One of the unique aspects of Dollywood as an amusement park is it's Craftsman's Valley, celebrating the arts and crafts of the Smoky Mountains. For many years, candles served as a major source of light. Candlemaking began to decline after the light bulb introduction in 1879. However, not every home immediately had electricity. My grandfather told stories of being the first one to install electricity in Quad Cities, Iowa.
Enter Old Flames Candles store for a candle making experience. Named after Dolly's song "Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle To You", this store allows you to dip your own candle for a fee. Thanks to my sister-in-law for treating my kids. My kids enjoyed picking their own molded candle and choosing the wax colors. Caution! Wax is hot!
It's an opportunity to use creativity and bring home a truly customized gift. Today we consider candle purchases as discretionary; candles now serve different purposes. Sales increased in the 1990s as candles became popular home decorations and air-fresheners. It's an estimated over $2 billion industry. While the US has large players like SC Johnson & Sons and Yankee Candle, there's still smaller manufacturers throughout the US. In fact, The Candle Cottage began in 1976 in the Smoky Mountain foothills and now has a 40,000 square foot facility in nearby Sevierville, TN.
Throughout the ages, candles represent joy and life-giving power. No wonder candles continue in our religious ceremonies and alter candles get lit weekly.If you want to watch other people make candles, visit Lorelei Candles factory (331 Glades Road, Gatlinburg), crafting since 1979.
Whether your family runs from ride to ride at Dollywood or you have an opportunity to slow down and smell the candle wax, may you have a joyful vacation day and light up someone's life.
