Planning a Nashville Elopement: A Complete Guide

So you've decided to elope. Maybe you're tired of the pressure of a big wedding. Maybe you just want it to be about the two of you. Maybe you're visiting Nashville and the thought of getting married here just feels right. Whatever brought you to this decision — I think it's a great one, and I'd love to help you pull it off.

I'm Rev. Todd Rodarmel, a Nashville-based wedding officiant with over 20 years of experience. I've helped couples elope in backyards, on hiking trails, at Airbnbs, in downtown Nashville, and everywhere in between. Here's everything you need to know to plan a Nashville elopement from start to finish.

What Is an Elopement, Exactly?

The word "elopement" used to mean sneaking off to get married without anyone knowing. These days it simply means a small, intimate wedding — typically 10 people or fewer — focused on the couple rather than the production. No 200-person guest list. No seating chart stress. Just you, your person, and the people who matter most.

Nashville is one of the best cities in the country for elopements. It's beautiful, accessible, full of unique venues, and has no waiting period on marriage licenses — which means you can literally decide to get married and make it legal the same week.

Step 1: Get Your Tennessee Marriage License

Before anything else, you need a marriage license. Here's how it works in Tennessee:

• Where to get it:Any county clerk's office in Tennessee. In Nashville, that's the Davidson County Clerk's office at 700 President Ronald Reagan Way, Suite 101.

• Cost:$98.50 (you save $60 — down to $38.50 — if you complete a premarital counseling program like the one I offer)

• ID required:A valid government-issued photo ID for both of you

• Waiting period:None in Tennessee — you can use it the same day

• Expiration:30 days, so don't get it too far in advance

• Out-of-state couples:Tennessee welcomes you — there is no residency requirement

Pro tip:If you're coming from out of town, you can get the license the morning of your elopement and be married by afternoon.

Step 2: Choose Your Location

Nashville has no shortage of beautiful spots for an elopement ceremony. Here are some of my personal favorites depending on the vibe you're going for:

For the Nature Lovers

• Radnor Lake State Park— peaceful, wooded, and stunning in every season

• Percy Warner Park— rolling hills, stone staircases, and gorgeous light

• Long Hunter State Park— beautiful lakeside views just outside the city

For the City Romantics

• Riverfront Park— downtown Nashville with the Cumberland River as your backdrop

• Centennial Park— iconic, beautiful, and right in the heart of the city

• The Parthenon— for couples who want something truly unique and unforgettable

For the Private & Intimate Feel

• Your Airbnb or rental property— one of my favorite options; completely private, no crowds, completely yours

• A friend or family member's backyard— simple, personal, and meaningful

• A rooftop— Nashville has some spectacular rooftop venues that accommodate small groups

Most public parks in Nashville allow small ceremonies without a permit if you have fewer than 25 people. For anything larger or for exclusive use of a space, check with Nashville Parks and Recreation ahead of time.

Step 3: Book Your Officiant

This is the most important call you'll make. Your officiant is the only vendor who is legally required for your elopement — everything else is optional.

Here's what I offer for elopements:

Run Away Together Elopement Package — $400Perfect for couples with 10 or fewer guests who want a simple, meaningful midweek ceremony. Includes the ceremony itself plus signing and filing your marriage paperwork. I'll show up, make it special, and take care of all the legal paperwork so you don't have to think about it.

For weekend elopements or larger groups, my standard packages start at $800 and include full ceremony design, personalized vows guidance, and marriage license filing.

I work with couples of every background — religious, non-religious, interfaith, same-sex, and everything in between. Your elopement should feel likeyou, and I'll make sure it does.

Step 4: Decide on Photos & Video

You don't need a photographer — but you'll probably want one. Even for the most intimate elopement, having a few beautiful images to look back on is something most couples are grateful for later.

For a simple elopement you have a few options:

• Hire an elopement photographer— many Nashville photographers offer 1-2 hour elopement packages starting around $500-$800

• Ask a trusted friend— if you have someone with a good eye and a decent camera, this works beautifully for intimate ceremonies

• Use a tripod— for the truly minimal couple, a phone on a tripod and a self-timer can capture the essential moments

Step 5: The Little Touches That Make It Memorable

Just because it's small doesn't mean it can't be meaningful. Here are a few simple ideas that couples have loved:

• Write your own vows— I can guide you through this if you're not sure where to start

• Bring flowers— even a simple bouquet from a local Nashville florist makes a difference

• Plan a special dinner after— Nashville has incredible restaurants; make a reservation somewhere meaningful to celebrate

• Tell your family after with a photo— many elopement couples share a favorite image with family and friends after the fact as a beautiful surprise

• Include your kids or pets— some of the most moving elopements I've officiated have included the couple's children in the ceremony

How Much Does a Nashville Elopement Cost?

One of the biggest draws of eloping is the cost. Here's a rough breakdown:

ItemEstimated CostMarriage License$38.50 – $98.50Officiant (Nashvows elopement package)$400Photographer (optional)$0 – $800Flowers (optional)$50 – $200Celebration dinner$100 – $300Total$588 – $1,800

Compare that to the average Nashville wedding cost of $30,000+ and it's easy to see why elopements are growing in popularity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nashville Elopements

Can we elope in Nashville if we don't live in Tennessee?Absolutely. Tennessee has no residency requirement. Couples come from all over the country — and the world — to get married here.

How much notice do you need to book?For weekday elopements I can often accommodate couples with just a few days notice. Weekends book faster, so the more lead time the better. Reach out and let's check availability.

Can we live stream our elopement for family who can't be there?Yes — this is a wonderful option and one I'm happy to accommodate. A phone on a tripod or a trusted friend holding a tablet can connect your loved ones to the moment in real time.

Do you help with vows?Yes. I love helping couples find the right words. Whether you want to write completely original vows or work from a classic framework, I'll guide you through the process so you feel confident and prepared on the day.

What if it rains?Nashville weather can be unpredictable. I always recommend having a backup indoor location in mind — your Airbnb, a covered pavilion, or a restaurant private room. I'm flexible and happy to adapt to whatever the day brings.

Ready to Elope in Nashville?

If you're thinking about eloping in Nashville, I'd love to help you make it happen. The first step is a free 30-minute Zoom consultation where we can talk through your vision, your timeline, and what package makes the most sense for you.

Book Your Free Consultation at Nashvows.com

Whether you want something in two weeks or two months, simple or deeply personal, I'll help you create a ceremony that feels meaningful and completely right for the two of you.

— Rev. Todd Rodarmel Nashvows.com | Nashville, TN

Rev. Todd Rodarmel is a Nashville-based wedding officiant and Christian pastor with over 20 years of experience. He officiates elopements, weddings, vow renewals, and interfaith ceremonies for couples of all backgrounds across Tennessee and beyond.