Townsend Chapel Unites Couples in Marriage

Monday March 01, 2004

TOWNSEND, Tenn. -- When the antique bell at the Heartland Wedding Chapel rings, the people of Townsend, Tenn. expect to see a carriage carrying a bride and groom to soon follow. "From the horse-drawn carriage to the candlelight ceremony, weddings in our chapel are like fairytales," said Pam Jessee, general manager of the Heartland Wedding Chapel. "We make dreams come true." The cedar chapel, located at 7765 River Road, is adjacent to the Little River. The chapel is nondenominational and is modeled after the pioneering churches of the 1800s. "The windows are done in amber so that every ceremony is by candlelight," said Jessee. "Of course, it has all the modern luxuries, including an amazing sound system." Many couples choose the chapel because of its stress-free policy. From the flowers to the photographer, the chapel coordinates the entire wedding, including arranging for an ordained minister. The only thing the bride and groom have to do is pick out the colors and flowers, get their marriage license, provide their own clothes and show up. "Our stress-free policy is a relief to most couples. We've had couples who started out planning a big wedding, get overwhelmed and call us," said Catherine Gilreath, owner of the chapel. "We provide a beautiful atmosphere and a classy, quality wedding, but without all the stress." Six packages are available or a customized package can be created. The packages run in price from $399 to $1,435. Some packages include carriage rides and two to four nights in a Honeymoon Cabin, where guests will find a private Jacuzzi, kitchen, fireplace and many other amenities. For those who want to renew their wedding vows, the chapel has a special renewal package. Any regular package can be adjusted to accommodate a renewal, too. The chapel holds 45 guests, not including the wedding party. The inside of the chapel is adorned in candles, silk ivy and heart motifs and an antique organ stands in the back. The walls and ceiling are made of cedar, while the doors are mahogany. Outside, the chapel is framed with peaceful gardens, towering maples and quiet walkways. It faces the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains. Tours of the Heartland Wedding Chapel are given by appointment. Separate dressing facilities are provided for the bride and groom, and waiting areas are provided for parents of the bride and groom, and guests. A non-refundable deposit must be received within seven days of booking the wedding. For more information or an appointment, please contact the Heartland Wedding Chapel at (865) 448-9432. For more information on visiting Townsend in Blount County, please call the Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 525-6834 or (865) 448-6134, or visit the web site at http://www.smokymountains.org.

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