This striking photo by Tausha Dickinson captures Mary Louise in a refined purple dress at Tempo Hotel, embodying the elegance and style of Nashville Design Week.

The Mary Louise Design Story // Nashville Design Week Panel + Portraits

For Nashville Design Week, I had the privilege of joining a talented team to discuss the making of the Mary Louise project for Tempo Hotel, sharing insights into the collaboration that brought this inspiring story to life. Our panel, (which sold out!) titled Fiction to Fabrication: The Mary Louise Design Story, explored how each of us—from concept to set design—contributed to transforming the fictional character Mary Louise into a visual narrative.

Hosted by ESA Architects and BELL Construction and Moderated by Rebekah Ozols Goss, the discussion included Emily Goodin (Wardrobe Stylist), Haley Robbins (the model who portrayed Mary Louise), Kirsten Vaselaar (the visionary from HRI Properties who conceived the project), and Haley Beckham-Shetty (Set Designer). Together, we shared behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the creative process that made this project so memorable. For a more detailed look at how we created the Mary Louise character, you can read about the behind-the-scenes process for her story on the blog.


After the panel, we welcomed attendees to a thoughtfully crafted set, designed by Haley loosely inspired by the original Mary Louise album cover. I had so much fun photographing the guests as they donned stylish pieces curated by Emily, from sequined jackets to statement pieces, creating a fun and empowering experience for everyone who participated. My producer, Anthony Romano, played a key role behind the scenes in the Mary Louise shoot and assisted at the portrait setup at this event, ensuring everything flowed smoothly.

This project was the result of dedication, vision, and collaboration, supported by an incredible team. And to see how we transformed dreams into reality, visit From Dreams to Reality: Mary Louise’s Story for more insights on this inspiring collaboration.

Title slide for Nashville Design Week event titled 'Fiction to Fabrication: The Mary Louise Design Story' at Tempo by Hilton, hosted by ESA and BELL. The design story showcases the creative journey behind the Mary Louise concept.
Hallway at Tempo Hotel Nashville featuring a large wall-mounted photograph by Tausha Dickson of Mary Louise, adding a vintage, artistic ambiance to the hotel decor. 
Photo above by McGinn Photography, Provided by ESA Architects
This photo captures an engaging panel talk at Nashville Design Week, held at Tempo Hotel. With photographer Tausha Dickinson among the speakers, the conversation centers around the creative process and inspiration behind the Mary Louise photoshoot. T
A lively group photo with Tausha Dickinson and the attendees showcasing playful peace signs and vibrant expressions, highlighting the joyful and creative spirit of Nashville Design Week. The eclectic decor at Tempo Hotel complements the colorful outf
This photo captures an attendee exuding mystery in a sparkly outfit with soft lighting casting shadows. The luxurious, textured backdrop at Tempo Hotel adds a dramatic atmosphere to this stylish moment at Nashville Design Week.
Dressed in a striking sequined blue outfit, this attendee embodies bold style and confidence at Nashville Design Week. The luxurious decor and retro-inspired accents at Tempo Hotel enhance the image’s stylish, vibrant appeal.
Anthony Romano's portrait captures a thoughtful moment, with the Amthony seated comfortably against an elegant backdrop at Tempo Hotel. The soft lighting and relaxed posture bring a sense of calm to the vibrant energy of Nashville Design Week.
Mary Louise, seated elegantly in a rich purple dress, radiates joy and confidence. The soft textures of the decor at Tempo Hotel add warmth, creating an inviting backdrop that complements her captivating smile, a standout moment at Nashville Design W
Amanda Dease stands out in an elegant, flowing gown with delicate embellishments. The soft lighting and rich textures in the background complement her graceful pose, creating a timeless snapshot of Nashville Design Week’s fashionable flair at Tempo H
This image captures two attendees in bold, retro-inspired outfits lounging on vintage sofas at Tempo Hotel. With sunglasses and unique attire, they bring a touch of Nashville’s classic cool to the creative ambiance of Design Week.
This image features an attendee relaxing on a vintage-inspired sofa, dressed in a mix of sheer fabrics and bold stripes. The soft lighting and colorful surroundings add warmth, making this a standout shot from Nashville Design Week.
This photo captures two attendees in unique patterns and retro-inspired sunglasses, laughing and enjoying the whimsical decor of Tempo Hotel. The vibrant colors and textured furnishings add to the eclectic charm of Nashville Design Week.
A duo in colorful, textural outfits takes center stage in this stylish setting at Tempo Hotel. The combination of sequins, feathers, and stripes showcases a creative and whimsical fashion style that epitomizes Nashville Design Week’s energy.
This lighthearted image captures two attendees laughing and enjoying playful props. The vibrant setting at Tempo Hotel with oversized fans and vintage decor adds to the cheerful, creative atmosphere of Nashville Design Week.
Capturing a lighthearted moment, this photo shows an attendee playing guitar, dressed in a shimmering jacket, while another listens with a vintage phone prop. The setting adds a retro, Nashville-inspired charm to the modern Tempo Hotel.
With warm light illuminating his focused expression, this portrait captures an attendee in a thoughtful pose. The setting and lighting create an introspective feel, emphasizing the creativity and reflection fostered at Nashville Design Week.
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Three attendees pose elegantly against a textured backdrop, showcasing a blend of classic and contemporary fashion. The neutral tones in their outfits and the luxurious interior design highlight the sophisticated side of Nashville Design Week.