The Nashville Humane Association Honors Emmylou Harris at Cause for Paws

Not every event comes complete with a puppy ambassador greeting guests — let alone seven. But that’s exactly what awaited the fashionable guests at the Nashville Humane Association’s Cause for Paws luncheon at Belle Meade Country Club. As tradition dictates, curious and adorable bundles of fur were on hand for snuggles and kisses, each searching for a fur-ever home.

During the reception, guests mingled with co-chairs Nancy Floyd and Jay Joyner and spent plenty of time shopping, many snagging a new outfit or two from the high-end boutiques on display. Revelers also kept a close eye on tempting silent auction items, like a Scotland golf vacation, a Kirna Zabête shopping soirée, and a signature Fluff & Boots set. Many also enjoyed glasses of crisp Champagne as they mingled under the tent on the sunny afternoon.

Once seated, the sold-out crowd heard from the Nashville Humane Association, which thanked attendees for their continued commitment to animal welfare. Each year, the organization honors one especially passionate community figure with the Julia Colton Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare. This year, the spotlight fell on Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris. 

Emmylou told the story of her beloved dog, Bonaparte, who inspired her to start the nonprofit sanctuary for aging dogs Bonaparte’s Retreat. The musician spoke passionately about her love for animals and noted their only flaw: They never stay with us long enough. Emmylou thanked the crowd before heading to the Grand Ole Opry for a performance, quipping before she left, “I still have to work.”

Guests then enjoyed an exclusive fall fashion show headlined by Laura Citron and Any Old Iron. Bright, sequin-adorned looks reminiscent of the 1960s lit up the runway. Sweet puppies made their way down the runway in the arms of the models — some dressed in coordinating or matching outfits.