Elegant Downtown Nashville Wedding at the Tennessee State Museum | Caroline + Joe

Elegant Tennessee State Museum Wedding | Caroline + Joe | Nashville Wedding Photography
If you’re dreaming of a timeless, outdoor wedding in downtown Nashville, Caroline and Joe’s gorgeous celebration at the Tennessee State Museum is full of inspiration. With classic details, skyline views, and a late-night pizza surprise, this wedding perfectly balanced elegance and personality—an ideal reflection of this incredible couple.

As a Nashville wedding photographer, I’ve documented love stories at many iconic venues, and the Tennessee State Museum continues to be a standout for couples looking for a modern, downtown setting with Southern charm.

Getting Ready at Home in Nashville
Caroline began her wedding day getting ready at their home in Nashville, surrounded by her bridesmaids and her closest family members. Hair and makeup by Hunter Paige created soft, elegant looks for the entire bridal party. Caroline, a stunning brunette bride, wore a classic gown and radiant smile—her bridal portraits are some of my favorite moments from the day.

First Look at Bicentennial Mall’s Bell Towers
Caroline and Joe shared their first look at the bell towers in Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, just steps from the museum. This hidden gem of downtown Nashville provided a grand and private setting for their emotional first look. It’s one of my favorite locations for wedding portraits—especially when paired with that afternoon light.

Outdoor Ceremony at the Tennessee State Museum
Their ceremony on the museum lawn featured sweeping views of the Nashville skyline, with elegant all-white florals by Bloom Flowers Nashville lining the aisle. Guests were welcomed with champagne and Miller High Life—served in glasses garnished with orchids, a signature touch arranged by Elliott Events.

Reception, Late-Night Pizza & Off-Camera Magic
As the sun set, guests enjoyed cocktails outside the museum before heading into the reception. The design, led by Elliott Events, was filled with candlelight, refined details, and warm hospitality. After toasts and first dances, Caroline changed into a second look, and the dance floor came alive.

Later in the evening, Caroline, Joe, and I snuck out of the party for night portraits by the museum fountain. It was completely dark by that time, so we used off-camera flash to create beautifully lit images that feel cinematic, dramatic, and totally different from the rest of the day’s light. It’s one of those little moments that becomes a favorite—just the two of them, lit up against the quiet Nashville night.

Of course, no perfect night ends without pizza. Since Joe makes his own at home, it only made sense to serve it late-night—boxed and branded as Joe G’s Pizza by Flavor Catering. It was a huge hit with guests and one of the most personal wedding touches I’ve seen all season.

The celebration wrapped with a sparkler exit outside the Tennessee State Museum before the couple made drove off in a classic car.

If you’re planning a wedding at the Tennessee State Museum or anywhere in downtown Nashville, I’d love to connect and help you tell your story—beautifully and intentionally!

Nashville Wedding Vendors

• Venue: Tennessee State Museum

• Planner: Elliott Events

• Florals: Bloom Flowers Nashville

• Catering: Flavor Catering

• Hair & Makeup: Hunter Paige Salon

• Rentals: Curated Events

• Transportation: Signature Limo

• Photo Booth: Smile Bar

• Photography: Erin Lee Allender Photography – Nashville Wedding Photographer