GET TO KNOW PENNY OUR FOOD & BEVERAGE DIRECTOR

Name: Penny

Title: Director of Food & Beverage

So, what does your title mean you do at Wilderness at the Smokies?

I oversee all food & beverage operations at Wilderness at the Smokies and Soaky Mountain Waterpark. I work closely with the managers at each location to ensure the best possible experience for our guests.

What is the best part of your job?

The lasting friendship built working alongside co-workers in a fun environments, and the constant challenge to learn and grow more.

How long have you worked at the Wilderness at the Smokies and in what roles?

I’ve worked at Wilderness at the Smokies for 12 years. I was part of the River Lodge opening team in 2008. Some positions I’ve worked along the way are lifeguard, cabana host, cabana supervisor, front desk, activities manager, Mountain Market Deli supervisor, Hidden Trail supervisor, outlet supervisor, outlet manager, food &beverage manager and now food & beverage director for both Wilderness at the Smokies and Soaky Mountain

Favorite wet attraction at the Wilderness at the Smokies?

Wild Vortex

Favorite dry attraction at the Wilderness at the Smokies?

Ice skating, it’ seasonal but make the holidays at the resort so enjoyable.

Favorite food venue at Wilderness at the Smokies?

Firefly Bar and Grill with its great food, entertainment and peaceful atmosphere

Favorite thing to eat at Wilderness at the Smokies?

Firefly’s Cedar Planked Salmon Filet. YUM!

Piece of advice for first time guests?
Appreciate the little things, try something new and take a lot of pictures.

Now for some fun stuff:

Favorite toy when you were a kid?

Roller skates

All-time favorite movie?

Labyrinth

All-time favorite TV series?

Friends and Lost

Favorite ice cream flavor?

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with a spoonful of peanut butter

What toppings do you like on your pizza?

Pineapple, ham and jalapenos