Tara + Joseph

04.06.2024 | Magical Mountaintop Wedding in Gatlinburg, TN

On April 6, 2024, Tara and Joseph tied the knot in a wedding straight out of a dream in the breathtaking mountains of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This day was extra special for us, not only because it was our first time visiting Gatlinburg, but because of the personal connection we had with the bride. Leonard had worked alongside Tara in the ICU back in Tampa, Florida, so it was incredibly meaningful to go from witnessing her care for patients to capturing one of the most important days of her life.

Spring was just beginning to awaken, with hints of green sprouting across the mountains, creating the perfect backdrop for their celebration. Tara and Joseph exchanged vows at the Anakeesta Resort, perched atop a mountain with panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. What made this venue even more unique was that Tara was the one and only bride to ever get married there. Originally intended to be a wedding venue, the resort shifted directions after Tara booked it, making her wedding a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tara and Joseph’s wedding colors featured royal blue, beautifully highlighted by stunning floral arrangements with blue roses and matching the blue skies. The drone footage we captured was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the dramatic blue skyline and sprawling mountain views. The natural beauty of the setting paired perfectly with the love and joy radiating from Tara and Joseph. Tara’s bridesmaids were her three daughters, while Joseph’s daughter served as his best woman—a heartfelt nod to the importance of family in their lives.

As Tara walked down the aisle with her dad, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. The emotions shared between them set the tone for the intimate, family-focused celebration that followed. Adding a touch of elegance and warmth to her bridal look, Tara wore a luxurious fur shawl during some of her portraits, which perfectly complemented her dress and the cool spring air.

After the ceremony, guests took a golf cart ride down the mountain to the reception venue, a stunning building filled with natural light from large garage doors made of windows, cozy vibes from a crackling fireplace, and beautiful chandeliers. The space was decorated with elegant crystal glassware, fine cutlery, and candlelit ambiance. The reception kicked off with a top-shelf open bar, a lively cocktail hour, and plenty of mingling, setting the stage for a night to remember.

Before joining their guests, Tara and Joseph shared a sweet, private moment together, complete with a dance in the reception hall that was as tender as it was magical.

The reception was full of heartfelt moments, from a speech from Tara and Joseph thanking their guests for making it to their celebration to Tara’s touching dance with her dad to Joseph’s dance with his mom, who beamed with pride the entire time. They also shared individual first dances with each of their children—Tara’s three daughters and her son, as well as Joseph’s daughter—showing just how much they value their role as loving parents and the importance of family.

Of course, the night wasn’t without its fun-filled traditions. A highlight of the evening included a striking blue champagne fountain, the cake cutting and garter toss showcased Tara and Joseph’s playful personalities, and the dance floor was packed with energy all night. Tara even slipped into fluffy white slippers to keep the party going without missing a step!

As the evening came to a close, Tara and Joseph shared one final, intimate candlelight dance alone in the reception hall—a quiet moment to soak in the beauty of their day. Guests then gathered outside with twinkle lights in hand for the couple’s grand send-off.

To cap off their magical day, Tara and Joseph took a golf cart to the top of the mountain, where they hopped on the ski lift for their grand exit. With a “Just Married” sign attached to the lift, they descended the mountain as we followed behind to capture the moment. The views were absolutely breathtaking, as we clung to our camera gear for dear life.

Tara and Joseph’s wedding was an unforgettable experience full of love, family, and stunning mountain views. It was truly a privilege to be part of such a special day. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness for this incredible couple!

Thank you for letting us capture your love story, Tara and Joseph! We’re so grateful to have been part of such a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Love,

The Whites

The Pack:

Videography: @whitepackmedia

Venue: Anakeesta

Florals: Troy Villager | @t.villagerdesigns

Photographer: Jess Bricking Photography | @jess.bricking.photogaphy

Planner: Laurie D'Anne Events | @lauriedeanneevents

DJ: Hale Entertainment | @haleairentertainment

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