Every rustic wedding should include the following: A mountain top ceremony, a river valley reception and bluegrass music. Karen and Greg O'Neal's elegantly Americana wedding filled all of these requirements and more making it one of the more unique celebrations that I have had the privilege of documenting. Seriously, how many events begin with a limo ride and end with moon-lit departure by boat?
The day started in downtown Chattanooga with a surprise Skype conversation from one of Karen's best friends who was unfortunately unable to attend. After all preparations were finished the party ascended Lookout Mountain heading to Our Lady of the Mount Catholic Church, a beautiful stone place of worship nestled near the Georgia-Tennessee border on the Western bluff's edge. Tears flowed as friends and family witnessed the union of two special people before their eyes.
The post-ceremony celebration began over a thousand feet below at the base of the mountain where the Tennessee River winds past a picturesque location, called The River Inn. A warm breeze cradled the brides veil as she danced with her husband for the first time to the bluegrass music of Slim Pickins. And after sharing cake and a sunset with guests everyone lined up to illuminate the O'Neal's departure with sparklers as they pulled anchor and set off upstream in a balloon and streamer adorned motorboat. It was a truly beautiful evening.
