Danielle & Kristen's Destination Wedding at Ramble Creek — A Love Story Worth the Distance

Two brides on their wedding day at Ramble Creek, holding umbrellas, black and white filter

ALL PHOTOS BY Erin Morrison

Every couple that walks through our doors brings something unique — a laugh, an energy, a love story that reminds us exactly why we do what we do. Danielle and Kristen are one of those couples. They traveled from Ohio to celebrate their wedding at Ramble Creek, and from the moment they arrived, they were exactly the kind of people you root for with your whole heart.

They were gracious enough to leave us a glowing review and even more gracious to sit down and share their story with us. We are so glad they did.

Their Story Started with a Group Chat

Like so many modern love stories, this one started online. "We met on Twitter after being in a group chat through an old friend," the couple shared. What followed was over a year of long distance — Danielle and Kristen living in different states, making it work through patience, dedication, and cheap flights during the pandemic.

"We grew really close during Covid when flights were cheap," Danielle explained. "We got to spend a lot of time together until we decided we didn't want to be long distance anymore." Eventually, Danielle made the move to Ohio to be with Kristen, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Danielle and Kristen bridal portraits after storm at Ramble Creek East Tennessee

Choosing Ramble Creek for Their Destination Wedding

When it came to planning their wedding, Danielle and Kristen knew they wanted something that could bring everyone together without the stress of managing a long list of vendors from out of state. As an all-inclusive destination wedding venue in East Tennessee, Ramble Creek was exactly what they were looking for.

"We wanted something that was pretty much all-inclusive," they told us. "Being out of town, we didn't want to have to contact a ton of vendors for our wedding day needs." The venue itself sealed the deal. What first drew them in was simply "how BEAUTIFUL the property and Grand Hall is!"

Danielle was also quick to address something that many LGBTQ+ couples wonder about when considering a Southern venue. "Thankfully there weren't challenges being a same-sex couple! The hardest part was having an out-of-town wedding when all of our friends and family were out of town as well. Luckily, Ramble Creek made that so much easier."

Ramble Creek proudly celebrates love in all its forms. Every couple who chooses to get married here deserves to feel completely and totally themselves on their wedding day — and that is a commitment we take seriously.

The Rainbow After the Storm

One of the most stunning moments from Danielle and Kristen's wedding day came after a storm rolled through the property. Their bridal portraits, taken in the golden aftermath of the weather, are breathtaking — and the symbolism was not lost on the couple.

"Being a long distance, same-sex couple was challenging in a few different ways," they reflected. "We have really grown together as a couple and I think the rainbow is a beautiful reminder that there is beauty after every storm."

We could not agree more.

Two brides kissing in their edding dresses after a storm with a rainbow behind them

Their Advice for LGBTQ+ Couples Planning a Wedding

Danielle and Kristen had thoughtful advice for other same-sex couples navigating the wedding planning process. "Make sure that all of your vendors and guests are truly accepting of the LGBTQ+ community. It is YOUR day, and you want to be able to totally be yourself. Do what is best for you, even if that means not inviting certain people or not doing what may be considered traditional. Whether you have 50 or 500 people there, the only two that truly matter are you two."

When it comes to finding the right venue, their research advice is simple and practical. "Do your research! Searching hashtags is really helpful, and reading as many reviews as possible. Have phone consults and go with your gut."

For what it is worth — we think their gut led them exactly where they were meant to be.

What's Next for Danielle & Kristen

With the distance between them firmly in the rearview mirror, this couple has their sights set on adventure. They are looking forward to traveling together, buying a house, and hopefully making it to Costa Rica. We could not be happier for them.

Danielle and Kristen, thank you for choosing Ramble Creek for one of the most important days of your lives. Getting to witness love like yours is the greatest privilege of what we do.

Are you an LGBTQ+ couple looking for an all-inclusive destination wedding venue in the Southeast? We would love to be part of your story. Schedule your private tour today.

Previous
Previous

7 Spring Wedding Table Centerpiece Ideas for Your East Tennessee Wedding

Next
Next

Kids at Weddings: Your Complete Guide to a Family-Friendly Wedding in East Tennessee