Each year more than 25,000 couples come to Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains to celebrate their wedding vows, rivaling Las Vegas for number of weddings. In fact, the Gatlinburg area has become the "Wedding Capital of the South." Couples can be married in a chapel, the Smoky Mountains National Park, or in the privacy or their own cottage or cabin. There are more than 30 wedding chapels in the nearby area and services are performed by ordained ministers. Both pre-packaged and custom wedding packages are available, which can include photography, videography, flowers, musicians, wedding cake, limousine service and various reception venues. Prior to your wedding, you must obtain a Tennessee marriage license, although there is no waiting period. You may get your license at any courthouse in Tennessee; however, most couples find that obtaining their license in one of the Sevier County locations is the most convenient. There are no waiting periods or blood tests required, and you can get married the same day you purchase your license. You may obtain your license up to 30 days prior to your wedding. Both parties must be present to obtain a license. Places to obtain your marriage license include: Gatlinburg Shilling Center - Open Monday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Wednesday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Phone 865-430-3404 Sevierville County Courthouse - Open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturdays. Phone 865-453-5502 Pigeon Forge City Hall - Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays only. Phone 865-908-6613 ©2008 gatlinburg.be. All Rights Reserved.