History

table with flowers and deserts

An Annual Celebration of Antiques, Art & Horticulture Benefiting Nashville

Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville was concepted was concepted in 1990 with the mission to give back to the Nashville community. The Show has remained committed to supporting its original two beneficiaries, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and ECON Charities, and in the last 34 years has been able to give $11 million back to these incredible organizations. The impact that these dollars have had on the community is immense and is the force that drives the Antiques & Garden Show to continue to grow and be the best that it can be. It is because of the Show’s supporters and valued attendees that the event can remain steadfast in its support of the important work of Cheekwood and ECON Charities.  

Our Mission

Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville is an annual charity event raising funds for Cheekwood and ECON Charities by exhibiting the highest-quality antiques, landscaped gardens and horticultural items and by offering a related educational outreach program.

A&G Impact at a Glance

$ 11,000,000

Donated in total to our beneficiaries

cheekwood logo
cheekwood logo
cheekwood logo

A&G Through the Years

1991
The First Show
Albert Hadley (middle) and friends at the 1997 Show
Albert Hadley (middle) and friends at the 1997 Show

The inaugural Show, chaired by Sigourney Cheek and Connie Cigarran, featured honorary chairman Albert Hadley, a position he for 10 years, participating frequently as a lecturer and advisor for the Show. The 2013 Show honored Albert with the theme “Be Inspired,” a tribute to his legacy following his passing in 2012.

1995
Fifth Anniversary
A ticket to the 1995 Show

Our five-year anniversary, “Enchanting Obsessions,” featured etiquette expert Letitia Baldrige and British garden enthusiast Rosemary Verey.

2000
House and Garden in Harmony
Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill headshot from the 2000 Show
Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill headshot from the 2000 Show

“The House and Garden in Harmony” Show featured honorary chair Pam Tillis and a stellar lecture series from renowned antiques dealer Robert Sack and interior decorator Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill.

2001
Artistry in the Garden
Martha Stewart at the 2001 Show

Notable keynote speakers Martha Stewart and Princess Michael of Kent captivated with their insights on garden artistry for this year’s theme of “Artistry in the Garden.”

2005
An Enchanted World

Lysiane and Red Grooms created gardens inspired by global landmarks for the “An Enchanting World” theme. India Hicks and Jon Carloftis headlined the lecture series.

2010
The Shape of Things to Come
Her Grace, Duchess of Northumberland and Michael Smith headshots from the 2010 Show

“The Shape of Things to Come” featured visionary speakers like Her Grace, the Duchess of Northumberland, and Michael S. Smith, who reimagined the White House’s interiors.

2011
Honoring Sigourney Cheek
Donna Kestner, Peggy Kinnard, Sigourney Cheek and Connie Cigarran (left to right) at the 1991 Show
Donna Kestner, Peggy Kinnard, Sigourney Cheek and Connie Cigarran (left to right) at the 1991 Show

“Elements” honored Sigourney Cheek, co-founder of the Antiques & Garden Show, who passed away in 2010. Her lasting influence and passion continue to shape the Show.

2014
The move to the Music City Convention Center
The Cheekwood exhibition at the 2014 Show and the 2023 Show in its new home, the Music City Center
The Cheekwood exhibition at the 2014 Show and the 2023 Show in its new home, the Music City Center

The Show moved to the Music City Convention Center, thanks to our dedicated team and over 200 volunteers. This expansion improved the experience and helped the Show raise over $11 million for Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and ECON Charities over the years.

2015
25th Anniversary
Diane Keaton from the 2015 Show
Diane Keaton from the 2015 Show

For our 25th anniversary, themed “Style” in honor of Oscar de la Renta, the gardens dazzled with elegance. We were excited to host actress Diane Keaton and designer Alexa Hampton, who showcased their design flair.

2016
Landscape of Design
Gwyneth Paltrow and Windsor Smith in discussion at the 2016 Show
Gwyneth Paltrow and Windsor Smith in discussion at the 2016 Show

“Landscape of Design” featured Gwyneth Paltrow and panels with Bunny Williams, Brian Murphy and others. Floral designers Shane Connolly and Louis Benech joined the lineup, with a Bourbon Party and book signing by David DiBenedetto.

2017
Founding Sponsor

Having supported the Show from the very beginning, TVV Capital and its founder and president Andrew Byrd were honored as the first “Founding Sponsor.”

2020
Legacy
Invitations to the 2020 Show, “Legacy”
Invitations to the 2020 Show, “Legacy”

“Legacy” celebrated our rich history with keynote talks from design icon Nina Campbell and Molex founder Fred Krehbiel, showcasing the timeless impact of design and antiques.

2025
35th Anniversary

Now, in our 35th Show, we cultivate home, honoring the past while nurturing a future where life, well tended, continues to bloom.

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