One of the things I love most about photographing weddings in Tennessee is how dramatically the scenery can shift from season to season (& even across different parts of the state). Each time of year brings its own atmosphere, light, and natural beauty, which means that the timing of your wedding can have a big impact on your photos. Whether you’re dreaming of golden fall foliage, soft spring florals, or a summer ceremony under the stars, Tennessee offers so many beautiful settings in every season.

So, when is the best time to get married in Tennessee? The honest answer: it depends on your style, priorities, and the kind of mood you want your photos to evoke. Here’s a seasonal guide from a photographer’s perspective to hopefully help you choose the time of year for your wedding:

Spring (March – May)

Spring in Tennessee is pure magic. Dogwoods bloom, cherry blossoms paint the streets, and the landscape starts to come back to life in every shade of green. The weather tends to be mild, though occasionally unpredictable—think warm days, cool evenings, and the occasional spring shower. Which, I should mention that while every season has rain, Spring is a bit more susceptible to rain showers. Not to worry though, photos in the rain can actually turn out very beautiful.  

From a photography standpoint, spring offers soft, natural light, light color palettes, and a fresh, romantic vibe. It’s perfect for couples who love garden weddings, floral-forward design, and dreamy golden-hour portraits.

Keep in mind that Spring is one of the most popular wedding seasons & a lot of venues book up very quickly. You’ll also want a solid rain plan just in case—but like I mentioned, some of the most beautiful images can come from those soft, misty spring days.

Summer (June – August)

Tennessee summers are warm, vibrant, and full of life. The landscapes are lush and green, the skies are bright, and you’ll have plenty of daylight to play with, especially if you’re planning an evening ceremony or a late reception under the stars.

With that said, it can get hot—especially in July and August. If you’re set on a summer wedding, I always recommend scheduling outdoor portraits in the morning or around golden hour, when the light is soft and the temperatures are a little bit more forgiving.

Pro tip: Embrace the season with light, breathable attire and plenty of hydration for you and your guests. A trend I’ve been seeing more of lately is offering a welcome drink for guests to enjoy before & during the ceremony and this would be an especially great idea for an outdoor summer wedding. Summer weddings tend to photograph best in open-air venues, vineyards, lakeside estates, and mountaintop retreats where there’s a breeze (& a view)!

Fall (September – November)

There’s a reason fall is one of the most popular times of year to get married in Tennessee. The temperatures are crisp, the humidity fades, and the trees absolutely explode with color—from deep gold to burnt orange to vibrant red. It’s a dream for photographers.

If you’re hoping for cozy textures, warm lighting, and rich autumn palettes, fall is your season. Think vineyard weddings, mountain lodges and warm sunset portraits.

While every fall month is stunning, timing is a factor if you’re set on the leaves having color. Peak foliage usually hits somewhere between late October and mid to late November, but it can vary a good bit across each year & by location. For example, the Smokies tend to peak earlier than downtown Nashville or Chattanooga. I’m always happy to help you plan your timeline around the best fall color windows!

Winter (December – February)

Winter weddings in Tennessee are the most underrated, in my opinion. While snow is never guaranteed, it can happen—especially in the higher elevations. But even without a blanket of snow, winter brings its own magic: bare trees, candlelit receptions, and cozy, intimate vibes.

For couples who love minimalism, a more formal look, and quiet romance, a winter wedding offers a beautiful and unexpected atmosphere. It’s also the season where photographers can really get creative with lighting, mood, and emotion.

Something to keep in mind that’s an added bonus of winter weddings in Tennessee is that venues are often more available and budget-friendly this time of year, and your guests will be thrilled to have something joyful to look forward to during the quieter season.

So, When Should You Get Married in Tennessee?

There’s really no wrong answer, it just depends on what type of atmosphere and overall look you’re going for.

If you gravitate towards lots of florals, soft light and pastel palettes, Spring might be the season for you. If you’re dreaming of vibrant greenery, lush green forests & dancing under the stars, take a look at a summer wedding. If you envision rich colors, cozy vibes and jaw-dropping foliage—Fall is definitely for you. For a cozy, intimate atmosphere, candlelight dinners and a more formal feel, Winter is a great option. 

If you’re still unsure, I’m always happy to walk through your vision and help you decide what season will give you the most meaningful, beautiful experience—and of course, the best wedding photos possible. Wherever you land, I can promise you that Tennessee’s natural beauty will show up for you.

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Whether you’re drawn to a Spring garden ceremony in Nashville, a mountaintop celebration near Chattanooga in the Fall, or a private, snow-covered venue tucked away in the Smokies—I’d be honored to help you capture your wedding day. Fill out my contact form & we can set up a time to talk to see if we’re a good fit!