When we highlighted Dawn Davenport, “News 2 This Morning” co-anchor, a few weeks ago, we mentioned that we had an upcoming interview with Paige Hill as well (reporter for News 2 This Morning), as Paige and Dawn have been the two we’ve worked with most over the past year and have gotten to know so well. We’re thrilled to introduce you to Paige today. Now, when you watch your morning news, you’ll know a bit more about who you’re watching!
How early do you need to get up to be a morning reporter for “News 2 This Morning?” Can you walk us through your morning schedule?
I believe there are two kinds of people in the world … those who can wake up with one alarm and those who need a minimum of five. I like to set one at 2:30 a.m. and then 7 or 8 more five minutes apart and hope I’m out of bed in an hour.
The goal is to make it to the station by 4 a.m., to take maybe 15 minutes to do hair and makeup, and then my photographer and I are out of the door between 4:30 and 5 a.m. to start our live shots for the show! When the show is over, it’s time to plan. Getting video for the day ahead or making the dreaded call to ask someone to be live at 5:30 with us.
What was your first reporting job?
I actually started as a reporter for the St. Louis Rams, but can’t say I’m really that sports savvy. I just learned what a fourth down was last year …
When did you move to Nashville?
Exactly one year ago last month!
Since you moved here in the midst of Nashville being “It City USA,” did anything surprise you about our city?
I knew I was going to love Nashville. I’ve always heard amazing things, “It City” status or not, but I didn’t expect to move here and never want to leave!
What is something that goes on behind the scenes of “News 2 This Morning” that viewers wouldn’t know about, but would find interesting?
It isn’t always as glamorous as it seems! A lot of times, reporters are walking through mud and then doing hair and makeup in a gas station bathroom just minutes before the newscast!
Are competing stations’ reporters friendly with each other?
Actually, yes! Sometimes I’m not always the reporter to run into the competition in the morning, but I always enjoy it when I do. Everyone in the morning looks out for everyone.
Lightning round of questions!
- Favorite place for a lunch meeting: Mitchell Deli
- Favorite place to escape to after a hard day: The dog park with my puppy!
- Favorite workout: I love the barre workout craze. There are so many to choose from in Nashville, but they are all so different.
- What are you currently reading? Kimberly Schlapman’s new cookbook, Oh Gussie!
- A must-try new restaurant that you have on your list? Cochon Butcher in Germantown
- Best brunch in Nashville? Biscuit Love
Is there a mantra or piece of advice that you try and live by?
Everything happens for a reason!
If money were no object, where would your next vacation be?
Honestly, I would explore Gatlinburg or Chattanooga in the fall. I’m from Oklahoma where your surroundings never change colors. I am fascinated by Tennessee in the fall!
What is something that our readers may not know about you?
A few months ago, I started a local lifestyle blog called Like the Locals. It’s a place where I get to expand on some of the fun stuff we do in the mornings and then some. It’s helping me, and hopefully others, get to know Nashville through the eyes of a local!
We saw you at the Draper James opening and found out about the Draper James ambassadors. What does this mean?
Draper James is Reese Witherspoon’s new lifestyle brand. She recently opened a beautiful storefront in 12South and myself and dozens of other local girls get to represent her adorable Southern brand around town. We all have a pretty similar style that compliments Reese’s new line really well. The new store is also a great place to host all kind of parties and we attend those as well!
With the exception of friends, family and faith, what are three things you can’t live without?
- My puppy
- Sweet tea
- Ranch dressing
Thank you, Paige! Be sure to watch Paige each weekday morning on “News 2 This Morning,” and check out her blog, Like the Locals. Special thanks to Ashley Hylbert for today’s gorgeous photos!
Today, we’re launching our #sbthankful campaign for the holiday season. Paige is kicking it off, and you can see what she is thankful for over on our Instagram @styleblueprintnville. Check out her great response, and then share what YOU are thankful for and be sure to use the hashtag #sbthankful.
