Whitney Dunn Daniel has seen Nashville change from the vantage point of being a country music star’s daughter (her dad is Ronnie Dunn), as well as a retail owner who makes a vocal effort to support other local boutiques in town. As owner of The Perfect Pair, Whitney’s sense of style provides a boutique that we gravitate to for the gorgeous goods and the fun conversation.
How has Nashville changed since your childhood here?
Nashville just keeps getting cooler and cooler. The city is definitely becoming a bit more urban. I’ve been here since ’91 and it’s been fun to watch the progress that’s being made.
How did you decide to open shoe boutique?
I was a traveling rep for Nicole Miller right out of college. In all of my travels, in and out of hundreds of boutiques, I noticed that almost every cool city had a hip shoe boutique. Nashville didn’t at the time. I decided to try to fill a void in our local retail market, as well as turn a mild shoe and jewelry addiction into a business.
How has the market changed since your opening?
It’s been fun to evolve the shop over the last 9 1/2 years. Retail is ever changing which makes it tough … My job is a constant challenge, which keeps me on my toes.
You and former co-owner Casey Stribling Mims parted on such great terms and remain tight friends. For others wishing to end a business partnership but remain friends, what is your advice?
Simply be honest and and maintain open lines of communication. It’s so much easier that way. You don’t have to agree, but I believe you should always be truthful about your feelings.
As a small business owner, can you speak to our readers on your thoughts about shopping local?
When I shop, I enjoy being able to know the people that I buy from. Authentic personal interaction is one of the most critical elements involved in the retail process for me. It provides a sense of community. I send people to my favorite places and tell them to ask for my friends that work in those shops.
We’ve seen amazing photos of you in Sante Fe. What makes this place so special to you?
Santa Fe is a magical place. I have been going with my family for many, many years. Now my husband and I go every chance we get. My parents have been going out there since they were dating and finally bought a beautiful house atop a hill with one of the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen.
Beau and I were married there last fall in the oldest church in the US. Santa Fe is full of incredible history, stunning architecture, beautiful art, delicious spicy food, magnificent sunsets and green chile margaritas. What more does a girl need?
What is some life advice that you have leaned on through the years?
“Let go and let God,” as my mother always says. I’ve learned to listen to my gut. Instincts are powerful.
What is one thing you wish you could change about Nashville?
The cold dreary months of January and February.
How is fashion in the South different from other regions?
Southern fashion is a bit more classic, but Nashville fashion is different. Nashville is unique to the South by virtue. We have our own flavor thanks to the cultural diversity of our city.
Can you name a favorite meal in town?
Either the chicken stuffed chile relleno or homemade chicken soup from El Palenque.
What books are currently on your bedside table or kindle?
The Language of Letting Go, a daily devotional book and Hemingway’s A Moveable Feast.
What one word best describes you?
Real.
What is one thing for fall 2013 that is a must-have for your wardrobe?
Olive green. A pair of Matt Bernson olive suede booties with a wooden sole.
Can you name three things you can’t live without (excluding God, family, friends)?
Laughter. Exercise. Great food.
Thanks, Whitney!
Do you want to read more about Whitney? The questions continue over at Nashville Lifestyles in this shared FACES interview: click here.
Be sure to stop by The Perfect Pair found on Bandywood Dr: The Perfect Pair.
Special thanks to Ashley Hylbert for these gorgeous photos! To see more of Ashley’s work, click here.
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