February is right around the corner! With the holiday madness officially behind us, we’re ready to relax and unwind with some fun February events. We headed to Nashville’s newest restaurant and event space Woolworth on 5th for this month’s shoot, and not only was this space the perfect backdrop for plenty of elegant shots, it was also the location of large-scale student sit-ins this month nearly 60 years ago. In February of 1960, more than 200 black students headed into Woolworth, yes, then located on Fifth Avenue in downtown Nashville, to be served, and they were denied service. So they proceeded to sit at the counter as a peaceful protest. Our models, mother-daughter duo Alice Randall and Caroline Randall Williams have a personal connection to these sit-ins as Caroline’s grandfather was a lawyer who helped get the participants out of jail. “I’ve always been proud to say my grandfather was one of the lawyers who helped to get them out of jail,” Caroline shares. “Now I am proud to be part of the building’s new story … this is our Nashville. I couldn’t be prouder to be a daughter of this city. A person of color in this city. A first seat at the new counter in this city.”
With this in mind, we are thrilled to give you a first look at Woolworth on 5th and to spread the word about the historical importance of this space, which officially opens in early February. Whether you’re shopping the Antiques and Garden Show, donning a mask at Music City Masquerade or eating all you can at Nashville Brunch Festival, be sure to set aside time to visit the restaurant and take note of its significant history. Thanks to stylist Molly of Molly Russell Styling along with local boutiques The French Shoppe and Gus Mayer, you can rest assured you’ll be stepping out in style all month long.
The Event: 2018 Antiques and Garden Show of Nashville
- February 2-4, 2018
- Elevated casual attire
- Tickets start at $20.
Featuring more than 150 fine antiques and horticultural dealers from across the country, the 2018 Antiques and Garden Show of Nashville is the biggest of its kind. This year’s keynote speaker is Charles, 9th Earl Spencer — brother of Diana, Princess of Wales, and godson of Her Majesty the Queen. From the Preview Party to the Bourbon Party, there’s no shortage of fun to kick off the weekend.
What to Wear:Â When choosing an ensemble for this event, you’ll want to channel a look that you’d sport to a brunch with friends. We love the classy look of a dress paired with a coat.
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On Caroline (right), from Gus Mayer: Black dress, $335; trench coat, $695
The Event: Music City Masquerade
- February 10, 2018
- Black tie or formal attire
- Tickets start at $65.
This first-ever Music City Masquerade will be held at Ed Nash’s Studio to raise money for Caring Hearts Ministry. From celebrity DJs to special guest appearances, it’s sure to be a night to remember. Get dressed up in your best dress and mask for a night of silent auctions, exciting prizes, dancing and mingling.
What to Wear: This event is formal, so don your loveliest gown or black tie look. With springtime approaching, we’re loving lighter hues such as blush and silver-blue. Top it off with a mask, and you’ll fit right in.
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The Event: Nashville Brunch Festival
- February 24, 2018
- Noon to 4 p.m.
- Casual attire
- Tickets start at $15.
Head to Nissan Stadium for an afternoon of live music and, of course, delicious brunch from some of Nashville’s best restaurants, and wash it all down with Bloody Marys, mimosas, beer or wine. Tickets start at $15, but there’s also an option to purchase tickets for bottomless drinks. Get ready to do some serious brunching!
What to Wear:Â Pick out some comfortable jeans and pair them with a cute top for this casual event. Since late February can be pretty chilly, come prepared with layers. We love options like a faux-fur vest or a cozy cardigan!
*Unfortunately, this event has been cancelled. Fear not! You can still take advantage of these looks by heading to some of our favorite brunches in town. Discover our ongoing list of favorites here.
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And a peek behind the scenes…
A huge thank you to Caroline Randall Williams and Alice Randall for modeling, to Molly of Molly Russell Styling for styling the shoot, to The Cosmetic Market for their beauty expertise and to Woolworth on 5th for providing a stunning backdrop. And as always, thank you to Leila Grossman of Grannis Photography for the stunning images.
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For more on what’s going on in Nashville, visit our Happenings page and follow along on Instagram. And for more on the local boutiques that provided these styles, visit our SB Guide or download our FREE SB App.
