The mountains hold a special place that is near and dear to many hearts, and sitting quietly amongst them is a magical place where love dwells, it's called Hungry Mother State Park.

Wedding Photographer Anna Hedges shares these inspiring photos from a wedding at the park:

ABOUT

Special weddings require a special place. Hungry Mother State Park can provide that special place to complement your perfect wedding. Imagine your wedding on an island or on the shore of the park's 108-acre lake. Whether you choose the outdoors or indoors, Hungry Mother is the place to be.

The park offers full-service catering for weddings, rehearsal dinners and many other functions. Its event planner and executive chef are at your disposal. The rehearsal dinner, reception and other group events can be customized to your liking. Beautiful weddings can be affordable.

Hungry Mother provides quality catering at reasonable prices. In fact, you decide on price as you select from various services. Choose from simple buffets to over-the-top hors d’oeuvres. Flexible catering services are available any style of reception, from buffets to family-style dinners or more traditional served entrees. 

THIS IS YOUR FULL SERVICE AFFORDABLE WEDDING DESTINATION

AMPHITHEATER

Hungry Mother State Park has a few different venues for you to choose from to tie the knot. The park's amphitheater, popular for weddings, can be rented from noon to 10 p.m. (full day). Those renting may access the amphitheater before the start time if desired. Call 1-800-933-PARK to rent. The natural surroundings of the park's amphitheater provide a beautiful, outdoor setting for many activities, including weddings.

As it's on an island, it's accessed by footbridge from the main park area. The structure has one electrical outlet and is near parking lot five. Up to 60 can be accommodated on the uncovered wooden benches. Standing room can accommodate another 40. You're welcome to bring more chairs if you like, but be sure to remove them when leaving. No park equipment, such as a microphone, is provided.

HEMLOCK HAVEN

Hemlock Haven is ideal for family reunions, banquets, group picnics and other special gatherings. With a gazebo overlooking the park’s tranquil 108-acre lake, it’s especially well-suited for indoor-outdoor weddings.

The facility has six meeting rooms ranging from 700 to 3,300 square feet. A business center and a board room, Internet access and audiovisual equipment are also available. This diversity makes the facility perfect for groups from 10 to 1,000. Learn more about Hemlock Haven here.

Those interested in the Hemlock Haven Conference Center should call 276-781-7425.

Learn more about weddings at Hungry Mother State Park here.

LOCATION

Hungry Mother State Park is located in Smyth County, about 4 miles from Marion, Virginia. Drive Time: Northern Va., six hours; Richmond, five hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, six hours; Roanoke, two hours; Bristol, Va., 45 minutes; Charlotte, N.C., three hours. Click here for a Google Map.

See a compilation of lovely photos from this wedding in the slideshow below:

HAPPILY EVER AFTERS BEGIN AT HUNGRY MOTHER STATE PARK

SETTING

Thoughts that come to mind when considering this Virginia State Park for your special wedding venue:

1. woodsy
2. outdoor inspired
3. scenic
4. romantic
5. mountains and lake as a backdrop
6. sharing love of the great outdoors
7. inside and out venues
8. joyful bride and groom
9. happy guests
10. intimate ceremonies and receptions
11. no need to worry about rain
12. rustic chic
13. natural settings
14. quaint gazebo
15. custom menus
16. flexible planning and pricing
17. wedding celebrations
18. historic civilian conservation corps built
19. tranquil
20. hardwood floors for dancing
21. sweet country wedding

ACCOMMODATIONS

Another option to consider at Hungry Mother State Park is to rent cabins and/or lodge. The lodge sits high up on a mountain over the lake and provides plenty of extra space to host family and friends overnight. Nearby cabins can also be used for groomsmen or extended family. Learn more about the cabins and family lodge here, or call 800-933-7275.

All photos courtesy of Anna Hedges, see more of her fabulous photography at Anna Hedges Photography here.

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Editor's note: In this series we introduce various wedding venues at Virginia State Parks from amazing photographers. Click the links throughout the article to learn more about the venue, we would love to help make your dreams come true. Here is our Pinterest board for park weddings. Previously in this series:

• Stunning Wedding Venue along the Shores of the Rappahannock River
• An Authentic Mountain Wedding Venue
• Photo Opportunities Abound at this Virginia Beach Wedding Venue
• Happily Ever After is Proclaimed at this Wedding Spot
• A Fall Fairy Tale Wedding
• A Story Book Wedding in the Formal Gardens

Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance, and venue are also available weekdays (some with discounts in place). Just call the Reservation Center to help pick the perfect park and venue for your magical day, 800-933-7275.

Lodges, halls, picnic shelters and cabins host guests, and are frequently occupied, so you won't be able to have a walk-through at any state park venue without an appointment, call the park to make arrangements at 276-781-7425.