Cloudland Canyon Elopement Guide

Why Cloudland Canyon is One of the Best Places to Elope in Georgia

Last updated: 5/22/25

Georgia is an incredible place to plan your intimate wedding or elopement. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the peaceful coast, this state is full of dreamy, diverse landscapes. Whether you’re envisioning a mountaintop ceremony, a woodland vow exchange, or a waterfall first look, Georgia has something for every couple looking to celebrate in the great outdoors.

One of my all-time favorite places for an adventurous elopement? Cloudland Canyon State Park.

Nestled in the northwestern corner of Georgia, right near the Tennessee border, Cloudland Canyon is a hidden gem that’s easy to fall in love with. The park is home to thousand-foot-deep canyons, dramatic sandstone cliffs, hidden caves, and stunning waterfalls that flow year-round. Add in moss-covered forests, winding trails, and the peaceful sound of rushing creeks, and it feels like stepping into a fairytale.

The park also offers practical perks—like picnic shelters, scenic overlooks just a short walk from the parking lot, and areas that work well for small wedding gatherings. It’s ideal for couples wanting to keep things simple and meaningful, with the flexibility to include a few close friends and family members.

Even better? Cloudland Canyon is only about a 30-minute drive from Chattanooga, making it incredibly accessible while still feeling remote and wild. You can say your vows surrounded by nature and then head into town for a celebratory dinner or a cozy cabin stay nearby. No need to choose between adventure and comfort—you can have both!

It’s easy to see why Cloudland Canyon has become one of the most sought-after elopement destinations in the Southeast. With so many incredible backdrops to choose from and a sense of peace that’s hard to describe until you’re standing on the edge of a canyon at sunrise, it’s the kind of place that makes your wedding day feel truly unforgettable!

But with so much beauty and freedom comes one big question: where do you even start planning an elopement here?

Let’s break it down:

Do You Need a Permit to Elope at Cloudland Canyon?

Here’s one of the best parts about choosing Cloudland Canyon for your elopement: there’s no special wedding permit required! That’s right—no extra fees or complicated paperwork. All you need is to pay the $5 entrance fee per vehicle (or show your Georgia State Parks Annual Pass), and you’re good to go.

That said, there is one important update you need to know:

💡 They say the park limits weddings to one per day.
I have been told this, however I have seen multiple weddings a day many times at the park, so I don’t think they are strict about it. BUT, it’s strongly recommended that you call ahead and reserve your elopement spot as soon as possible. They are understaffed, so have a little bit of patience – I’ve heard it can be hard to get a hold of them.

You can make your reservation by visiting the official Cloudland Canyon State Park website or by calling:

• Park Office: 706-657-4050
• Reservations Line: 1-800-864-7275

Even though it’s a laid-back location, locking in your date early ensures you’ll have the privacy and peacefulness you’re dreaming of.

Here is a good checklist for you:

1. Choose your ideal date.
Think about the season, weather, and lighting. (Sunrise and sunset are especially magical here!)

2. Decide if you’re including guests.
Small ceremonies are allowed, but you’ll want to be mindful of accessibility and parking if you’re inviting others.

3. Call or go online to make your reservation.
Follow the links above!

4. Let them know it’s for a wedding.
Because only “say” one wedding is allowed per day, it’s important to let the park staff know your plans so they can block off the date.

5. Decide if you will get legally married at the county you live, OR get a marriage license for the wedding day.

6. Mark your calendar and start planning the fun stuff!
Once your date is secured, you can start dreaming up your ceremony location, timeline, hiking plans, outfits, and timeline. (This is where I come in to help!!)

How to Get a Marriage License for Your Cloudland Canyon Elopement

Where to Get Your Marriage License

You can get your marriage license from any probate court in the state of Georgia—it doesn’t have to be in the same county as your ceremony. Since Cloudland Canyon is in Dade County, the nearest local option is:

Dade County Probate Court
75 Case Ave
Trenton, GA 30752
📞 (706) 657-4414

Hours are typically Monday–Friday, but it’s a good idea to call ahead or check online for current times and ID requirements.

---

Georgia Marriage License Requirements

• No waiting period (you can get married the same day you receive the license)
• Both applicants must be present
• Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
• If either applicant was previously married, you’ll need proof of divorce or a death certificate
• You do not need to be a Georgia resident to marry in Georgia
• Witnesses are not required to legally marry in Georgia. Your ceremony can be as intimate as you wish—just you, your partner, and your officiant.
• After the ceremony, your officiant will complete the marriage license and return it to the probate court. Once processed, you’ll receive your official marriage certificate, typically within 30 days.

---

How Much Does It Cost?

• The marriage license fee is $56, or $16 if you’ve completed a state-approved premarital education course (bring your certificate of completion).
• Most courts accept cash, money orders, or credit/debit cards, but it’s wise to verify payment options in advance.

---

A Note on Taking Care of the Legal Stuff at Home

If the idea of getting a marriage license out of state (or dealing with legal logistics while traveling) feels overwhelming—you don’t have to do it that way.

One option many couples choose—including my husband and me—is to take care of the legal marriage in your home county before your destination elopement. We actually got legally married at our local courthouse, then had our real wedding in Scotland. That’s the day we count as our anniversary, and the one that holds all the emotion, intention, and meaning for us.

So if you’re coming to Cloudland Canyon from out of state—or even another country—you can absolutely:

• Get legally married at home with a simple courthouse ceremony
• Skip the need for a Georgia marriage license or officiant
• Still have a full, meaningful wedding day in the mountains with personal vows, a ceremony, and everything else you’ve dreamed of

There’s no one right way to do this. What matters most is that your wedding day feels like you. Whether it’s legal or symbolic, intimate or adventurous, I’m here to support the story you want to tell.

💡 Pro Tips

• If you’re traveling in from out of state, consider arriving earlier to secure your license.
• Bring a manila folder or protective sleeve to keep your paperwork safe on the trails.

How Long Are the Hikes at Cloudland Canyon?

This is one of the most common questions I get from couples planning a Cloudland Canyon wedding—and it’s a great one! The good news? The park offers a range of scenic spots that are easy to reach, even in wedding attire.

The Main Overlook is the most accessible ceremony location.
It’s just a 5-minute walk from the parking lot and offers an incredible panoramic view of the canyon. It’s ideal for sunrise ceremonies or intimate vow exchanges with guests, and there’s no strenuous hiking required.

Cherokee Falls, one of my personal favorite spots in the park, is about a 15–20 minute hike into the canyon. The trail is well-maintained and beautiful, but it does involve a workout on the way back up—you’ll descend over 400 feet via 600+ steps. It’s manageable for most couples who want a bit of adventure, and completely worth it for those misty waterfall portraits.

💡 Pro tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes to get to the falls, and pack your dress or change into it once you arrive if needed. I have a pop up tent!

There are also other trails like the West Rim Loop Trail, a scenic 5-mile loop that skirts the edge of the canyon. While it’s gorgeous, it’s usually more suited for adventurous engagement sessions or day-after hikes—not wedding-day portraits or ceremonies.

So whether you’re dreaming of a quiet cliffside moment or a dramatic waterfall backdrop, Cloudland Canyon gives you options. Most couples choose either the overlook or the falls for their elopement day—and sometimes both!

Lodging at Cloudland Canyon: Where to Stay

One of the best things about eloping at Cloudland Canyon? You can stay right in the park! Whether you’re planning a peaceful getaway for just the two of you or bringing along close family and friends, there are plenty of lodging options to make your stay easy and memorable.

Here’s what’s available inside the park:

• Updated Cabins: Recently renovated and expanded, the park now offers modernized cabins nestled in the woods—perfect for a cozy, private stay.
• Yurts: For something a little more adventurous (but still comfy!), the park has fully furnished yurts with heat, electricity, beds, and a front porch for stargazing.
• RV & Tent Camping: Whether you’re glamping or going rustic, there are designated areas for both tent camping and RVs with hookups.

You can reserve lodging directly through Georgia State Parks here or by calling 1-800-864-7275.

💡 Pro tip: If you’re bringing guests, cabins and yurts tend to book quickly, especially on weekends or during fall color season. It’s a good idea to reserve as soon as you know your date.

And if you’d rather stay off-site, Chattanooga is just 30 minutes away, offering a range of boutique hotels, cozy Airbnbs, and great dining options. There are also a lot of cute stays 5-15 minutes away in place like Rising Fawn, Wildwood, and around Lookout Mountain, Georgia.

Want to Take Your Stay to the Next Level?

If you’re dreaming of something extra special for your wedding getaway, staying in a treehouse might be just the thing. The area surrounding Cloudland Canyon is home to several beautiful, photo-worthy treehouses—perfect for couples who want a unique, elevated experience (literally!) and gorgeous getting-ready photos.

Why a treehouse?
Besides being a super fun story to tell—“We stayed in a treehouse for our wedding!”—these spaces are full of charm and natural light, making them perfect for relaxed mornings, quiet moments, and stunning portraits before your ceremony.

ance, especially in peak seasons (spring and fall), so be sure to reserve early!

Here are a few local treehouses I recommend to my couples:

• Treetop Hideaways – Chic, thoughtfully designed, and just minutes from the park. Great for couples who want a boutique-style treehouse with modern amenities.
• The Sassafras Treehouse – Romantic and secluded with panoramic views, this one is a stunner. Ideal for sunrise or sunset photos on the deck.
• Whippoorwill Retreat Treehouse – A peaceful, forested escape tucked away in the hills with beautiful rustic details.
• Treehouses at Candlelight Forest (Sophie’s Roost) – Charming and family-friendly, these are part of a larger property with meadows, creeks, and a vintage vibe.

💡 Pro tip: Many of these spots book out months in advance, especially in peak seasons (spring and fall), so be sure to reserve early!

🏡 Dreamy Airbnbs Near Cloudland Canyon

If you’re looking for a cozy, stylish, or totally unique place to stay near Cloudland Canyon, you’re in luck—there are some incredible Airbnbs in the area! Whether you want something tucked into the forest or you’re more of a city-lover at heart, you’ve got options.

Here are some of my favorite Airbnb stays nearby:

• The Laurel Zome – A geometric retreat tucked in nature (hello, dreamy photos!)
• The Cloud 9 Rooftop Deck – Mountain views + modern vibes
• The Wingtip at Tiny Bluff – Minimalist meets magical
• Old Blue Chair Tiny House – Cozy, colorful, and full of charm
• Oslo Tiny House – Clean Scandinavian lines, big forest energy
• The Hangar at On the Rocks – A container home with wow-factor
• Above the Canopy – Serene mountain views from your private perch
• Kotsu at Tiny Bluff – Japanese-inspired calm with woodland beauty

Want to browse them all together?
Check out my curated Airbnb wishlist here —I update it often for couples eloping at Cloudland Canyon and love helping you find the perfect spot to relax, get ready, and celebrate.

Where in Cloudland Canyon Should You Have Your Ceremony?

1. Main Overlook

⭐ Best for ceremonies with guests
This is my top recommendation, especially if you’re bringing family along—it’s only a 5-minute walk from the parking lot, making it accessible for all ages (including grandparents!). The sweeping canyon views make it feel like a mountaintop wedding without the hike. Most of my couples choose to say their vows here with family, then continue on for portraits afterward.

2. Cherokee Falls

⭐ Best for just-the-two-of-you or adventurous couples
My personal favorite waterfall in the park, Cherokee Falls is about a 15–20 minute hike down into the canyon. It’s stunning and peaceful, especially early or later evening. After the ceremony at the overlook, many couples will hike down for portraits—or even share private vows here while guests relax or explore.

Note: The hike back includes 600+ steps, so I usually recommend doing this portion in hiking shoes! Bring water and a backpack too.

3. Hemlock Falls

While beautiful, Hemlock Falls is a MUCH longer hike and not as photography-friendly due to a large rock that blocks the view. It’s not my first pick, but it could work for those looking for a more remote ceremony.

4. Forest or West Rim Trail Spots

There are some quiet forest clearings and scenic spots along the West Rim Trail, which can be great for more adventurous, private ceremonies. These are best for couples eloping without guests, or with a very small group.

5. Picnic Pavilions (Covered + Air-Conditioned!)

The park offers several pavilion rentals, including covered outdoor options and an indoor space with A/C. These can serve as a ceremony space or a perfect rain backup. Often, there’s a wooded area next to the pavilion that makes a lovely natural backdrop for a simple forest ceremony.

Need help deciding? I always help my couples choose the best ceremony spot based on their guest count, mobility needs, and how much hiking they want to do on the big day. You really can’t go wrong—but having a plan in place makes everything smoother.

Where to Celebrate After Your Cloudland Canyon Elopement

After exchanging vows amidst the natural beauty of Cloudland Canyon, many couples look for the perfect spot to celebrate with a meal, toast, or intimate gathering. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a small reception with loved ones, there are several options to consider both within the park and in nearby towns.

In-Park Options

Picnic Pavilions at Cloudland Canyon State Park
For those who prefer to keep the celebration within the park, Cloudland Canyon offers several picnic pavilions. These spaces can be reserved in advance and are ideal for casual gatherings. Some pavilions are covered, providing a great backup in case of rain, and there’s even an indoor pavilion equipped with air conditioning. Adjacent forested areas offer beautiful settings for continued photography or simply enjoying nature with your guests.

Nearby Towns: Trenton & Chattanooga

If you’re looking to venture out for your post-ceremony celebration, both Trenton and Chattanooga offer a range of dining options suitable for small receptions.

🍽️ Chattanooga Restaurant Recommendations

The Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar
Located along the Tennessee River, The Boathouse offers a scenic setting with a menu rich in seafood options. They have a private dining area that can accommodate up to 46 guests, making it suitable for intimate receptions.

Public House
Situated in downtown Chattanooga, Public House provides a casually elegant dining experience. Their private dining room is perfect for gatherings, offering refined Southern cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

Alleia
For those craving Italian fare, Alleia in Chattanooga’s Southside district offers rustic yet modern dishes. They have both indoor and outdoor settings suitable for events, providing a romantic ambiance for your celebration.

STIR
Located in the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo complex, STIR is known for its oysters and craft cocktails. Their private banquet room, The Cabooze Room, can accommodate up to 50 seated guests and includes a covered patio, making it a versatile option for receptions.

The FEED Co. Table & Tavern
A farm-to-table restaurant offering a seasonal menu, FEED Co. provides a private dining space in a cozy, rustic setting.It’s a great choice for couples seeking a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

Easy Bistro & Bar
This downtown spot combines French classics with Southern influences. Their private dining experience is tailored for both small gatherings and larger receptions, ensuring personalized service.

The Daily Ration
For a more laid-back celebration, The Daily Ration offers a spacious patio and a friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples wanting a casual, outdoor reception with local flair. 

When is the Best Time to Elope at Cloudland Canyon?

One of the many reasons I love Cloudland Canyon is that it’s open year-round, which means you have a lot of flexibility when choosing your elopement date. No matter the season, this park offers something magical—but in my experience, there are a few timeframes that tend to work best for couples.

🌸 Spring, Fall, and Winter are the Sweet Spots

While summer can be beautiful, it also tends to be hot, humid, and crowded. (A lot more bugs and snakes too!) In contrast, spring, fall, and even early winter offer stunning scenery with milder weather, fewer crowds, and some of the most photogenic landscapes:

• Spring (March–May):
  Wildflowers bloom, waterfalls are full from seasonal rains, and temps are perfect for hiking in wedding attire.
• Fall (Late September–November):
  The fall color here is unreal—vibrant reds, golds, and oranges blanket the canyon. It’s easily the busiest season, though, so read on for a tip to avoid crowds.
• Winter (December–February):
  Crisp air, moody fog, and peaceful, empty trails. Winter elopements feel serene and wildly romantic—plus the park is much quieter.

---

✨ Why Weekdays Are Best

If you’re able to plan your elopement for a weekday, you’ll thank yourself later. Weekends at Cloudland Canyon—especially in summer and fall—can get so busy that the park reaches full capacity and temporarily closes. That means limited parking, packed trails, and very little privacy during your ceremony.

Opting for a Monday–Thursday wedding gives you:

• Quieter trails
• Better ceremony privacy
• Easier parking and logistics
• More availability for vendors and lodging

💡 Pro tip: Early morning or just before sunset on a weekday is the golden combo for beautiful light + privacy.

Season-by-Season Breakdown: When to Elope at Cloudland Canyon

Cloudland Canyon is beautiful year-round, but each season brings its own unique atmosphere, weather patterns, and things to keep in mind when planning your elopement. Here’s a deeper look at what you can expect during each time of year:

Spring | March – May:

Cool weather, blooming trees, and flowing waterfalls

Spring is one of the most underrated and peaceful times to elope at Cloudland Canyon. The crowds haven’t hit yet, the trees are just starting to bud, and the air is still crisp and cool—perfect for hiking in wedding attire without breaking a sweat.

Rain is common this time of year, which means the waterfalls are usually flowing beautifully, making the trek to Cherokee Falls especially rewarding. And the moody, stormy skies? Absolutely stunning in photos.

Things to note:

• Weekdays are still relatively quiet

• You may need a rain plan (a covered pavilion is perfect!)

• Wildflowers begin to pop late April into May

Summer | June – Early September

Lush greenery, heavy crowds, and hot temperatures

While summer at Cloudland Canyon can be vibrant and full of life, it does come with a few caveats: hot, humid weather, increased park crowds, and more bugs and wildlife (yes—including snakes!). It’s not uncommon to see a snake near the trail or creek during this time of year, so if you’re squeamish, you may want to skip this season.

Because Georgia summers are typically dry, the waterfalls can slow to a trickle or dry up entirely—something to keep in mind if you’re dreaming of misty waterfall portraits.

Things to note:

• Early sunrise elopements offer better light and fewer people

• Prepare for heat and bring water + hiking shoes

• Trails are busiest mid-morning to afternoon

Checkout this summer Engagement Session at Cloudland:

Fall | Late September – November

Peak color, golden light, and crisp, quiet mornings

Fall is one of the most magical times to elope at Cloudland Canyon. As cooler temperatures roll in, the hike up from the falls becomes more bearable, and the crowds start to thin—especially on weekdays.

The real showstopper? The changing leaves. The overlooks give you a front-row seat to the canyon painted in glowing reds, oranges, and golds. Golden leaves scatter around the waterfalls, creating scenes that look like they’ve been pulled from a fairytale.

Autumn evenings here feel almost sacred. It’s quieter, more serene—and you might feel like you’re standing inside a painting.

Things to note:

• Book early—this is the park’s busiest season

• Peak foliage is usually late October to the first week of November

• Great time for midday or golden hour ceremonies

Checkout this Autumn Elopement at Cloudland:

Winter | December – February:

Peaceful trails, dramatic waterfalls, and cozy elopement vibes

Finding a good winter location for elopements in the South isn’t always easy—but Cloudland Canyon delivers. The crowds are nearly nonexistent, the air is crisp, and the waterfalls are flowing thanks to cooler, wetter weather.

This season brings an entirely different kind of beauty. The bare trees allow more visibility through the canyon, and you might even get lucky with a foggy, moody day where mist rolls through the gorge. It’s the kind of setting that feels raw, quiet, and deeply intentional.

Winter weddings here feel like a secret shared between you and the mountains.

Things to note:

• Pack hot drinks and warm socks—you’ll thank me later! I recommends brides get a wool shawl. The Tartan Co. is where I got mine for my wedding day!

• Dress warmly (but layers photograph beautifully!)

• Trails are often empty—great for privacy

Checkout this winter engagement session at Cloudland:

---

💡 Cloudland Tip:

The waterfalls and creeks at Cloudland Canyon are rain-fed, which means their flow depends entirely on recent rainfall. During summer and early fall, it’s not uncommon for the waterfalls to slow to a trickle—or even dry up completely.

While the rock walls still make for a stunning photo backdrop, if having a flowing waterfall is important to you, be sure to check recent weather conditions or ask your photographer before your elopement day!

What’s the Best Time of Day for a Wedding at Cloudland Canyon?

Because Cloudland Canyon is—well—a canyon, the light behaves a little differently here than it does in open mountain spaces. The high canyon walls delay sunrise light from reaching the valley floor and also block evening light earlier than expected. That’s why choosing the right time of day is essential for both photography and overall experience.

Here’s what I recommend based on my experience photographing countless elopements in the park:

---

Morning Ceremonies

Start Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour after sunrise
(For example, if sunrise is at 7:00 AM, plan to begin around 7:30–8:00 AM)

This timing allows the sun to begin illuminating the canyon and waterfall without casting harsh light directly on the rock face. It creates soft, flattering light for portraits while also avoiding the midday crowds. Cherokee Falls looks especially peaceful in the early morning, and you’ll likely have the space to yourselves.

Bonus: If you’re doing a waterfall hike, the cool temps and quiet trails make morning the ideal time to do it.

---

Evening Ceremonies (My Favorite!)

Start Time: 1.5–2.5 hours before sunset

This is my go-to timeline. The canyon has passed the heat of the day, the crowds have thinned out, and the light starts softening beautifully. The golden glow over the canyon rim is absolutely magical.

This option also gives couples a slower, more relaxed start to their day—no sunrise alarms needed!

---

💡 Cloudland Timing Tips:

• If you’re hiking, build in extra buffer time—especially if you’re navigating stairs in a wedding dress!

• Double check the sunrise and sunset times for your specific date—light changes quickly in a canyon.

• The falls are darker in early morning and shaded earlier in the evening, so timing is everything for photos.

Sample Elopement Timelines at Cloudland Canyon

What does a wedding day actually look like in the park? Let’s break it down.

One of the most common questions I get from couples is: “What should our elopement timeline look like?” And the answer is—it can look however you want it to. That’s the beauty of eloping! You have the freedom to slow down, explore, soak in the views, and make space for the moments that matter most.

That said, having a general plan can help you feel relaxed and present throughout the day—especially when you’re hiking, working around light, or coordinating with guests. Below are two sample timelines I often recommend to my Cloudland Canyon couples. You’ll see how we can balance portraits, ceremony time, and the beauty of golden hour or soft morning light.

💡Note: This is just an example – I coordinate around sunset and sunrise times; this is subject to change through out the year and depending on your wedding date.

Choose what fits your vibe best—or blend the ideas to create something totally your own!

🌅 Sunset Elopement Timeline

For couples who love golden light, a slower start, and a romantic evening feel.

Time	What’s Happening
3:30 PM	Getting ready at your Airbnb or treehouse
4:30 PM	First look in the forest or near your cabin
4:45 PM	Head into the park + the main overlook
5:00 PM	Ceremony + photos at main overlook
5:30 PM	Hike down to Cherokee Falls
5:50 PM	Arrive at the falls for a breather
6:00 PM	Waterfall Portraits
6:45 PM	Begin hike back to the parking lot.
7:30 PM	Optional: golden hour portraits at the top
7:45 PM	Wrap up, change clothes, or head into town for a dinner date

Recommended Officiants for Your Cloudland Canyon Elopement

Choosing the right officiant is crucial to making your ceremony personal, meaningful, and memorable. Here are three exceptional officiants who specialize in intimate and adventurous weddings, perfect for Cloudland Canyon:

1. Craig Woods – Personalized Ceremonies with Heart

Based in North Georgia, Craig Woods is known for crafting ceremonies that reflect each couple’s unique love story. His warm and engaging presence ensures a heartfelt experience, whether you’re planning a simple elopement or a small gathering.

• Location: North Georgia
• Specialties: Custom ceremonies, day-of coordination
• Contact: Craig Woods

2. Vanessa Allen LaRotonda – The Adventure Officiant

Vanessa, the heart behind Adventure Officiant, is passionate about creating ceremonies that are as adventurous as your love story. Based in Asheville, NC, she travels to Cloudland Canyon to officiate elopements that are intimate, inclusive, and full of joy.

• Location: Asheville, NC (serving Cloudland Canyon and beyond)
• Specialties: Adventure elopements,
• Contact: Adventure Officiant Website

3. Blake Baggott – Modern and Inclusive Officiant

Blake Baggott brings over a decade of experience to his role as a wedding officiant. Based in Chattanooga, TN, he offers personalized ceremonies that celebrate love in all its forms. Blake is known for his professionalism, inclusivity, and ability to make every ceremony unique.

• Location: Chattanooga, TN
• Specialties: Custom ceremonies, bilingual services (English & Spanish)
• Contact: Blake Baggott on WeddingWire

Others:

Matt Setliffe – Cinderella Wedding Co.

Matt is a licensed and ordained minister since 2006 and serves as the primary officiant for Cinderella Wedding Co.’s elopement and micro-wedding packages. He specializes in creating personalized and unique ceremonies, aiming to make your big day memorable and stress-free.

Margaret Ellis – Weddings by Margaret Ellis

Margaret has officiated over 800 weddings, ranging from formal affairs to casual elopements. She is known for her professionalism and ability to execute weddings flawlessly, focusing on the couple’s wishes to make their day their dream wedding.

Other Vendor Recommendations for your Cloudland Canyon Elopement

Hair & Makeup

Makeup by Ashton
Based in Tate, GA, Ashton Huffman is a sought-after on-site makeup artist specializing in bridal looks that enhance natural beauty. Known for her warm personality and attention to detail, Ashton ensures each bride feels confident and radiant on their big day.

Violet Rose Artistry
Taylor and Ashley of Violet Rose Artistry are known for their exceptional hair and makeup services, particularly for elopements and intimate weddings. Their work has been featured in various Cloudland Canyon weddings, showcasing their ability to create stunning looks that withstand the elements.

Erin Ryser
Erin Ryser is a talented hair and makeup artist who has worked on numerous elopements in the North Georgia area, including Cloudland Canyon. Her expertise ensures you look flawless throughout your special day.

Looks by Madilyn

Based in Cleveland, TN, Madilyn Crane is a makeup artist and bridal hair extension specialist. She offers personalized services to ensure you look and feel your best on your wedding day.

---

Floral

Thicket Creative
Evan Leggoe of Thicket Creative offers bespoke floral designs that reflect each couple’s unique style. Evan’s designs are known for their lush, organic feel, incorporating locally-sourced blooms whenever possible.

High Point Farms
Located just 15 minutes south of Chattanooga in Flintstone, GA, High Point Farms is a boutique flower farm offering fresh, locally-grown blooms. They specialize in creating seasonally inspired floral arrangements and offer a la carte florals, DIY options, and full-service wedding packages. Their farm-to-bouquet approach ensures vibrant, fragrant flowers that add a natural touch to any ceremony.

Flowers by Tami

With over 21 years of experience, Tami McAllister offers beautiful, creative wedding bouquets and arrangements. She operates from her 45-acre property in East Cleveland, TN, providing a personal touch to her floral designs.

Petals and Bark

Specializing in faux and dried wedding flowers, Petals and Bark offers luxuriously designed bouquets that serve as timeless keepsakes. Their designs are perfect for couples looking for sustainable and lasting floral options.

What to Wear for Your Cloudland Canyon Wedding

Eloping in a state park means embracing a little adventure—and your wedding day outfit should reflect that! Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall or saying your vows on the edge of a canyon, the right outfit will help you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to enjoy every moment.

Here’s what I always recommend to my couples when planning their Cloudland Canyon wedding wardrobe:

---

✅ Wear Things That Are:

• Comfortable – You’ll be moving, sitting on rocks, climbing stairs, and maybe even hiking a bit.
• Easy to Walk or Hike In – Think flat boots, sandals with grip, or sneakers that match your style.
• Okay to Get a Little Dirty – This is a state park, and dirt is part of the experience. Yes, your dress might get a bit dusty (or even muddy)—but that’s part of the story!

---

❌ A Quick Word on Heels…

No. Heels. Please.
It might be tempting to wear them for that elevated bridal look, but they’ll only slow you down (or worse, cause a twisted ankle!). Even if you’re planning to wear them just for photos, it’s usually more trouble than it’s worth on rocky trails and uneven terrain.

But if you must…bring a backup pair of hiking boots!

Cool Weather Tips

Fall and winter elopements at Cloudland Canyon can be chilly, especially in the early morning or right before sunset. Adding a layer not only helps you stay warm—it can also elevate your look with texture and color.

Pro tip: I love recommending The Tartan Blanket Co. for a wool wrap or shawl. I used one for my own wedding, and it was so warm and looked amazing in photos! Plus, it’s something you’ll actually want to reuse after your day.

Can We Get in the Water at Cloudland Canyon?

I love when couples ask me this—because the answer is yes, you absolutely can! Getting into the creek or wading into the water at the base of the falls can be such a fun, refreshing, and memorable part of your elopement day. It adds a sense of adventure and spontaneity to your photos, and it’s the perfect way to cool off after the hike.

That said… here’s your friendly photographer heads-up:

During the summer months, I regularly see copperheads and water snakes near or in the water. It’s not super common to have an issue, but it’s something to be aware of—one even swam right past my feet during a session (and yes, we got out very quickly after that 😅).

---

Cloudland Water Tips:

• Avoid getting in the water during the hottest part of summer when snakes are most active
• Think about wearing secure, water-friendly shoes with grip
• Be mindful of slippery rocks and strong currents after heavy rain
• Bring a towel and change of clothes if you plan to take the plunge!

---

Getting into the water can be so worth it—especially in spring or early fall when the temperatures are warm but wildlife is less active. If you’re up for a little mess and magic, it’s a great way to end your elopement on an unforgettable note.

Anything Else We Should Know About Cloudland Canyon?

Cloudland Canyon is truly one of the most breathtaking and versatile places to elope in Georgia. From canyon-rim views and forest trails to secret waterfalls and dreamy overlooks, it’s a place where nature feels wild and intimate all at once. Whether you’re planning something adventurous, simple, or totally unique, this park has a way of making your wedding day feel like a storybook beginning.

If this guide hasn’t convinced you yet—just know this: it’s even better in person.

Ready to explore the possibilities together?
✨ Reach out here and let’s start planning your unforgettable Cloudland Canyon elopement!

REMINDER:

Check out these CLOUDLAND CANYON Wedding galleries!