enchanting backdrop for their love story.

KNOXVILLE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | KNOXVILLE ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER | KNOXVILLE FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER | SMOKY MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHER| LGBTQIA+ Friendly

A memorable elopement at the foothills of the Smokies! And guess what? It didn’t actually occur IN the NPS. Shocked! 🤣

Remember, there are so many amazing locations in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Townsend, Sevierville, and Wears Valley that are perfect for a “smoky mountain elopement.” Find the place that speaks to you! This mid-century mod location was perfect for Alaina and Travis. 

And then…hire me to photograph it! Easy peasy! 
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Photographer: @erinm_photography | Officiant: @chuck.oconnor | HMUA: @valerysstudio_ 
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I sent over 47,000 images to clients in 2024. When I tell you that indecision fatigue is a real thing when posting to social media, I mean it. 
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So, here is a single photo to post. I love it. It’s a favorite. 
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The story? 
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Pretty simple. The best man dropped the rings and we all about lost our minds 🤣
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Venue: @rtlodge | HMUA: @bangsandblush_ | Floral: Wade Floral Co | Dress: @whitelaceandpromises | Suit: @indochino | Videographer: @bighillproductions | DJ: Sword Sounds⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#knoxvillewedding #knoxvilleweddingphotography #knoxvilleweddingphotographer #erinmorrisonphotography #rtlodge #knoxvilleweddingvenue #thehappynow #forestwedding #chattanoogawedding #chattanoogaweddingphotographer #nashvillewedding #nashvilleweddingphotographer #ashevillewedding #ashevilleweddingphotographer #tennesseewedding #tennesseeweddingphotographer #gatlinburgwedding #gatlinburgweddingphotographer #smokymountainweddingphotographer #thevenuereport #fallwedding #winterwedding #shesaidyes #makemoments #makememories #knoxvilleweddingvenue #rtlodge #erinmorrisonphotography #thevenuerreport #luxurywedding
Brides & Grooms, take note! The biggest timeline delay I saw in 2024 across multiple weddings at multiple venues? 

Getting-ready logistics!

If you want your VIP (Mom, sibling, bestie) to help you into your outfit, they need to be ready before your photographer arrives.

This isn’t a requirement, but if you’re envisioning those special, candid moments—make sure their hair, makeup, and outfits are done so they can focus on YOU.

This also goes for those moments where people need to tie a tie, or fold a pocket square! Make sure to try those items on before the wedding day 😉 

💡 Pro tip: Your HMUAs are amazing! Work with your hair and makeup team to create a schedule that ensures anyone helping you get dressed is ready before your photographer arrives. This keeps everything running smoothly and stress-free! 
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#knoxvilleweddingphotographer #smokymountainweddingphotographer #easttennesseeweddingphotographer #knoxvillebrides #smokymountainbrides #tennesseeweddings #knoxvillephotography #smokymountains #knoxvilleweddings #knoxvillephotographer #knoxvillewedding #knoxvilleengagement #knoxvillebride #knoxvilleweddingvenue #knoxvilleweddingphotography #easttnphotographer #ashevilleweddingphotographer #virginiaweddingphotographer #knoxvilleweddingstyle #knoxrocks #smokymountainweddingphotographer #knoxvilleweddingideas #chattanoogaweddingphotographer #knoxvilleweddingfun #nashvilleweddingphotographer #knoxvilleweddingmoments #georgiaweddingphotographer #easttnphotographer #knoxvilleweddingdreams #johnsoncityweddingphotographer

Natural light + honest photographer for ALL humans.

 

Knoxville, Tennessee

865.214.7826

erinmorrisonphotography@gmail.com

Office Hours: M-F 8am-5pm | S-S 12pm-5pm

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