Launching Volume 7
Where the previous guide, Volume 6, marked the long-awaited return of The Scout Guide to Knoxville, Volume 7 celebrates roots – the ties one has to place – of the guide, its editor + owner, and, most importantly, Eastern Tennessee. In many ways, scouting is an act of nurturing the roots Editor + Owner Frances King has chosen to put down in Eastern Tennessee. And so, Volume 7 is inspired by Eastern Tennessee heritage and culture. Within its pages, you’ll find odes to Appalachia, Knoxville’s maker spirit, and Tennessee history. Of course, the celebration of Volume 7’s release was no exception, echoing the guide in all its details. Here, we recap and relive the evening, sharing the local talent we tapped to throw the Volume 7 launch party.
With a guide inspired by – and celebrating – place, it was essential to select a location for our launch party that would echo that mission and vision. So, when we learned that a new member, Riverview Family Farm, was a 7th generation family-owned farm, we knew we had found the perfect venue for our celebratory soiree of Volume 7. A working farm and stunning event venue, the Farragut farm provided a picturesque backdrop to host our members and a few of our nearest and dearest.
Upon arrival, guests were heralded by a delightful installation by two of our Party People members, Alpha Lit Knoxville and The Balloon Garden. Past members’ first hints at Volume 7 colors (the balloon arrangement featured the cover colors), guests were greeted with signature cocktails and a large scale first-look at Volume 7. There, they were invited to pose for photos and enjoy Revolve Knox’s 360 video booth. And, in classic Wither & Bloom fashion, the returning member created the most stunning floral installation to complement the larger-than-life-size guide. Wither & Bloom also designed dozens of stunning arrangements that were enjoyed throughout the party.
Guests then made their way down to the lawn for cocktails and conversation. To toast the new guide, Pour Guys whipped up our signature cocktail, the Blackberry Bramble, which featured Chambord, Post Modern Spirits’ “Giniferous Gin,” and lemon juice topped with a blackberry. In addition to the Blackberry Bramble, guests sipped on wine selections from Bob’s Liquor + Wine and beer donated by Blackberry Farm Brewery available via a beer canoe donated by new member, Marshmade Designs.
After grabbing drinks and light bites, guests enjoyed live music by Jack Hatfield and True Blue Bluegrass Band, dominoes, and cornhole. Buoyed by cocktails and conversation, guests made their way up to Riverview Family Farm’s Legacy Barn, a stunning covered space perfect for hosting our family-style dinner. There, guests found even more stunning arrangements by Wither & Bloom, as well as gorgeous table settings from McCabe & Co.
Once seated, guests were treated to dinner from David Rule, Executive Chef of The Appalachian. David Rule and his team delighted with, true to the name, Appalachian-inspired dishes with a modern flair: Fresh Greens with Blueberries and Goat Cheese, Fried Chicken, Grilled Pork Tenderloin, Mashed Potatoes, Lima Beans with Ham Hock, and Strawberry Pie with Chantilly Cream.
It was a leisurely supper that offered our members the opportunity to connect with one another and learn how to support each other. For us, it fulfilled our vision of bringing friends together over a shared meal. The evening reminded us of that simple act’s power and joy.
After last call, guests enjoyed the final moments of a perfect spring evening before toting complimentary copies of Volume 7 – plus a few goodies like wildflower seeds, a custom woven tote, and hand-painted macarons by Hammie’s Sammies – home.
To our guests, thank you for joining us for such a special evening. And to our partners, thank you for helping us bring our community together. Summer Small, your work inspired so much of Volume 7, thank you for sharing it with us. The Happy Envelope, your luxe invitation suite set the perfect tone for our event. MW Events, you helped us carry out our vision in every last detail. Riverview Family Farm, thank you for graciously hosting us. Graphic Creations, as always, your team delighted with signage. Wither & Bloom, from the cocktail table arrangements to stunning centerpieces, you blew us away with florals. McCabe & Co., your gorgeous selection of rentals and turnkey execution were delightful. Chef David and The Appalachian team, what a talent y’all are! Dinner was to die for! And to Jennifer Crook, thank you for so beautifully capturing our celebration.
