This engagement session had the trifecta—not only are Rebecca and Nick a ton of fun with adventurous spirits, but they’re so in love and trusted me the whole time to capture the special bond and connection they share. All of it led to an awesome engagement session together, even though we had just met. They were hoping for authentic portraits that really capture the essence of their relationship, and I think we nailed it at Long Hunter State Park for their Nashville area engagement session. I can’t wait for their wedding in Grand Teton National Park, WY!

Book a Tennessee Elopement Package with Mariah

Rebecca and Nick are getting married in Grand Teton National Park in 2022 and chose to have their engagement session close to home in Nashville, Tennessee at Long Hunter State Park. Long Hunter State Park centers around a beautiful rocky lake with plenty of trees nearby, so it offered a picturesque backdrop for their nature-loving personality. 

If you want a beautiful outdoor elopement without going too far, Tennessee elopements never disappoint. The state has a great balance of entertainment, nightlife, and historic attractions around the Nashville area, plus the majestic Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee.

Planning for Your Tennessee Elopement or Engagement Session

Just when I thought their session couldn’t get any better, they also selected the perfect attire for their session! “What to wear?” is one of the most common questions I get from couples, especially those taking photos outdoors or on rugged terrain. They want to dress appropriately for the landscape and weather without compromising style. It’s a tricky balance. In these situations, simpler is always better. Here are a few of my top tips on what to wear for an outdoor engagement session:

What to Wear for Your Outdoor Engagement Session

1. Stick with your style.

Oh, Instagram. The picture-perfect posts have a way of sucking us in and making us think we need to do things differently. But at your engagement or elopement session, I want you to be you. Because you are beautiful! So, pick an outfit that you feel great in but that also authentically reflects your style. (That way, you don’t look at these ten years from now and say, “What was I wearing?!”) Simple and neutral outfits are always a safe bet!

2. Keep comfort in mind.

I’m all about a pair of sexy heels…but not on the trails. Similarly, I also don’t want you to be shivering the entire session for the sake of a pretty dress. You and your honey are what matter most. Your attire helps pull the look together, but you are the focal point. So, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in so you can have fun during the photoshoot. When you feel cozy (or cool, depending on the weather), it’s easier to settle in and show off that beautiful connection you two have. 

3. Coordinate with the location.

Neutrals, earthy shades, soft tones, and metallics look amazing against a natural backdrop. But, keep in mind, just as you don’t want to clash with the environment (like a floral-patterned dress in a garden), you also don’t want to blend into it (a gray sweater against a slate-gray rocky backdrop). So, choose colors that will pop a bit. 
Think: either complement or contrast; do NOT clash or blend.

4. Complement your other half. 

Complementing the backdrop is great, but don’t forget your other half! I don’t want you to match (because we’re not in the 90s anymore), but choose outfits that coordinate and pair well together.

5. Incorporate movement.

When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a flowy dress! I love the way they catch the wind and add great movement and texture to photos. I loved Rebecca’s gorgeous olive dress in this Nashville engagement shoot. Every shot looked a little different as they swished and swayed together. 

Get More with Mariah Treiber Photography & Film

You will receive an Engagement Session Guide and a Wedding Guide when you book with Mariah Treiber Photography and Film. I’ve answered some of the most common questions I get from couples. Plus, you’ll receive lots of tips and tricks for planning your sessions, getting great photos, and having an overall fantastic experience.

Looking for a Tennessee Elopement or Engagement Package?

Whether you’re eloping to breathtaking Tennessee or going all out with a gorgeous wedding, I’m more than happy to share my insight and expertise to help make your day even better than you could have imagined—with stunning photos to match.

Want to learn more about Tennessee elopements and engagements? I’d love to help! Connect with me today to get started.

View more elopements and engagements on the Blog and in my Portfolio. Also, be sure to check us out on Instagram @mariahtreiberphotography for more inspiration.