Like y'all, listen, it's a whirlwind over here! This is the VERY FIRST event we've ever hosted on our OWN!! I thought I'd answer some questions I've been getting through the Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts. So let's go:
Question 1: I thought you guys hosted an event before? - Umm . . . about that . . . yeah, We've CO-HOSTED or have been MEDIA PARTNERS for other natural hair events around town.
We were co-hosts for an event last May called 'The Music City Naturals' event and we helped promote a huge natural hair event last October called the 'Nashville Natural Hair & Wellness Expo'. We aren't the only natural hair blog, group, or website in Nashville, but we pride ourselves on being the most comprehensive website in the city. We thought it was time to host an event for our fans and readers. This is our FIRST natural hair event hosted by this blog and it's writers.
Question 2: If it's FREE why do I need a ticket? - Simply, our venue is small. The Aveda Institute was a sponsor and they so graciously sponsored our venue. The room holds 150 people. Including the NIN team, volunteers, vendors, and speakers we only had about 120 tickets available. Due to fire code regulations we can only admit those who have a ticket. Please don't make us be mean and have to turn people away. No ticket, no entry. However, we are planning an event in the summer (June or July) we'll keep you posted.
Question 3: Do I have to have the PAPER ticket? I can't make it, can I transfer my ticket to someone else? Help, I can't find my ticket! - No worries! All tickets are registered through the EVENTBRITE website.
If you lost your paper ticket, you can re-print it through the eventbrite page - click here.
Can't make it? You can release your ticket to someone on the waiting list just go to the eventbrite page and cancel your ticket order.
You can also show you confirmation email via your phone or with the eventbrite app on you iphone/android.
Question 4: Where is the Aveda building? The Aveda building is across from the Cool Springs Mall near the Macy's entrance. If you are familiar with the area, it's on the other side of Pier 1. But for those of us who have GPS, just type this address in:
Aveda Institute Nashville
1765 Galleria Blvd
Franklin, TN 37067
Question 5: Do I have to be on time? Can I come and go as I please? Is this just a vendor showcase? - We've planned a nice afternoon for you! This is truly a 'girls day out' networking type of event. There will be a networking/ice breaker activity, Q&A with our featured speakers, shopping our vendors, and natural hair demos. Below is the agenda for the day:
2:45 - doors open for guests
3:00 - guests arrival & shopping vendors
3:45 - icebreaker/networking game
4:15 - raffle/giveaway
4:30 - hair demo w/ Aveda student stylists
5:00 - Q&A/panel discussion ft. Kenya Patterson (@halfietruths) and Kristi Alderson of Kinky Rootz Salon
5:45 - 7:00 closing remarks, pics, & guests can shop vendors
Question 6: I heard about a gift bag - will there be samples? Yup, we have a small gift bags available for guests who arrive early. The bags are first come/first served. There will be a sample from our event sponsor Alikay Natural and Aveda along with some coupons from our vendors. In addition, we will have a raffle for a huge gift basket featuring full-size products! So get there on time!
Question 7: Why can't I bring my child? NIN loves the kids, we do! However, the event will take place in a working cosmetology school/salon that has chemicals and sharp things. We'd hate for your child to be injured because of curiosity.
Question 8: I didn't get a ticket! When's the next event? Once again, I'm so sorry you didn't get a ticket! However, due to the overwhelming response, we are planning another meet-up/event in June/July. We'll keep you posted. I can tell you we like small-ish gatherings - it's easier to manage and create meaningful experiences. Tickets will go fast, so be on the lookout. Follow our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.
I think that's about it. If you have ANY other questions, email me at melissa@natural-nashville.com. We can't wait to see you there!
