Spence Cabin Elopement in the Smoky Mountains National Park

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains is the perfect destination wedding and elopement location — Spence Cabin. Located in the Elkmont historic district, this intimate wedding location is a dream for photographers and couples looking for a woodland location. It’s no wonder why Sydney and Jake chose this highlight in the Smokies for their wedding day.

The Picturesque Setting

Spence Cabin is located in the Elkmont Historic District within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Elkmont is a historic community once a resort town for vacationers in the early 20th century. The cabin itself is a part of the legacy of this era. Constructed from a combination of logs and redwood planks to create a rustic yet intimate feel.

The cabin is situated along the banks of the Little River, offering a serene and picturesque setting. Dense woods, flowing rivers, and the overall scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park characterize the surrounding area.

The atmosphere of Spence Cabin lends itself to romance for elopements and weddings. The lush forest surrounding the cabin and the calming sound of The Little River nearby make it the perfect backdrop for a couple to exchange vows.

Directions

However, with its remote charm comes some complexity. Getting Spence Cabin is a bit of an adventure, with unreliable cell service making it tricky to find it.

But I’ve got you covered. I’ve created an elegant Canva template to ensure guests can navigate to your elopement or wedding. This template is designed to give your guests a simple rendition of the directions to Spence Cabin. Further, I have created a simple PDF with step-by-step directions (including photos) for your adventure!

The Amenities

Spence Cabin offers rustic accommodations with basic amenities, reflecting its historic and natural setting. The cabin typically features a warming kitchen equipped with essential appliances. The kitchen has stainless steel counters, a double sink, a refrigerator, and a microwave oven. Electrical outlets can be used to keep food warm in slow cookers and to accommodate catering.

The cottage has a very large room (central meeting room), four small meeting rooms, and two restrooms. The main room is 432 square feet in size and has a gas fireplace made of smooth riverstone. Wooden floors and paneling provide a rustic character. French doors open onto a screened porch with rocking chairs inviting guests to sit.

The smaller meeting rooms have numerous windows which overlook the forest and river. The four smaller rooms vary between 118 and 196 square feet in size. Plentiful windows provide natural light and offer views of the forest and river. The cabin has round dining tables, rectangular buffet tables, and folding chairs to accommodate up to 40 guests. Want to see more? View this YouTube video for a virtual tour.

The Ceremony on the Stone Patio

The highlight of a Spence Cabin elopement happens on the two stone patios at the back of the property. One riverside patio sits directly on the bank of The Little River. This stone patio creates a unique atmosphere that can’t be found anywhere else. Further, it is perfect for elopements, offering plenty of room for family and friends to come together.

I don’t know if I could have painted a more tranquil setting for this elopement ceremony if I had written it myself! The Fall foliage surrounding the ceremony created warming tones, while the setting sun rays were soft and light. With the sound of the flowing river as their soundtrack, Sydney and Jake embarked on their journey as a married couple, surrounded by the love and support of their closest friends. And don’t forget about the cutest ringbearer bringing those all-important wedding bands to the lovely couple.

Spence Cabin Arbor

One of the highlights of Spence Cabin is the beautiful stone arbor at the entrance of the stone patio. Sydney and Jake highlighted this feature with beautiful flowers from Thistle and Lace Florals. The beautiful arrangement highlighted their day’s theme and added something beautiful to the surrounding foliage.

After the Vows

After their heartfelt elopement, Sydney and Jake continued the celebration at Norton Grove Treehouse, a charming spot in Gatlinburg’s heart. The after-party radiated a warm and intimate atmosphere, with friends dedicating their time to craft a beautiful farmhouse-style table adorned with thoughtful decor. It was a celebration marked by genuine connection and the artful touch of those who had poured their creativity into making the evening as memorable as Sydney and Jake’s love story.

Great Smoky Mountains Photographer

Hi! My name is Erin Morrison with Erin Morrison Photography! I am a Smoky Mountains National Park Photographer. What does that mean? The National Park Service allows me to conduct business inside the boundaries. I routinely photograph weddings and elopements at Spence Cabin. You will also find me at popular locations such as Noah Bud Ogle Cabin, Cades Cove, Foothills Parkway, or Newfound Gap.

No matter if you are planning a small wedding, micro wedding, or elopement, I would love to be included! Please feel free to contact me at any time to get the planning process started. Better yet? Download my multi-page wedding and elopement guide to get your planning on the right path!