On the hunt for a wedding venue that will provide a unique and charming atmosphere for your special day? The Side Porch in Gray, TN might just end your search! This venue is an absolute hidden gem located right in the heart of the Tri-Cities region, and it offers a range of features and amenities that will truly make your wedding day unforgettable. The Side Porch is an East Tennessee barn wedding venue very conveniently located just a few extra minutes past Johnson City. The boho wedding venue sits right by the creek, making it the perfect spot for an outdoor ceremony. This venue is one of our all-time favorites and we happily recommend it to each of our inquiring brides! Below are all of the reasons we think you'll love it too.

The Side Porch Wedding Venue

The Side Porch in Gray, Tennessee is one of our favorite eastern TN wedding venues. It's seriously just a little piece of paradise tucked just a few minutes from the main highway. One of the best features of The Side Porch is definitely its location. It's perfectly placed in the rolling hills of East Tennessee, this venue offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. However, it's just 10 quick minutes from the major highways, making it easy for guests to travel from nearby cities like Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol.

We had our first opportunity to shoot them last October when we photographed Jade and Titus tying the knot. When I first met Jade, we had found one another through Instagram and connected for a couples session. The two of them had only been together for a month or so and I knew immediately they were meant to last. Sparks flew in front of my camera and I was so happy to have been a part of their journey from the start. Shortly after, I had the pleasure of shooting their surprise proposal (in the pouring rain, I might add). From there, nothing but love and happiness- and lots of wedding planning.

What the venue has to offer

Newly Renovated Bridal Suite

The Side Porch offers a range of spaces for your wedding ceremony and reception. But one of the best parts of the venue is the newly renovated bridal suite. To our surprise, we were the first photographers who were able to shoot it after it was finally finished with the updates. And y'all, it is gorgeous. Exposed brick, wood floors, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, hair and makeup stations, and tons of windows for natural light. The bathroom had a major revamp as well which included a claw foot tub and a stunning gold, swan faucet for the sink. It's a dream location for getting ready photos and it's actually super spacious so if you have a larger bridal party or family who will be there for the process.

Did I mention it has a built-in kitchenette? Because it totally has a built-in kitchenette which is just another reason why you'll love it!

The Reception Barn

The venue's main event space is a beautifully restored 1920s barn that can accommodate up to 200 guests. The barn features a large dance floor, a stage for live music, and a fully equipped kitchen for catering. It's the main attraction, and the gorgeous double-story barn sits on 17 acres worth of photo-worthy land. From the second story, you can look down on all your wedding reception tables in awe. It makes for an incredible photo-op and is one of our favorite ways to watch the fun below. There is a kitchen located in the main floor of the barn so the staff can cater behind close doors. The doors open up and it leads outside to a grassy area where you can host dances, games, cake cutting- there are even a couple of firepits. It's such an amazing space!

In-House Amenities

When you book your wedding at The Side Porch, you'll also have access to a range of amenities and services. The venue provides tables, chairs, linens, and decor, as well as a sound system and lighting. The Side Porch also offers a range of customizable wedding packages, including options for catering, bar service, and floral arrangements. That's such a huge plus when looking for a wedding venue!

Thrifted Wedding Decor

When I talked to Jade about her wedding planning, she said nearly everything. they had gotten was considered thrifted. She had planned and searched for months for all the right items to make a perfect boho budget wedding. And it was absolutely stunning! One of our favorite parts of the night was the vintage carpet-lined dance floor. It felt like something out of a magazine (scroll down to see it for yourself!). As they danced underneath the string lights, the sun set behind them and it was one of the most magical scenes we have ever photographed.

The Side Porch is truly such a flexible venue and we loved working with them so very much. We can't wait to be back soon!