I had the opportunity to sit down for a phone interview with Jessi Baker, author of the new cookbook “Shining” which features a collection of family recipes as well as the story of Ole Smoky Moonshine. Read more
ALEWINE POTTERY
I consider the art of making pottery to be part of my Appalachian heritage. From a young age my parents encouraged my older sister and I to learn how to “throw” at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Read more
KATIE’S MATERNITY SESSION
We slipped away to Greenbrier yesterday to snap these maternity photos of my sister with her partner Brandon. Read more
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST DONUTS IN GATLINBURG
I’ve said this before but I like to consider myself somewhat of a donut connoisseur. I’m constantly on the hunt for the new greatest donut of my life. In Gatlinburg, there is no better place than The Donut Friar. Read more
THE MEAD BAR IN GATLINBURG
Gatlinburg has been a tourist destination for years but just recently it’s been on the map for moonshine, whiskey, and wine tastings. Now, there’s one more adult beverage you have to sample on your way to the national park. Read more
THAT’S CHRISTMAS TO ME
Since I grew up in Sevier County, going home and seeing all the decorations feels like Christmas to me. I love to watch my hometown go nuts for the holidays. Read more
DOG-FRIENDLY TRAILS IN THE SMOKIES
As much as I love going for a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park I can’t bring my fluffy son with me on every trail. There are only two approved trails for dogs in the national park and they are “The Gatlinburg Trail” and “The Oconaluftee River Trail”. Read more
ANAKEESTA MOUNTAINTOP EXPERIENCE
Gatlinburg’s newest tourist attraction, Anakeesta, is a Cherokee word meaning “the place of the balsams” according to their website. I am part Cherokee (my great-grandmother’s name was Morning Dove) but I wouldn’t dream of vouching for the language. Anakeesta is located across the street from the aquarium in case you’re wondering but it’s pretty hard to miss the huge brand new building next to Arrowmont.
BEST OF THE FEST: 3 SUMMER FESTIVALS IN TENNESSEE
Here is a sampling of the festivals we attended this year! We hope to change it up next year and see what other fun happenings Tennessee has to offer. Festivals are the best-ival.Read more