Reflections from a Downtown Wedding by a Chattanooga Wedding Photographer

Paige Ivey Evatt (PIE)
Apr 30
7 min read

Sometimes you circle back to old work and realize:

“Damn. I was better than I thought.”

Side-by-side images of a bride and groom walking and laughing together in front of the Walnut Street Bridge in Coolidge Park, downtown Chattanooga. The bride wears a fitted white gown with lace detail and the groom wears a dark green suit. The couple looks joyful and relaxed, with the Tennessee River and bridge visible behind them. — Downtown Chattanooga weddings just *hit different.* Start at Coolidge Park for that soft, romantic glow… then cross the bridge and cue the city vibes. Nature? Check. River views? Yep. Iconic skyline? Always. 🤍

This wedding party started out across the river in Coolidge Park, one of Chattanooga’s most iconic spots for portraits. Wide-open natural light, the Walnut Street Bridge in the background, the Tennessee River giving us her best angles—it was the perfect pre-ceremony setup.

Wedding party walking and laughing together in front of the Walnut Street Bridge at Coolidge Park in downtown Chattanooga. The bride and groom lead the group, surrounded by bridesmaids in black dresses and groomsmen in black suits, with the Tennessee River and iconic bridge in the background on a sunny day. — Name a more iconic trio:✨The river ✨The bridge ✨A bridal party that understood the assignment! Coolidge Park never misses—and neither did this crew. Downtown Chattanooga, you win again!

If you’re getting married downtown, this is your sign to use Chattanooga’s built-in landmarks to your advantage. As a Chattanooga wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how starting with nature and then crossing the river completely transforms the vibe.

Bride standing with her back to the camera in front of the Walnut Street Bridge in downtown Chattanooga. She is wearing a fitted wedding dress with lace details and a dramatic train, holding a bouquet, with the Tennessee River and city skyline in the background. — All the elegance, all the softness, and a backdrop that never misses. A Chattanooga bridal portrait done right.

Second Shooting (but Showing Up Like It Was Mine)

Back in 2021 when I assisted at this wedding, I was more often second shooting than leading. It’s how I got started—and honestly, I still love doing it when my schedule allows. I’ve second shot for some of Chattanooga’s most trusted wedding professionals, as well as internationally experienced and nationally published photographers. In fact, I was second shooting just last weekend and have plans to do it again this weekend! That's what got me thinking back to this beautiful Downtown Chattanooga wedding.

Three images showcasing Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Chattanooga: a wide view of the ceremony setup under a canopy of trees with a wooden triangle arch, a close-up of eucalyptus and greenery decor with sunlight streaming through, and a metal plaque honoring James F. Waterhouse mounted on a brick wall outside the venue. — Tucked in the heart of downtown, Waterhouse Pavilion is full of charm, light, and history. Whether you're here for the twinkle lights, the tree canopy, or the Chattanooga roots—this venue delivers every time.

Second shooting is just one of the ways I’ve grown into the kind of experienced and professional wedding photographer who understands what it means to support, adapt, and lead when it counts. These days, my phone rings just as often with photographers asking if I’m available as it does from clients. To borrow a little Chappell Roan energy... I might just be your favorite photographer’s favorite photographer.

A bride walking through downtown Chattanooga with her father, descending the steps at Waterhouse Pavilion with fountains, brick details, and historic buildings in the background. — The sweetest walk through downtown with her dad before saying “I do.” 🤍

Circumstances shifted so that I actually took the couple’s first look photos several weeks ahead of their ceremony, at another location. They were stunning—easily some of my favorite portraits I’d captured at that point in my journey as a Chattanooga wedding photographer. And I wish I still had them. Unfortunately, those RAWs were lost in a hard drive meltdown a couple years ago (don’t worry—I’ve NEVER lost a client wedding, but a few second shooter galleries were lost. RIP forever, beauties).

A bride walking arm-in-arm with her father through a brick plaza near Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Chattanooga. Both are smiling and laughing as they walk past a small fountain, with the city buildings and street in the background. — That pre-aisle laugh with the first man you ever loved. 🌿

But this day? I’ve still got it. The couple even asked the lead photographer if I could be there on their wedding day too. I had another job booked, but I moved mountains, finished fast, and showed up to surprise them. Because that’s who I am. Because even when they aren’t technically my couple—I still care. I still show up. And that’s what being a connected photographer means to me.

Waterhouse Pavilion: Downtown Wedding Vibes Done Right

Some folks hear Waterhouse Pavilion and think, “A wedding? In the literal middle of downtown Chattanooga?!” But let me tell you—this venue is a vibe.

Three images from an outdoor wedding ceremony at Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Chattanooga. The first shows the bride reading vows while holding the groom's hand under a wooden arch. The second shows guests seated in rows under tall trees, facing the couple. The third captures two guests in the back row with arms around each other, watching the ceremony. — Light through the trees, the sound of vows being made lingering in the air, and loved ones leaning in—ceremonies at Waterhouse Pavilion just *hit different*.

The platform-style layout places you right in the heart of the city without feeling overwhelmed by it. You’re surrounded by city trees, a park, iconic buildings, and a whole lot of character. And once the sun goes down and those twinkle lights come on? Pure magic.

Reception space at Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Chattanooga, featuring long white tables with greenery centerpieces, white chairs, and string lights hanging above in a tall, industrial-style venue with floor-to-ceiling windows and brick walls. — Modern glass, exposed brick, and twinkle lights for days—Southern charm, elevated.

🚧 The Cons (With Solutions—Because Y’all Know I’m a Problem Solver)

PARKING can be a challenge...But guess what? The venue’s pricing is reasonable enough to leave room in your budget for luxe upgrades that make your day smoother.

💡 Hire a wedding planner + valet service = problem solved.

A close-up of the bride placing the wedding ring on the groom’s finger during the ceremony at Waterhouse Pavilion. The officiant stands between them smiling, with greenery and a wooden arch in the background. All three are laughing or smiling in a joyful, intimate moment. — That moment when the ring goes on and it all starts to feel real.

The on-site getting ready space is small but functional. There’s enough room for the bride and glam team, but if you’ve got a full bridal party or entourage, it can feel tight fast. That’s why I recommend booking one of the many nearby hotels for your getting-ready experience. You’ll not only have more space, but you’ll start your day with a more relaxed, luxurious vibe.

✨Bonus tip: The world-famous Read House is within literal walking distance and makes a stunning backdrop for pre-ceremony moments. I’ve worked there several times, and it never disappoints.

Bride and groom sharing their first kiss at the end of their wedding ceremony at Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Chattanooga. The bride holds her bouquet in the air as they kiss, surrounded by seated guests and a backdrop of trees and sunlight. — The kiss, the cheer, the just-married glow—give me this moment every time.

Vendors I Still Love Years Later

One of the coolest parts of looking back on this wedding is realizing how many of the vendors from that day are still in my circle. But it’s more than that. These are the people who have become trusted collaborators, creative partners, and actual friends—the kind you celebrate wins with and call when things get tough.

Two images of a bride and groom sitting together in front of a brick fountain in downtown Chattanooga. The bride is seated on the edge in her lace-trimmed gown with the groom sitting beside her in a dark green suit. They look at each other lovingly, with a bouquet resting at their feet and cascading water behind them. — City fountain romance and that just-married energy. A whole vibe.

One of the unexpected blessings I’ve found in the Chattanooga wedding community is this: The people I trust, work with regularly, and genuinely adore have become my people. They’re not just collaborators—they’re actual friends. And many of them were showing up beside me way back in 2021.

Three images of a bride and groom at the end of their wedding ceremony at Waterhouse Pavilion in Chattanooga. In the first, they prepare for their kiss as the wedding party claps. In the second, they share a joyful first kiss. In the third, they raise their joined hands and bouquet in celebration while a groomsman adjusts the bride’s train behind them. The wooden triangle arch and downtown backdrop frame the scene. — The kiss, the cheer, the bouquet in the air—officially married and fully glowing.

Here’s a little love for some of the MVPs from that day:

🍸 Tipsy Tin – the original mobile bar queen

Owned by Penny, who also happens to be one of my dearest and best friends. She brings big energy, big service, and beautiful bar setups that feel custom every single time. Penny is the kind of vendor who doesn’t just show up—she shows up for you.

Three images featuring wedding reception moments at Waterhouse Pavilion. The bride and groom enjoy drinks served by Tipsy Tin, a mobile bar setup with a white trailer. One photo shows the bride dancing with guests, another captures the couple posing with drinks in front of the bar, and the third is a close-up of their hands clinking cocktail glasses together. — Signature drinks, soft lighting, and *the* mobile bar that always brings the party—Tipsy Tin is the go-to party gal! 🍸

🏙️ Waterhouse Pavilion – clearly, the vibe

This venue gives urban-industrial energy without feeling cold. It’s beautiful in every season, flexible for every layout, and somehow still feels intimate—despite being in the heart of downtown Chattanooga.

Bride and groom standing together during their wedding reception at Waterhouse Pavilion, located at Chattanooga’s Miller Plaza. The bride holds a microphone while smiling and speaking, and the groom stands beside her with a drink in hand. Large open doors, exposed brick, and downtown street views frame the scene. — Wide open doors, exposed brick, city views—and a space that brings both charm and character. Waterhouse Pavilion, located at Chattanooga's Miller Plaza.

📝 Loga Weddings – wedding coordination magic

Run by Jessie, who’s easily one of the most sought-after wedding planners in the area. I adore her for her laid-back style, next-level organization, and the way she instantly builds trust with her couples. She keeps things running smoothly—without ever making it feel like a production.

Close-up of a bride embracing the groom, her hand resting on his shoulder and holding a bouquet of ivory roses, snapdragons, magnolia leaves, and greenery. The focus is on the florals and her ring, framed against the groom’s dark green suit. — Intentional details, elegant blooms, and a bouquet moment that felt just right—timeless, textured, and a little unexpected.

🍦 Clumpies Ice Cream Co. – locally owned, forever adored

If you didn’t know they have a full-service catering division... now you do. And it’s fantastic. Their team is fun, professional, and makes your reception feel instantly more you. Don’t sleep on the sorbets—they’re a dream for summer weddings. And while vanilla might sound basic, Clumpies' vanilla is anything but. It’s smooth, rich, and feels like a love letter to classic flavor.

Two smiling Clumpies Ice Cream staff members stand behind a red-and-white branded ice cream cart at a wedding reception inside Waterhouse Pavilion. A chalkboard lists available flavors including raspberry sorbet, pistachio, and chocolate chunk. — Locally loved and always a hit—Clumpies pulled up with scoops of joy (and yes, the vanilla is that good).

A Little Full Circle Moment

Since this wedding, I’ve had the chance to lead so many love stories—including our 2.22.22 Chattanooga Love Story Giveaway, where Waterhouse Pavilion partnered with me to bring a totally out-there idea to life. My aforementioned bestie Penny (yes, that Penny from Tipsy Tin) and I dreamed up a plan to surprise one couple with an all-expenses-paid elopement on 2.22.2022. And y’all... our community showed up. This venue was the backdrop for that day, too—and it felt like magic repeating itself.

Bride and groom holding hands during their wedding ceremony at Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Chattanooga. The bride looks down, listening intently, while the officiant reads from a book. Sunlight filters through the surrounding trees, creating a soft, golden glow. — The sunlight hit just right. The vows hit even harder.

That giveaway was a dream. And honestly? So was this wedding day for P + T. (Side note: it’s always fun when a couple’s initials match mine and my husband’s 🤍)

Groom holding hands with the bride and looking at her with emotion during their wedding ceremony at Waterhouse Pavilion in Chattanooga. The officiant stands nearby reading vows, and soft light filters through the surrounding trees. — *Locked in and holding steady.*

While I was technically the second shooter, I still bonded with this couple deeply. I showed up for them with my whole heart, and I still feel proud to have been part of their happiest day.

Bride and groom sharing a kiss and playful moment in front of Chattanooga’s Walnut Street Bridge. The bride wears a lace-back gown and kisses the groom’s cheek while he looks at the camera with a smirk. — Bridge views, cheek kisses, and the kind of love that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Why You Need a Chattanooga Wedding Photographer at Waterhouse Pavilion

This venue has the charm, the light, and the kind of character that begs to be photographed well.

Bride and groom seated at their head table during the wedding reception. The bride laughs joyfully while leaning on the table decorated with white flowers and greenery. The groom looks to the side with a relaxed expression. Elegant rose gold candle holders and cocktail glasses are visible on the table. — The bride was giving radiant, the groom was giving composed, and Tipsy Tin was giving them both a reason to cheers.

I love photographing here. I know the ins and outs of this venue—what angles work, how the light shifts, where to sneak away for couple photos (including a spot across the street that, when shot just right, feels cinematic AF), and how to make it feel intimate, even when it’s wide open.

Wedding portrait of bride and groom at Coolidge Park in downtown Chattanooga. The bride wears a lace wedding dress with a chapel-length train. The Walnut Street Bridge and Tennessee River are visible in the background, with golden hour lighting and natural greenery creating a romantic atmosphere. — She wore a chapel-length train. He couldn’t stop smiling. And together, they made Coolidge Park feel like the most romantic spot in Chattanooga. And sometimes, it is.

If you're planning a wedding in downtown Chattanooga and wondering how classic photography works in a modern venue, let's talk. Whether you’re dreaming of a full celebration or a little weekday magic, I’ve got you covered—and captured—in the way that only Ivey Photo can. Here are a few more favorites from this special day...

Close-up of bride in a lace wedding dress holding a large ivory bouquet with white roses, chrysanthemums, and magnolia leaves. Her chapel-length train trails behind her in the grass as soft sunlight highlights the textures of her gown and florals. — A bouquet worthy of the moment—and a bride who made it look effortless.

Detail portrait of the bride’s man of honor adjusting his dark suit jacket, wearing a textured green tie and a feather boutonnière. His clean, polished look added a sharp, modern touch—and yes, he looked so good, he earned his own feature. — When your man of honor shows up looking this sharp, you *have* to give him a solo moment.

Bride and groom embrace by the river beneath the Walnut Street Bridge in Chattanooga. The bride’s lace chapel-length train is spread out across the lawn as she gently touches her hair, bouquet in hand, while the groom holds her close from behind. — A photo worthy of a magazine cover—captured in the heart of downtown Chattanooga.

Bride and groom standing close together under the Walnut Street Bridge in Chattanooga. The bride’s fitted gown with a lace-trimmed chapel train flows behind her as she gently adjusts the groom’s lapel. The groom rests his hand on her waist, both framed by river views and soft natural light. — The calm before they absolutely stole the show.

Bride and groom embrace on a sunny day in a garden setting. The bride’s low-back gown and long row of buttons are fully visible as she holds her bouquet of white flowers and magnolia leaves behind her back. The groom wraps his arms around her waist with trees and soft sunlight in the background. — No big pose. No grand gesture. Just a quiet kind of magic.

Bride and groom share a sweet kiss and walk hand-in-hand along the Tennessee River with downtown Chattanooga in the background. The groom holds the bouquet as they take in the view near the iconic Walnut Street Bridge. — Bride and groom walk hand in hand, tucked into their own little world before the celebration begins—just the two of them, and the city at their feet.

Bride and groom stand beneath a wooden triangle arbor exchanging vows during their outdoor ceremony at Waterhouse Pavilion in Chattanooga. Bridesmaids in black dresses and groomsmen in suits look on as sunlight filters through the trees. — Vows exchanged under the trees, surrounded by their people, wrapped in sunlight and stillness.

Close-up of a wedding reception table featuring white hydrangeas in mason jars, eucalyptus garland, gold votive candles, and folded menus atop white linens. Taken at Waterhouse Pavilion in Chattanooga. — Simple greenery, soft florals, and golden candlelight—sometimes the best tablescapes don’t need to try too hard.

Close-up of wedding rings and invitation suite for Pauline Minnaar and Taylor Dupré, featuring a classic serif design in green and gold. Rings are displayed on the invite, with greenery and floral accents in soft, natural light. — Gold accents, lush greens, and a September celebration to remember—Pauline and Taylor's details embodied effortless elegance.

A groomsman and bridesmaid enter the wedding reception at Waterhouse Pavilion while holding hands and sipping bottled drinks. Both are dressed in black formalwear, walking confidently with smiles and playful energy. — Now *that’s* how you make an entrance. Wedding party energy = unmatched.

I may have started as a second shooter, and I wasn't even on the schedule to be there on their wedding day... but they wanted me there. So I made it happen—and I’m so glad I did. Showing up for this couple reminded me exactly why I love what I do. It wasn’t about the timeline or the trends—it was about the people, the light, and the little in-between moments that matter more than they know. Even now, this one holds a special place in my heart. And that’s the magic of photography: you don’t just get to revisit the day—you get to FEEL IT all over again.

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