Exploring Life & Business with Brittany Shelton of Hemlock Falls LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Shelton.

Hi Brittany, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Brittany Shelton and I am the wife of Mason Shelton! Hemlock Falls LLC has always been a family owned and operated business. The venue was founded and is still owned by my husband’s parents, Lynn and Jimmy Shelton.

The story of Hemlock Falls began in 1997 when the Shelton family became “mountain folk” and built a home beside Luther Blackburn Kirk. Mr. Kirk was a retired teacher and World War II veteran who was born and raised 15 minutes away in Grundy County. He was a bachelor with no children so he entertained Lynn and Jimmy,s two young children Meghan and Mason (my husband) when he spent his summers at the cabin.

Years later in 2013, Meghan wrote a letter to Mr. Kirk telling him how much she had enjoyed growing up with her brother on the mountain and going over to his bluff when she needed to think or pray. She told him of her dream to return to the serenity of the bluff view when she completed her medical education at college and that if he ever wanted to sell the cabin that she had always been in love with, she hoped he would give her first option to buy.

In 2014, Mr. Kirk passed away but prior to his passing, he made arrangements to honor Meghans request by giving an offer to the Shelton’s to buy the property we now call Hemlock Falls.

Lynn and Jimmy poured countless hours of hard work, dedication and love into restoring the cabin and property. The cabin was thoughtfully remodeled while preserving much of its original character, including the foundation and the original hardwood floors dating back to the 1950s. Extensive landscaping was completed to showcase the breathtaking bluff views that guests enjoy today!

Initially, the property operated as an Airbnb beginning in 2014. It did not take long for guests to fall in love with the scenery just as much as the we had. Soon, couples began choosing the property as the backdrop for their wedding ceremonies, without our permission. After many prayers, research and legal and financial guidance, Lynn and Jimmy officially transformed Hemlock Falls LLC into both a wedding venue and an Airbnb.

Today, Hemlock Falls has hosted beautiful weddings and special events for over a decade. After years of building the business, Lynn and Jimmy decided to step back from daily operations and entrust the next chapter to Mason and me. We have proudly managed the venue for nearly four years, continuing the vision they created while helping couples celebrate some of life’s most meaningful moments.

What makes Hemlock Falls truly special is not only its stunning mountain views and waterfalls, but also the story behind it, a story of family, friendship, faith, and a shared dream that continues to bring people together. As we look to the future, Mason and I hope to continue improving Hemlock Falls, preserving the legacy that began here, and sharing our family’s story with the wonderful people we have the privilege of meeting along the way!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of the biggest challenges has been balancing growth while preserving the natural beauty and character that make Hemlock Falls LLC so special. Because we are located on a mountain bluff, maintaining the property requires constant attention, from landscaping and weather related repairs to ensuring the venue remains safe and accessible for our guests.

Like many small businesses, we have also faces challenges related to changing market conditions, rising operating costs and adapting to the evolving needs of couples. Every wedding is unique, which means problem solving and flexibility are essential parts of what we do.

For Mason and me personally, stepping into the management role came with a learning curve. We wanted to honor the foundation Lynn and Jimmy built while also bringing our own ideas and vision to the business. Over the past years we have learned the importance of communication, adaptability and always putting our couples first.

Despite the challenges, each obstacle has helped us grow. Seeing the joy on a couples face on their wedding day reminds us why the hard work is worth it and motivates us to continue improving Hemlock Falls LLC for future generations including Meghan’s daughter, Annalyn who is only 4. Annalyn is our niece and only grandchild of Lynn and Jimmy!

We’ve been impressed with Hemlock Falls LLC , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Hemlock Falls LLC is a family-owned business nestled in the Tennessee mountains, offering both a unique wedding venue and a peaceful mountain retreat. What sets us apart is our breathtaking bluff views overlooking South Cumberland State Park, personalized hospitality, and commitment to creating memorable experiences for every guest. Whether someone is celebrating one of the biggest days of their life or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, we strive to provide a welcoming atmosphere, exceptional service, and an experience that feels both special and authentic. As a family-run business, we take pride in sharing our corner of Tennessee with visitors from all over and continuously work to make Hemlock Falls a place people want to return to again and again.

How do you think about luck?
We believe luck has certainly played a role in our story, but much of what Hemlock Falls LLC is today is the result of faith, hard work and the relationships that have guided us along the way. We feel incredibly fortunate that Mr. Kirk chose to honor Meghan’s request and entrust the property to the Shelton family. At the same time, Lynn and Jimmy invested years of dedication, sacrifice and the vision to transform the property into the destination it is today. Mason and I are grateful for the opportunity to continue that legacy and feel blessed by the wonderful couples, families and guests who have become part of the Hemlock Falls story!

Pricing:

• Elopement package: $2500
• Micro-Wedding package: $6200
• Large Wedding package: $7800
• 1 night stay in cabin: $220

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.hemlockfallsllc.com
• Instagram: @hemlockfallsllc
• Facebook: Hemlock Falls LLC
• Other: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/37428835?unique_share_id=21a87040-180b-4056-821f-0e199ba2aea0&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76