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36° 16' 52'' N 81° 59' 5'' W

Eric and Kelsey are married!

Even though their original plans had changed a few times thanks to Covid, these two were finally able to become husband and wife on Labor Day weekend in September! Since Kelsey and Eric are from Ohio, they chose Sugar Hollow Retreat because they offer weekend packages with lodging on-site, so it made traveling a little bit easier for their families! They also loved the relaxing atmosphere and outdoor retreat feel of the venue, which made their wedding weekend feel more like a vacation in the mountains than a traditional wedding day and allows for more time spent with friends and family! Sugar Hollow is also dog-friendly, which was an added bonus for these two dog lovers!

When we arrived at Sugar Hollow, the sun was shining and the forecast was clear (for once)! We greeted Kelsey at the Hemlock House and started with photos of her details. I loved that Kelsey wore her pink boots with her dress to match Eric’s brown leather boots! Kelsey and her maid-of-honor popped a bottle of champagne and celebrated with mimosas while getting ready. Meanwhile, Eric and his guys were at the Lodge getting ready and had a few toasts themselves. Once everyone was prepared for the day, we all headed up to the Overlook Deck for the first look and portraits!

The Overlook Deck has an amazing view of Watauga Lake and is truly so peaceful. We met Eric and their two dogs, Bailey and Kona, at the deck where Kelsey tapped Eric on the shoulder. When Eric turned around, he had the BIGGEST smile and gave Kelsey a huge bear hug. They giggled together for a moment, taking in the events of the day. The bridal party soon joined us for a few photos and then we drove down to the amphitheater for the ceremony!

Eric and Kelsey’s friends and family were all seated in the amphitheater awaiting the ceremony when we arrived. The ceremony started shortly and their flower-dogs lead the way down the aisle, ahead of Kelsey and her father. Eric and Kelsey exchanged rings, said their vows, and shared their first kiss as husband and wife with the Tennessee mountains standing tall in the background! After family photos and a few portraits with Kelsey and Eric, we all headed back to the Lodge for their outdoor reception. As the sun went down, we all danced the night away to DJ Stacie’s jams and ended the night with a sparkler exit and EDM dancefloor.

Kelsey and Eric- I am so incredibly happy for you two, Bailey and Kona! I have absolutely loved getting to know you two and being a part of your story.

Special thanks to Danielle for being my amazing second shooter and right-hand lady throughout the day!

Check out this amazing video of Kelsey and Eric’s wedding day from Marissa McGarry at Two Peak Studios!