Extending the Branches of Hope: A Stunning Night at the Seton Gala
On a stormy Nashville evening, the Ascension St. Thomas Foundation transformed Music City's hottest new venue—The Pinnacle at Nashville Yards—into a breathtaking oasis of elegance, purpose, and hope for the annual Seton Gala.
As the final touches were being placed, a tornado warning swept through downtown, sending the entire event team into a stairwell just 45 minutes before doors opened. But in true Nashville fashion, resilience reigned. The skies cleared, the lights came on, and the night unfolded into a beautiful tribute to the heart and mission of Ascension St. Thomas.
Guests arrived at 6:00 PM for a lively cocktail hour, welcomed with signature drinks—the Bee’s Knees and The Hope Spritzer—served flawlessly by Levy bartending, who absolutely crushed the bar service. The Russell Davis Trio filled the space with smooth, upbeat tunes, setting the tone for a night to remember.
At 7:15, the doors to the main space opened, revealing a complete transformation of The Pinnacle. What’s typically a high-energy music venue had been reimagined into a lush, candlelit sanctuary—an “oasis” brought to life by an expert team of event artisans:
Gary Musick Productions and Scenic set the stage with showstopping production design.
Knestrick By Design wowed with exquisite floral installations that brought the theme—Extending the Branches of Hope—to life.
BBJ La Tavola provided luxury linens that elevated every place setting.
Please Be Seated, White Door Events, and Quest Events supplied elegant rentals and draping, transforming the space from floor to ceiling.
Kristen Winston Catering served a full-service, three-course plated dinner with exceptional elegance and attention to detail, receiving rave reviews for both cuisine and service.
By 8:40 PM, the evening's program commenced. Gala co-chairs Drs. Bleecker and Zurick welcomed guests and set the stage for an inspiring program. Featured speakers included Fahad Tahir, President and CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas, and Troy Munn, Vice President of the Foundation.
This year’s Seton Honorees were celebrated in heartfelt tributes: Dr. John Bright Cage, a beloved figure in the community and longtime physician, and Miss Carly Pearce, country music star and advocate for women’s heart health. Carly moved the room with a special performance, reminding guests of the cause at the heart of the night.
One of the most impactful moments came during the Paddles Up portion, led by Laurie Gillespie of Menish Productions, which raised over $70,000 in just minutes—all in support of women’s heart health initiatives.
And then… the party kicked into full gear. Universal Crush took the stage, and the dance floor filled as guests celebrated a record-breaking night with purpose pulsing through every beat.
Every element of the night, from the stunning invitation suite by Joyner & Hogan to the final song, was a masterclass in intention, execution, and impact. The Seton Gala proved once again that when Nashville shows up, it does so with heart.
And through the storm, the message was clear: hope grows—even in the most unexpected places.