It's been 46 years since Elvis Presley passed away. That's longer than he lived (42).
I have something a little bit different to share. The Qualls, an Elvis-fan family, has shared their creativity in a different way:
They "rebuilt" Graceland as a wedding venue and personal home, in Beechgrove, Tennessee!
 |
| Photo from justpretendmansion's Facebook page |
Obviously, it took some serious cash to do that. I admire their ingenuity and creativity.
Their website is: https://justpretendmansion.com/
YouTube: Upstairs Layout of Graceland - YouTube - Globetrotting with Trey The video was done also with Spa Guy, who has his own YouTube channel. Unfortunately, I feel like Spa Guy kind of dominated part of the video, but nevertheless, it has information which some people might find interesting.
Spa Guy has two videos in regards to Just Pretend Mansion if you want to check those out. Here is a link to one of those shorter videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F840_ODElmU
Here's the book mentioned in the 1st video about the Graceland blueprint:
https://store.graceland.com/collections/graceland/products/elvis-presleys-graceland-the-official-guidebook-hardcover-edition (In 2023 the book is $25.00).
I watched the video. I enjoyed seeing the outside and the interior rooms. Some of the rooms (particularly near the entry way) they tried to replicate to be like Graceland. However, it appears that they haven't been in the home that long because it looks somewhat empty. Other rooms have the layout of Graceland, but they have modern appliances or decor suited to their personal use. I imagine that as time goes by, the two main front rooms will get more items in line with Elvis' style. I still would love to see it!
Elvis did sing a song called, Just Pretend. Maybe that is partly why the Qualls named their property, Just Pretend Mansion.
And whispering things soft and low
And think of me, how it's gonna be
Just pretend I didn't go
If you need me, you know what to do
I knew it then, I'd be back again
Just pretend I'm right there with you
All the crying is through
Oh, I will hold you and love you again
But until then, we'll just pretend
The things we said or why you cry
But now I know, it was wrong to go
I belong here by your side
All my crying is true
I, I, I will hold you and love you again
But until then, we'll just pretend
But until then
We'll just pretend
In remembrance of those who died in Lahaina, Maui in the fires this past week, I want to mention that Elvis loved Hawaii and sang there.
If he were still alive (and young, as he would be 88 if still alive) I could definitely see him going to Oahu again, doing a concert to raise funds for the victims and families.
Well, that's a wrap!!