I have been staying at the Gaylord every year, during the holidays for about 1-3 nights. We treat ourselves to Villa D'Flor (I think it's called). LOVE IT! The parking fee has gotten ridiculously high (for one). In general, you are paying more for the ambience. We see Gaylord as us "splurging" and treating ourselves during the holidays. HOWEVER, since it became a Marriott hotel (and I LOVE MARRIOTTs), they have downsized in their decorations and general atmosphere, which I have written to them about. Gaylord is a splurge. Beautiful surroundings, nice and peaceful. It's a pain to leave the place and come back, then again, it has almost everything you would need without leaving. There is aWalgreens in the corner of the property that you might almost walk to if you needed to. Their gift shop, like most in resort hotels, is expensive. I would recommend it in general.
I have NEVER found a room there for less than $149, and that is w/o the resort fee and parking. You will leave there and have hopefully made some real nice memories.