As a Northern Minnesota wedding and lifestyle photographer, it’s not everyday that I get the opportunity to travel out of state for my job. But when I do, I couldn’t possibly feel more grateful. Traveling to Tennessee to photograph Ally and Peter’s Great Smoky Mountains romantic wedding at The Trillium was a dream come true. Not only was their wedding day absolutely breathtaking, but the couple was equally as beautiful. After having captured their engagement photos in Nashville, I was so happy to be reunited with them to celebrate their best day ever.
Romantic Wedding at The Trillium | Great Smoky Mountains
Ally and Peter are one of the most genuine, kind-hearted, joyful couples I have ever met. And it was extremely evident that each and every guest felt the exact same way. Spending the morning alongside Ally and her ladies while they got ready felt like just hanging out with my own girlfriends. While the gals were gabbing, recording videos, and getting glam, the guys were chilling in the groom’s den before it was time for first looks. First, Ally and her dad shared their emotional first look out on the deck, and then the groom made his appearance. There couldn’t bet have been a more picturesque location for first looks, overlooking the forest in the distance. Ally and Peter’s reaction to seeing one another was heartwarming — they had the biggest smiles on their faces, and were just so excited to finally be together celebrating their wedding day.
After getting their giddiness out of the way, Ally and Peter read their heartfelt private vows to one another. The happy tears were flowing from both of them and I loved hearing how they spoke of one another. Once they wrapped up their vows, we were able to spend some time walking around the property taking bridal portraits. Even today, months after this wedding day, I still cannot wrap my head around just how gorgeous Ally’s dress was; the intricate lace details and flowing train were everything. The dapper groom wore a classic tan suit and brown loafers. And as if the couple wasn’t stunning enough, the florals they chose were so summery and vibrant, which added even more beauty to the lush environment.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee Wedding Photographer | Alyssa Ashley Photography
As soon as we wrapped up bridal portraits, the wedding party joined us for group photos. Ally and Peter’s crew was huge, but they couldn’t have been easier to work with. Usually with a large wedding party, it can be a bit hard to manage the chaos (just with so many people). But each person was so attentive and happy to celebrate the couple; they made my job a breeze.
Once we were through with wedding party photos and family formals, it was time for the ceremony to begin. Not to sound like a broken record, but WOW the view – incredible! As Ally floated down the aisle arm-in-arm with her parents, Peter had the biggest smile on his face. The ceremony was officiated by a family member, which made the ceremony even more special. But my favorite part of the wedding ceremony was what the couple chose to do instead of a unity candle. They chose to create a time-capsule to be opened on their 5 year wedding anniversary. Inside the box, they stored whiskey, their vow books, and a polaroid picture of them during their ceremony. It was such a special way to represent their commitment to one another, surrounded by their loved ones.
After the ceremony concluded, guests made their way into the reception space to enjoy cocktail hour. Meanwhile, Ally changed into her second dress (which looks just as beautiful as her first). Peter helped zip up her dress, which was just such a sweet moment looking back. I then was able to have a few moments to snag some fun newlywed portraits with the new Mr. and Mrs.. We had some fun playing with flash photography and enjoying the moments of calm before heading upstairs to the reception.
Wedding Reception at The Trillium | Gatlinburg, Tennessee Weddings
The reception kicked off with first dances, the cake cutting, and speeches to allow nothing but time for everyone to eat, dance, and celebrate the newlyweds. To include the couple’s cats, they had giant fat-heads of them which the guests loved dancing around with. Ally and Peter’s Great Smoky Mountains romantic wedding at The Trillium concluded with faux exit, bubble guns, and a party to remember for a lifetime.
Searching for more breathtaking wedding days to swoon over? Be sure to check out the blog! Busy season has finally finished, so stay tuned for more blogs comin’ atcha. But if you can’t wait to see more, follow along with my adventures as a Minnesota wedding and lifestyle photographer over on the ‘Gram (@alyssaashley_photography). I’m so glad you’re here!
Vendor Team:
Photography – Alyssa Ashley Photography
Wedding Planner – Absolute Wedding Perfection
Venue – The Trillium Venue
Florals – Vintage Floral Designs
Hair + Makeup – Summer Lynn Beauty
Dress – Vowd Weddings, Adorn Nashville
DJ – Stephen Goff Entertainment
Catering – Rosa’s Catering
