by VICTORIA ELIZABETH
The Wayback, a stylish, chic, and classic-albeit trendy- retro themed Marriott tribute hotel has already established its reputation as the “go-to” vacation destination for travelers from around the world in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Featuring a world class restaurant, “Paloma” (which actually means “pigeon” in Spanish, and is quite fitting for the namesake of the area in Pigeon Forge), a full service bar, 134 exquisitely decorated rooms, an incredibly convenient location (tucked away in the very heartbeat of the bustling, action packed Pigeon Forge Parkway), and what many consider to be a focal point of the Wayback: the expansive pool and deck, as well as a spacious and beautifully maintained hot tub.
The pool area, superbly designed for an optimal lounging and swimming experience, also serves as a venue for a plethora of special events, ranging from the Friday night “Elvis Night” as well as a Saturday Night Disco.
Also available to be rented for an array of other special occasions, ranging from wedding receptions to family reunions as well as corporate gatherings and birthdays, the pool area offers numerous VIP cabanas (each featuring flat screen televisions, refrigerators, and personalized signs brandishing the name of you and all your VIP pals.
Following a springtime spotlight feature of the Saturday Night Disco as well as numerous chef prepared appetizers, cocktails, and desserts, my Backstage Pass Team and I were elated to return to this one-of-a-kind establishment for not only a full spotlight feature on the hotel and amenities, but also the opportunity to produce an exclusive event called “Splash into Fashion,” featuring a poolside fashion show with models and designers from across the U.S.
Upon our arrival at The Wayback, we were greeted by the personable and friendly staff, who assisted with check-in to our beautifully decorated room, which was conveniently located on the first floor, and adorned with posh, yet cozy, retro themed decor.
Each room features a state-of-the-art flat screen television, spacious walk in showers , extremely comfortable beds, and nostalgic mini fridges stamped with a magnetic reminder stating “Normal Is Boring.”
The day after our arrival, Friday was marked “Elvis Night,” a crowd-pleasing, world-class performance honoring “The King” himself, starring renowned and decorated Elvis tribute artist, Grey Galloway. The performance featured a staggering array of Elvis’s greatest hits performed by one of the most celebrated upcoming tribute artists in the Great Smokies.
Once we settled in, we redeemed our vouchers for a delicious and refreshing free Paloma Cocktail (the signature, namesake drink of the resort, featuring a delightful blend of premium tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime juice), which is included with every stay at the Wayback, and found our seats as we eagerly anticipated the stellar poolside show which awaited.
Galloway fullied embodied the mannerisms, physicality, and of course, the voice of Elvis Presley. He wasted no time presented some of the legend’s greatest hits, including “Suspicious Minds,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Trying to Get to You.”
Graciously interacting with the crowd, Galloway took a brief pause to pose for photo ops and to engage his fans before quickly changing into another standout outfit ensemble before launching into more of The King’s hits.
Saturday marked the first Splash Into Fashion Poolside Pop Up Fashion Show. We promptly began fittings as soon as our models (Arianna, Karly Mae, Aubrey, Norah, Whitley, Racquel, Lola, Blessy, and Sean) arrived. The talented Lynn Henley (of @lynnsimsphotography) busily shot editorials throughout the day, featuring stunning designer wardrobe pieces topped off with unique, hand-made, natural gemstone necklaces by Master Designer Angela Schneckloth of Warrior Gurl (@warriorgurlsbeads).
The crowd, which included area celebrities Heidi Parton (star of the wildly popular show Heidi Parton’s Kin and Friends at Dollywood theme park…and yes, she is Dolly’s niece); Mona Nair (my close personal friend, longtime news anchor, guest journalist of the true crime series “Fatal Attraction,” and former Jewelry Television show host ); internationally acclaimed magician Jason Hudy; star of Illusionation at the Mountain of Entertainment Theater creator and star of “Impossibilities” Erik Dobell; and co founders of the worlds largest network for jewelry and fine gemstones Bill Kouns and Bob Hall.
The poolside fashion showcase featured colored formals, swimwear, resort/beachwear, and vintage, all specially curated to compliment the aesthetic of the resort.
The thoughtful and hospitable staff, operating under the leadership of the incredibly creative Sarah Beth Barhorst, went out of their way to ensure that I felt special and celebrated for my birthday, offering gourmet chocolates, chocolate covered strawberries, a fruit platter, a bottle of champagne, and gorgeous flowers, all which truly helped make this an exceptional birthday celebration to remember.
Special thanks to the entirety of The Wayback Staff, including Shaun and Lori, for welcoming the Magnifique team and curated a dazzling experience for everyone involved.
PHONE NUMBER: (865) 428-7500
INSTAGRAM @thewaybackhotel
