About Us

The Smokey Mountain Elopement Team

Our Goal: To give you the wedding experience everyone wishes they would have had.

At Smoky Mountain Elopements, we’re dedicated to creating weddings that are not only beautiful, romantic, and fun… but also stress-free! Our commitment extends beyond just planning your day; we are fervently supportive of our local economy, committed to ecological sustainability, and we embrace the belief that all love is equal.

We understand the trust you place in us on one of the most significant days of your life. We’re not just organizing your wedding; we’re your advocates, supporting and guiding you every step of the way.

Smokey Mountain Elopements was founded on the idea that weddings can be breathtakingly beautiful without the burden of stress or debt. We believe in personalizing your special day without compelling you to overspend.

Our team is comprised of experts passionate about making your wedding experience as seamless and memorable as possible. Thank you for entrusting us with such a momentous occasion. We look forward to being part of your journey!

Sarah Dooley

Founder / Lead Photographer
Sarah has spent the past six years capturing love stories with a natural, documentary-style approach, ensuring every moment feels effortless and genuine. As the owner of Smoky Mountain Elopement Company, she’s passionate about creating a stress-free experience for couples, guiding them through their photos so they never have to worry about posing. Her goal is to preserve not just the big moments, but also the little in-between ones—the laughter, the stolen glances, and the joy of your guests—so you can relive your wedding day exactly as it felt. When she's not behind the camera, Sarah is often hanging out with her husband and fur babies, hiking to a new waterfall or overlook, indulging in true crime stories, or sipping on a nitro cold brew from Starbucks.

Brad

Co-Owner / Assistant Photographer
Brad has been by Sarah’s side since the very beginning of her wedding business journey, and as the co-owner and assistant photographer. He brings the same candid, natural, and love-filled approach to every wedding day. With an eye for authenticity, he focuses on capturing real moments—laughter, happy tears, and all the in-between memories that make your day special. When he’s not photographing weddings, Brad is a general contractor, building custom homes and crafting beautiful live edge tables. He’s a hands-on kind of guy who appreciates craftsmanship, whether it’s in a home, a piece of furniture, or the perfect wedding photo. Off the clock, he’s all about camping way out in the wilderness, fishing lakes and streams, and a good pepperoni pizza with a crisp Dr Pepper, enjoying life’s simple pleasures.