Why We Built Our Business in Maryville, TN

Rooms and blooms are a key part of one entrepreneurial couple’s retirement plan in Blount County.

By Amy Antonation on January 2, 2024

Tayler Smith

Thanks to Blount County’s rolling hills, lush valleys (known as “coves”) and the Great Smoky Mountains that occupy its southern part, it’s no surprise this area draws tourists from far and wide. As with any destination, visitors are on the lookout for scenic, unique accommodations that will be an integral part of their vacation. 

Smith Family B&Bs is an obvious choice for a memorable stay. Located in the county seat of Maryville, the property boasts two separate lodgings: Platform 1346, a converted 60-ton, World War II-era train car, and Terminal 1344, an aircraft hangar turned two-bedroom accommodation. 

Adrienne Smith, who owns and manages the Maryville business with her husband, Dean, also tends a cut-flower farm on the property and owns Rainbow Roots Floral. Here’s what the pair has to say about settling down in Blount County and doing business in Maryville. 

How did you come to own Smith Family B&Bs? 
Dean: In 2008, we came to Knoxville from Southern California. We were just looking to get out of there. 
Adrienne: My family lived out here in Tennessee. 
Dean: We didn’t get here [Maryville] until 2016. We found this place, and it was like winning the lottery. It was six fairly level acres, all landscaped, but it came with the lawn ornament from hell. The man we bought it from was a retired Air Force colonel. He built an eclectic house and brought the train car here in 2005. His original plan was to build a guest house. 
Adrienne: He was going to build a fly-in B&B. 
Dean: Ours is one of 12 homes that line a runway. 

What attracted you to Maryville? 
Adrienne: We lived in Knoxville and it was more of the city. It served its purpose when our daughter was going to school, but we thought as we head for retirement, don’t we want some land? Maryville is a cool little bedroom community (29 miles south of Knoxville). We’ve got mountain views and we’re nestled in this valley with cows next door to us. We’re in this place where it’s bridging this city, not fully out in the country. Maryville has taken off because prices are desirable. 

How has your Maryville business grown? 
Dean: We’ve surprised many local people as well as many international travelers. It’s all gone over very well. … We’re witnessing some remarkable business during these economic times. 
Adrienne: I think the flower business is helping that, too. We’ve been advertising and moving to offer some agritourism. We will be offering a you-pick garden monthly, and some organizations have requested tours. We’re doing some things to open the property. The farm has grown exponentially in the last year. … Part of the retirement plan is creating cash flows with our property to be able to go into retirement.