Music is my life. It always has been. I have neglected the small scene in which local artists come together and release their innermost longing to play tunes for the world or should I say audiences with a capacity under five. Nevertheless, I admire those who give everything they’ve got just so a few ears will hear it. Ben Hoefling and his guitar serenaded the whole room at Taps in Hillsboro Village this past Monday. The rest of the four performers did a splendid job as well, especially with the contrast of genre present. I fell in love with the intimacy of it all. Props to Mr. Hoefling who moved here from Auburn, Alabama only just three days ago to pursue his performer’s dream. Nashville welcomes you my friend and I look forward towards our summer endeavors and not getting pulled over.

East Nashville Underground is a music festival that my good friend Virginia Anderson is interning at for the summer. I attended the Friday night show and was blown away by the artists and of course, perks. A 21 and up event with free booze all night long. What more could anyone ask for? Not much if you ask me. I fell in love with local Nashville bands, Five Knives and The Gills. The cliche hipster house show with vibes blowing out of the speakers. You’re drinking beer, dancing, and struggling to find your way through the small yet sweaty compact crowd and loving every minute of it. I am an avid show-goer and will never stop until I die from unnatural causes. 

I had the privilege to be a bridesmaid in my friends wedding yesterday. I stood next to a beautiful man and woman of God and saw life. A life that will thrive and render in only love for one another and others. The bride looked idyllic in her white polka dot dress and flowers in her hair. I love how her hope of a fishtail braid turned into a simple twist; making her look even more radiant. After we all made our way down the grassy pathway towards the alter, I decided to look at the groom. Having just watched 27 Dresses, I thought what better a time than to feast my eyes upon the man marrying my best friend. When she came out with her mother and father from behind the white curtain, I turned my head slightly to the left and saw Nate’s eyes begin to water. He brings his hand up to rub his eyes and simply stares at his beautiful (30 minutes and counting) wife. That’s when I lose it. I never did shed more than one tear at a time but you can bet your bottom dollar my eyes were swelled with water until I took my next swig of wine. Every groomsman kissed the ring as it was passed up to the front. Each bridesmaid handed it down one by one saying a silent prayer in their heads as it was handed to the bride and groom. One more tear please.

When the father daughter dance was announced, I lost it. Watching Ali and her father dance was a sight that I had forgotten I’d ever see. Always having thought about it-I never truly understood how much it would affect me. Maggie Webb showing up did not help my emotions. That girl made me lose my shit the second she tapped me on the shoulder about halfway through the song. Jorden’s hug made the tears fall harder and Allie’s embrace caused me to run for the keg stand. Thinking about how precious that moment was for them gave me a walking on air feeling but at the same time-a dagger was knifing at my chest. It is the pain of knowing I will never get to do that. With that freshly pumped beer in my hand, I brushed away the tears and got my groove on with the bride and some rap music accompaniment.