You can tell a lot about a person by what they pack for the beach…and in my case, you'll learn I'm part sun‑worshipper, part hydration queen. Here's the lineup:

Car Key: "I wanna go fast. I wanna go fast." – Ricky Bobby.

Tangle Teezer Hair Brush: I have long hair, so this is a necessity. It's small, keeps tangles under control, and rinses clean after a salty day.

Rilastil Sunscreen Spray: My Italian love affair. I discovered this gem in a tiny farmacia in Italy, bought six bottles (and later learned you can buy it online — who knew?). It moisturizes without being sticky, and it leaves my skin looking hydrated and luxurious.

Hair Ties: I always pack extra hair ties for good Karma. I use Kitsch Recycled Nylon Elastics because they don't snag or break my hair.

Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen: The sunscreen that broke the internet. It's lightweight, silky, and non‑greasy. It doesn't break me out and give me glowy look. Feels like skincare.

Paloma Can: Crisp, citrusy, and perfect for sipping if you are trying to get too tipsy.

Water Bottle: I never leave the house without a water bottle.

JE Raffia Bucket Hat: Aside from for the White Bikinis and Martinis Baseball Cap, the Natural Raffia Bucket Hat is my go-to. She is giving "I just stepped off a yacht" energy.

10/10 IG Vibey 
Je Palm Tree Rating 

Where We Stayed:  Graduate Nashville 

Why We Love it: It’s pink and Dolly Parton themed, complete with a canopy covered shrine to Dolly over each king-sized bed. Need I say more? It's Every Je Babe’s Dream. We love that it’s in Midtown, so it provides both proximity to Broadway and a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Head upstairs to the “White Limousine” for the ultimate bachelorette party people watching. Score a photo with the giant pink Dolly Parton head if you’re ready to fight your way through brides in white fringe and rhinestone cowboy hats for the shot. May the odds be ever in your favor. Cute pink pool during the daytime. Pool Reservations required.

Graduate Hotel Nashville pictures of Canopy covered shrine to Dolly Parton over king-sized bed, gold framed rock n' roll mirror, and  sitting area with Gold couch, floral coffee table and wallpaper.

Where We Ate: Assembly Food Hall Located at 5th and Broadway.

411: They have something for everyone, and unlike most food halls, every vendor brings the heat. Grab anything from Birria tacos from Chilangos Tacos (drool) to lobster truffle fries from Dock Local. They also have Nashville favorites like Princes Hot Chicken and Pharmacy Burger. Don’t forget to grab a drink and catch the live music. Top it off with custard style ice cream from Hattie Janes. Try the "unicorn parfait" for those whose phone eats first. 

Assembly Food Hall Located at 5th and Broadway. Birria tacos from Chilangos Tacos (drool) to lobster truffle fries from Dock Local.
Where: Rolf and Daughters located in Germantown (where all the best food is) 

 

411: By far my one of my top Nashville picks! I suggest making reservations ahead of your trip, but no worries they have a wait list on Resy and Brooklyn based “Mothers Ruin” is a few blocks down if you need a fun place to grab a cocktail while you wait. Once you’re in, you must try the handmade pastas and the chicken is an experience you will never forget. 

Where: 5 Daughters Bakery 

411:  Basic Nashville Bitch, but you gotta. It’s worth the hype. They have vegan and GF options but as someone with celiac they don’t compare to the classic 1000-layer doughnut. Start with the “Purist” if you are new or try the "lemon icebox" for a wonderful summer delight. You can also get a bunch of minis and try them all!
Five Daughters Bakery Nashville. Vanilla Cream 100 layer donut infused and topped with vanilla buttercream
Where We Shopped: 12 South

411: Lined with local boutiques like Imogene and Willie serving up custom denim in an old gas station, and Moda boutique who has the best accessory assortment. The neighborhood has a heartbeat of its own and oh the vintage, in the shops and on the streets! You never know what fringe and leather treasures you may find in the back of a hipster’s dodge caravan. IG baddies don’t forget to stop by the “Believe in Nashville” Mural on 12th St in Howells Alley.  

Shopping at 12 South. Imogene and Willie, “Believe in Nashville” Mural on 12th St in Howells Alley.
Jamie Harrison