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Smoky Mountain
Elopement Photographer

More than just a photographer—I help you envision, create, and fully experience your perfect elopement.

SO, YOU'VE DECIDED TO ELOPE
IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS!

You've opted out of the confinements that come with a big wedding. You and your partner would rather have an experience. You want an adventure filled with beautiful memories to start off this journey in marriage. 

You’re dreaming of an intimate escape for just the two of you, or a small celebration with your closest loved ones. Either way, eloping gives you the freedom to create a day perfectly curated to you as a couple. 

PLANNING AN ELOPEMENT IN THE SMOKIES COMES WITH MANY POSSIBILITIES, SO IT'S NORMAL TO FEEL OVERWHELMED...

But just because you're taking the path less traveled, doesn't mean you have to start from scratch!

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That’s why I am now passionate about helping couples craft meaningful elopement experiences, without all the unnecessary stress of navigating confusing territory. 

From the first steps of planning to capturing your vows day-of, I’ll be with you every step of the journey. You can focus on what really matters: each other! 

I KNOW PLANNING AN ELOPEMENT IS DAUNTING-
I'VE BEEN THERE!

When I planned my destination elopement  in 2021, I quickly realized how scarce resources are for couples seeking non-traditional weddings. Planning an event from across the country in a location I had never visited in person felt daunting. I struggled to understand the National Park permit requirements, had a hard time deciding on accommodations, searched everywhere for a reliable officiant and scoured the internet to choose the best location for our ceremony.

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Me and my husband's elopement

in Glacier National Park.

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     ELOPEMENT PRICING     

HOW I HELP CREATE A STRESS FREE 

ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE FOR YOU:

Personalized Location Idea List

Not sure where to say "I do"? I’ve got you covered! You’ll receive a handpicked list of epic locations that match your vision.

 

Logistics and Unlimited Planning Help

Permits? Parking? Best lighting times? Let me help you navigate all the little details. Every package comes with unlimited planning help.

 

A Custom Timeline for the Best Experience

Your day should feel natural and unhurried. We’ll work together to craft a timeline that allows you to soak in every moment, ensuring we capture stunning photos while keeping the experience fun.

 

Full Resolution Images

Photos delivered in high-resolution and web-size options. Plus sneak peeks within 48 hours after your elopement!

 

Online Gallery to View, Download, Print, and Share Your Images

Easily access all your photos in a private online gallery. Download them, order prints, and share the magic with family and friends.

 

Travel Fees Included

No hidden fees or surprise charges. Travel costs are already covered! 

 

Vendor Recommendations

Finding the perfect florist, officiant, or hair and makeup artist can feel overwhelming. I’ll connect you with trusted local vendors.

ELOPEMENT PACKAGES

  • 4+ hours of coverage

  • Personalized location idea list

  • Logistics and unlimited planning help

  • Custom timeline 

  • 48 hour sneak peek

  • Full resolution images

  • Digital gallery to view, download, print, and share your images

  • Vendor recommendations

  • All travel fees included

Starting at $2,000

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 EAGER FOR MORE INFO? 

 Check out these resources!

"Katie Mae is ABSOLUTELY wonderful to work with. Her calm and fun personality behind the camera is perfect. She goes above and beyond and will work with you to make your Pinterest inspirations come true. If you are looking for a photographer, book with Katie Mae! You won't find anyone better who can capture memories like she does!"

- Kristi

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SO- WHAT COMES NEXT?

Here is a list of steps of what you can expect moving forward! 

ONE - INQUIRY / BOOKING YOUR CALL

If you haven't already done it... scroll UP to complete the inquiry form! From there, you can expect an email from me with a link to schedule a discovery call to get to know each other, and chat about your vision for the day! 

FOUR - 
SAY "I DO!"

The day you and your love join together has finally arrived! You get to focus on each other, soak in the moment, and fully embrace the experience while I capture every heartfelt detail.

TWO - SECURING YOUR DATE 

The contract has been signed. The 25% deposit has been paid. Your date has been secured in my calendar and this is all official! Woo!

FIVE - 
SNEAK PEEKS

Within 24-48 hours of your big day, you’ll receive a handful of edited photos so you can relive the magic (and share with family and friends) while you wait for your full gallery.

THREE - 
PLANNING

Probably the most time consuming step, with good reason... this is where the magic happens! Over various planning calls we will work together to craft the perfect timeline for your big day, all the way down to the smallest details! 

SIX - 
GALLERY 
DELIVERY DAY!

Your full collection of images will be delivered in a beautiful online gallery, ready to download, print, and share. Relive every moment and turn your memories into lasting keepsakes!

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WHERE TO ELOPE IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS

Cades Cove

Beautiful valley with large grassy fields and mountains in the background. Lots of interesting structures for photos including preserved churches and cabins. Not to mention many wildlife sightings! 

Foothills Parkway

Scenic drive through the mountains with lots of pull-offs for beautiful views and photos. There is no shortage of open grassy spots and there's even a small waterfall right off the road! 

Elkmont

A hidden gem, Elkmont is home to historic venues like Spence Cabin and the Appalachian Clubhouse, both available for day rentals. This area is just a short walk from peaceful river views.

FAQ

Does my elopement have to be just my significant other and I?

You are more than welcome to include your closest friends and family as guests in your elopement, for all or just part of the day. I’ve had couples go completely solo or invite as many as 30 guests!

Do I need a permit to get married in a national park? 

If you plan on saying "I do" in a national park, a permit is required to get married on-site. Don’t worry, complete this process for you! It’s a lot easier than it sounds, and much more affordable than a traditional venue.

What vendors do I need for my elopement?

The answer to this question is unique to every eloping couple. You need to ask yourself what matters the most to you. For example, if having a nice catered dinner is important to you, hire someone to come out and cook it! On the other hand, if you and your partner prefer a slice of pizza and a beer, being able to break typical norms surrounding weddings is one of the benefits of eloping! All of that being said, here is my list of vendors you might want to consider when planning out your elopement day: - Photographer - Officiant - Florist - Hair and Makeup Artists - Chef - Content Creator - Videographer You can find a more thought-out version of this answer on my blog: "What Vendors Should I Bring for my Elopement?"

How soon after my elopement day will I receive my final photos?

Turnaround time is up to 4 weeks. This allows me a comfortable amount of time to edit your photos carefully, ensuring you get the highest quality product back. You will receive a sneak peek 24-48 hours within your elopement day of around 20 shots. This way you have something to enjoy while I complete the rest of your gallery!

How many hours of coverage is recommended for an elopement day?

One of the biggest decisions when planning your elopement is figuring out how much photography coverage you need. While some photographers offer as little as 2-hour packages, I believe telling the story of your elopement day takes time. It isn’t just a ceremony or a glorified photoshoot—it’s an experience, an adventure, and a day (or days!) worth capturing in its entirety. Some people are surprised when I tell them this, but if wedding days are all-day affairs, why aren't elopements? You deserve a full day celebration. I offer a variety of options to fit your unique vision: * Half-Day Elopement (Up to 4 Hours) – Perfect for couples who want a sweet and simple experience. We’ll meet at your ceremony location, and I’ll document your vows, ring exchange, and marriage license signing, followed by stunning portraits in your chosen landscape. * Full-Day Elopement (Up to 8 Hours) – This is the most chosen option. It allows room for a relaxed and stress-free day, ensuring your entire adventure is captured without having to rush. We’ll have time for getting ready, first looks, vows, celebrating with family and friends (if you choose to bring guests along), a meal or picnic, and a fun excursion. Your story will be told from start to finish. * Premium Multi-Day Elopement (Up to 12 Hours or Multi-Day Coverage) – Designed for couples who want two days of adventure. Whether you want one day for just the two of you and another with loved ones, or you dream of exploring multiple locations—maybe even different national parks—this package allows for more time and more memories.

Do I have to hike on my elopement day? 

No, not if you don’t want to! There is a surplus of beautiful ceremony sites with no hiking involved, if that is not your thing! Your elopement day should be full of things you love, and the last thing I want is for you to dread an unwanted hike. Instead, we can plan another fun activity for you two to do together on your special day! I’ve had couples hot tub with champagne, do a horseback ride, or even go up in a helicopter!

How far in advance should I plan an elopement?

Planning 6–12 months in advance is best. This allows time to research locations, book preferred vendors, plan travel, and secure permits if needed.

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READY FOR THE NEXT STEP?

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