By Stephanie Edwards

In a world of greedy business people, it is rewarding to meet those who are willing to help couples who are just starting their lives together.

Jim Chambers, owner of the Sweetheart Riverside Wedding Chapel, emphasizes that he and his crew won’t turn any couple away. The chapel offers a variety of affordable wedding packages, in several beautiful settings.

The chapel’s sign says it all.

“Our sign says ‘Everyone welcome, guaranteed affordable, elegant and professional,’” Chambers said.

Couples may be interested to know that four weddings can be performed simultaneously. The main chapel offers couples the opportunity to have patriotic or elegant service. Those looking for a smaller “just the two of us” ceremony may want to get married by the exquisite fireplace in the office. Two outdoor, riverside gazebos are also available. At night, the gazebos are lit with dozens of sparkling lights, adding to the ambience.

The chapel staff is happy to go the extra mile to make every couple’s wedding memorable. They plan to add special touches such as live dove releases.

There are many photo opportunities throughout the chapel property including a limo, featuring a backseat signed by Louise Mandrell; a carriage; an antique car; and many locations both in and outside of the charming historic downtown Sevierville house that was built in 1941.

Chambers officiates most of the chapel’s ceremonies, but he invites local licensed wedding officials to use the chapel for a reasonable fee.

“With the chapel’s unique history and convenient location, it’s only right to share the facility. You can see the courthouse’s steeple from here,” Chambers said.

He said he is also willing to share the pulpit with ministers visiting from out-of-state, allowing them to serve as a witness during weddings.

“I asked for God’s help in creating the chapel, which has been in my mind for years. There was another chapel here. I did 90 percent of weddings for them. I knew the possibilities for this facility. God has directed us in all aspects of this beautiful place,” Chambers said.

Chambers also owns Douglas Lake Riding Stables, where all Sweetheart Riverside Wedding Chapel patrons will receive a horseback ride during their honeymoon.

Horseback and gazebo weddings are available at Douglas Lake Riding Stables.

Sweetheart Riverside Wedding Chapel is located on Highway 66 next to the Muscle Car Museum, just before you cross over Highway 441.

For more information, visit www.sweetheartriversideweddingchapel.com.