You’ve made the decision to elope in Tennessee … heck yeah! Now, you’re looking at your phone or computer trying to figure out what an “elopement package” even includes … and it’s a good question because it seems to depend on who you ask!
Some companies will include everything (venue, officiant, photographer etc.) into one price. Other companies expect you to put every single piece of your elopement together by yourself. Either option isn’t wrong, but you should at least know what you’re paying for when you sign on to any service. Tennessee elopement packages can look extremely different depending on who you book with, so let’s break it all down.
Breaking Down “Package”
In the wedding industry “package” is used very loosely. Some people consider an all-inclusive package from one company, while others simply consider it the services/hours/deliverables being provided by a vendor such as a photographer.
Companies that offer an all-inclusive experience generally offer all aspects of the elopement within one purchase. The couple arrives and the vendor takes care of the rest. On the flip side, many couples elect to hire their own vendors to create their elopement themselves (a photographer, an officiant, possibly a planner). This allows the couple to create their elopement exactly how they want it to be, whether that’s having full creative control or using each person’s unique style to fit the overall vibe of the couple.
What Typically Comes With All-Inclusive Packages
If the couple goes with the all-inclusive route they’ll likely get:
- a ceremony location (typically with little to no options to choose from)
- an officiant
- photography (usually with time limits)
- basic day-of coordination
There may also be additional items listed such as: florals, small arch/backdrop, marriage license assist etc.
When building their own day each piece will be chosen individually. That is where I come in! As your photographer and planner pal, I’m not here to push a one-size-fits-all package. Instead, I’m here to walk beside you, sorting through the noise to find what truly is important for your day, and make it all feel doable, fun, and totally your vibe.
Price Range Estimates by Package
Now onto real numbers … because vague pricing is the worst!!! Here’s a real look at what Tennessee elopement packages tend to cost, broken down by type.
All-inclusive packages (venue + officiant + photography + coordination) in Tennessee typically range from $3950 – $5450. While these packages can be super convenient, you are generally locked into their specific locations and timelines.
Photography only coverage (booked separately from everything else) in the Chattanooga area, for example, generally ranges from $2500-$3000 for approximately 4 hours.
Photography with planning support built in (assistance with locations, permits, timelines, and all of the “wait, can we really do that?” questions) typically falls in the range of $2800 – $3800 for similar coverage. You are paying a little more than just photography alone, but you are receiving real assistance during the planning process rather than having to navigate it all on your own.
This is also where I fall in terms of pricing! If you want to know more about what your day would look like, that is exactly why I have consultation calls available.
All-Inclusive vs. Hiring Your Own Vendors
While both options can result in a wonderful day, ultimately it comes down to what matters most to you.
You’d probably want to use an all-inclusive if:
- you want one price
- you want one point of contact
- you don’t have to make too many decisions
You’d probably want to hire your own vendors if:
- you already know exactly where you want to get married
- you want more say over who is part of your day
- you are the kind of couple that already knows exactly what “true to us” looks like
It’s completely fine if you’re still unsure which direction you are leaning. Many couples start here too!
What to Ask Before Booking Any Elopement Package
Before handing over any deposits or signing on to any service, ask:
- what does the cancellation or reschedule policy look like if weather doesn’t cooperate?
- does the package limit our location options, or can we choose our own spot?
- Do you help with knowing what permits I need to be aware of? (Some locations, like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, require a special use permit.)
- what happens if we go over the time we originally planned to use?
- does the price include every fee upfront, or could surprises pop up later?
Having these answers prior to booking will save you headaches and stress later on. It’s also worth double checking what you legally need to elope in Tennessee before you lock anything in.
How My Approach Differs
I don’t offer all-inclusive packages. Instead, I pair photography with real planning assistance, such as: ideas for locations, help shaping your timeline, guidance on what permits you need to be aware of, and someone always in your corner ready to help!
If you are looking for a planner & photographer to help create your entire elopement experience, I’ve got you!
