Laura Scott | Cheekwood Member since 2001When people see how gorgeous Cheekwood is and how much there is to do there, they are hooked! One visit is simply not enough.
When Laura Scott mentioned that Cheekwood is very important in the lives of her family, we had to know more. A self-proclaimed proud Nashvillian, Laura is a decades-long resident after moving from Miami to attend Vanderbilt University. She and her husband are raising their family here. Keep reading below for our Q&A with Laura.
What inspired you to become a Cheekwood Member?
My mother-in-law gave us a Cheekwood Membership to have a beautiful place to let my girls run. Cheekwood is very important in our lives, and we renew our Membership each year. My girls learned to love visiting museums from our many trips to the Mansion galleries.
What is your favorite time of year at Cheekwood?
I love the thousands of tulips in the spring! We visit often to see the tulips in their various stages and to see what new ones have opened! The number of bulbs planted is staggering.
Which gardens, areas, or plants do you most enjoy when visiting Cheekwood, and why?
I never miss visiting the Blevins Japanese Garden and bamboo! It is peaceful and serene.

Do you have a favorite piece of art at Cheekwood or a favorite art exhibition Cheekwood has hosted?
My favorite art exhibitions were the Chihuly glass sculptures in 2010 and 2020. My mother-in-law made stained glass windows for churches, so we are especially appreciative of art glass.
What is one of your favorite memories involving Cheekwood?
Two of my daughters separately celebrated their 16th birthdays at Cheekwood along with two dozen friends with whom to roam the gardens and Mansion. My younger daughter’s friends came dressed up as garden fairies! Both daughters remember this as a favorite party.
Why do you think Cheekwood is important in our community?
Cheekwood is easy access to art and nature for us city dwellers. I am thankful for the wise leadership at Cheekwood who are preserving it for future residents to enjoy. The number and quality of exhibitions and activities have dramatically improved since we first joined.


Cheekwood offers so many programs and activities that our members really enjoy. What are some that you or your family have especially enjoyed?
Of course we love Cheekwood’s Holiday LIGHTS! It is a family tradition! This year, we brought our new granddaughter to see the lights. The Christmas decorations by Laura Dowling in the Mansion were the most spectacular I have seen there.
How do you encourage others to become Cheekwood Members?
Being a Member is such a great value! One of my friends joined after I brought her as my guest. When people see how gorgeous Cheekwood is and how much there is to do there, they are hooked! One visit is simply not enough.
Join Cheekwood today and experience the unrivaled beauty of Nashville’s Country Place Era Estate. Members can enjoy inspiring art and garden exhibitions, family activities, programming for all ages, music events, and year-round seasonal festivals.
