Lula Lake Elopement

If you’ve found yourself pulled toward the idea of eloping surrounded by cliffs, waterfalls, and winding trails… eloping at Lula Lake might already be calling your name. Tucked into Lookout Mountain, this place feels sacred, and not just because of its jaw-dropping scenery. It’s also a protected land with a powerful mission behind it, and it’s one of the rare places in the Southeast where your elopement will actually support conservation efforts. That’s part of what makes this place so special.

As one of the few photographers approved to shoot elopements here, I can help guide you through this unique experience. So if you’re dreaming of a day that feels rooted in purpose, beauty, and nature in the heart of Lookout Mountain, this Lula Lake Elopement Guide is for you.

Why Lula Lake Land Trust is a Special Place to Elope

Eloping at Lula Lake Land Trust feels like stepping into something sacred. It’s not just the views; though yeah, the 120-foot waterfall and mountain overlooks are stunning. It’s also that this place is protected, preserved, and deeply cared for. Only a few couples get to exchange vows here each year, and that intentionality shows up in every part of the experience. You’re not just saying “I do” in a pretty spot, you’re supporting a mission that keeps this land wild and open for generations to come. Here’s why Lula Lake is one of the most meaningful places you could choose to elope in the Southeast:

• Private and Peaceful – The land is only open to the public on select days, which means your elopement isn’t competing with crowds. It feels like the whole place was set aside just for you.
  
• The Waterfall – Lula Falls is 120 feet of rushing, untamed beauty. It’s one of those backdrops that doesn’t need much else because it’s already doing the talking.
  
• Incredible Views – Hike a little bit and you’ll find high bluffs that look out over miles of rolling ridgelines. Perfect for a quiet ceremony or some serene sunset portraits.
  
• Support for Conservation – Lula Lake is a nonprofit, and every elopement helps fund their work to preserve this land through conservation and education. Your day gives back to the Earth.
  
• Exclusivity – Only a few photographers (yep, I’m one of them) are permitted to shoot here. That keeps the experience personal and low-impact and ensures your photographer knows the trails, lighting, and secret spots that make it all come together.

All this to say, that eloping at Lula Lake is a unique experience that you will never forget and one that aligns with any couple looking to support the outdoors.

How to Elope at Lula Lake

Eloping at Lula Lake isn’t like booking a venue and showing up. It’s more thoughtful than that and that’s part of what makes it so special. Because this land is protected, every elopement is intentionally kept small and low-impact to preserve the trails, trees, and waterfall for future visitors. Here’s exactly what you need to know to make it happen:

Step-by-Step: How to Book Your Lula Lake Elopement

1. Choose Your Photographer
   Lula Lake only allows a handful of photographers to shoot on the property and I’m one of them. Start by reaching out to one of us (hey 👋), because Lula Lake likes all bookings to go through a Preferred Photographer.
   
2. Pick Your Date
   Together, we’ll look at available dates that line up with both the Land Trust’s schedule and your vision. Weekday elopements are a little more flexible (and quieter), while weekends are in higher demand and require a little bit larger donation (see below).
   
3. Secure Your Spot with a Retainer
   To officially reserve your date at Lula Lake, a 30% non-refundable retainer donation is required. This goes toward the total donation cost of your elopement day and guarantees your time on the property.
   
4. Pay Your Donation Fee
   Lula Lake isn’t a wedding venue, it’s a nonprofit organization. Instead of a rental fee, they ask for a tax-deductible donation to support their conservation work:
   
   • $1,000 donation for weekday elopements. $300 due on booking, $700 due 7 days prior to your elopement date chosen.
     
   • $1,500 donation for weekends. $450 due on booking, $1050 due 7 days prior to your elopement date chosen.

More information can be found straight from the source at the Lula Lake Land Trust website. Of course, I’m here to help you navigate any confusion or questions you might have.

“No-Impact” Elopement Ceremonies

Lula Lake is committed to protecting the land, so ceremonies here are intentionally minimalist, but still full of meaning. Here’s what that looks like:

• 10 people max – This includes you two, your officiant, any guests, and your photographer (me).
• Pack in, pack out – Anything we bring (blanket, small bouquet, daypack) comes back out with us.
• Leave no trace – No decorations, no tossing petals, no altering the landscape in any way.
• No large structures – Free standing awnings, chairs, and tables are permitted.
• No catering – But you can have a picnic.
• No fire – No candles, fireworks, lanterns, or any other products containing fire
• No pollution decor – No confetti, silk flowers, balloons, or any other products that could pollute the land or creeks
• No releases – No releases of any kind (lanterns, birds, balloons, etc)

Eloping at Lula Lake isn’t about stripping the day down, it’s about making sure the beauty that drew you here stays untouched for others to enjoy. And honestly? When the forest, the falls, and the moment are this powerful, you don’t need anything extra! 

How to Get Legally Married at Lula Lake

Even though Lula Lake Land Trust sits just outside Chattanooga, it’s technically in Georgia. Therefore, you’ll need a Georgia marriage license to make things official. Thankfully, the process is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Go together in person to the Walker County Probate Court. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Lula Lake located at 103 S Duke St # 101, LaFayette, GA 30728. You can apply online ahead of time to get the process started: Apply for Georgia Marriage License
• Bring a valid photo ID for both of you—your driver’s license or passport will work.
• No blood test or waiting period required. You can walk in, apply, and get your license on the same day.
• Out-of-state? No problem. You don’t have to be a Georgia resident to get married here.
• Your license is good immediately. That means once your ceremony is over and your officiant signs the license, your marriage is legally recognized.
• No witnesses are required in Georgia. Just your officiant and you are required to get married, so you can elope just the two of you with no problem.
• Mail in your license within 30 days. The signed marriage license should be returned to the probate court within 30 days of the ceremony. Usually, your officiant can take care of this for you. You will then receive your marriage certificate in the mail within 30 days.
  

That’s one more thing off your mind so you can focus on what actually matters—getting married in a place that feels like you!

Best Spots at Lula Lake for Your Elopement Ceremony and Photos

Lula Lake Land Trust is so full of variety! Here are some of the standout places to consider for your elopement:

Upper Falls + Lula Lake

A quieter, peaceful spot with stunning views of the upper falls as they pour into bright turquoise water. You’ll get there by walking along an old railroad bed, and it’s a great mix of beauty and accessibility. This is a great spot for smaller ceremonies (less than 5 people), as well as portraits.

Lower Falls

This is the showstopper. Lula Lake’s nearly 120-foot waterfall crashes into a basin below. It takes a rugged hike to get there, but if you’re up for the adventure, the payoff is huge. I don’t recommend this spot for ceremonies because it can be very loud and hard for guests to hear what you are saying. However, if you want to do some private vows or portraits here, it doesn’t get more epic!

Bluff Overlooks

Want that wide-open, top-of-the-world feeling? The bluff trails give you sweeping views of the Tennessee Valley and surrounding landscape. This is the best spot on the list for a ceremony with up to 10 people. And portraits at golden hour are also incredible here!

The Meadow

For something calmer and more accessible, the meadow area is a great choice. It’s open, full of soft light, and perfect if you’re looking for a gentler terrain for guests or want space to spread out a bit with your small group. 

The Creek

While absolutely no swimming is allowed in Lula Lake itself, you can wade in the creek leading to the falls if you would like and it can make for some pretty fun and unique wedding photos! Just be aware though, the water is pretty much always cold!

Each location has its own vibe, and I’m happy to help you pick the one that feels most like you!

Planning Tips for a Seamless Lula Lake Elopement Experience

A little prep goes a long way in making your elopement here feel stress-free and meaningful. Here are a few tips to help everything go smoothly:

• Timing
  Morning light is soft and peaceful, with fewer people on the trails. If you want the sun to be hitting the waterfall and lake, the early morning is best. Sunset brings warm tones and soft glow across the overlooks and waterfalls.
• Time of Year
  Spring is the best time of year if you want the waterfall to be super full of water and early May can bring the blooms on the Rhododendron trees. Summer is the perfect time if you want to get a little less flow in the falls, lush trees, and maybe be able to wade in the creek to cool off. Fall brings the color change (usually around mid to late October). Winter can still be beautiful and brings a quiet stillness (just bundle up!)
• Attire + Footwear
  Choose outfits that feel like you, but also make sense for the terrain. Flowy fabrics move beautifully in the breeze, but be sure to wear solid shoes for the hike in. You can always change once we reach the ceremony spot if needed.
• Preparation
  Bring water, snacks, and any personal items you want for the ceremony—like vow books, rings, or a blanket to sit on. If you’re hiking to a bluff or waterfall, pack light and keep things simple. I’ll help you carry what you need and make sure nothing important gets left behind.

Where to Stay For Your Lula Lake Elopement

Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend just the two of you or bringing a few people along, there are plenty of unique places to stay nearby. From secluded cabins with mountain views to quirky Airbnbs and sweet bed-and-breakfasts, I’ve got a curated list for you. Some even have hot tubs and fire pits—ideal for a post-elopement wind-down or sweet getting ready moments.

For just the two of you:

Cloud 9 Container Home with Rooftop Deck

The Hanger at the Rocks

Kotsu and Tiny Bluff

Wingtip at Tiny Bluff

For you and few guests: 

Lookout Mountain Birdhouse

Spacious Home with Views

Sycamore Grove Villas

Where to Eat and Celebrate in Chattanooga

Lula Lake is just a quick drive from downtown Chattanooga, which means great food is within easy reach. Whether you want to toast with cocktails or grab something local to eat, the options are solid. Here are a few places that I personally recommend:

State of Confusion

Odd Story Brewing

STIR Chattanooga

Boathouse Chattanooga

Supporting Conservation Through Your Elopement

Lula Lake Land Trust is a nonprofit organization with a mission to preserve and protect the natural landscapes around Rock Creek. Through land conservation, environmental education, and efforts to provide low-impact recreation, they’re doing the work it takes to make sure this place stays wild, beautiful, and accessible for generations to come.

Your elopement here directly supports that mission. The donation required to book your ceremony isn’t just a fee—it’s an investment in something real: protecting waterfalls, forests, trails, and wildlife habitats. You’re choosing to say your vows somewhere that values sustainability, stewardship, and the deep connection between people and nature.

It’s a rare chance to celebrate your relationship while giving back to the land—and that kind of meaning sticks with you long after the photos are taken.

Why Choose Me to Capture Your Elopement at Lula Lake

Not every photographer can shoot at Lula Lake, and that’s for good reason. As one of the few photographers officially approved by Lula Lake Land Trust, I know this land like the back of my hand. I’ve hiked the trails, watched the light change over the bluff, and learned how to plan an elopement here in a way that’s both meaningful and respectful to the land.

I’ll help you find the best ceremony spots, guide you through the logistics, and make sure your experience feels like you: not some pre-scripted version of what a wedding is “supposed” to be. Whether you want to say your vows beneath the falls or at the bluff overlook, I’ll be there to help you navigate it all, calmly and confidently.

I’ll also make sure your photos feel like you. No weird poses. No pressure to perform. Just honest moments, real connection, and the beauty of this place wrapped around it all.

If Lula Lake is calling to you, let’s talk! I’d be honored to help you plan something grounded, beautiful, and deeply true to who you are. [Reach out here] and let’s start dreaming it up.