Finding the Perfect Waterfall for Your Elopement | Eloping in Fall Creek Falls State Park, TN
Are you thinking about eloping under a waterfall? Finding the Perfect Waterfall for Your Elopement can be easy when you consider some basic tips and tricks for discovering amazing spot. Before jumping into answering questions, I want to share the beautiful adventure session to help you imagine what Eloping in Fall Creek Falls State Park, TN would look like (there’s hundreds of waterfalls in the southeast, but this is one of my favorites!)
Katie and Raymond woke up around 3:00 am to drive up from Chattanooga for a morning of sunrise views and waterfall hopping. Eloping in Fall Creek Falls State Park, TN does mean an early wake-up call, being the most visited state park in Tennessee however the photos we got as the sun started to come up were totally worth any sleep loss.
Almost as soon as I picked up my camera, I knew this was going to be an amazing day because of the connection between the two of them. These two love nature so being outside is where they feel most at home. We started at an amazing overlooked then traveled to two different waterfalls within the park. I’m so glad we got to adventure together!!!
Eloping in Fall Creek Falls State Park, TN
One great thing about Fall Creek Falls State Park, TN is that there are multiple waterfalls and overlooks to explore. Having variety is something I always try to achieve for my clients as it not only creates more interest in the photos, but also gives more opportunities for various experiences. Had we had more time, canoeing on a lake nearby would have been a lovely activity to add to the day.
When should you have your Waterfall Elopement?
While some waterfalls are amazing year round, most tend to dry up over the summer. Using an app like AllTrails or even Google can help you see when people have posted pictures from a specific location. Spring (March to May) are usually peak seasons although the days might be cold so jumping into the water might not be an option. Typically, avoid the months of July and August unless the waterfall is known for flowing year round.
What is it like to experience the Perfect Waterfall for Your Elopement?
First off, prepare to get wet! Even if you’re not going to be standing in the falls (often, this isn’t allowed on publicly owned land), the spray from the waterfall is sure to get you wet!
With this in mind, be sure to plan for this experience to be at a point in your day that you’re okay about getting wet or have time to freshen up afterwards.That waterproof makeup comes in handy here as well!
Having a photographer that is familiar with shooting at waterfalls can be additionally beneficial as they will have waterproof gear and can help prepare you for what exactly to bring for the specific location (sometimes, only a towel is needed while in other spots, you’ll want to completely change afterwards.)
What should you wear?
Besides rocking your amazing wedding day attire, be sure to bring hiking boots as you walk around the falls. Slippery rocks can be anywhere the water is spraying before you even reach the base of the falls so having shoes that will keep your feet firmly planted is important.
A few awesome companies for hiking boots include:
When should you elope under the falls?
Crowds tend to gather at popular waterfall spots so avoid them by heading to the falls early. I highly recommend weekdays over weekends, especially in the early summer, if you want to elope at a usually crowded waterfall.
Since the waterfalls can’t “move”, talk with your photographer about the best time of day for lighting. Waterfalls that are hidden between mountains stay shaded nearly all day while those out in the open receive direct sunlight for most of the day. Making sure to not have direct sun shining in your faces will help create the dreamy, romantic look people often desire.
Celebrate Again has an article about waterfall wedding venues that breaks downs considerations to think about when deciding to elope at a waterfall!
Should you have your ceremony right by the waterfall?
While it may be the most romantic spot, if the water is rushing and crashing behind you, hearing each other say your vows might be difficult. Looking for a clearing a little further back not only helps you avoid shouting at each other but also makes it perfect for photos to include the entire waterfall behind you. Also consider that the closer you get, the more likely you are to become soaked. Waiting to get wet until after your ceremony might be best for photos.
Anything else you need to know before eloping at a waterfall on public land?
Be sure to contact the governing park office to check if a permit is needed. Many times, the best waterfalls are on public land and may require a permit from the Forest Service, National Park Service, a state park, or Bureau of Land Management.
The best way to get in touch is to call the park directly and ask about their permit process. Often you just need to fill out some paperwork, however other spots may require planning months in advance. Figuring all of this out before you decide on a location can help avoid any last minute changes.
What if I want a private waterfall?
While harder to come by, there are several waterfall locations that are privately owned or specifically reserved for weddings and elopements. These include waterfalls such as Toccoa Falls or Hightower Falls, both in Georgia, that provide space for larger weddings right below a waterfall. Toccoa Falls in particular is an amazing spot for hosting a larger wedding but does include a rental fee.
Finding the Perfect Waterfall
Eloping in Fall Creek Falls State Park, TN or any other amazing waterfall location will create memories you’ll want to relive often. If you need help Finding the Perfect Waterfall for your Elopement, feel free to contact me below so we can start imagining what adventures lie ahead for you and your partner!
