We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dawn Farver a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Dawn , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose has been an incredible journey, one that truly blossomed when my family and I embarked on the adventure of starting Seven Pines River Resort two years ago. This endeavor has been more than just a business; it’s become a passion project that fills our days with meaning and joy.
Every morning, I wake up knowing that I have the opportunity to connect with people and play a part in creating lasting memories for them. Whether it’s helping a family plan the perfect camping trip along the Buffalo River or orchestrating a dream proposal in one of our glamping geodomes, the ability to make others happy is a gift.
At Seven Pines, we’ve cultivated a space where guests can unwind, relax, and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, even if it’s just for a weekend. Seeing our guests leave with smiles on their faces, knowing that we’ve contributed to moments they’ll cherish forever, is incredibly rewarding.
But this venture isn’t just about our guests; it’s also about my family. Working alongside my daughter and husband to build something truly special has brought us closer together and created memories that will last a lifetime. Seven Pines River Resort has given us a shared purpose—one that we’re excited to continue nurturing for years to come.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Dawn Farver, originally from Indiana, where I spent my childhood immersed in the outdoors, camping with my parents, and helping out on my grandpa’s farm. Being a tomboy, I’ve always embraced the country lifestyle.
My husband, Ken, brings over 30 years of experience in the RV industry, specializing in sidewall production. Three years ago, we all moved to Tennessee—me, Ken, our daughter, and my parents—in search of a family property where we could live in the countryside and be self-sufficient.
When we stumbled upon this property, we had no plans of turning it into a resort. But the beauty of the Buffalo River and Bluff wall captivated us, and we felt compelled to share it with others.
Before embarking on hospitality, my most rewarding job was being a mother to our four children. Being a mother has prepared me in many ways for the challenges and joys of becoming a business owner.
My focus is on providing guests with unforgettable experiences. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests can truly unwind and reconnect with themselves and their loved ones. Whether it’s cozying up in one of our geodomes under the stars or exploring the river on a kayak float, every aspect of our resort is designed to foster relaxation and adventure.
One of the most exciting aspects of our work is the opportunity to continuously innovate and expand our offerings. We’re always exploring new ways to enhance the guest experience, from introducing new outdoor activities to hosting special events.
A highlight of our offerings is PuckerWilly’s, our charming general store where guests can stock up on everything they need for their stay. From delicious food and refreshing beverages to camping supplies and water rentals, PuckerWilly’s is a one-stop shop for all your outdoor excursion essentials. Plus, guests can also snag some merch to commemorate their time spent in this picturesque slice of Tennessee paradise.
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of several new initiatives, including expanded glamping options and curated outdoor experiences that showcase the natural wonders of the Buffalo River region. We’re also planning to host more events, such as music festivals and wellness retreats, to bring people together in meaningful ways.
At Seven Pines River Resort, our mission is simple: to provide a sanctuary where guests can create lasting memories and reconnect with what matters most. We invite you to join us on this journey of discovery and relaxation amid the beauty of Tennessee’s wilderness.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey, three incredibly impactful qualities are resilience, creativity, and a commitment to continuous learning.
My advice to those starting their journey is to cultivate resilience by embracing failures as learning opportunities, staying adaptable, and seeking support from mentors and peers during tough times.
Thinking outside the box and being willing to explore unconventional ideas has been instrumental in shaping the success of Seven Pines River Resort. Whether it’s designing unique accommodations like our geodomes or crafting memorable guest experiences, creativity has allowed us to stand out in a competitive market.
The willingness to continuously seek knowledge and adapt to changing circumstances has been key to staying relevant and thriving in the hospitality industry. From staying updated on the latest trends to refining our business strategies, prioritizing learning has enabled us to evolve and grow over time.
One of the most rewarding moments in our journey was when producers from FOX’s “Farmer Wants A Wife” came to scout our resort for their upcoming season 2. It validated all the hard work and resilience we had put into building Seven Pines River Resort. This opportunity highlighted the payoff of our dedication and commitment to creating a special experience for our guests.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
We are enthusiastic about collaborating with a diverse range of individuals and industries that complement our vision for Seven Pines River Resort. Whether you’re a podcast host eager to share stories of outdoor adventure, a content creator seeking to capture the beauty of nature, or a rising star in the country music scene looking for an inspiring backdrop for your next music video, we welcome collaborations that celebrate the great outdoors and the spirit of exploration.
Additionally, we’re excited to partner with businesses and professionals in the water sports, camping, fishing, and photography industries, as well as event planners and engagement photographers who share our commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s showcasing the latest in camping gear at PuckerWilly’s, organizing riverboat excursions along the Buffalo River, or collaborating with nature photographers to capture the stunning landscapes surrounding our resort, we’re eager to explore collaboration opportunities that enhance the guest experience and celebrate the beauty of our natural surroundings.
If you’re interested in collaborating with us, please email us at [email protected]. We’re always open to new ideas and partnerships that align with our values and mission.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sevenpinesriverresort.com
- Instagram: @sevenpinesriverresort
- Facebook: Seven Pines River Resort
- Other: We’re also listed and featured on Hipcamp & Airbnb.
Image Credits
Dome Photos taken by: ALH Photography
