Giving Back: Why Supporting Stillbirth Awareness Matters to Us
At Honey Bear Hideaway, we honor our daughter Eloise by supporting stillbirth awareness. Through Ashlie’s Embrace and Lydie’s Loop: Steps Against Stillbirth with Healthy Birth Day Inc./Count The Kicks, we’re giving back to families while keeping her memory alive.
At Honey Bear Hideaway, we love creating a space for families to make special memories together. But behind our cozy cabin and all the family - friendly touches is a story that’s deeply personal to us.
In 2015, we experienced the heartbreaking loss of our first daughter, Eloise, who was stillborn due to preeclampsia. That experience changed our lives forever. As parents, we carry her memory with us every day. One of the ways we honor Eloise is by supporting organizations that are helping families who walk a similar path and working to prevent future families from facing this same heartbreak.
Supporting Ashlie’s Embrace
Last year, we donated a two-night stay at Honey Bear Hideaway to Ashlie’s Embrace for their annual gala. Ashlie’s Embrace provides cuddle cots to hospitals across the country. A cuddle cot is a special cooling device that allows parents more precious time with their baby after birth - time to hold, love, and say goodbye in their own way. This gift of time is something we know is invaluable, and we are honored to help Ashlie’s Embrace in their mission to comfort grieving families.
Supporting Lydie’s Loop
This year, we are proud to donate a two night stay to Lydie’s Loop, a fundraiser held in memory of a little girl names Lydie who was also stillborn. Proceeds from the event support Healthy Birth Day, Inc., the nonprofit behind the life-saving Count The Kicks campaign.
Count The Kicks is an evidence-based program that empowers expectant parents to track their baby’s movements in the third trimester. Research shows that a change in movement patterns can be an early sign of distress - and increased awareness can save lives. Their work has already contributed to lowering stillbirth rates in the states where the program is well established.
Why This Matters To Us
For us, Honey Bear Hideaway is more than just a vacation rental. It’s a reflection of what matters most: family, togetherness, and cherishing time with loved ones. By supporting these incredible organizations, we keep Eloise’s memory alive and join in the effort to bring comfort and hope to other families.
If you’d like to learn more about these organizations and the meaningful work they do, here are the links:
We’re grateful to our guests who make it possible for us to give back in this way. When you choose to stay at Honey Bear Hideaway, you’re not just booking a cabin - you’re becoming part of a story that celebrates family, love, and making every moment count.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit the Smoky Mountains This Fall
There are so many fun things to do in the Smoky Mountains, but it’s even better during the fall foliage! Come see what the buzz is all about!
Fall in the Smoky Mountains is truly an incredible experience. As the air turns crisp and the leaves burst into fiery shades of red, orange, and gold, the mountains transform into one of the most breathtaking autumn destinations in the country. Whether you’re a family looking to make new memories, a couple seeking a cozy getaway, or friends planning a scenic escape, fall in the Smokies is the perfect choice.
Here are the TOP FIVE reasons you should plan your visit this season:
The Best Fall Foliage in the South
The Smoky Mountains are famous for their incredible fall colors. With over 100 species of native trees, the displays last for weeks as different elevations peak at different times. Drive through Cades Cove, hike to Kuwohi (aka Clingman’s Dome), or simply sip your morning coffee on the cabin deck while watching the mountains glow in autumn hues.
(Pro Tip: Peak colors usually hit mid-October through early November - so now’s the time to book!)2. Crisp Mountain Air and Perfect Hiking Weather
Fall is the DREAM season for hikers and nature lovers! The cooler temperatures make trails more enjoyable, and there’s nothing like hearing crunchy leaves underfoot while breathing in fresh mountain air. Whether you want a family-friendly stroll or a more challenging hike, the Smokies have something for everyone.
3. Seasonal Festivals and Local Flavor
From harvest festivals and craft fairs to pumpkin patches and apple cider tastings, the Smoky Mountains region comes alive in the fall. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge host special seasonal events that are perfect for families. You’ll find live music, handmade crafts, and plenty of fall treats to enjoy after a day in the mountains.
4. Wildlife Watching at Its Best
Fall is one of the best times to spot wildlife in the Smokies. Deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears are more active as they prepare for winter. A scenic drive through Cades Cove or a quiet early morning on the Honey Bear Hideaway porch might just give you a front-row seat to nature’s show.
5. Cozy Cabin Retreats
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to a warm, inviting cabin. Imagine soaking in a hot tub under the stars, sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace, or playing a round of mini golf with the kids before bedtime. At Honey Bear Hideaway, you’ll find the perfect mix of cozy charm and family-friendly fun - with everything you need to make your fall trip unforgettable.
Ready to Plan Your Fall Getaway?
Fall dates in the Smokies fill up quickly - and for good reason. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the season. Book your stay at Honey Bear Hideaway today and start making memories in the mountains!
www.stayhoneybear.com/book
Real Guests. Real Memories. Real Tears (Okay,Happy Ones).
Guest reviews from our Smoky Mountains cabin rental - see why families are falling in love with Honey Bear Hideaway!
Over the past few months, we’ve been fully immersed in what matters most - our guests. From late-night questions and arrival day check-ins to making sure every last detail is just right, we’ve poured our energy into helping families create lasting memories at Honey Bear Hideaway
Social media and blogging may have taken a back seat during this time, but the heartfelt messages we’ve received? They’ve meant the world to us - and it’s time to share them. Below are just a few of the reviews we’ve received that reflect what makes our cozy Smoky Mountains cabin so special: peace, fun, comfort, and quality time together.
Reading through these reviews reminds us why we do this. At Honey Bear Hideaway, our goal is the create a space where families can truly unwind, reconnect, and just enjoy being together. Whether it’s your first stay or your fifth, we want every visit to feel like home.
Thinking about your next Smoky Mountain family vacation? We’d love to host you!