I’m thrilled that you and your partner are looking at Tennessee as a destination for your elopement! 

Tennessee has several different locations across the state that are swoon-worthy, romantic, and would be an absolute dream location for an elopement. 

If you’re here I’m guessing you might be wondering if you’re coming to the south, Tennessee specifically to elope, if there are any hurdles for you and your partner (legally or otherwise). 

As a Tennessee elopement photographer for queer couples, I’m here to share insights on any additional challenges you and your partner might face when eloping in Tennessee and the importance of choosing affirming wedding vendors who will ensure that you both feel seen, respected, and celebrated throughout your special day.

Also, if you want a step-by-step guide on how to elope in Tennessee and my recommended elopement locations check out this separate blog post I wrote for you here. 

Are There Any Differences for a Queer Couple Wanting to Elope in Tennessee?

This is a question that I’ve been asked by couples that I’ve photographed here in Tennessee and the short answer is legally no. 

With that being said there are some additional factors I want you to take into consideration as you make the decision on whether or not you want to elope in Tennessee. 

For example, you’ll want to consider culture, your venue selection, vendor selection, and most importantly you and your partner’s safety and comfort.

When it comes to cultural considerations it is good to know that in smaller, rural areas here people tend to be more on the conservative side versus urban areas such as Nashville, Knoxville, or Chattanooga. 

This isn’t to say that a smaller, rural area should be crossed off your list of places to choose from but only something to keep in mind when deciding on your elopement location. It’s crucial to weigh how these cultural differences might impact your experience and whether you and your partner will feel safe and comfortable in your chosen setting. 

I encourage you to choose a location in Tennessee that values inclusivity and is welcoming because this will make you and your partner feel more comfortable and it will also be reflective of your love for each other and celebrate your identity. 

When it comes to your venue and vendor selection it’s great to look at venues and vendors that are proudly LGBTQ+ affirming. By doing so this will allow for you and your partner to celebrate without any concerns and also so that you both have peace of mind. 

There is a lot of LGBTQ+ support and communities here in Tennessee as well as directories giving guidance on queer-friendly vendors and venues which means that you have plenty of options to choose from. 

The biggest thing I want you to take away is that not every venue/vendor here is going to be welcoming or inclusive towards LGBTQ+ couples. 

However, that doesn’t mean that you have to make compromises because there are plenty of us who will honor and celebrate your love and ensure that your elopement is everything that you dreamed it could be while being surrounded by those who truly support and celebrate you and your partner for who you are. 

Why It’s Important to Choose Affirming Wedding Vendors

For your elopement, you’ll be choosing a variety of different vendors from your photographer, your officiant, your caterer, florist, wedding planner, etc. 

It’s incredibly important that whoever you choose as a wedding vendor is an LGBTQ+ affirming wedding vendor. 

Your vendors play a significant role in creating a supportive and celebratory atmosphere that honors your love story authentically. 

When you choose LGBTQ+ affirming vendors, you’re not just hiring someone who is performing a service – you’re creating an environment where you and your partner will feel respected valued, and safe. This sense of security and affirmation will reduce your stress and anxiety and allow you to enjoy your elopement without discomfort. 

Also, another reason to choose LGBTQ+ affirming vendors is that it’s great for our community because you will be promoting inclusive businesses, you will be working with people who advocate for and support LGBTQ+ individuals, and you’ll be contributing to the visibility and success of these businesses within the community. 

And finally, I know you want to embrace and show off your love story in the most authentic way possible – who can do this better than inclusive, affirming vendors who have experience working with diverse couples? The type of vendors who can resonate with your identity and experiences? 

LGBTQ+ affirming vendors will bring a level of expertise, creativity, and sensitivity to your elopement and ensure your elopement is a true reflection of who you are as a couple. 

As a queer person, I understand the importance of feeling seen and respected in traditionally heteronormative spaces. 

As your photographer, I’m here to capture more than your special moments – I’m also here to make sure you feel fully supported and celebrated for who you are. 

I am committed to supporting my queer clients by respecting their pronouns, advocating for their needs, and creating a safe and affirming environment. I recognize the unique challenges that come with being queer, especially in the wedding industry and particularly in the South and I’m here to stand with you. 

I know that by choosing LGBTQ+ affirming vendors you will be able to show off your love in its fullest expression which is exactly what you deserve. 

Final Thoughts: How You Can Elope in Tennessee as an LGBTQ Couple

I hope you found this blog post helpful and that you feel like you have a better idea of what it would look like to elope in Tennessee and see the importance of choosing affirming wedding vendors who will ensure that you both feel seen, respected, and celebrated throughout your special day.

And if you’re searching for a queer, matcha-loving, laid-back photographer who specializes in both planning and capturing an elopement that is just your vibe then it sounds like I’m who you’re looking for. You can get in touch with me here. 

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