Dolly Parton’s former home turned wedding venue in Tennessee is extending a generous offer to couples getting married whose original plans were impacted by the wildfires, according to Southern Living. Red Top Destinations announced that Red Top Mountain Lodging will be available between April 1 and May 1 at no charge for couples who were affected by the wildfires. The current owner, Mike Whitcomb, shared that his inspiration to do good deeds comes from Dolly Parton herself whom he admires for her “humanity” and “kindness.”
Director Jeanine Hurst-Emory of Red Top Destinations told Southern Living that the first “displaced couple’s ceremony” will be held on April 14. In order to qualify for the special offer, couples must prove that their “original nuptials” were impacted by the wildfires. The beautiful Red Top Mountain Lodging features “three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a large dining room, porches, and a white barn. Various Parton family heirlooms are showcased throughout the property.” The Sevierville home purchased by Dolly’s parents in 1984 was inherited by Dolly in 2003. Whitcomb explained to Fox Television Stations that “he saw an opportunity to follow in Parton’s footsteps” after wildfires devastated their community.
According to Southern Living, the wildfires swelled to more than 1,000 acres and forced the evacuation of 11,000 homes with damage to at least 100 buildings. In collaboration with The Dollywood Foundation among others, Mountain Tough is providing support for local residents affected by the wildfires including community resources, emergency response reports, and a platform for donations.
Dolly Parton has been a constant source of support for Sevier County, pledging millions of dollars herself and through her foundation to help them rebuild when natural disasters have devastated the area. Inspiring others to provide humanitarian support, Dolly has served as a source of encouragement for those doing so as well as a source of hope for those receiving assistance. At Red Top Destinations, a legacy of kindness continues as they open their doors to those affected by the disaster, brightening their days by giving them a beautiful occasion to look forward to as they celebrate as newlyweds.