Small Wedding Venues in Tennessee for Micro Weddings and Intimate Elopements

If you’re dreaming of a small Tennessee wedding that doesn’t involve a buffet line longer than the DMV, you’re in the right place. As someone who eloped herself and now spends her days scouting epic spots for couples like you, I’m here to spill the tea on 10 small wedding venues in Tennessee that actually get it. These handpicked venues offer dedicated micro wedding packages (typically for 30 guests or less) with all the romance and none of the traditional wedding chaos.

Why Tennessee? (Besides the Obvious Whiskey and Music Scenes)

Tennessee is a dream destination for elopements and small weddings, offering breathtaking landscapes that will make your photos look like they belong in National Geographic. From the misty peaks of the Smoky Mountains to the vibrant city vibes of Nashville, you can find the perfect backdrop for your special day. 

The state’s moderate climate means four distinct seasons, each bringing its own unique charm to your wedding. Spring blooms with vibrant wildflowers, summer offers warm days perfect for outdoor ceremonies, fall brings stunning foliage, and winter provides a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of rustic mountain charm or the eclectic vibe of Music City, Tennessee will make your intimate wedding day ridiculously unforgettable.

Getting married in Tennessee is ridiculously easy. Unlike some states, Tennessee doesn’t require witnesses to sign your marriage license after the ceremony. This flexibility is perfect for elopements or micro weddings where you want to focus on each other without the added pressure of coordinating witness signatures. Plus, you can apply for a marriage license anywhere in the state, and it’s valid everywhere, making it a breeze to plan your special day in any of Tennessee’s beautiful locations.

Why Smaller = Better (Or: How to Actually Enjoy Your Wedding Day)

Let’s be honest: big weddings can be like a Pinterest board gone rogue. You’ll spend the day shaking hands with strangers, posing for 47 group photos, and somehow missing your own partner. A small wedding or elopement? That’s where the magic happens. No distractions, no performance anxiety—just time to actually be together. Cry during your vows. Share a private toast at sunset. Take a post-ceremony nap if you want. (I won’t judge.)

Best of Both Worlds: Include Family and Do Your Own Thing

Want family there but still crave that intimate adventure? Split the day like a pro:

• Private vows at sunrise just the two of you, then a casual ceremony or dinner with loved ones later.
• Rent a killer Airbnb where everyone can hang (and maybe even crash), but sneak out for a waterfall hike or bourbon tasting while Uncle Jerry debates grill tactics.
• Multi-day magic: Elope on Day 1, then host a laid-back BBQ or brunch reception on Day 2. No frantic timeline, just quality time with your nearest and dearest—on your terms.

Too many couples I’ve met wish they would have eloped because their big wedding day was a blur of stress and chaos. Either they don’t remember much beyond the exhaustion, they spent more time crying over how to incorporate everyone’s favorite foods, or they just plain hated being the center of attention. 

By keeping things small and intimate, you can skip all that drama and actually enjoy your wedding day—no regrets, no stress, just you, your partner, and maybe a few loved ones who truly matter.

10 Small Wedding Venues in Tennessee That Actually Rock

Old Clarksville House (Clarksville)

This dapper downtown Airbnb oozes speakeasy vibes with its vintage renovation and private event space out back—perfect for couples who want an intimate ceremony (max 28 guests) plus a killer after-party in the bar area. The Old Clarksville House sleeps 6, so your closest pals can crash post-vows. Why you’ll love it? It’s like a Gatsby-meets-small-town romance, minus the stuffy dress code.

The Pink House (Clarksville)

Old Clarksville House’s sister property, The Pink House has vintage appliances, a sunroom, and a matching kid-sized playhouse (adorable). Their micro-wedding package includes setup and an overnight stay for 12. 

Rural Hill Farm (Mt. Juliet)

180 acres of rolling hills, a stocked pond, and cozy cabins set the scene at Rural Hill Farm for a rustic-but-chic elopement. BYO bourbon, hike the property, and cap the night by a firepit. Basically Yellowstone vibes with better cell service.

The Tanglewood House (Clarksville)

Historic glamour alert: This 1960s estate hosted Minnie Pearl and has a cabin where Andrew Jackson once crashed. Choose between a stone-hearthed indoor ceremony or vows under ancient oaks with 1800s church pews. The Tanglewood House is fancy without the fuss.

Chapel in the Hollow (Smoky Mountains)

A tiny woodland chapel at the base of the Smokies, maxing out at 35 guests. No permit headaches, just fairy lights and mountain views. Chapel in the Hollow is ideal for couples who want “national park wedding” without the backpacking.

Blackberry Farm (Walland)

If your dream wedding involves truffle fries and zero DIY disasters, the luxe Blackberry Farm delivers. Think: farm-to-table feasts, Smoky Mountain backdrops, and a staff that handles everything while you sip local whiskey.

The Local Ark (Franklin)

The Local Ark is a quirky chapel with garden vibes and a stage for non-traditional ceremonies. Feels like your cool aunt’s backyard—if your aunt had killer floral arrangements and a photo booth.

Butterfly Hollow (Gordonsville)

82 acres of woods, a charming barn, and cabins for overnight stays. Butterfly Hollow  is like a Hallmark movie, but with better lighting and hopefully no almost kisses.

Knob Creek Meadows (Johnson City)

A rustic-modern barn with elopement packages for ultra-intimate vibes. Knob Creek Meadows offers the perfect blend of “farm chic” and “let’s keep this simple.”

Discovery Park of America (Union City)

Get married near dinosaur skeletons or a space exhibit. The Discovery Park of America is a unique and fun venue for couples who geek out over science and love.

Questions to Help You Find Your Perfect Small Wedding Venue

Choosing the right venue for your small wedding or elopement is like curating the perfect playlist for your favorite road trip—every element matters, and it sets the tone for an unforgettable adventure. The key is finding a venue that reflects your unique style and priorities. Whether you’re a fan of rustic charm, historic glamour, or quirky fun, these questions will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect spot to say “I do.”

• What’s Our Dream Wedding Vibe?
  Are you more into rustic charm, historic glamour, or quirky fun? Do you envision a mountain backdrop, a speakeasy vibe, or a whimsical garden setting?
• How Important is Intimacy?
  Do you want a venue that can accommodate just your closest friends and family, or are you open to a slightly larger guest list? Are there any specific private moments you want to prioritize during the day?
• What Activities Do We Love?
  Are you outdoor enthusiasts who would love to hike to your ceremony spot? Or do you prefer more relaxed activities like wine tastings or enjoying a sunset view?
• How Much Flexibility Do We Need?
  Do you want a venue that allows you to bring in your own vendors, or do you prefer a more streamlined experience with recommended vendors? Are there any unique elements you want to incorporate into your ceremony or reception?
• What Makes Our Wedding Unforgettable?
  Are there any special rituals, traditions, or personal touches you want to include? Think about what will make your wedding day truly memorable and unique to you both.

If you’re still searching for that perfect spot or leaning towards an elopement over a micro wedding, here are more of the best places to elope in Tennessee.

Tennessee Elopement Photographer

As an elopement photographer, I specialize in helping private, adventurous couples plan a wedding day that’s truly about them. I love crafting intimate, stress-free celebrations where you can focus on each other—whether that’s exchanging vows at sunrise on a Smoky Mountain overlook, hiking to a waterfall ceremony, or saying “I do” in a historic speakeasy-style Airbnb.

My approach combines practical planning (permits? timelines? handled) with an artist’s eye for capturing raw, unposed moments—the quiet glances, the belly laughs, the “holy crap we’re married” looks. With an 88-page elopement guide that’s basically a “How to Get Married Without Losing Your Mind” manual and location scouting skills honed from years exploring Tennessee’s hidden gems, I help take care of the logistics so you can enjoy your adventure.

Ready to create a wedding day that feels authentic and adventurous? Let’s make it happen. Let’s chat!