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A collage of outdoor wedding scenes highlights a bride and groom, a dusty blue bouquet of white and blue flowers, table settings with gold accents, a three-tiered cake, a wooden chapel, and elegant wedding dresses on display.

Spring Dusty Blue Wedding in Townsend, Tennessee

Are you planning a wedding this spring? There are so many venues in East Tennessee, but venues in the Smoky Mountains add a touch of elegance. When you add in dusty blu wedding ideas and elements, it compliments the blue haze of the mountains and the spring weather. This theme worked perfectly for Emily and Derrick’s April wedding.

Dancing Bear Lodge

Finding the right venue is a challenge, but I can help. I’m very familiar with this part of Tennessee, and I’d like to introduce you to one of my favorites: Dancing Bear Lodge.

Dancing Bear Lodge is on the peaceful side of the Smokies, minutes from Cades Cove. It’s close to The Little River and right off the Alexander Parkway, making it easy to get to – all while driving through beautiful scenery such as the Foothills Parkway.

Surrounded by woodland, the lodge has a log cabin appearance and feel across all of the buildings. This includes the cabins and the main building. The rustic sights, and smells, will help transport you to the Smokies. The lodge has romantic two person cabins, including a riverfront cabin, as well as accommodations for larger groups if family are staying over. There are also plenty of other options in the area.

The award-winning Appalachian Bistro offers modern Appalachian cuisine and craft cocktails. The seasonal menu runs to such traditional dishes as fried green tomatoes, glazed pork belly, trout and grits, and sweet tea brined pork chops. They can, of course, handle your reception and your rehearsal dinner. Locals eat here regularly, and TripAdvisor named it as one of the 25 most romantic restaurants in America.

And if you decide to stay in the area for your honeymoon, they are a great base to explore Townsend, Tennessee. Further, the surrounding area is filled with activities that include exploring Cades Cove. There is also time to visit art and craft galleries, go to live concerts, and peruse local museums. Your guests who have come from out of town will also enjoy everything from tubing to ziplining to hiking at the foothills of the Smokies.

Dusty Blue Wedding Ideas

If you are planning a destination wedding in the Smoky Mountains, consider incorporating dusty blue into your wedding theme to complement and highlight the haze that makes this area so unique.

The Details

The wedding invitations showed the same dusty blue gray theme with a clear white font. They even continued the color scheme through the ring boxes. The groom’s polka dot bow tie, the bride’s classic shoes, and white bouquets were used to keep everything light.

The dusty blue palette continued on the tables at the reception and throughout the space with well-chosen wedding decorations. Under the rustic beams of the patio, wooden chairs, white tablecloths, gray napkins, and delicate flower centerpieces dotted the reception. Dusty blue table runners tied everything together. A dusty blue wedding seating chart elegantly displayed on a board with greenery frames greeted guests.

The Ladies and The Gents

Choosing dusty blue bridesmaid dresses (and some with florals) gave a classic style against the backdrop of Dancing Bear Lodge. Each bridesmaid had her own look and shade within the palette rather than being coordinated, which made things feel more natural and organic. Meanwhile, the mother of the groom opted for a contrasting blush pink and the mother of bride wore lilac, showing their personalities while complementing the theme. Emily herself wore an elegant white dress, but elected not to use a veil.

Derrick wore a dark blue suit that offered timeless elegance with a more modern cut. The dusty blue wedding theme continued with dusty blue ties worn the groomsmen. Blue is a timeless color for any suit, and it is one color that will never go out of style.

The Ceremony and Reception

The ceremony itself was performed outside in the Dancing Bear’s wooden gazebo with a background of the Smokies. The weather was perfect for a spring wedding.

The reception took place in the Appalachian Bistro, which seats 75 people in an elegant but rustic environment, and was catered by Dancing Bear Lodge. Signature cocktails were the “Goose” Old Fashioned and the “Maverick” Aperol Spritz to invoke one of the couples’ favorite movies. The cake had white and dusty blue flowers, and was presented in a way which almost made it a shame to cut!

Photographer’s Paradise

I took pictures that showcased the couple, their decorating choices, and the romantic backdrop of Dancing Bear. We included as backdrops the cabin in which the couple were staying, the woods with the main lodge building peeking through the trees, and other cabins in the background. We also made use of the rocks and fences lining the trails between buildings at this wonderful resort.

Smoky Mountain Wedding Photographer

I hope you consider Dancing Bear Lodge as a wedding venue. It’s one of my favorites and can handle everything from intimate elopments to fairly large weddings with as many as 200 guests. It has enough accommodation for some of your guests and romantic cabins, including a waterfront cabin, that you can choose from for your own stay.

I absolutely love photographing dusty blue weddings in the Smokies. The blue haze makes for great light for photography and the woods and mountains can frame the best backdrop for your big day. I work with venues throughout the Smokies in Tennessee, including Dancing Bear Lodge, and I can provide the best memories of your big day. Contact me to find out more or to book me for your big day.

A white wedding dress is hanging on a wooden building wall under a sign that reads ROCKY TOP. The rustic charm of the wood paneling and black lantern light fixture is perfectly complemented by dusty blue wedding accents peeking through the surrounding greenery.
A flat lay image of wedding items on a wooden surface showcases a dusty blue theme. Featured are a wedding invitation, vow books labeled Her, a ring in its box, a wooden ring box, ribbon, sunglasses, jewelry, and a card that reads The Christinas and Mr. Christiana.
Left side: A champagne cork and wire hood rest on a table near a white mug. Right side: In a scene of elegant celebration, a person in a white, off-the-shoulder dress, reminiscent of a dreamy dusty blue wedding theme, holds silver bow-adorned high heels by the window.
A person holds a box with cufflinks on the left. On the right, several dusty blue wedding dresses hang outside a rustic wooden building.
A man in a dusty blue suit and bow tie stands on a forest path. The left image highlights his boutonniere, while the right captures him walking amidst the trees, embodying the elegance of a woodland wedding.
A woman in a white gown with long, puffy sleeves is seen in two images. On the left, her hand and dress are shown close-up. On the right, she smiles while adjusting her earring. The setting appears bright, likely near a window adorned with dusty blue wedding decor.
A bride in a flowing white dress surprises a groom in a dusty blue suit from behind on a stone path in a wooded area. They embrace under green trees, creating a romantic and serene outdoor scene, epitomizing the charm of a Dusty Blue Wedding.
On the left, a couple holds hands in formal attire, the bride in a white gown and the groom in a navy suit with dusty blue accents. On the right, they walk down a tree-lined path, the bride glancing back over her shoulder while holding her dress.
A bride in a flowing white gown holds a bouquet of white and blue flowers, perfectly complementing her Dusty Blue Wedding theme. Beside her, a groom in a matching blue suit gently holds her hand as they walk along the tree-lined path in the serene wooded setting.
A bride and groom walk hand in hand down a wooded path on their wedding day, embraced by the serene elegance of a dusty blue wedding. The bride wears an off-shoulder white gown, while the groom dons a blue suit. Inset reveals her bouquet of white roses and light blue hydrangeas.
A bride in a flowing white gown graces the stone path, enveloped by blooming trees. In another scene, she accompanies a groom in a blue suit—a perfect nod to their Dusty Blue Wedding—both set against a backdrop of lush, green forest beauty.
Left image: A couple shares a kiss outdoors, the bride in an off-shoulder dress holding a bouquet. Right image: Seven bridesmaids in coordinated dusty blue dresses stand in line, their bouquets contrasting beautifully against a backdrop of trees at this charming outdoor wedding.
A bride and her six bridesmaids stand on a wooden deck surrounded by trees, embodying the ethereal charm of a dusty blue wedding. The bride wears a white gown, while the bridesmaids are dressed in various shades of blue, each holding a delicate bouquet of white flowers.
Two photos capture four men in formal suits walking along a gravel path surrounded by trees. They appear cheerful and are interacting and smiling, suggesting a relaxed, joyful dusty blue wedding occasion in a natural setting.
Amidst tall trees and lush greenery, a bride in a white gown and her bridesmaids, dressed in varying shades of dusty blue and gray, walk and smile together on a forest path. They hold bouquets of white and green flowers, embodying the serene elegance of a dusty blue wedding.
On the left, four men in suits stand on a wooded path, smiling and chatting. On the right, a bride in a white gown holds a bouquet, surrounded by three men and a woman in formal attire in dusty blue, all smiling on a wooden deck.
A bridal party stands on a wooden deck surrounded by trees. The bride and groom are at the center, with bridesmaids in elegant dusty blue and gray dresses and groomsmen in dapper suits. All are smiling and holding bouquets, soaking up the scenic outdoor setting of this enchanting wedding moment.
A bride and groom kiss and celebrate their Dusty Blue Wedding with their party on a wooden deck amidst trees. The bride in an off-shoulder white gown and the groom in a blue suit are cheered by their party, dressed in various shades of blue, holding vibrant bouquets.
A bride and groom share a kiss at their Dusty Blue wedding, surrounded by a joyful party. The bridesmaids wear light blue dresses, and the groomsmen are in blue suits. Everyone is celebrating, holding flowers and raising their arms in cheer.
A rustic building with a wooden roof and stone steps, surrounded by lush greenery, sets the scene for a dreamy dusty blue wedding. Red umbrellas and outdoor seating nestle among trees and shrubs on the grassy slope, offering a charming natural oasis.
A dusty blue wedding seating chart elegantly displayed on a board with greenery frames. Nearby, a rustic dining table setup features wooden chairs, white tablecloths, gray napkins, and delicate flower centerpieces.
A beautifully set wedding reception table with elegant white and gold dinnerware, crystal glasses, and a centerpiece featuring candles and floral arrangements. The dusty blue wedding theme is softly accentuated by draped curtains, with wooden chairs completing the decor.
A rustic wedding reception setup with wooden chairs and long tables draped in white and dusty blue linens. Each table is elegantly set with glassware, floral centerpieces, and gold-accented plates. Soft lighting and string lights enhance the cozy ambiance.
A Dusty Blue Wedding table setting features a golden plate and blue napkin, complemented by a name card beside a delicate vase centerpiece. Nearby, a white-tiered wedding cake adorned with flowers rests on a table against a lush greenery backdrop.
The image showcases two scenes: on the left, a mirrored wedding sign with white flowers beside stone steps; on the right, an outdoor dusty blue wedding ceremony setup, where rows of chairs face a wooden arbor enveloped by trees.
Three people are walking on grass: a woman in a pink dress holding a bouquet, a man in a dusty blue suit, and an older man in a dark suit. Linked arm in arm with the essence of a serene wedding, they stroll past trees and a wooden cabin in the background.
A bride in a white dress gracefully walks down the aisle with a man in a dusty blue suit, surrounded by standing guests and lush green trees that enhance the beauty of this outdoor wedding.
A man in a dusty blue suit appears emotional, standing outdoors with lush greenery in the background. Surrounded by other suited men, some slightly out of focus in the foreground, it resembles a formal wedding ceremony.
A split image captures a Dusty Blue Wedding ceremony. On the left, groomsmen in blue suits stand by wooden chairs. On the right, bridesmaids in light blue dresses hold bouquets, standing gracefully in a grassy area enveloped by trees.
In a serene, wooded setting, the bride and groom stand under a wooden gazebo. She wears a white off-shoulder gown and veil; hes in a dusty blue suit. They face each other, holding hands during the ceremony of their dreams—a perfect Dusty Blue Wedding ambiance.
A wedding ceremony set in a lush green outdoor venue, enhanced with touches of dusty blue decor. The couple stands beneath a wooden gazebo, surrounded by guests seated in rows. Tall trees form the backdrop, creating a serene and natural atmosphere for this elegant celebration.
Amidst a beautiful dusty blue wedding, a groom in a blue suit reads heartfelt vows from his notebook to the bride, who gracefully stands in her white dress with a veil. Under an archway draped in greenery, they share an intimate moment at their outdoor ceremony.
A bride and groom stand together in a serene, dusty blue wedding setting as the groom places a ring on the brides finger. A man, possibly the officiant, stands between them holding a book. The ceremony unfolds outdoors with lush greenery enhancing the romantic atmosphere.
Bride and groom walking hand-in-hand and kissing under a wooden gazebo at their Dusty Blue Wedding, surrounded by guests seated outside. The bride is in an off-shoulder white gown, while the groom wears a blue suit. Greenery and trees fill the picturesque background.
A couple in wedding attire stands under a rustic wooden arch in a lush green park, embodying the charm of a Dusty Blue Wedding. They walk up stone steps, hand in hand, with the groom in a blue suit and the bride glowing in an off-the-shoulder white gown.
A couple kisses passionately in a warmly lit, rustic venue adorned with dusty blue accents. Surrounded by guests seated at tables, the string lights hanging from the wooden ceiling create a romantic atmosphere.
A couple on their wedding day, celebrating a dusty blue wedding. On the left, they feed each other cake, while on the right, they embrace outdoors near a wooden pavilion. The bride wears an off-shoulder gown and the groom complements her in his elegant blue suit.
A collection of instant photos scattered around heart-shaped sunglasses and a dusty blue strap. The images capture groups of people joyfully posing together, evoking the warmth and celebration of a vibrant wedding or social gathering.
Left image: A plate with a gourmet dish featuring a meat patty, vegetables, and sauce, perfect for a Dusty Blue Wedding feast. Right image: A drink being poured into a wine glass, creating a bubbly, orange-colored beverage that adds a pop of elegance to the celebration.
On the left, a person paints a watercolor sketch at a table. On the right, a woman in sneakers and a dusty blue dress poses for a photo at what seems like an indoor wedding, as string lights twinkle above and people dance joyfully in the background.
A smiling bride in a strapless white dress stands next to a man in glasses holding a drink at a festive, warmly-lit dusty blue wedding reception. String lights cast a romantic glow over the long table set for guests, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Two photos capture the lively scene at a dusty blue wedding. On the left, two women in dresses joyfully dance together. On the right, a man in a white shirt enthusiastically twirls his tie. String lights add to the festive atmosphere.
At a lively indoor event, a joyful couple dances closely, the woman in a white dress and the man in a white shirt. In the background, two smiling women in green dresses enjoy the dusty blue wedding celebration.
A woman in a light gray dress holds a smartphone and drink, smiling warmly as she reaches out on the porch. With green grass and trees behind her, she chats with someone at a dusty blue wedding, their long brown hair catching the gentle outdoor breeze.
A man in a suit flashes a peace sign at a lively indoor event, perhaps a Dusty Blue Wedding. Women and other guests surround him amid the twinkling string lights and blurred figures. Many have drinks in hand, adding to the joyful atmosphere.
A bride and groom smile while walking hand in hand down a path lined with people holding sparklers. Celebrating their dusty blue wedding, the groom sports a matching suit, while the bride pairs her white dress with sneakers. String lights decorate the background, creating a festive atmosphere.
A couple shares a kiss under string lights outside a wooden structure at night, surrounded by a joyous crowd holding sparklers. Guests, in formal attire accented with dusty blue hues, capture the festive and romantic atmosphere of the celebration.

Professional Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Erin Morrison Photography | Venue: Dancing Bear Lodge | HMUA: RLV Beauty | Florals: Restoration Blooms Floral | Cake: Art of Cakes | Favors: Jordan Abba Art |

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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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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