A Stay Down South at The Russell

A PIT STOP IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

This summer, I traveled outside of California for the first time since being diagnosed with—and beating!—breast cancer. I spent three weeks making up for lost time on the East Coast, visiting family and soaking in every bit of the pure wonder of being alive.

The first part of our trip was spent in New England and then Alabama, but we planned a little pit stop in Nashville before flying back to LA. For those who don’t know, Nashville is where my husband and I met, got married, and started our lives together. So anytime we get the chance to go back, it’s always so nostalgic and sweet.

During our trip, we stayed at The Russell—a cozy and colorful boutique hotel in the heart of East Nashville. Originally built as a church in 1904, it was remodeled a few years ago and is now a Music City mainstay. From the historic stained glass that influenced the interiors to the artwork inspired by country music legends, The Russell is a must-visit if you’re in Nashville. One thing that sets The Russell even further apart is their partnership with local charities. The average stay at The Russell provides sixteen beds and warm meals to local homeless shelters.

We stayed at The Russell for a little staycation back in 2020 when we were still living in Nashville, so it felt really cozy and special to return for this little pit stop to our old stomping grounds. And for the sake of sentimentality, we made it a point to visit some of our other favorite spots around town.

A few special stops that still knock it out of the park:
— Rolf & Daughters
— Dino’s
— Mas Tacos
— Talk Nice Vintage
— Retrograde Coffee
— Nelson Drum Shop

Thank you so much to The Russell for hosting us during our trip to Nashville. You made a sweet visit even sweeter.