Search Results

The Tradition of the Wedding Ring on the Fourth Finger The tradition of wearing a wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand is a practice that dates back centuries, intertwining cultural, historical, and even anatomical beliefs. But why exactly do we place such an important symbol of love and commitment on this specific finger? Ancient Egypt One of the earliest known instances of this tradition comes from ancient Egypt. Egyptians believed that a vein, called the "vena amoris" or "vein of love," ran directly from the fourth finger of the left hand to the heart. While anatomically incorrect, this romantic notion has endured through the ages. Ancient Rome The Romans adopted this practice from the Egyptians and also placed great significance on the fourth finger. They believed that placing the wedding ring on this finger would ensure that love flowed directly from the heart, reinforcing the bond between married couples. Christian Influence Christianity also played a role in cementing this tradition. During wedding ceremonies, priests would recite a prayer while touching the first three fingers of the left hand, symbolizing the Holy Trinity (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). When they reached the fourth finger, they would place the ring there to seal the marriage. While the idea of the "vena amoris" is a myth, the fourth finger, also known as the ring finger, does have some unique attributes. It is one of the least used fingers on the hand, making it less likely to be injured, which is practical for protecting a ring. Additionally, the nerves in the ring finger are connected to the heart through a complex network, adding a layer of symbolic meaning even if it is not as direct as ancient beliefs suggested. Western Cultures In many Western cultures, the tradition is still very much alive. The fourth finger on the left hand is almost universally recognized as the ring finger for wedding bands. This practice has been upheld through generations, becoming a standard part of wedding customs. Eastern Cultures In some Eastern cultures, the tradition varies. For instance, in countries like India, wedding rings are often worn on the right hand. However, the symbolic importance of the ring finger remains consistent. While the original reasons for this tradition may be rooted in myth and religious symbolism, modern couples often continue the practice out of respect for tradition and cultural continuity. The act of placing a ring on the fourth finger has become a universally recognized symbol of marriage and commitment. The wedding ring's placement on the left hand's fourth finger is a tradition rich with historical significance, cultural continuity, and even anatomical considerations. Whether based on ancient myths or practical reasons, this enduring practice continues to symbolize the deep bond and eternal love between married couples, making it a meaningful part of wedding ceremonies around the world. Locally owned wedding venues tend to provide a higher level of expertise, service and dedication. The Barn at Poplar Springs Farm Cornerstone Ranch Events Center Legacy Farms TN Sunnyside Farm The Bella Sera Bell Tower Falls The Burch on 27th The Greenhouse at Arrows Farm

An alcohol-free wedding can be a refreshing and unique approach to celebrating your day. By not having alcohol from the festivities, couples can create a more inclusive environment for their guests, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and can enjoy the celebration without the effects of alcohol. Furthermore, this choice can lead to significant cost savings, allowing for a more budget-friendly event.  Inclusivity and Consideration for Guests An alcohol-free wedding is a great way to ensure that all guests feel comfortable and included in the celebration. Some guests may have personal or religious reasons for not consuming alcohol, and an alcohol-free wedding allows them to fully participate in the festivities without feeling excluded or uncomfortable. Moreover, by omitting alcohol from the wedding, you can also create a more family-friendly atmosphere. This can be especially important if there will be children present at the wedding. With no alcohol being served, parents can relax knowing their children are in a safe environment. Cost Savings Weddings can be expensive, and one major cost is often the open bar. By having an alcohol-free wedding, couples can save a significant amount of money on their overall wedding budget. This money could then be allocated towards other important aspects of the wedding such as catering, decor, or even the honeymoon. Health and Safety Too much alcohol consumption can lead to health and safety concerns at weddings. By opting for an alcohol-free celebration, you are ensuring that your guests' well-being is a top priority. This also eliminates the risk of drunk driving accidents or any unwanted incidents that may arise from excessive drinking. Moreover, not everyone can consume alcohol due to personal beliefs or medical reasons. Having an alcohol-free wedding allows all guests to feel included in the celebration without feeling left out or uncomfortable. Coffee and Tea bars are wonderful options for your guests. Incorporating a coffee or tea bar can add an elegant touch while catering to guests who prefer warm beverages. A well-curated selection of artisanal coffees, herbal teas, and unique blends can be a delightful addition to your wedding menu. Consider hiring a skilled barista or a coffee truck who can craft specialty coffee drinks or offering a tea sommelier to guide guests through the various options. This interactive element encourages guests to engage with one another as they explore different flavors and share their preferences, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, providing various non-dairy milk options, sweeteners, and flavorings can ensure everyone finds something they enjoy, making your alcohol-free wedding memorable. Infused waters and specialty sodas. Infused waters and specialty sodas offer a refreshing and visually appealing alternative to traditional beverages, ensuring that your wedding remains vibrant and engaging. Combining fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables into still or sparkling water allows couples to create stunning displays that taste great and serve as beautiful centerpieces. Popular combinations might include cucumber and mint, strawberry and basil, or citrus blends featuring lemon, lime, and orange. On the other hand, specialty sodas can be crafted to satisfy various palates and preferences. Couples could consider serving handcrafted soda floats or sparkling fruit punches to add a playful twist. For extra creativity, think about establishing a DIY soda station where guests can mix their drinks with syrups, carbonated waters, and garnishes. This hands-on experience delights the taste buds and encourages social interaction, allowing guests to connect as they experiment with different combinations. By prioritizing these inventive options, couples can ensure that their alcohol-free wedding remains a joyful and memorable celebration for all. Having a DJ that can keep your guests engaged. A DJ plays a pivotal role in setting the atmosphere and ensuring that guests remain engaged throughout the celebration. Opting for a talented DJ who understands the dynamics of the crowd can elevate the energy of the event, seamlessly blending different genres of music to cater to diverse tastes. This versatility not only keeps the dance floor lively but also encourages guests of all ages to participate, creating a joyous environment. Furthermore, incorporating interactive elements such as song requests or themed dance breaks can make the experience even more memorable. Couples should communicate their desired vibe and any must-have songs during the planning process to ensure the DJ aligns with their vision for the day.  Fun & Games To further enhance the celebratory spirit of the day, consider incorporating meaningful activities or entertainment options that resonate with your love story and shared interests. Photo booths, featuring fun props and backdrops, allow guests to capture candid moments while creating lasting memories. Providing a guest book where attendees can write messages or share advice is another heartfelt way to involve them in your wedding journey, adding a personal touch that can be cherished for years to come. The After Party Choose a location to have an after party with a select few guests and your wedding party after the reception. Gatlinburg and Knoxville both have exciting options for dancing the night away. The Venue At Springfield estates Main Street Wedding and Event Venue Degas House in New Orleans The Admiral Room at The Marin Willow Sky Ranch Cornerstone Ranch Events Rose Haven Venue Wedding Venue Owners ⋆ Wedding Venue Owners SpringHaus Farm Weddin gs L and L Farm

Choosing the photographer for your big day at Willow Oaks! How to choose your wedding photographer at Willow Oaks? Choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you will possibly make during the planning process.  Our venue is a photographer's dream with many unique settings for your backdrop.  From the mountains to the lake side and everything in between.  Because they’ll be capturing memories you'll cherish forever, please take your time. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice: 1. What’s Your Style Traditional : Posed, classic shots. Photojournalistic : Candid, storytelling images. Fine Art : Artistic, often with creative angles and lighting. Editorial : Fashion-inspired, dramatic compositions. Look at various styles and decide what resonates with you as a couple.  Editing styles also play a part in this decision. 2. Set a Budget Wedding photography can be your largest expense outside of the cost of your venue. However, higher prices often reflect more experience and better equipment, but that's not always true.  Some up and coming photographers have often spent years being a second shooter to some of the best photographers in the area. 3. Research Photographers Start with Recommendations : Friends, family, and wedding planners are wonderful resources.   Look Online : Browse Instagram, Pinterest, and wedding websites to find photographers whose style matches your vision. Check Reviews : Read their reviews and testimonials. 4. Review Portfolios Diverse Portfolio : Make sure the photographer can handle different lighting conditions and settings.  We always recommend that a new photographer to Willow Oaks come for a visit prior to your big day. Our property is extensive with many photo opportunities.   Full Wedding Albums : Always ask to see their complete wedding albums, not just highlight reels, to assess their consistency. 5. Meet the Photographer In-Person or Virtually : A face-to-face meeting (or video call) helps to ensure you have a good rapport with them. Discuss Your Vision : Talk about your wedding vision, your style preferences, and any must-have shots. Discuss time line as well. Ask Questions : Inquire about their experience, equipment, backup plans, and how they handle challenges. 6. Consider Personality The rapport you have with your photographer is so important.  They will be with you throughout the day, so it’s important that you get along well. They should be professional but also easygoing and able to make you feel comfortable. 7. Evaluate Packages and Extras What’s Included : Understand what’s included in the package—number of hours, number of photographers, edited images, albums, etc. Additional Costs : Ask about travel fees, second shooter, overtime, and other potential costs. Delivery Time : Get an estimate of how long it will take to receive your photos. 8. Read the Contract Carefully Rights and Usage : Make sure you understand who owns the rights to the photos and how they can be used. Backup Plans : Ensure there’s a contingency plan in case of emergencies. Payment Schedule : Be clear on deposit requirements, payment timelines, and cancellation policies. 9. Trust Your Instincts After considering all the practical aspects, trust your gut feeling. If you feel comfortable and confident in a photographer's abilities and personality, they’re likely the right choice. 10. Book Early Popular photographers can be booked up a year or more in advance, so once you’ve made your decision, secure your date as soon as possible. Selecting a wedding photographer is a combination of researching, budgeting, and finding someone whose style and personality align with your vision for the day. Some of our favorite photographers: Violettcophotography.com Nunnphotos.com Sbsphotography.com Jenfinphotography.com Briannalynnphotography.com Thank you so much for stopping by our blog, we hope you found this information helpful. We want to use our blog to increase awareness and support for locally owned wedding venues. Locally owned wedding venues tend to provide a higher level of expertise, service and dedication. They also have far less turnover than corporate owned or investor owned venues. As you plan your wedding we hope you will consider a locally owned wedding venue like ours. Cornerstone Ranch Events Center The  Glade Venue Stone Ridge Event Center Triple T Farm The Barn at Poplar Springs Farm Legacy Farms www.thelakeatchristenberryfarms.com

Do I need a Coordinator and a Venue Manager? Our Willow Oaks Weddings & Events staff is onsite for every event to assist with any venue-related matters.   We know every facet of our building and grounds.  We are happy to work alongside your coordinator to discuss design layout and setup; we go over these plans at our 30-day out meeting with our couples and their Coordinator.  Our staff is onsite the day of your event to set up the ceremony site, implement your table layout for the reception, direct parking, keep bathrooms stocked and tidy, and assist your vendors with directions on where to set up. You will want to work with a professional coordinator who knows all aspects of a wedding day and is equipped to handle any surprises that come your way.  Your Coordinator will work closely with you and your photographer to lay out the timeline for your big day.  Starting with your arrival for hair and make-up and ending with your private last dance just before send-off and everything in between.  You will share your Pinterest board with the Coordinator to bring your vision to life.  You both will meet several times before the wedding to discuss all of the details, including the budget, with your Coordinator, and we will work behind the scenes with your Coordinator to make sure everything is as perfect as possible on your day.  At your 30-day out meeting, our staff and your coordinator will review the timeline with everyone; we will finalize your layout or set up details and so over any questions that may arise. As you can see both a venue manager and a Coordinator have b=very different duties and responsibilities. Having a Coordinator is invaluable.  Willow Oaks requires our brides to hire a Coordinator to ensure a smooth transition of the days events. Having a Coordinator helps your timeline run smoothly, and our venue staff are there to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. Your day will be everything you’d imagined! Our curated list of vendors ensures you have several options to find the right fit. We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned-wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include locally owned wedding venues that use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. Cornerstone Ranch Events Center SpringHaus Farm Adler Ranch 5 Family Ranch | Marshall MN The Venue @ 112 Vista West Ranch The Creek Haus Willow Oaks Weddings & Events

When planning a Smoky Mountin wedding and embarking on a wedding venue tour is an exciting step in the wedding planning process! After all, most of us only get to do this once in our lifetime! Let's cheer to that! Here's a helpful tips for touring wedding venues guide to ensure you make the most of your venue tours. Schedule Appointments : Research venues ahead of time and try to narrow them down by style, size, and budget.   Contact  the venues you're interested in to schedule appointments for tours. Try to schedule tours on weekdays if possible, as weekends are generally busier for venues with events. Remember to allow for drive time. Between Knoxville, Maryville, Townsend, Walland, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge traffic will play a part. Have Your Guest Count In Mind: Have a rough idea of your guest list before you tour your first venue.  This will help you decide on a venue to comfortably accommodate your party. Have Questions Ready : Before your tour, make a list of questions to ask the venue coordinator. These might include questions about capacity, amenities, pricing, available dates, and vendor restrictions. Envision Your Wedding : As you tour each venue, try to envision how your wedding day would unfold in that space. Consider where the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception would take place, as well as areas for photography and guest mingling. Most venues provide plenty of photos in different areas of the space to assist you! Check Reviews and References : Research online reviews from couples who have hosted their weddings at the venues you're considering. This can provide valuable insights into the venue's professionalism, level of service and overall experience. Trust Your Instincts : Ultimately, go with your gut feeling when choosing a wedding venue. The space should feel right and you should feel comfortable with the venue coordinators you toured with. Selecting a place that fits your personal vision and practical needs is very important as you begin your life together as a married couple. Follow-Up : After your tours, follow up with the venue coordinators to thank them for their time and ask any additional questions that may have come up. If you're ready to book a venue, securing your date as soon as possible is important to ensure availability. Our team has toured and researched venues across the country to provide you with the best tour you can imagine. Our staff is committed to answering your questions in a professional manner, making you feel comfortable at our venue, and providing first-class services on your wedding day! Special thanks to these venues for supporting us and sharing their knowledge and ideas with us from all over the country! The Admiral Room at The Marin Willow Sky Ranch Celebrations Event Center Ballenger Bridge 617 Palafoxwharf www.celestialfarms22.com www.blueberryhillweddingbarnelkinnc.com Willow Creek Venue Rustic Grace Barn LLC Cornerstone Ranch Events Center

Have you ever envisioned the enchantment of a whimsical wedding set against a winter backdrop? Seeking wedding inspiration and wondering where to start? Begin your planning journey by researching to discover unique wedding ideas and styles. The journey of planning a wedding can be both thrilling and stressful, filled with numerous decisions and possibilities. For most, the wedding budget is the key factor influencing these choices—unless you are among the lucky few with unlimited resources. For the average bride, a budget is essential, and as the saying goes, you'll want to get the most value for your money. Opting for a wedding during the off-season can help you stay within budget without compromising on the amenities you desire. Opting for a winter wedding, particularly between January thru March in East Tennessee, offers several distinct advantages. Here are some benefits to consider: Reduced humidity. This is a significant perk of winter weddings. In the South, the heat and humidity of late spring and summer can affect the bride, her attendants, and the guests. While an indoor venue may not directly experience the high temperatures, humidity remains a concern. Outdoor weddings must be mindful of the impact of hot weather, such as maintaining a perfectly styled hairdo, spray tans and preventing sweat from soaking through elegant attire or a buttercream cake melting in the heat. Generally more affordable. During off-peak months, wedding vendors aim to increase bookings and often offer reduced rates. They might provide extra hours or other bonuses for weddings scheduled between December and early March. The quality of service remains consistently high, but prices are adjusted to attract clients. Some vendors are also open to customizing packages during slower months and weekdays. Winter wedding decor. You don’t need a Christmas-themed wedding to make use of the rich textures and elements available in nature during winter. Evergreen boughs, green garlands, holly leaves, berries, winter grasses, fallen branches, and twigs can beautifully enhance a winter-themed decor. Twinkle lights, flickering candles (safety first!), lanterns, and hanging glassware add to the charm. Christmas decor naturally lends itself to a festive and cozy theme, and you may already have suitable decorations from previous holiday sales. These choices can transition seamlessly into bridal bouquets and wedding arches. Unique photo opportunities. Snow or no snow, imagine the magic of a simulated or real forest setting adorned with twinkling lights and a light dusting of snow. The bridal party could wear matching woolen shawls, while plaid fabrics adorn the groomsmen's ties and socks. Picture yourself, the bride, wrapped in a white fur muff and hooded capelet. If choosing an outdoor venue, consider a horse-drawn carriage or a hay wagon with plaid blanket-draped bales. These elements create a sense of wonder and romance in a wedding planner's vision. Tips for Planning the Perfect Winter Wedding Choose a Winter-Proof Venue:  Select a venue that can accommodate both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Ensure it has a contingency plan for cold weather, including options for snow or ice.   Book Vendors Early:  Secure your vendors ahead of time and inquire about off-peak pricing to potentially save on costs. Guests in Advance:  Inform guests about the chosen location early, and advise them on selecting appropriate attire for a winter setting. Keep Guests Comfortable:  Alert your guests and vendors about the possibility of cold weather. Consider offering wool scarves or plaid blankets as thoughtful favors or precautionary measures. Consider Lighting:  Collaborate with your wedding coordinator or venue owner to plan lighting based on the time of year. Factor in options like twinkle lights, LED lighting, or candles to set the perfect ambiance. Select a Seasonal Menu:  Delight your guests with hot beverages featuring toppings, such as a hot chocolate bar or apple cider, to enhance the cozy atmosphere. Incorporate Seasonal Florals:  When selecting flowers, consider seasonal colors, textures, and availability that align with your wedding theme. Use elements like evergreen, pinecones, pampas grass, wooden twigs, colorful berries, branches, macrame, and plaids to create your dream wedding style. Do the benefits outweigh the drawbacks?   Ultimately, this decision, like every aspect of wedding planning, depends on the bride and groom's preferences. It's important to acknowledge that a winter wedding might present challenges, such as travel difficulties or limited availability from work or school. There are numerous choices to make and factors to consider. Weigh the pros and cons while aligning them with your wedding inspiration and theme. Scrutinize your wedding budget and prepare for any unexpected obstacles. At this Smoky Mountains venue, winter weddings can be stunning. An enchanting winter wedding may be the perfect choice for you and your partner, creating unforgettable memories of a beautiful season. Additionally, holding a winter wedding can save money as it is considered "off-season" for weddings, leading to potential discounts from vendors and venues. Some other advantages could include fewer scheduling conflicts with guests and vendors, unique photo opportunities in the snow or among icicle-laden trees, and the chance to incorporate cozy and festive elements into your decor. We hope to use our platform to create awareness for the value of supporting locally owned wedding venues. The Ma Maison Contact Round Barn Farm Madison Green Country Club 617palafoxwharf.com Cornerstone Ranch Events Blog

Don't forget these must-have photos at Willow Oaks Weddings & Events on your day! You’ve been planning this day for months, and it is almost here! Here at Willow Oaks Weddings & Events, the day you finally get to marry your best friend. You have every detail in place, so many painstaking hours making the decisions that all lead up to this day! You have chosen the perfect secluded venue with views of the Smoky Mountains and a private lake, wedding gown, gentleman's attire, and flowers. You have even decided on the most amazing photographer to utilize the grounds, and now you have to think about the photos you want your photographer to take on your wedding day! Photographers will often have pre-made shoot lists to help give you an idea of what photos brides want on their wedding day. This list can also be helpful for you to know what to expect, photograph-wise, ahead of time so you are not surprised on the day of your wedding. This list might not have everything you're looking for, so don’t be afraid to ask your photographer for specific photos you would like. Your photographer will do their best to make them happen for you.   In doing so, be mindful of how helpful it is to have a second shooter.  This maximizes the time set aside for photography on your special day. We wanted to share Willow Oaks Weddings & Events' favorite must-have wedding photos list. Remember, this is just a guide, not a setlist. If something does not fit, let your wedding photographer know. We want you to have all of your dream wedding photos and plenty of detailed pictures to look at for years to come! Remember, you spent so much time planning these details; we are here to document them for you! Let’s get started! 1. The Stationary Make sure you bring all of your wedding stationery with you! This includes you saving the dates, invitations, RSVPs, and even your menus for your wedding day. This is how your wedding planning started, and set your wedding theme for your guests. They can incorporate other details when you have your wedding stationery with you. For example, they can add flowers from your bouquets or even your wedding accessories to showcase your wedding stationery.    2. Getting ready Having your photographer in the bridal suite to take pictures of you and your ladies (or gents) getting ready is always a good idea! It is an excellent place for photographers to catch candid shots of you and your best friends getting ready together, whether it be the final hair and makeup touches or getting into your amazing wedding dress or attire! Be sure to get that picture of one of your bridesmaids or your mom zipping you in! Photographer: Mother of Mayhem Mementos 3. Bridal Accessories As little as they might seem, you spent the time picking out the perfect wedding accessories that deserve to be showcased. Do your accessories incorporate typical wedding traditions, like something borrowed or something blue? Is one of your accessories a family heirloom? We want to see necklaces, earrings, and garters all! Photographers are creative people, and they love laying out your accessories beautifully!  What a great way to document them being part of your wedding day! 4. Wedding Shoes Heels, flats, the perfect pair, and we love them all! Wedding shoes  are a very important decision when it comes to your wedding attire! You chose these shoes for a reason. Whether it be for comfort or because they fit your aesthetic there was a big decision made! They make the must-have photo list for these reasons. You might get rid of them at some point but you will always have those cherished photos! Photographer: Mother of Mayhem Momentos 5. Bridal Portraits This is your day to shine and feel like the model you are! You look amazing, and it should be; we want to show it off! This is a perfect time to get comfortable in front of the camera and learn how to move around your dress. It is also a great way to help you shake off any pre-wedding jitters.  6. The Veil or Hairpiece   Veils and headpieces complement your wedding dress, and photographers love to use them as props and take pictures with them! Your veil or headpiece can make a dramatic statement in your wedding look, so they make the must-have wedding photo list! They are great details and can be used for some beautiful photos. Photographer: 7. Bridal Bouquet Flowers are one of those wedding details that can be hard to hold on to, especially if you use fresh flowers. Let's be honest: flowers die, and even if dry, they quickly fall apart. This is why your photographer takes pictures of your bridal bouquet! They want you to be able to admire the stunning bouquet you carried on your wedding day! Your wedding bouquet is also often used as a prop when doing other detailed photos.   Photographer: Nunn Photography 8. Bridal Party This makes the must-have wedding photo list for an apparent reason! You chose these people to stand by your side on your wedding day for a reason! They are your best friends, and the love between you should be captured! Candid shots getting ready to pose wedding shots, insert bridesmaid pose here—photographers love to get them all! They want you to have fun with these photos and the people in them with you! 9. The Grooms Accessories The groom's accessories  are also important! From the boutonnieres to his watch, photographers want to capture the groom's wedding style. They especially love the little touches like a cool pair of socks or cufflinks.  10. The Groom It’s his turn to feel like a model! He looks handsome all dressed up, and it needs to be documented! Who knows when you will get him dressed up like this again? This is also an excellent place for him to loosen up and get a little more comfortable in front of the camera! Photographer: Nunn Photography Photo by: Nunn Photography 11. The First Look The first look  is always the best! Photographers love them both, whether you are walking down the aisle to your partner or deciding to do a first look before your ceremony. Seeing each other for the first time in your wedding attire is exciting, and they love to capture those first looks. The raw emotion that is brought out between the two of you can make anyone's heart swell. We couldn’t miss the first look on this must-have wedding photos list! 12. Candid Photos Candid moments are often the most cherished photos. As hard as it might be to be yourself while the photographer is snapping photos of you two, try your best to do so. They love to see you in your natural state, interacting as a couple. Also, ensure your photographer knows you want them to take candid shots throughout your wedding day! This can also include candid moments of your wedding guests. Photographers are here for those candid photos, which is why it is a must-have wedding photo list! Photo by: Nunn Photography 13. Portrait Photos Together Not only are these amazing photos that you will cherish for a lifetime. This is also a great time to sneak away, just the two of you, and revel in the moment that you are freaking MARRIED! The post “I do” glow is real, guys! Photographers love to capture this moment for you! Something to think about when doing a venue walk-through: scope out a private, beautiful spot to sneak away to.  Photographer: Violett Co Photography 14. The Wedding Party The wedding party photos  make the must-have list because these people have been integral to your wedding day. There are the typical everyone-in-line bridal party photos. But there are so many other fun wedding party photo options! Incorporate the getaway car, have the groomsmen carry the bride, etc. Have fun with these photos! They are with some of your best friends, after all! Photographer: Nunn Photography 15. Flower Girl & Ring Barrier These little (or big) cuties make the list also! Whether you choose the typical ring bearer and flower or girl, or you choose to have a fun flower man, these photos are something you will want to look back on!  Photo by: Nunn Photography 16. Ceremony Location With and Without Guests Your beautiful ceremony site  is one place that photographers love to photograph! They also love taking photos with and without guests present. Photographers want you to be able to remember every single detail of your special day!  17. The Walk Down The Aisle This is one moment you will treasure forever. Take the walk among your friends and family to where you will get to say "I do" to your best friend. Whether you take this walk with one of your parents or alone, it is a significant moment during your wedding day. 18. Exchanging of Rings Wedding rings symbolize endless love and commitment to each other. So, the exchange of rings makes the list of must-have wedding photos!   19. Moments of Laughter Genuine laughter over posed smiles is always a great choice! Weddings have serious moments, but they should also be full of moments of laughter. Remember to relax and have fun at your wedding and have plenty of laughter! 20. Your First Kiss This one is obvious!! Your first kiss as a married couple is one of those moments you will want to look back on. It is a photo that embodies the love, commitment, and connection of you as a couple on your wedding day. Make sure to have a conversation with your officiant or ask your photographer to mention having the officiant step out of the frame. That way it is not a picture of the two of you and your officiant! 22. Cocktail Hour Mingling While the cocktail hour can be used to accomplish all of the family photos after your ceremony.  It can also be a great place to capture your guests and even you mingling together and having a great time! A second photographer can help capture these moments if you choose to do family or portrait photos during the cocktail hour. 25. The First Dance Keep your photographer around long enough to capture those first dance pictures! This is a great place to capture some candid, must-have wedding photos. Don’t worry about how you dance, have fun with it, and enjoy this moment with your honey. 27. Cake Cutting As mentioned above, ensure your photographer gets photos of your cake before you cut it. Cake cutting is a fun, must-have wedding photo; you never know what might happen! To cake smash or to not cake smash that is the question. 28. Dance Party Um, these photos are 100% a must-have! Photographers want to document the party, you letting loose and having the time of your life. This is a great opportunity for your photographer to include more photos of your wedding guests also! 29. The Big Exit Wow, that was a ride. Your wedding day has been amazing, and now it's time to head to the next part of your night! Why not leave your wedding with a bang? Fun things to include (if your venue allows) are sparklers, smoke bombs, or confetti! Make your exit an event in itself, picture this… Walking out of your venue down a row of your friends and family, stopping mid-way to do a dramatic dip-kiss with sparklers all around! Talk about dreamy.  Photographer: JinFin Photography 30. Bonus Pro Tip If you don’t have your photographer until the very end of the night and you still want an exit photo, you can  do a mock exit . Include your wedding party and a few select guests and plan it to happen when you can sneak away without your guests noticing. This might be while guests are finishing up dinner and before the party starts. Be sure to talk to your wedding photographer about this ahead of time to make sure this is a possibility. This way you still get the dream shot even if your photographer isn’t there until the very end!  Just a shout-out to all my locally and privately owned venues across our great nation! Cornerstone Ranch Events Center , Cornerstone Ranch Events Blog , Cornerstone Ranch Contact SpringHaus Farm , Springhaus Farm Blog , Springhaus Farm Contact Adler Ranch , Adler Ranch Blog , Adler Ranch Contact The Greenhouse at Arrows Farm Hawthorn Hills Ranch Harris Glen Butler’s Courtyard The Hidden Abby The Lake at Christenberry Farms

Best Wedding Venues near the Smoky Mountains Searching for the best wedding venue near the Smoky Mountains? Look no further than Willow Oaks Weddings & Events. Are you on the search for the perfect wedding venue for your special day? With all the wedding venues near Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and the Smoky Mountains, it can become overwhelming when beginning your search. We have curated a list of the top reasons why Willow Oaks Wedding & Events is one of the best wedding venues in East Tennessee. Locally Owned and Operated Wedding Venue Willow Oaks Wedding & Events is a locally owned and operated wedding venue near Knoxville, Tennessee. We are one of the larger privately owned event venues in the Smoky Mountains, with seating for up to 250 guests inside! Our family built the venue after losing our barn to fire in 2021.  We aimed to create a large post and beam structure that would accommodate a large guest count and provide an amazing rain plan.  Our post-and-beam Granary did just that, it offers warm elegance and 4,000 square feet of indoor entertaining space to accommodate your guests. The 2,000-square-foot covered veranda overlooks our scenic lake with sweeping mountain views. In the evening, guests can relax in Adirondack chairs by our hand-forged kettle-style fire pit.  With two ceremony sites, we are sure to capture your vision.  Both are captivating, Whether under the oak tree by the water’s edge or with the mountains as your backdrop.   We pride ourselves on our Tennessee hospitality and making our guests feel welcome from the moment they drive up the hill. We are surrounded by acres of hills and farmland, making it a wedding photographer's dream! Willow Oaks Weddings & Events is a private and secluded wedding venue away from roads and noisy crowds.   Accommodating a Large Guest Count Willow Oaks Weddings & Events has plenty of room for indoor winter ceremonies.  We know you cannot trust the weather in East Tennessee, no matter the season! That's why we always have a plan for your wedding day.  Our staff sets up ceremony chairs before your ceremony time. If the weather isn't looking to cooperate for your wedding, we set up ceremony chairs inside on the spacious dance floor! We do not have to move reception tables or chairs when this happens. We have already pre-planned and adjusted our setup just in case your outdoor ceremony plans go awry. Or, if the Tennessee heat wave is just too much to handle for your summer wedding in Tennessee, our air-conditioned granary will be sure to keep your guests cool during your indoor ceremony! Affordable Wedding Venue  Willow Oaks Weddings & Events venue investment is curated to fit most budgets! We include tables, chairs, setup, a photo booth, yard games, and an abundance of decor, including plate chargers, greenery, and candle holders, to mention a few.  Our Saturday dates for your Summer and Fall weddings fill up quickly, many times 18 months in advance.   Constant Venue Upgrades and Improvement After nearly five years in business, we've seen so many new wedding and event venues come to East Tennessee.  We know that maintenance, upgrades, and upkeep are part of the business. We want your wedding day to be spectacular and we are always so honored when you choose our venue as your backdrop! That's why we have worked hard this year on many new upgrades to the venue! Early this spring, we added a grain bin Groom’s Quarters, complete with a private restroom.   We continuously strive to add new structures and amenities to our venue. "If you are with the right person, it brings out the best version of you." We believe this quote is true for your wedding venue as well. Let's change that around to fit us..."If you are with the right wedding venue, it brings out the best version of your wedding day." We want to be that venue for your Amarillo wedding! Come tour with us and let's schedule a private tour of our venue. We are sure you'll fall in love with us the second you walk into our spaces!  XOXO-- Lissa Some of our favorite privately owned venues across the U.S. Cornerstone Ranch Events Center , Cornerstone Ranch Events Blog , Cornerstone Ranch Contact SpringHaus Farm , Springhaus Farm Blog , Springhaus Farm Contact Adler Ranch , Adler Ranch Blog , Adler Ranch Contact The Greenhouse at Arrows Farm Hawthorn Hills Ranch Harris Glen Butler’s Courtyard The Hidden Abby