Katelyn + Nathan’s

Smoky Mountain Destination Wedding at The Magnolia Event Venue

Pigeon Forge Destination Wedding

Katelyn and Nathan live in Illinois and chose to have a Pigeon Forge destination wedding at The Magnolia in the Smoky Mountains. They met online and had their lunch first date after about a month. That afternoon at Dave & Buster’s, Katelyn “kicked Nathan’s butt in air hockey…multiple times.” Haha!! I love a good rivalry to start a love story!

Proposal on the Lake

Nathan proposed during a family lake day on Clinton Lake.  In Katelyn’s words:

“He was drenched in sweat, pale, and began nervously searching for his bag. I thought that he was getting motion sick after being tossed off the tube and looking for a puke bag. I became nervous and was nagging him to not throw up in the boat….but get a gatorade….take some Dramamine! Then he turned around, kneeling at the front of the boat with a sh*t-eating grin and asked if I wanted to make it official. I don’t believe I ever actually answered him, but I took the ring out of the box to wear it so he assumed it was a yes.”

“My family had no idea what was going on and Nathan regained color in his face when it was all said and done. I just remained confused and speechless for the rest of the night as my sister drove us around the lake to enjoy a sunset cruise while blasting Faithfully by Journey. All in all, it was a perfect moment that lead us to get married in the mountains!”

Smoky Smokies

The Magnolia Venue has breathtaking, panoramic views and is a great option for a Pigeon Forge destination wedding. However, most of our day was so foggy we could barely see the Smoky Mountains, but there were a few moments of clear views here and there. It did rain most of the time so we took full advantage of it after their ceremony with the help of my strobes, borrowed video lights, and clear umbrellas. I may very well be biased, but I think they are the most dreamy, cinematic wedding photos! I want to give a huge shout out to Dani Evans not only for 2nd shooting with me, but also for her constant help with Katelyn’s train and bustle. You rock, Dani!

I had a wonderful time with these 2 and their fun families. I think we were all drenched by the end of the day, but it was more than worth it. Congrats, Mr. & Mrs. Reed, and thank you for allowing me to capture your Smoky Mountain destination wedding at The Magnolia!

{Read Katelyn’s thoughts on the day and her advice for brides below}

Wedding Professionals:

Caterer: Dead End BBQ.   Venue: The Magnolia Venue in Pigeon Forge, TN.   Florist: Echelon Florist.   Cake Artist: Nothing Bundt Cakes.   Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Simple Bliss Events.   Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal; Galina Signature.   Tux: Men’s Warehouse.   Hair Stylist: Kate Trapani.   Makeup Artist: Kiersten Welborn with Stunning by Rachel. Transportation: Elite Shuttle Service.   DJ: Stephen Goff Entertainment.   Bartending: Elite Event Services.   Videography: Tretheway Media.   Officiant: Ray Scarbrough.