May 2024: From Friendship to Forever, a Mountain Elopement

For Tara and Ryan, their love story started with a blush. At just 17 years old, they began working together, and while Tara’s strict upbringing meant dating wasn’t in the picture, Ryan found his way into her life—and her heart—without ever officially asking her out. Instead, he simply became a fixture in her world, showing up at her house, hanging out with her family, and building a bond that grew naturally. Years later, with the same quiet confidence, he didn’t ask Tara to be his girlfriend—he asked her to be his wife.

Their love has always been deeply rooted in family and faith. Tara’s mom played matchmaker on New Year’s Day 2020, giving Ryan her number with a note revealing Tara’s feelings. Though Tara had no idea, the move set the wheels in motion for a relationship that would become life-changing. Together, they’ve built a life in South Carolina, surrounded by family, including their beloved dog, Luna.

Choosing a Mountain Elopement

For their wedding, Tara and Ryan knew they wanted something uniquely theirs. With a large family and a bustling life in South Carolina, a remote mountain elopement felt like the perfect escape. Nantahala provided the serenity and natural beauty they were seeking—a place where they could focus solely on their bond without distractions. “This day is about me,” Tara says, honoring her decision to create a celebration that felt personal and true to her. The mountains became their sacred space, blending their love for nature with their faith in God.

A Vision of Simplicity and Faith

Their wedding vision was simple and meaningful. Tara and Ryan chose a ceremony that honored both their love for God and the natural beauty surrounding them. With a cross as the centerpiece and touches of flowers to complement the setting, the ceremony reflected their shared faith and nightly prayers that have guided their relationship. Comfortable seating for parents and moments of quiet reflection underscored the importance of family and connection in their day.

Looking Ahead

In the next 40 years, Tara and Ryan dream of a quiet, fulfilling life on their family’s land in South Carolina. They envision a cozy home surrounded by chickens, a space to relax, and a life filled with love, laughter, and faith. Their mountain wedding was the beginning of this new chapter—a promise to keep God and each other at the center of their story, no matter where life takes them.