​Designing a gorgeous wedding reception table doesn’t have to come with designer price tags. Whether you’re planning a lavish wedding or an intimate celebration, the right tablescape can completely transform the guest experience, even on a budget.
​
In this guide, we break down four high-impact tablescape styles you can affordably recreate. These styles were inspired by our director’s recent visit to Herrod’s in London.

• High-Contrast/High-Impact Tablescapes
• Floral-Inspired Romantic Tablescapes
• Clean & Simple Minimalist Tablescapes
• Classic, Timeless Tablescapes

These styles work beautifully for Tennessee celebrations of all types, driven by the vision for your event. Here’s how to bring each look to life on a realistic budget.

High-Contrast Designer Tablescapes (Bold & Artistic)
Perfect for a dramatic, editorial wedding look.

Why It Works for Weddings
This style photographs beautifully thanks to its strong patterns, saturated colors (like cobalt blue), and gold accents. It adds instant and undeniable personality to any reception space.

How to Achieve the Look on a Budget

• Use high-impact tablecloth alternatives, like patterned fabric or even peel-and-stick wallpaper on a board.
• Mix thrifted blue-and-white plates for that “designer collected” effect.
• Add affordable gold flatware to make the table feel high-end.
• Incorporate colored glass accents for artistry and dimension.

This look is ideal for modern couples or destination-inspired weddings.

Floral-Inspired Tablescapes (Romantic & Lush)
Perfect for garden weddings, bridal luncheons, spring receptions, and Southern outdoor spaces.

Why It Works for Weddings
Floral tablescapes feel soft, romantic, and timeless. They also effortlessly complement bridal colors.

How to Achieve the Look on a Budget

• Combine grocery-store flowers with foraged greenery for full, lush arrangements.
• Mix vintage floral china from thrift stores — no need for matching sets.
• Add ceramic vases or decorative vessels for height and charm.
• Use clear glassware to bring sparkle and elegance.

This style pairs beautifully with blush, sage, ivory, or classic garden-party color palettes.

Clean & Simple Minimalist Tablescapes (Modern & Calm)
Perfect for couples who want a quiet, luxury aesthetic.

Why It Works for Weddings
Minimalism is refined, airy, and sophisticated. It is a great fit for modern venues or intimate micro-weddings.
​
How to Achieve the Look on a Budget

• Stick to a monochrome palette (powder blue, gray, cream, or sage).
• Choose unembellished dinnerware in clean shapes.
• Use simple clear glassware (Dollar Tree and IKEA are perfect sources).
• Leave intentional negative space for a serene, high-end feel.
• Add one sculptural piece or a single-branch vase to anchor the table.

This understated style allows the venue, florals, and lighting to shine.

Classic Timeless Tablescapes (Traditional & Elegant)
Perfect for Southern weddings and formal receptions.

Why It Works for Weddings
This look never goes out of style. Think crisp linens, polished flatware, and soft floral china. Timeless elegance suits every season.
​
How to Achieve the Look on a Budget

• Use white or ivory table linens (thrifted or Amazon basics).
• Mix vintage rimmed or floral plates from estate sales.
• Add real-looking glassware (thrifted pieces work beautifully).
• Choose symmetrical centerpieces with hydrangeas, roses, or peonies.
• Incorporate brass candlesticks or tapered LED candles for classic romance.

Classic tablescapes create that warm, nostalgic feeling guests love and will remember.

​Which Tablescape Style Fits Your Knoxville Wedding?

• Bold couples: High-Contrast Designer
• Romantic couples: Floral-Inspired
• Modern couples: Clean & Simple
• Traditional couples: Classic & Timeless

Each of these looks can be affordably achieved with thrifted pieces, mixed textures, and intentional layering.

Final Tips for Budget-Friendly Wedding Tablescapes

• Mix thrifted with new
• Stick to a cohesive palette
• Use lighting intentionally
• Let florals carry the mood
• Add depth through layering

Beautiful wedding tables don’t require big budgets, just thoughtful design and the right inspiration.

Searching for the perfect venue for your upcoming nuptials? Give us a call at 865-986-8340!

We do it all at The Venue at Lenoir City...from elegant weddings and intimate anniversary parties, to high-powered business meetings, popular fundraising galas, thematic proms, and everything in between. One of the things we love most about our work is the variety of markets we serve. No two days are the same! Every event is unique and likewise, the needs, expectations, and goals can vary widely depending on the type of group hosting it.

This week’s article focuses on private and social events…the ones that “WOW” our followers on Facebook and TikTok. These events bring together people who want to mark life’s milestones and create ongoing memories.

Since we are a larger facility, we specialize in larger, complex events. For example, we host a variety of large, multi-day cultural weddings and other milestone celebrations. Of course, we also host birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, graduation parties, family reunions, baby & bridal showers, retirement celebrations, and more! As a service to every potential client who contacts us, we also maintain a referral list of other Lenoir City venues that might be a better fit for smaller events and budgets.

What we offer for these events:

• Both indoor & outdoor spaces
  • Our ballroom is warm and inviting. It can be broken down into 3 smaller rooms, but at its maximum, can accommodate up to 600 banquet guests (though 450-500 is more comfortable when a dance floor and/or stage is being used). Because of its neutral colors and materials, it is easily customizable and can be transformed with beautiful décor and flexible layouts to create the desired atmosphere. The soaring 18’- 20’ ceilings add to the grandeur and openness of the space.
  • A Fireside Concourse is surrounded by windows and features a unique double-sided fireplace that creates a cozy, welcoming tone for fall and winter events. This space is perfect for cocktail hours and smaller wedding ceremonies.
  • The outdoor space features a covered patio with a tall ceiling strung with stylish Edison lights that can seat up to 100 guests under cover. On a regular day, this space features patio furniture seating with fire pits, but can be set with any combination of tables & chairs as well. The patio is placed beside a semi-circular brick courtyard with sitting walls, well-maintained gardens, and beautiful grassy areas that can seat up to 300 guests for wedding ceremonies. There is an abundance of perfect photo areas located throughout the grounds.
  • Of course, we also offer a wedding suite with lighted make-up mirrors, a full-length triple mirror, and reinforced dress hooks to accommodate even the heaviest of dresses. A rear tower lobby serves as a secondary space for the wedding party to gather before the ceremony or reception.
• Professional touches – Our management team includes a Private Events Manager/Wedding Specialist who lives and breathes social events (and has quite the knack for decorating!). Clients have the option of selecting all-inclusive packages, which are turn-key in nature (and tend to alleviate a lot of client stress), or going with an a la carte structure, which offers more freedom to customize the event.
• Amenities galore – Ample parking, state-of-the-art technology, flexible lighting, a generous catering kitchen, setup and cleanup services, and a 5-star staff all add to a stress-free social event. We've even taken the legwork out of searching for your vendors, by establishing preferred partnerships with some of the area's best caterers, decorators, photographers, entertainers, and more, while still offering the flexibility of using your own.

We love helping clients bring their visions to life. Whether transforming our space into a romantic, candlelit wedding reception, or creating a fun, family-friendly space with yard games for a 50th birthday party, our dedicated team ensures your celebration feels personal, seamless, and memorable.

Think Outside the Event: Out-of-the-Box Vendors to Wow Your Guests
When planning an event, one thinks about catering, décor, music, and seating charts, among other standard “to-do” checklist items.. But if you really want your event to stand out and be remembered, it’s all about the extras. Unique and unexpected vendors can add a personal touch and create those magical moments that guests rave about long after the party ends.

At The Venue at Lenoir City, we’ve seen some truly customizable, creative ideas come through our doors, and we’re sharing a few of our favorite “out-of-the-box” vendors that can help you take your event to the next level.

Ice Cream Bars
Nothing says fun like a scoop of cold, creamy goodness served from a charming cart. Add assorted toppings from which to select and you’ve really got a winner! Whether it’s a whimsical wedding or a summer corporate picnic, ice cream stations or sundae bars offer a nostalgic and refreshing treat for guests of all ages.

Some of the ice cream vendors we’ve had success with on-site include Sweetwater Creamery, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, Sno-Biz, Tic-Toc Ice Cream Parlor and Smiley Swirl Ice Cream Truck. We’ve even had the pleasure of working with the Loudon High School Culinary Arts students to create sundae stations!

Mobile Beverage Trailers
Why settle for a traditional bar, when you can have a beautifully restored horse trailer or camper serving up craft cocktails and mocktails? Beverage trailers bring personality and charm. These are perfect for outdoor receptions, casual celebrations, or for a good excuse to draw your attendees outside to help manage the inside crowd during downtime. Our partner vendors Orange Peel Mobile Mixers, The Drifting Daisy Mobile Bar, Single Barrel Events and The Pour Guys are the perfect place to start.

360 Photo Machine or Vintage Booths
Just as with technology, photo booths have come a long, long way. Gone are the days of having to wait patiently for your photos to print and stiff, posed static photos. Instead, planners can now offer guests a fully immersive photo experience with 360 video booths that capture action, not just stills. Better yet? Plug in your cell phone number and they’ll be sent to you in a digital file!

You can choose to go in the opposite direction and hire an old-timey photo booth. You know, the kind with the curtain that prints out a vertical sheet of four small photos? Or a backdrop booth with fun props always creates a buzz. These booth ideas double as entertainment and keepsakes. We enjoyed working with Happy Beat Music, Kapture Knoxville Photo Booth, M & H Photo Booth, PixelPop Photobooth Company, Tennessee Photobooth, or Turning Knox Rental.

Live Floral Bars
Now that we are partnering with local flower farm First Cut Florals, along with Broadway Flower Shop and Melissa Timm Designs, we’d love to see more events host floral bars. Whether for bridal or baby showers, weddings, birthday celebrations, garden parties, or even corporate retreats, the relaxation and awe inspired by floral bars won’t soon be forgotten by your guests. And as an added bonus, your guests get to leave with a beautiful bouquet of their own making!

Henna Artist Services
Bring in a skilled and creative henna artist like our partner vendor Divine Henna and be the talk of the town! From cultural wedding celebrations to festivals and proms, this elegant form of body art is sure to get your event remembered. The professionals with Divine Henna are unsurpassed in their artistic abilities.

Candy Buffets & Dessert Bars
Candy buffets aren’t just exciting for the tummy, but also for the eyes! The wide assortments of colors, textures and sizes that can be used can make a candy buffet a living work of art. But candy buffets are just the beginning. Think of doughnut walls, cookie or cupcake decorating stations, or gourmet s’mores bars to really head outside the proverbial dessert box. Guests get hands-on fun and a sweet treat to enjoy or take home. The Venue at Lenoir City offers some of these services in-house and can refer other vendors if needed.

Lit Letters and Balloon Décor
Today’s balloon art is not the simple arches of the past. Pretty much anything can be created with and/or printed on balloons. Partner some incredible balloon décor with lit numbers or letters and you’ll create a terrific backdrop that will draw your attendees to network, take photos, and otherwise memorialize your event. We frequently work with Above the Rest Balloon & Event Designs, Alpha-Lit Marquee Letters, Balloons by Daria, Era Events, Event-Lit, Luma Designs, Osmar Creations, and The Princess Palace to accomplish these visions.

Make It Yours
The professional staff of The Venue at Lenoir City loves helping clients dream big and make those dreams a reality. If you're looking for more vendor recommendations or want to know which creative options work best in our space, we’re here to help!

​
The current wedding scene in East Tennessee brings a fresh wave of inspiring trends that couples and guests are enjoying. We’re fortunate here at The Venue at Lenoir City to see a little bit of everything, from timeless Southern charm to bold, modern celebrations, and from micro-weddings to celebrations with hundreds of guests. If you're planning a wedding in the Knoxville area, here are just a few of the top trends we’re seeing this year.

• Earthy and Neutral Color Palettes - Not necessarily the all-out Boho style of the last several years, but neutral tones with pops of terra cotta, sage green, burnt orange, and dusty rose are dominating in 2025. Likewise, the crisp, clean look of all white or ivory never goes out of style. Couples are embracing nature with these colors leading the way in floral design, bridesmaid dresses, and table décor. Such colors pair beautifully with our East Tennessee scenery! Think sunset backdrops, natural outdoor settings, and wood accents.
• Statement Ceremony Backdrops - Traditional arches are taking a back seat to creative, personalized ceremony setups. Our partner vendor Marsh-Made Designs offers creative and even custom arbors, bars & barbacks, specialty walls & backdrops, wood signage, and other focal carpentry items meticulously crafted from a variety of materials. They provide the perfect complement to breathtaking floral arrangements and designs (for example, those created by our partner florists Broadway Flower Shop and Melissa Timm Designs).
• Specialty Bars - Couples are making sure their cocktail hours are unforgettable by providing their guests with interactive drink experiences. Mobile bars, custom signature drinks, and coffee carts are also stealing the spotlight. Whether indoor or outdoor, The Venue has partner vendors that can help make your cocktail hour vision reality. These include: Orange Peel Mobile Mixers; Single Barrel Events; The Drifting Daisy Mobile Bar; and The Pour Guys.
• Candid Photography & Content Creators - Forget the stiff, planned poses of old! Today’s couples want real, emotional, in-the-moment snapshots. Knoxville-area photographers and videographers are leaning into photojournalistic styles and capturing behind-the-scenes moments perfect for sharing on social media. Some even work with content creators to bump the social media factor up a notch. We recommend starting your search with our partner vendors: A-List Video Solutions; HWVP Weddings; MNKpro; and Red Boat Photography.
• Retro-Inspired Décor - Disco balls, velvet lounges, bold patterns, and vintage accents are making receptions feel fun and nostalgic. Whether it's a mirror ball over the dance floor or 1970s-inspired table numbers, these little touches add serious personality to your special day. Partner decorators such as ERA Events, Luma Designs, Osmar Creations, and The Princess Palace can design and execute the perfect ceremony and reception environments to reflect your theme and unique vibe.
• Intimate Lighting & Candle-Heavy Tablescapes - More couples are opting for soft, romantic lighting to set the mood. Long rows of candles of various heights and widths interspersed among greenery, a variety of glowing votives, and even Edison bulb string lights over our patio help turn The Venue into a warm, welcoming space perfect for dinner and dancing.
• Personalized Guest Experiences - Knoxville-area couples are going all-in on hospitality. Many are “shopping small” to support local businesses. Whether including local honey, jam, or flowers from the Lenoir City Farmer’s Market, cheese samples from Sweetwater Valley Farm, trinkets, artwork or craft favors from The Sparkly Pig or Markets on Broadway, or even a specialty dessert station from La Michoachana, there are plenty of ways to pull the local area into your special day. Go one step further and consider providing welcome bags for out-of-town guests, or handwritten notes from the couple on your welcome table or seating chart to personalize the experience even more.

Whether you lean into timeless elegance or try something totally unexpected, our venue team is here to help bring your vision to life. We’d love to show you around, answer your questions, and share how we can incorporate these amazing trends into your own day. Schedule a tour today and let’s start planning something unforgettable!

#Decorating
#Planning
#Wedding

✅ Convenient Location Just Outside Knoxville, Tennessee
Just minutes from downtown Knoxville and I-40 in Middle East Tennessee, The Venue at Lenoir City is centrally located and easy to access for guests coming from all over East Tennessee. The Venue is a mere 1.2 miles from the interstate at I-75 exit #81.

There are numerous hotels, restaurants, retail establishments and attractions within 4 miles of The Venue, making it convenient for guests to stay, eat, shop and play locally. Whether you're hosting a Knoxville-area wedding reception or a corporate training session, convenience is key — and we’ve got it covered.

✅ Versatile Spaces for Any Occasion
We host:

• Weddings & receptions
• Corporate meetings, events & conferences
• Cultural events & celebrations
• Galas and awards ceremonies
• Milestone birthday & anniversary celebrations
• Graduation ceremonies and parties
• Fundraisers & banquets
• Community concerts and events
• Christmas & holiday parties
• Tradeshows and business expos
• And more!

The colors used in our spaces are very neutral, so it can be transformed for intimate celebrations or large events, with both indoor and outdoor options available.

✅ All-Inclusive Event Packages
Let us handle the details! We offer several all-inclusive packages to take the guesswork and time demands out of planning. By bundling services, packages offer the benefit of discounted pricing as compared to a la carte options. We offer:

• Wedding Package (includes everything except bar, DJ, officiant and photographer)
• Party Package (full banquet-style)
• Appetizers Party Package (for open houses, come & go events, or more informal gatherings)
• Sunday Celebrations Package (for DIY events on Sundays within 60 days of booking)
• Quinceanera or Sweet 16 Package (includes everything needed for setup and service except food)
• Multi-Day Cultural Event Package (customized for the unique requirements of cultural events)

Prefer to hand-pick every detail? We also offer à la carte pricing with the flexibility of welcoming outside vendors.

✅ Scenic & Stylish
Our venue features thoughtful design:

• 18’-20’ ceilings
• Upscale finishings, including hardwood and Italian marble tile
• Flexible spaces to accommodate 20 to 1,200 guests
• Generous, well-equipped catering kitchen
• Lovely outdoor garden ceremony site and covered patio
• Wedding suite and groomsmen’s area
• Eco-friendly features
• Top-notch amenities
• A five-star event staff

While we happily host events of all sizes, large events are our specialty. The Venue at Lenoir City is one of a handful of event centers in the Knoxville area that can accommodate up to 600 guests for a seated banquet. So, whether you're saying “I do” under twinkle lights or toasting your team’s success at a holiday party, our space provides the perfect backdrop.
 
✅ Stress-Free Planning
We know that planning an event can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer:

• Seasoned event planners and a five-star support staff
• Personalized walkthroughs
• Customized quotes
• Flexible scheduling
• Friendly, responsive communication and service from start to finish

What Our Guests Are Saying:
“(The team) goes above and beyond to make any event a pleasure. Attention to detail, great communication and follow through are never a worry. Thank you all for helping us make our events memorable experiences.”
– Stacy S., corporate client
 
“I had my wedding and reception at The Venue at Lenoir City. (The staff was) fantastic and made sure everything was perfect for our big day(s). We had the challenge of planning through COVID, and although we had to alter our plans, everything turned out beautifully. If you are looking for a place to get married that is beautiful, coordinates everything for you, and has amazing workers that will run everything for you so you can enjoy your night, this is your place! Love, one happy bride!”
– Dallas P., wedding client
 
“The staff was very impressive. They made our event go flawlessly. We are SO pleased with our entire experience with The Venue and would definitely recommend it to friends for their event. The facility was clean, beautiful, and very impressive. We are very happy!”
– Jill M., private event client
 
“Great team that is super easy to work with! Always impeccably clean and prepared.”
– Sam F., partner vendor
 
How to Book
To learn more or inquire about booking an event, visit the "Booking" page of our website, call 865-986-8340, or email us. 

#Planning
#Wedding
#Parties
#Meetings

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life — filled with love and loved ones, celebration and reflection — amidst a joyful whirlwind of events. But without a clear, well-thought-out timeline, even the most meticulously planned weddings can run into unexpected and unwelcome hiccups.

A wedding day timeline is the unsung hero of a seamless celebration, ensuring everyone knows where to be and when, while also making sure you haven’t accidentally overlooked any important elements you meant to include. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, here's what you need to know to create a timeline that keeps your big day running smoothly.

Why a Wedding Day Timeline Matters
A wedding day timeline is more than a checklist — it's a roadmap. It keeps vendors, your wedding party, and even guests on the same page. When done right, a timeline reduces stress, builds in time for the unexpected, and ensures you’re actually able to enjoy your day without constantly checking the clock.

Sample Wedding Day Timeline (Traditional Ceremony & Reception)
Below is a sample timeline for a wedding that starts at 4:00 PM and includes a first look, ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception:

10:00 AM – Hair and Makeup Begins
Bridesmaids and the bride start getting ready. Pro tip: the bride should go last to keep her look fresh.

12:00 PM – Photographer Arrives
The photographer starts capturing detail shots (dress, rings, invitations, flowers, décor, etc.) and candid moments. Pro tip: Be sure your photographer has a list of your “must have” shots.

1:30 PM – Getting Dressed
Bride gets into her dress, usually with the help of her maid of honor and/or mom. The groom begins getting ready separately. First looks for wedding parties are becoming popular and can be done when the bride’s and groom’s attire is complete, before the couple enjoys their official first look.

2:00 PM – First Look and Couple Portraits
This intimate moment also allows for portraits while attire, make-up, hair, etc. is still fresh and before the day gets hectic, feet start hurting, and the couple feels pulled in a dozen directions. Pro tip: Some couples also choose this private time to share their own written vows with each other.

2:30 PM – Wedding Party Photos
Get photos with bridesmaids and groomsmen out of the way while everyone is fresh.

3:30 PM – Hideaway Time / Guest Arrivals Begins
The couple and wedding party take a break and share some final pre-ceremony moments together while guests start arriving.

4:00 PM – Ceremony
The big moment! Allow 30–45 minutes depending on the ceremony type.

4:45 PM – Cocktail Hour
Guests mingle while the couple takes family photos (if not done earlier). If the venue needs to flip the ceremony space to use as reception space, the cocktail hour buys time for staff to do so.

6:00 PM – Reception Begins
Grand entrance, followed by dinner and toasts. Pro tip: A DJ or emcee is one of the most important elements of your reception; not just for musical entertainment, but even more so to guide the guests through the timeline to ensure the event flows as planned.

7:30 PM – First Dance & Parent Dances
Followed by open dancing and entertainment.

9:00 PM – Cake Cutting & Dessert
Optional late-night snacks can also be served at this time.

10:30 PM – Last Dance / Grand Exit
End the night on a high note with a planned exit — think sparklers or a vintage car getaway.

Timeline Tips by Event Type

• First Look or No First Look?
  A first look allows for more flexible photography and a private moment pre-ceremony. Without it, you'll need to schedule more photo time during cocktail hour.
• Church Ceremonies:
  Factor in travel time if your ceremony and reception are in different locations. Add buffer time for guests to transition between venues.
• Sunset Photos:
  Check the sunset time and build in 15–20 minutes for romantic golden hour portraits.
• Cultural Traditions:
  If your wedding includes additional customs (like tea ceremonies or Baraat processions), factor those into the timeline with ample breathing room.

No two weddings are alike. Your timeline should reflect the flow that feels most authentic to you. Work closely with your planner or coordinator, communicate with your vendors, and build in buffer time wherever possible (especially for cultural weddings).
​
Most importantly, once the day arrives, let go of the schedule and soak it all in. A solid timeline gives you the freedom to be fully present, knowing everything is unfolding just the way you planned.

#Weddings
#Planning
#Vendors

When we think of weddings, we might picture reflections of culture, tradition, and personal values. In recent years, however, the script has evolved. Couples are now personalizing their celebrations with modern tastes and trends, foregoing long-held traditions in favor of creating new ones, and even adding more interactive elements to their celebrations (think entry dances and flower grandmas!). While the basic tenets of respect and courtesy remain timeless, modern-day wedding etiquette has adapted to reflect changing social norms and digital realities. Here are some ideas of what’s expected — and what’s optional — in today’s wedding world.

1. Invitations: Paper, Digital, or Both?
Etiquette Then: Formal, printed invitations sent via mail.
Etiquette Now: Digital invitations and wedding websites are widely accepted and often encouraged — especially for save-the-dates, RSVPs, and updates. Not only does going digital save some of that precious and often limited wedding budget, it’s also a more efficient and timely method of communicating with your guests. That said, formal paper invitations are still appreciated for traditional or larger weddings. The key is consistency and clarity.
Pro Tip: Make sure your digital invites include clear links, timelines, dress codes, and directions. Other helpful information to include might be a list of local hotels, restaurants and attractions, introductions of your bridal party, and even a brief, heartfelt story of how the couple met. If going fully digital, consider sending printed invites to older guests or those who might be less tech-savvy.

2. The Guest List: Intentional and Inclusive
Modern Reality: Guest lists are often smaller, more curated, and focused on those who truly matter to the couple, especially with the rise of micro-weddings. Designing intimate celebrations can often stretch the budget while still creating memorable and meaningful wedding related events.
New Norms:

• Don’t assume a plus-one unless specified.
• Kids may or may not be invited — and that’s okay.
• Respect RSVP deadlines — and respond promptly.

Etiquette Tip: If you're not inviting someone, don’t apologize profusely. A simple “We’re keeping it intimate” is perfectly acceptable.

3. Registry Rules: Cash, Experiences, and Charity
Gone are the days when blenders and china ruled the registry. Today, couples are choosing:

• Honeymoon or travel funds
• Down payment contributions
• Donations to charity
• Subscription services or experiences

The Etiquette: It’s fine to digitally share your registry, but avoid putting it directly on your formal invite. Use a wedding website instead.

4. Dress Code: Clear and Considerate
With themed weddings and varying levels of formality, clear dress code guidance is crucial. Avoid vague terms like “dressy casual” and offer examples or even Pinterest boards if possible.
Modern Tip: If you’re planning an outdoor or nontraditional event, give your guests a heads-up about terrain, temperature, or footwear needs.

5. Social Media: Snap Respectfully
For Guests:

• Always respect an “unplugged” ceremony request.
• Don’t post photos of the couple before they do.
• Tag carefully and ask before sharing anything intimate.

For Couples:

• Communicate your social media preferences ahead of time — on signage, invites, or announcements.
• If you're okay with posts, consider creating a wedding hashtag. Be super creative with your hashtag and you might even go viral!

6. Speeches and Toasts: Keep It Classy
Whether it’s the best man, maid of honor, or the couple themselves, speeches should be heartfelt, inclusive, and no longer than 5 minutes. Inside jokes, awkward stories, or ex-mentions? Best left unsaid.

7. Inclusivity and Personalization
Modern etiquette honors all traditions and relationship styles. That means:

• Diverse ceremony traditions (cultural, spiritual, or blended)
• Inclusive wording like “partners” or “spouses” when addressing groups

It’s not just about being politically correct — it’s about making everyone feel welcomed and valued.

8. Thank-You Notes: Old-School Courtesy Still Rules
This is one area where tradition most definitely rules the day. No matter how modern your wedding is, handwritten (or at least personalized) thank-you notes are non-negotiable. Aim to send them within 3 months of the big day — sooner if possible.

Modern wedding etiquette is less about rigid rules and more about intentionality, communication, and respect. Whether you're eloping to Vegas, throwing a backyard bash, or hosting a black-tie gala, the golden rule still applies: make your guests feel welcomed appreciated, and be gracious in return. At its heart, etiquette is about love — and what better time to honor that than on your wedding day?

#wedding
​#planning

We are asked all the time by newly engaged couples, “What questions have I forgotten to ask?” So, what questions should you be asking to ensure your ideal wedding space fits your vision, budget, and needs? Fortunately, our professional wedding planners and event coordinators have experienced it all, so here are our recommendations for key questions to ask before booking your Knoxville area #wedding venue.

Availability & Booking

• Is my preferred wedding date available?
• How far in advance do I need to book; or how far in advance do you allow couples to book?
• Are there any dates I should avoid due to festivals or other high-traffic activities in the area?
• What is the down payment amount, and is it refundable?
• Do you require a damage deposit?
• What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
• Do you charge to reschedule?

Pricing & Packages

• What is included in the room rental fee?
• Is there different pricing for peak vs. off-peak seasons?
• Do prices differ for weekday versus weekend weddings?
• Where might we incur additional fees (such as setup, cleanup, staffing, security, etc.)?
• Do you offer all-inclusive packages, and if so, what is included?
• Are we allowed to book our vendors separately?
• Do you offer payment plans?

Capacity & Layout

• How many guests can your Knoxville area venue comfortably accommodate?
• Are there separate spaces for the wedding ceremony, cocktail hour, and wedding reception?
• Do you have a bridal suite and a groom’s area?
• What are the parking logistic and costs for guests?

Vendors & Catering

• Do you require the use of your in-house caterer or a caterer from your list, or can we bring our own?
• Do you have a list of preferred or required vendors?
• Can we bring our own alcohol, or do you provide bar service?
• What are your rules surrounding the service of alcohol?
• Are there any restrictions on catering, bartending, or food trucks?

Decor & Setup

• What decorations are allowed? Any restrictions (candles, confetti, sparklers, etc.)?
• Do you allow fireworks?
• Do you provide tables, chairs, linens, etc.?
• Do you provide a dance floor, stage, wedding arch, or other similar specialty items?
• Can we have a rehearsal at the wedding venue?
• When can wedding vendors arrive for setup?

Weather & Backup Plan

• Do you have indoor and outdoor options?
• Is your outdoor space under cover?
• What is the backup plan in case of bad weather?
• Is there climate control (A/C and heat)?

Logistics & Restrictions

• Is there a noise ordinance or curfew?
• Do you require the use of security guards?
• Are there any photography or videography restrictions?
• Are drones allowed and if so, do they require special licensing?
• Do you provide an on-site coordinator?
• Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Post-Wedding Details

• Who handles cleanup and trash removal?
• How late can we stay?
• Can we leave decor overnight for pick-up the next day?

Get away from the hustle and bustle & traffic of Knoxville by hosting your wedding just outside of this popular area. The Venue at Lenoir City is located only 23 miles from downtown Knoxville. We are easily accessible, conveniently positioned at the crossroads of US I-40 and US I-75. The Venue is also just 3 miles west of Farragut, and just one turn off Kingston Pike.

To learn more about hosting your wedding with The Venue at Lenoir City, visit our website. You can also enjoy loads of photos by following us on Facebook.

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