Since the inaugural Swan Ball in 1963, patrons and guests have received thoughtful swan-themed souvenirs — silver trivets, vases, books, tote bags and glass bowls — to recall the splendor of unforgettable galas. 

In the “I Spy” game of identifying Swan Ball totems in Nashville’s loveliest rooms, some relics are obvious, like the square plate engraved to mark the 40th anniversary.  Others are more subtle, like the unmarked postmodern-style picture frame designed by architect and former honoree Michael Graves. This soigné archive — including paperweights, salad servers, wildflower seeds, wine glasses and martini pitchers — provides the passport stamps in a journey of festivities surrounding the Patrons Party, Late Party and main event on the Swan Lawn at Cheekwood.

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In this year’s new location, Edwin Warner Park, the Swan Ball team took a new approach to the favors. In lieu of individual presents, co-chairs Melanie Baker and Laura Niewold proposed a single collective gift to honor supporters of the event. Working with the naturalists at Warner Parks, the volunteers planted a willow oak tree in honor of the 63rd Swan Ball, which benefited Friends of Warner Parks’ efforts to maintain Edwin and Percy Warner Parks and the Nature Center. 

“The willow oak reminds us of a swan,” said Melanie, who walks frequently in the parks and enjoys exploring trees with tribute plaques throughout the forests and fields. “When guests came out of the glass tent in that magical meadow, they saw on the hillside a tree planted in their honor. And they’ll see it whenever they walk the park in the future.”