About Us

Stephanie Foley

Stephanie Foley, co-founder and head Chef of Smoky Mountain School of Cooking, brings her rich Appalachian heritage to life through her culinary expertise. Raised in the Appalachian region of Kentucky, Stephanie grew up on a dairy farm where she spent her summers cultivating gardens, preserving food, making hominy and lye soap, curing meat, and creating cobblers, pies, cakes, and savory dishes in the kitchen.
Stephanie’s love for cooking was deeply inspired by her mother and grandmother. These ladies mentored her in the kitchen. As a young girl, she would sit on a barstool, absorbing the techniques and recipes they practiced. These early experiences shaped her culinary skills and passion, which she now shares through her cooking school.
Stephanie has been featured as a guest chef on various television cooking shows, including KET, a Public Broadcast Station, and BBC Network UK. Notably, the filming for these shows took place right in the Smoky Mountain School of Cooking kitchen. She appeared as a guest chef for Chef Paula McIntire on the Hamley Kitchen television cooking series, where she showcased her Black-eyed Pea Skillet Cornbread recipe, a dish that speaks to her Appalachian family roots.
A graduate of Midway University in Midway, Kentucky, Stephanie holds a bachelor’s degree in arts with an emphasis in education. Her dedication to preserving her Appalachian heritage and her belief in the sacredness of Sunday family dinners continue to influence her approach to cooking and teaching.
Stephanie is married to Shawn Foley, co-founder of Smoky Mountain School of Cooking. Together, they have two grown daughters, Sarah Smith (husband Jared) and Katie Smith (husband Elliot Smith), and a grandson, Spencer Smith.

“My favorite cook was my grandmother. She was always in the kitchen making a big meal on Sundays. I would watch her, and she never ran us kids out of the kitchen! You got to sit as close as you could, and you got to ask all the questions you wanted to ask.” — Stephanie Foley, Smoky Mountain School of Cooking

Shawn Foley

Shawn Foley, Co-Founder and Fudge Chef of Smoky Mountain School of Cooking & Gourmet Treats, is the creative force behind the unique sweet treats that delight our visitors. Born and raised in Kentucky, Shawn’s journey from a career as a plumber and electrician to discovering his passion in the Smoky Mountains is as rich and layered as the fudge he creates. Shawn has crafted one of the largest varieties of fresh fudge in the Smoky Mountains, with each batch reflecting his dedication to quality and creativity. From classic favorites to bold new flavors, his artistry ensures there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. He also creates our creamy nut butters and other irresistible treats.
As the instructor of our Chocolate and Sweet Treats classes, Shawn shares his craft with enthusiasm and warmth. Known for his love of conversation and connecting with people, he makes everyone feel welcome from the moment they step through our doors.
Alongside his wife, Stephanie, Shawn has turned the Smoky Mountain School of Cooking into a cherished destination for food lovers. Their business celebrates Appalachian roots while offering an experience that brings joy and connection through food.
Whether you’re savoring his melt-in-your-mouth fudge, learning to make sweet treats, or stopping by to say hello, Shawn’s creativity and friendly demeanor shine in everything he does. Come visit and see why Shawn Foley is a treasure of the Smoky Mountains!