One of the biggest perks of eloping in the Smoky Mountains? You have complete control over your budget. Whether you want a “just us” mountaintop moment with hiking boots and a bouquet you picked up yourself, or a fully styled celebration with professional florals, hair, and makeup - your elopement can be as simple or as boujee as you want it to be.

The Basics — What You’ll Need No Matter What

Even the most minimalist elopement will have a few must-haves:

• Marriage License - In Sevier County (which covers Gatlinburg), a marriage license is just $41 if you’re from out of state or $101 if you’re a Tennessee resident. You can grab it from the Sevier County Clerk’s office and it’s valid immediately. (Local Tip: When you apply for your marriage license at the Sevier County clerk’s office, be sure to grab dinner at Seasons 101 across the street-the brussel sprouts and espresso martini as my absolute FAV!)
  
  
• Permit for National Park Ceremonies - If you’re getting married in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll need a ceremony permit. The cost is small compared to your overall budget, but it’s a non-negotiable. (The good news? We handle this part for you when you book with us.)
  
  
• Photography - Your photos are the one thing you get to keep forever and use to share the moment with your friends & family back home, so this is where most couples choose to invest. Our Let’s Elope Gatlinburg packages include both planning and photography so you get expert guidance and images you’ll love for a lifetime.
  
  

What Can Affect the Cost of Your Elopement?

Elopements aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s exactly the point. Here are a few things that can raise or lower your budget:

• Florals - A simple bouquet from a local shop might be $50, while custom, professionally designed florals could be $150+.
  
  
• Hair & Makeup - Some couples DIY, others hire a pro for $150–$300+ depending on style and travel.
  
  
• Attire - Your dress, suit, or jumpsuit can be thrifted, borrowed, or splurge-worthy designer - it’s totally your call.
  
  
• Guests - Inviting a small handful of people may mean extra chairs, snacks, or a post-ceremony dinner.
  
  
• Extras - Think private picnics, champagne pops, professional videography, or custom vow books.
  
  

The Big Picture

Some couples keep their Smoky Mountain elopement under $550 by keeping it ultra-simple. Others spend $5,000+ for a fully styled, all-inclusive experience. Most of our couples land somewhere in between, focusing their budget on the things that matter most to them.

The beauty of eloping here is that there’s no “right” way to do it - just your way. And when you work with Let’s Elope Gatlinburg, you’ll get help figuring out where to save, where to splurge, and how to make every dollar count toward an unforgettable day.

Ready to start planning your dream Smoky Mountain elopement?
Check out our full-service elopement packages here and see how we make it stress-free from start to finish.