North Georgia Elopement | Falon + Thomas

An Epic North Georgia Elopement: Overlook Hikes, Waterfalls, and a Whole Lot of Love

When Falon and Thomas decided to have a north Georgia elopement, they were torn between having a mountain elopement or a waterfall elopement. They dreamed of tying the knot in a way that reflected who they are as a couple—laid-back, adventurous, and always up for a good time. What unfolded was an unforgettable two-day experience that gave them the best of both worlds with the colorful trails of Blood Mountain to a early morning waterfall plunge and ended with a cozy intimate reception surrounded by their closest friends and family.

Being asked to capture this elopement meant so much to me since Falon, Thomas, and I go wayyyy back. Thomas’ sister and I became best friends in elementary school. He got to see alllllllll the awkward stages of Anna Holden. Many years later I met Falon. She’s been my friend and support system in the trenches of her intense spin class.

So when Falon said she wanted me to capture their mountain elopement, it was a resounding “hell yes”. And since most of her and Thomas’ adventures were in the Appalachian mountain range, it was only natural that their elopement should be there, too.

If you’re considering a north Georgia elopement (or even just dreaming about a Blue Ridge Mountain elopement), here’s the story of how Falon and Thomas turned their weekend into a celebration that was as epic as it was heartfelt.

Want to learn more about how to make this happen? Read through my How to Elope in Georgia guide!

Day 1: Hiking Blood Mountain and Overlook Vows

We planned an amazing hike to an overlook at sunset. As a Florida elopement photographer, this was my first official hiking elopement. I knew this 5 mile hike would be hard, but what I didn’t expect is how deceitful AllTrails would be #iykyk

But honestly? Pushing through it, sweating, laughing, and getting my ass kicked by that four-mile-but-actually-five-mile trail was everything. That feeling when we reached the top and they exchanged vows against the most stunning view? Totally surreal. Moments like this remind me just how much we can do when there’s something amazing waiting on the other side.

The day started at Falon and Thomas’ cozy Cherry Log AirBnB, tucked into the gorgeous fall colors of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We met up early afternoon to get ready for the hike to the Blood Mountain trailhead, where they planned to exchange vows at one of the most stunning overlooks in the area.

On the way there, the vibe was nothing but good energy. We talked about everything under the sun (the kind of random, heartfelt convos that just happen on elopement days). We even made a pit stop for some beers—because what’s an epic overlook without a cold one to pop?

The Hike

The trail to the overlook was a dream. The fall foliage was on full display, with golden yellows, fiery reds, and warm oranges covering the mountains. It was a challenging hike for me (this Florida gal isn’t used to all intense elevation gain), but Falon, Thomas, and my husband/assistant, Caleb, were absolute champs. Caleb, by the way, was the MVP of this whole adventure. He carried all the bags so Falon and Thomas could focus on enjoying the hike and taking photos along the way. At one point, Thomas joked, “If I’m climbing Mount Everest, I’m bringing Caleb with me,” which perfectly summed up the always-ready vibes he brought to the day.

The trail had plenty of switchbacks and climbs, but those moments where we paused to catch our breath turned into great photo ops. Between the laughter, deep conversations, and sheer awe of the surroundings, the journey to the overlook was half the magic.

The Overlook

When we arrived at the overlook Falon and Thomas originally had in mind, we found a family and a few hikers already there. Since Falon and Thomas wanted a more private setting for their vows, we decided to head to another overlook location with no one hanging out – and I’m so glad we did. This location was perfect. With panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and no one else around, it felt like the world was standing still just for them.

Falon and Thomas exchanged vows that had everyone tearing up. Their words to each other were so heartfelt, and you could see how much this moment meant to them. After the vows, they exchanged rings, and then it was time to celebrate. We popped champagne, cracked open those beers, and soaked in the beauty of blue hour as the sun dipped below the mountains.

The hike back down was in the dark, iPhones and flashlights lighting the way, but the energy was all smiles and laughter. When we got back to the AirBnB, listening to Falon and Thomas relive the day with their friends and family around the campfire was the highlight of the evening. Their excitement and joy were contagious, and it felt so amazing to know they had the epic adventure they always wanted.

Day 2: Sunrise Waterfall Elopement & Intimate Reception

The next morning, we were up early to get to the waterfall before the crowds rolled in. We packed up the truck, grabbed some coffee, and hit the road. The drive itself was beautiful, and by the time we arrived, the early morning light was just starting to break through the trees.

The Waterfall

We lucked out and had the waterfall almost entirely to ourselves, with only a few other hikers in the area who kept to themselves. The setting was straight out of a movie with pristine water cascading over jagged dark rocks, surrounded by towering trees showing off their fall colors.

Falon and Thomas were all in for this part of their elopement. After taking some portraits around the waterfall, they got into the water for their big plunge. And when I say the water was cold, I mean C O L D. Like, the kind of cold that shocks your system and wakes you up immediately. But they didn’t care. They laughed, shivered, and fully embraced the moment – wedding outfits and all.

Once we had all the photos, Caleb and I couldn’t resist jumping in ourselves. Was it freezing? Absolutely. Was it worth it? 10/10 recommend. I wish I could start every morning like this! 😂

The Reception

After two days of hiking, vows, and waterfall plunges, Falon and Thomas shifted gears to party mode. That afternoon, they hosted an intimate reception at their Cherry Log AirBnB with their closest friends and family. The vibe was relaxed and fun, with everyone celebrating this incredible couple and the unforgettable weekend they’d put together. Once Caleb and I were done capturing all the fun, we grabbed some cocktails and joined the celebration!

Why a North Georgia Elopement Is the Move

Falon and Thomas’ elopement was the perfect example of why North Georgia—and the Blue Ridge Mountains in particular—are a dream elopement location for adventurous couples. Between the stunning overlooks, vibrant fall foliage, and hidden waterfalls, this area has no shortage of breathtaking backdrops.

Whether you’re planning a Blue Ridge Mountain elopement or want something unique like Falon and Thomas’ two-day adventure, there’s something magical about letting go of traditions and creating a day (or weekend) that reflects your love story. Want to learn more about how I can help bring your Georgia elopement to life? Reach out and I’ll guide you every step of the way!

North Georgia Elopement Vendors

Photographer: Anna Holden Photo
Groom’s outfit: Cardita Formal Wear
Dress Boutique: Olivia Bowen Bridal
AirBnB: Cherry Log Home
Rentals: Georgia Party & Tool Rental
Reception Florals: Little Miss Delilah Wood Flower Florist
Reception Catering: Dragon Ass Smoked BBQ

North Georgia Elopement Photos

Ready to Plan Your North Georgia Elopement?

If you’ve made it this far, it means you’re ready to elope in the Georgia, but maybe you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with all that’s involved? If that’s you and you would love for someone to help brainstorm ideas, plan out the logistics, give you recommendations, andddddddd capture epic photos, then I’m your girl!