Graciela and Austin had the most romantic elopement in the Smoky Mountains a couple of weeks ago, and we were thrilled to be part of it! We woke up before the sun and met them at The Magnolia – a gorgeous wedding venue with stunning views that you have to drive up up up a one lane road to get to. We took some time to chat for a bit, conquer Austin’s boutonnière (those things are so stubborn), and then we got to shootin’.

I knew from our previous convos that Graciela and her boo had to be very easy-going, sweet people. They were a breeze throughout our process of planning their elopement and figuring out logistics, and they fully trusted me and Stevie’s expertise every step of the way. But nothing could have prepared me for my in-person realization of how amazing they actually are. They were so happy and thankful the whole time. I loved watching their smiles get big when they looked at each other and how surreal this day was for them.

After capturing them at The Magnolia, we went with them to Dolly’s hometown courthouse and witnessed them make their marriage official. The rain had done a fine job and (against the weather man’s predictions) held off all morning… until their first kiss as husband and wife! Right as they said I do and sealed it with a kiss, it started pouring. I mean, next level romance.

We were so honored to photograph and witness Graciela and Austin’s wedding day in such a special, intimate way. The simplicity of two people standing together and making a life-long commitment to each other was a great reminder for me of why I do what I do. Special thanks to The Magnolia for providing us with such an awesome location and to the Smoky Mtns for being so dang pretty. Enjoy our highlights from their #bestdayever!

XOXO,

Sara-Lane