Unbridled Love: The Best Horse Wedding Locations in Pigeon Forge

Planning a wedding with horses in the Smoky Mountains is a dream for many, but as someone who has lived on a farm my entire life, I know that the reality of working with these majestic animals requires a special kind of magic.

I’m Regina, owner of Honeysuckle Hills. I’ve spent decades turning my family’s former tobacco and cattle farm into a sanctuary for photography and “I dos.” Today, I’m thrilled to share my perspective on why choosing a private venue is essential for horse lovers, and I’m collaborating with my friend Erin Reddell, owner of A King’s Lodge, to show you the two best ways to make your equestrian wedding dreams come true.

Why Choose a Private Venue Over a Riding Stable?

There is a massive difference between booking a trail ride at a public stable and choosing a venue specifically designed for the “equestrian bride.” When you book a private venue, you are choosing:

• Privacy & Aesthetics: Public stables are often crowded with vacationers in neon t-shirts. Unless you’re willing to pay an astronomical fee to shut down a commercial business, you’ll share your “first look” with a crowd of tourists. At our venues, the background is yours alone.

• The “Shot” vs. The “Ride”: We prioritize the art of your experience. We know how to position a horse for the best lighting and how to keep them still (or moving!) for the perfect frame. Our focus is on an unforgettable experience, creatively captured by professional photographers who understand horse behavior.

Honeysuckle Hills: The Photography Studio Venue

Best for: Artistic photography, intimate elopements, and “Enchanted Forest” vibes.

Honeysuckle Hills isn’t just a wedding venue; it’s my heart. As a semi-retired photographer, I’ve designed this property as an outdoor photography studio. Within just a few yards, you can move from a horse pasture to a mountain creek, a stone bridge, an iconic willow tree, or a lush flower garden.

My specialty is quiet, peaceful elopements and intimate receptions served with old-fashioned Southern hospitality. While my horses are seasoned professionals, they have retired from “work” in the traditional sense. You won’t be able to ride them, but you will absolutely fall in love with them.

Meet the Stars of the Show:

• Sugar: A 22-year-old white Appaloosa and our resident diva! She is famous for her “Running Horse” shot and her hilarious habit of sticking out her tongue. I promised Sugar back in 2009 that she’d never have to carry a rider again as long as she stayed sweet—and she’s kept her end of the bargain beautifully.

• Ben: Known affectionately as “The Pirate,” Ben lost an eye in 2020, but he hasn’t lost his spirit. He’s the “old man” of the herd who watches over everyone. Because of an old injury (a bowed tendon), he isn’t a trail horse, but he is a world-class cuddler.

• Smoky: Also 22, Smoky is a spunky Appaloosa who loves to compete with Sugar for the spotlight. She’s healthy, happy, and a stunning model for your wedding portraits.

Photos courtesy of Regina Starkey and Don Fields Photography

A King’s Lodge: The Private Estate & Wedding Ranch

Best for: Horseback ceremonies, large families, and the “Stay and Play” experience.
If your dream involves actually riding down the aisle or staying on-site with your entire wedding party, I always point couples toward my friend Erin Reddell at A King’s Lodge.
Nestled on the quiet side of the Smokies in Wears Valley, A King’s Lodge offers a “luxury mountain home” vibe with a 24-acre ranch and petting farm right next door. It’s a place where history spans over 100 years, moving from a dairy farm to a quaint country oasis.

Why Erin’s Place is Special:

• The “Stay & Play” Factor: The property sleeps 36 people with three different lodging options, making it a private oasis with a gazebo, open fields, a fire pit, and a covered pavilion for receptions. (Seriously, Montana has nothing on this view!)

• Horseback Weddings: Unlike my retired crew, A King’s Lodge offers actual horseback weddings. You can exchange vows while mounted on one of their beautiful horses.

• The “Soulmate Horse” Boarding: This is a rare gem—if you own your own horse, the Cherokee Hills Cabin on-site offers “stall and stay” boarding so your own horse can be part of your wedding weekend.

• A Full Farm Experience: In addition to horses, your guests (and the kids!) will be entertained by goats, sheep, and potbelly pigs. (Can you imagine how memorable it would be to stay in their charming three-bedroom farmhouse?!

Which Experience is Right for You?

• Your Wedding Goal  –  Recommended Venue
• I want a “running horse” photo behind our kiss.  –  Honeysuckle Hills
• I want to ride a horse during my ceremony.  –  A King’s Lodge
• I want an intimate elopement and floral gardens.  –  Honeysuckle Hills
• I want my whole family to stay together on a ranch.  –  A King’s Lodge
I want to bring my own horse with me. A King’s Lodge

Whether you are drawn to the cinematic, curated artistry of Honeysuckle Hills or the expansive, family-oriented ranch experience at A King’s Lodge, choosing a private venue ensures your day remains intimate and elevated.

Both Erin and I offer something a public trail ride never could: a sanctuary where the majestic spirit of the horse meets the breathtaking beauty of the Smoky Mountains. You aren’t just getting a photo; you’re creating a core memory with some of the gentlest souls in Tennessee.

Photos courtesy of Amanda C Wilson Amanda Wilson Photography

Honeysuckle Tradition

I’m Regina, and I look forward to helping you plan your special day! Couples just like you have helped me carry on a legacy of love for the past 19 years. At one time my venue was a working farm where my Daddy raised cattle and tobacco. As much as I enjoyed growing up here, I sure do enjoy weddings more than farming!

My venue’s down-to-earth attitude attracts Christians, outdoor lovers, hikers, fishers, hunters, conservationists, travelers, adventurers, all skin colors, LGBTQ lovers, and fAree-spirited souls with an abundance of respect for diversity.

My family believes that our own personal faith in Jesus Christ fosters abounding love to welcome all with open arms and a servant’s heart.