5 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride
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Heartfelt Woodland Wedding at Elk Knob State Park | Boone NC

1 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride

Kasey and Wes wanted a simple and comfortable mountain wedding that would be a true reflection who they are as individuals and as a couple. So this laid back couple had a small, intimate woodland ceremony at Elk Knob State Park that featured a beautiful hand-fasting ceremony. Rather than a formal reception, Kasey and Wes opted for a casual after party at their house. Boone Wedding photographer Rachael McIntosh was on hand to capture the emotional moments and details of the day. Be sure to scroll down for the heartfelt wedding video by Evergreen Era Films.

2 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 3 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 4 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 5 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 6 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 7 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 8 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 9 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 10 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 11 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 12 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 13 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 14 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 15 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 16 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 17 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 18 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 19 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 20 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride 21 Simple Elk Knob Wedding North Carolina Rachael McIntosh Photography Via MountainsideBride

Kasey + Wes
Elk Knob State Park (Todd, NC) + Blue Ridge Parkway + Home
October 8, 2016

Wedding day weather: Windy, cloudy, misty
Number of guests: 10 for ceremony, 75 for the after party
Your budget: $10,000
Biggest splurge: Photography and videography
Biggest savings: Venue and food

Why did you choose the Mountains for your wedding?

The mountains make us feel good; they refresh us.

Wedding day theme:

We didn’t really have one. We just wanted to be simple and comfortable, having the wedding be a reflection of who we are.

Where did you find your inspiration?

We really just tried to include things we like or have an interest in. This allowed us to incorporate a variety of things, ranging from whimsical details like homemade dream catchers and a handfasting ceremony to practical details like good food and good beer. Utilizing items we already had was not only a way to save money but also a way to create a nostalgic feeling.

How did you choose to personalize your wedding?

We always enjoy grabbing koozies as mementos of our various adventures, so we designed and ordered koozies as party favors for our guests at our after party.

What was your favorite part of the reception?

A “reception” seemed a bit too formal for us. We just simply had an after party and invited our extended family and friends to celebrate with us in a casual environment at our home. We ended up really enjoying not having the formal structure of a reception. Everyone ate, drank, and socialized as they pleased, at their own pace, including us. We didn’t feel rushed to do anything.

What are three things you’re super glad you did?

  • Keeping the ceremony small and intimate.
  • Instead of catering, using a food truck and serving cupcakes instead of a cake.
  • Having a fun after party at our house rather than a more formal reception.

Anything you wished you hadn’t worried about?

We were a little worried at first if people would be offended not being invited to our small, intimate ceremony. Everyone was actually very supportive of it. But ultimately, we chose not to worry about things and we don’t have any regrets.

What was the biggest challenge in planning your mountain wedding and how did you overcome it?

Growing up in this area, we knew that the weather in the mountains could change dramatically at any moment. This didn’t hinder our planning, but we had to be mentally prepared for anything–which we really couldn’t have cared less, we were getting married that day no matter what.

How did you find and choose your vendors?

The Google and word of mouth.

What is your best piece of advice to other mountain brides who are planning their weddings?

Ignore expectations. This is your day. Keep the wedding about what you like and enjoy–and what makes your heart feel good.

Boone, North Carolina Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Rachael McIntosh | Ceremony Venue: Elk Knob State Park | Musicians: Caleb Caudle | CateringCamel City Grill (food truck) | Videographer: Evergreen Era Films | Hair: Aesthetic Styling by Rachelise | DressLarimeloom | RingsSpecimental | Groom’s Clothing: Levi’s Outlet | Beer and Wine: City Beverage | Shuttle Service: Mickey Haywood (and Enterprise Rent-A-Car) Koozies: CustomInk | Porta-Potty: Afford-A-Potty