Swan Ball
The Swan Ball is by far one of my favorite events of the year. While this is a departure from my normal content, I received so many questions about the event and the preparation involved, that I thought it would be fun to do a post strictly dedicated to the event, as it merits such.
I like large parties. They're so intimate
-F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Swan Ball, known as THE social soiree of the year, is one of the premier charity galas in the United States benefiting Cheekwood. It's hard to fathom that this event materialized from a casual conversation on the tennis courts between Jane Dudley, founder of the Swan Ball, and the president of the new horticulture and arts center in 1963. Each June, men don their white tie and tails while the women are dressed in gowns straight from the runways of New York, Milan, and Paris.
From cocktails in the Wisteria Garden, a fine jewelry exhibit and let's not forget dancing to nationally acclaimed entertainment such as Aretha Franklin, Sheryl Crow, and Diana Ross. Yes, I said Diana Ross. It's one of those evenings that's simply unforgettable.
Each year the event chairs outdo themselves and the ball seems to be more spectacular and glamorous than the last.
Let's get into the glam squad details!
Parlour 3
144 Franklin Road, Suite B
Brentwood, Tennessee 37027
Website and Instagram
With so many new Nashville transplants, I am often asked where I get my hair done. Selfishly, I'd prefer to keep it a secret so it's not impossible to secure an appointment, but I cannot recommend Parlour 3 enough. Even though you may be surrounded by platinum blondes, Melissa Schleicher and her staff are the best color specialists in town. Take it from a girl who couldn't be more brunette, they kill it!
Parlour 3 isn't limited to hair, they have an entire staff of makeup artists and estheticians onsite to tend to your every beauty need. I'm not sure if it's an Instagram trend or what, but it seems that nail art is more prominent than ever. Sure, I am down for a basic manicure from time to time, but sometimes a girl just needs to be a little extra. It wasn't until a few months ago that I was able to grab an appointment with Jennifer Tsourvakas. Ladies, Jen is in HIGH demand. When she's not working her makeup magic, she transforming nails into a work of art. She's so incredibly talented and creative that I simply showed her a photo of my dress and told her about the event and off she went. Classic and understated elegance with just a bit of style.
Hunter Paige by Parlour 3
7016 Church Street E, Suite 202
Brentwood, Tennessee 37027
Website
As soon as I received my invitation to the ball, I immediately texted my stylist to see who she recommended for an up-do. With the number of summer weddings that take place in Nashville, an appointment for an up-do on a Saturday in June is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to come by. Let me introduce you to Jessica Miller, the rock star at Hunter Paige that created this beautifully braided up-do. Seriously Y'all, if you have an event in Nashville, this is the girl you want. My hair has never looked so good!
Private Edition
4009 Hillsboro Pike, Suite 101
Nashville, Tennessee 37215
Website
Private Edition is one of my Nashville staples. From facials, massages, waxing and spray tan, they have you covered. Not to mention, they carry just about any skincare product you could possibly want. I just adore these ladies. They have helped me with everything from sunscreen to serums. As for services, let's say I have sampled my fair share! As of late, Private Edition has been my go-to for spray tans. Their attention to detail is impeccable. Whether you are getting glammed up for a special night out or perhaps you need a little mid-week pretty pick me up, swing by and say hello to my girls at Private Edition. They will take care of you!
Victoria's Final Touch Alterations
5912 A Charlotte Pike
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
Website
Let's be honest, being vertically challenged presents its own set of difficulties. Not only am I standing on the bottom shelf at Whole Foods trying to gracefully grab those items just out of reach, but I am ALWAYS in need of having something hemmed.
I was introduced to Victoria's Final Touch a few years ago by my girls at UAL Yet another favorite, but we will save that for another post. Victoria can literally do all the things as she demonstrated with this year's dress.
Dress shopping this year was particularly difficult. Everything that I fell in love with was either sold out in my size or cost $6000+. After hours of online searching, I finally found "the dress" but it needed some minor adjustments. Victoria went above and beyond finding material for new lining and basically dismantling this dress to make it just perfect. Not only is her work flawless, but prices are reasonable and she's someone you can absolutely trust. From ball gowns to blazers, she can do it all!
Friends, there you have it. My arsenal I used to navigate through this thing called life! Moving to a brand new city can be overwhelming when you do not where to go or who you can trust. If you ever need a recommendation, you know where you can find me! I am happy to give advice on more things than just food.
Until Next Time!