The Hunter Museum | vendor spotlight

The Hunter Museum. I guess its full name is: The Hunter Museum of American Art. I want to be proper about this! The Hunter is an icon of the entire downtown of Chattanooga, readily visible from each of the downtown bridges. Its regal mansion stands as a great homage to the past, and the modern addition points the city gracefully toward the future. As far as weddings go, there are at least 5 different places within the museum that we’ve photographed weddings, each one with a different backdrop. The views from the Hunter over the Tennessee River and towards the North Shore are unparalleled, particularly at sunset.

But that’s the brick and mortar. Another important aspect of a venue are the people that manage it. They are the ones who help to make it happen. It’s not only John Post and Katie Fuller, who manage and coordinate special events, but there’s an entire team to back them up; from parking to security.

We have had a blast being able to photograph at the Hunter Museum of American Art since our first experience there on 7/7/07 at a fun wedding that I remember quite well. Through the years, it’s been great to get to know the management and staff there, who do a phenomenal job at welcoming guests into this fabulous location. They have helped us keep back hordes of prom paparazzi from the mansion steps as we photographed a bride and groom (who had rented the place, and had the right to be there), and worked with us on many special shoots in the off season: from magazine covers to bridal sessions.

Katie answered the questions on behalf of the Hunter.

How would you describe yourself?

The Museum is a wonderful place not just to have an event, but for a wonderful place to view the art. The view is breathtaking! The venue is a great blank space — you can make it your own from what you see is what you get to ornate lighting and draping!

Could you characterize your style in three words?

Simple, laid back.

What sets you apart from your competition?

The view! The view and the awesome Museum.

How long have you been in business?

Museum: since 1904  Rental Facilities: since 2005

What do you love the most about Chattanooga?

I love Chattanooga for its small town feel. Since moving here in 2003, I feel like every time I go out somewhere to run errands, or to go to the park, even to the grocery store, I feel like I see someone I have met and know!

What inspires you?

Genuinely nice people inspire me. They remind me to do the same unto others.

What is your favorite aspect of a wedding?

My favorite part is watching the eyes of the bride and groom light up as they enter the room full of their favorite people that have gathered to celebrate their love for each other.

What advice do you have for engaged couples?

I would say that the Big Day is a long day, remember to have fun and know that everyone you love and care about is there with you to celebrate!