November 03, 2023
This post was authored by Dollywood Public Relations intern Emma Cavanaugh.
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort had its official grand opening on Friday, Nov. 3, and excitement was larger than ever as our Dreamer-in-Chief appeared in-person to commemorate this unforgettable event.
Media personnel from a variety of news, radio and blog channels gathered at the property to conduct interviews with Dolly herself and receive tours of the state-of-the-art lodge. Located right behind Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, the lodge offers 302 guest rooms, four-story lantern-inspired windows, The Cove outdoor pool featuring a waterfall and splashpad and an outdoor fire feature that is perfect for chilly winter nights. With luxurious amenities and wholesome activities for the whole family, HeartSong Lodge & Resort invites families to discover the heartsong within themselves.
The event was accompanied by a whirlwind of anticipation and thrill. Along with the media, resort guests filled the lodge as everyone eagerly awaited Dolly’s arrival. As I assisted with the check-in table and helped attendees find their designated seats, guests flocked to the outskirts of the event area to secure a spot. The crowd grew rapidly as the event got closer and closer, creating an energetic atmosphere.
The entire crowd erupted in applause and cheers as Dolly took to the stage with a smile on her face. Dolly welcomed guests and delighted the crowd with a speech about growing up in the Smoky Mountains, saying she hopes that everyone who visits the lodge is able to see why the mountains are so special to her. After her profound words and Q & A session with the media, Dolly brought out her guitar and performed her song “Heartsong” in front of the beautiful stone fireplace as the crowd swooned over her captivating melody.
As the event came to a close, the media personnel dispersed to embark on tours of the resort, sat down for a mouth-watering lunch in Ember & Elm, and collected content for their platforms. Interviews with Dollywood personnel commenced, capturing different staff members’ perspective of the event and about the grand opening of the lodge. I enjoyed seeing the multitude of people working in their elements, each capturing the lodge in their own unique ways. Before long, the event space rapidly transformed back into the captivating lobby area.
My experience during this event was nothing short of incredible. Seeing the amount of people gathered not only to see our Dreamer-in-Chief, but to celebrate the monumental occasion of a new resort opening was mind-blowing. The event had so many moving parts that seamlessly blended into one grand event, and gave me an even bigger appreciation for the incredible team I work with. Being able to see the wide-scale impact Dolly has on people through her park and resorts made me realize how blessed I am to work with this company.
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