Gallaher Bend Wedding in Knoxville

This Knoxville wedding at Gallaher Bend is one that is especially near and dear to our hearts. Chad and Madelyn’s wedding was on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, and it was the most beautiful day for the most beautiful couple. Before we jump into their wedding photos, we have to tell you about their love story.

Three years ago, we hired Madelyn to model for a photo shoot that we did in Charleston. Chad was working for us at the time as our wedding cinematographer, so he went with us to Charleston to video the shoot. His family also lives in Charleston, so it was a great opportunity for him to visit his family as well. We had shown Chad photos of Madelyn before the shoot, and he jokingly called her his girlfriend for the weeks leading up to the shoot. They met on a warm day in the lowcountry, flirted throughout the photo shoot, and he talked about her for weeks after the shoot. Then, they started talking long distance between Georgia and Tennessee and what started as a friendship led to a relationship. As their relationship grew, Madelyn moved to Knoxville. Months later, Chad proposed.

As they were looking for wedding venues, Joe and I had just purchased a home on the lake with the intent of hosting small weddings. Chad and Madelyn visited our home and fell in love with it, and they asked us if they could get married at our house and be the first wedding there. Of course, we said yes! And so the house renovations and preparations began. From July to November, we renovated, remodeled, landscaped, painted, and prepared for their wedding and the launch of our new venue – Gallaher Bend.

The day of their wedding was an absolute dream. It was a warm and sunny 60+ degrees with the most amazing orange and purple sunset. As Chad and Madelyn were saying their vows, the sun dipped over the mountains and the sky began turning the most gorgeous pastel colors.

Madelyn’s said, “When we set out to plan our wedding, Chad and I wanted each decision to be intentional and honest to who we are. This day is so special and every aspect is a reflection of our lives and the people we love. My best friend and maid of honor, Logan Smith, designed our invitation suite and read a piece by my favorite poet during the ceremony. My dream dress was a custom collaboration with my dear friend, mentor, and talented designer Kate McDonald. Our photographs were taken by the couple who introduced us, who also hosted our wedding at their beautiful home. Our flowers and decor were curated by the kind and so creative Allie King, with Sassafras Flowers. This day was more than we ever imagined, and we are so thankful to our family, friends, and everyone who was a part of the best day of our lives. We are so grateful to be surrounded by so much love and support and will never forget this day.”

Venue – Gallaher Bend
Bridal Suite – Downtown 211
Catering – Bradford Catered Events
Hair & Makeup – Whitney Evans Beauty
Florist – Sassafras Flowers
Wedding Gown – Kate McDonald
DJ – Ogle Entertainment with Special Notes Entertainment Agency
Rentals – All Occasion Party Rentals
Photo Booth – Knox Photo Bus
Invitation Designer – Logan Smith

About Gallaher Bend

Gallaher Bend is a Knoxville wedding venue on Melton Hill Lake in Tennessee for elopements and intimate weddings. Located on 7 acres in Hardin Valley, it has multiple wedding ceremony and reception sites for both indoor and outdoor weddings including a lawn overlooking the lake, field with rolling hills, dock, and pool. Wedding ceremony and reception sites include views of the East Tennessee mountains. Indoor facilities include a bridal suite, main room for guests, and three bedrooms that can be reserved for overnight stays.

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