We had the good fortune of connecting with Chastidyi Parrott and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chastidyi, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
There are several important factors behind the success of Chapel in the Hollow. We built it to give couples a way to have a mini version of a traditional wedding. We started it right before the time that micro weddings and elopements were becoming a more popular idea. We were lucky during covid that we were outdoor, micro, and in a state that did not completely shut down. I think the fact that we provide a consistent experience with all of the options a couple needs to have their ceremony makes us an easy choice for a stress free micro wedding.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I think what sets Chapel in the Hollow apart from other wedding chapels is that we offer a true mini wedding experience. A lot of the wedding chapels are more of a set style. We tried to keep our place like a blank slate with lots of options to customize so you don’t feel like you miss out on all of the details and options. Plus, we include the option for real wedding photography as part of the experience. Everything just kind of came together at the right time for us to be able to create the chapel, and we’ve added onto it a little at a time over the past several years to keep offering new options for our couples. Parts were easy. Other parts not so much, lol. The first couple of years when it was just Ian and I, I was doing all of the shooting, editing, marketing, etc. Bringing outside help in when we need it has helped lighten my load considerably which has allowed us to serve more couples. I think one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to not be afraid to delegate. Focus on what you’re good at, and bring in experts to do the rest.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There is so much to see and do in the Smoky Mountains, and we are surrounded by a wide variety of places. Here are some of the things I would take someone to see and do here…

Day 1:
Cades Cove – we’d gas up, pack a picnic, and do the loop. This is a great way to see the mountains and some of the history of the area. After, I’d have us stop by The Abbey in Townsend for drinks and a bite to eat.

Day 2:
Dollywood – we’d get up early and tackle all of the rollercoasters, check out some of the shows, and enjoy the delicious food, finishing up the day by seeing the fireworks.

Day 3:
Swimming at the River – we could either do the River Rat and tube or just go to one of the many swimming spots to enjoy the scenery and the water. We’d take a break at some point to hit up Burger Master Drive In – an old school spot for a delicious burger and ice cream.

Day 4:
Knoxville – There are lots fun spots to shop in Knoxville. We’d hit up a few of my faves – Anthropologie, Barnes and Noble, The Mall. Then, we’d end the evening at Kefi, an amazing Greek restaurant with lots of flair and some of the most delicious food in the area.

Day 5:
Gatlinburg – We’d start by walking around the Village in Gatlinburg, a quaint little shopping center with some adorable shops and The Donut Friar, a handmade donut spot. Then, we could head to Anakeesta to play in the treetops.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

There are several people that have really helped make our business a success. Number 1 would be my husband, Ian Parrott. He supported the idea for the chapel, helped build it, and has jumped into all the things. And, my wedding pro friends, Amanda and Lindsay, are the ones I go to when I need to bounce ideas, get advice, or have someone bolster me as we try to survive the busy season.

Website: www.chapelinthehollow.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chapelinthehollow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chapelinthehollow/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX6_YWyaH6tvknTP633aMbw/videos

Other: Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@chapelinthehollow Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/chapelinthehollow/

Image Credits
Star Noir Studio

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.