Story
Meet the Mountain Team: Elizabeth Daniels
In 2007, Elizabeth Daniels was working for a company that strung Christmas lights in the trees leading up to the newly-opened The Barn at Blackberry Farm®. As she spent her night paying attention to each light she strung around the branches, she was smitten with Blackberry. In 2016, Elizabeth became a full-time team member, transitioning to Blackberry Mountain when the property opened in 2019. You'll spot Elizabeth around property with floral arrangements and a big smile!
Question & Answer
What brought you to Blackberry Mountain?
After a decade of learning the culture of Blackberry Farm, I was excited for the new adventure at Blackberry Mountain. I was drawn to the organic experience with nature that our guests would have, and I wanted to be a part of bringing that to them.
What is one thing that guests wouldn't know about you?
I was raised by an Episcopal minister and a landscape architect. We were always the site of wonderful dinners with people from all walks of life. In many ways, it was the start to my true love for hospitality.
How do you start your morning and end your day?
I start each morning with coffee and a slow start. I find that when I take time to sit quietly with coffee, my day unfurls before me much more easily. I try to end my day sitting quietly in appreciation.
What is your favorite indoor/outdoor activity?
I was born and raised in East Tennessee and raised my daughter here as well. We have always been drawn to the mountains, and we love that no matter how far we travel, when we see the mountains in the distance, we are home. I enjoy hiking and finding all the beauty of nature and then finding ways to bring nature inside!
What is your favorite Blackberry moment?
I have had so many moments I have loved over the years here – it’s hard to choose just one. I most enjoy getting to know our guests and being able anticipate what they would most enjoy and what would make each stay with us more special than their last visit. Refashioning a bridal bouquet for an anniversary, knowing the flowers that were special to them from childhoods spent playing in their mother’s garden, sitting down with a mother and daughter making fairy houses, it is all so wonderful to be able to share the joys of nature with our guests.
This or That
Firetower or Three Sisters
Firetower
Natural Color or Pop of Color
Don't make me choose!
Sunrise or Sunset
Sunrise
Cocktail or Mocktail
Mocktail
Hand-picked Flowers or Pre-cut Flowers
Hand-picked Flowers
Taking in the Views or Experiencing the Journey
Taking in the Views
Pottery Vase or Glass Vase
Pottery Vase