Best Times of Year to Get Married in East Tennessee (From a Photographer’s Perspective)
East Tennessee is one of the most beautiful places in the country to say “I do.” With rolling mountains, colorful foliage, soft summer sunsets, and crisp winter landscapes, each season offers unique opportunities for stunning wedding photos. As a photographer, here’s my breakdown of the best times of year to get married in East Tennessee — including seasonal colors, weather patterns, and the photo advantages you’ll want to consider.
East TN Wedding during the Fall Season
🍁 Fall (September–November): The Most Popular Choice
If you're dreaming of rich colors and dramatic mountain backdrops, fall is the undisputed favorite for East Tennessee weddings.
Why Photographers Love It
Vibrant foliage: Deep reds, bright oranges, and golden yellows make the Smokies and surrounding hills glow.
Soft, flattering light: Shorter days = beautiful golden hours earlier in the afternoon.
Comfortable temperatures: Ideal for outdoor ceremonies without the summer humidity.
Best Photo Opportunities
Mountain overlooks with peak foliage
Forest trails with leaf-covered paths
Romantic sunset portraits with warm tones
Things to Consider
It’s the busiest season for tourism and weddings — book venues and photographers early.
Weather can shift quickly near the mountains, so have a backup indoor plan.
🌸 Spring (April–May): Soft, Dreamy, and Romantic
Spring weddings in East Tennessee offer fresh blooms, vibrant greens, and airy pastel tones — perfect for couples wanting a light, romantic aesthetic.
Why Photographers Love It
Flowering dogwoods, cherry blossoms, and wisteria: Gorgeous natural backdrops for portraits.
Refreshing greenery: New foliage creates clean, bright images.
Cooler weather: Ideal for outdoor ceremonies and photo sessions.
Best Photo Opportunities
Botanical gardens and parks with blooming trees
Creeks, fields, and mountain overlooks with fresh greenery
Rain-kissed portraits (with adorable umbrellas!)
Things to Consider
Spring showers are common — but overcast skies actually create perfect soft lighting.
Evening temps can still be cool in early April.
A Summer Wedding in East Tennessee
🌞 Summer (June–August): Bright, Bold, and Vibrant
Summer is a great choice for adventurous couples or those planning mountain weddings with sweeping views and long golden evenings.
Why Photographers Love It
Long daylight hours: More time for photos before and after the ceremony.
Vivid greens: Trees and fields look lush and full.
Clear sunsets: Bright, colorful sky portraits are common.
Best Photo Opportunities
Waterfall or riverfront portraits
Smoky Mountain vistas with bold blue skies
Sunset or twilight wedding photography
Things to Consider
Humidity can be intense, especially in July and August.
Midday sun is harsh — schedule portraits for early morning or golden hour.
❄️ Winter (December–February): Cozy, Elegant, and Underrated
Winter weddings in East Tennessee are often overlooked, but they can create dramatic and elegant photo opportunities — especially if you're going for a modern, moody, or classic aesthetic.
Why Photographers Love It
Soft winter light: Ideal for intimate, cinematic portraits.
Minimal crowds: Great for elopements and scenic locations.
Holiday décor: Venues are naturally beautiful in December.
Best Photo Opportunities
Evergreen forests and mountain overlooks with winter haze
Candlelit or indoor venue photos
Occasional snowfall for magical portraits
Things to Consider
Weather is unpredictable; icy days are possible in higher elevations.
Days are shorter, so ceremony timing matters.
So… What’s the Best Season to Get Married in East Tennessee?
From a photographer’s perspective:
Best overall for color + weather: Fall
Best for light + romantic tones: Spring
Best for adventure elopements + sunsets: Summer
Best for cozy + elegant vibes: Winter
The truth is — East Tennessee looks beautiful in every season. The right time of year depends on your vision, your venue, and the aesthetic you want captured in your photos.
Final Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Season
Think about your dream photos first.
Match your venue to the season. (Barns glow in fall, gardens shine in spring, mountain overlooks sparkle in summer.)
Plan your timeline around the light. A photographer can help with this!
Have a weather backup plan. Especially in spring and fall.
Looking for a wedding photographer for your big day!?